Parlor Salon

I’ve always found new services using Unilocal,but have never actually taken the time to write a review. My experience at Parlor with Stefanie was so excellent I just had to do it!
Just have to let everyone know that Stefanie is actually a hair magician/​goddess/​guru/​whatever other word you can think of! I’ve never known how to manage my curls, and always had the wrong cuts. Not only did she give me an amazing cut, she took the time to walk me through step by step, from wash to styling, along with lots of tips to make my hair work for me. I’ve always just ended up giving up and being a messy bun gal, but now I can’t wait to rock my curls. Plus, she’s fun and sarcastic, and made the usual small talk I dread 100% better. Thanks Stefanie!

What a great place! Stefanie Ray is helping me embrace my curly girl self. She’s the best! A great stylist with excellent suggestions and a helpful teacher so I know what to do when I go home. Parlor is a great salon. Just the right size, clean and bright and all the folks working at Parlor are kind! So glad I found Parlor!

Can’t really comment on their ability to cut hair because the scheduling staff on the phone was so rude and difficult. I am new in town and have for the past few years sported a short asymmetrical style that some people find hard or scary to cut. I was told parlor salon could handle it. Unfortunately, I also have a job that’s rigid when it comes to scheduling. So when I called initially to schedule I was disappointed to find that they couldn’t schedule a time that worked for me at all until many weeks out. Ok… I figured I’d ride it out and use bobby pins and clips to manage the growing out hair. Unfortunately, my appointment was so far out (like more than a month) that by the time it finally rolled around I had entirely forgotten and got a call 20minutes after it was scheduled asking where I was. (There was no confirmation call or message left before the appointment, just this call letting me know when I was late for this appointment made many weeks in advance.) I was super apologetic though, told her how much I needed to be seen, and offered to rush over immediately (they aren’t far from where I live and it was my only day off for the week.) However, I was told they couldn’t see me at all that afternoon, so I guess the call was just to tell me that I missed my appointment?.. Anyway, I tried to schedule for another time and was told they only had one opening coming up (one opening? In the next few weeks? I was willing to see whomever there…) But ok, I took it. Then I literally tried to rearrange my schedule to fit Parlor Salon’s schedule, but when I couldn’t I called back to try to see if there was any other time that would work. Instead of trying to work with me though the girl on the phone, Jyoti?, just kept asking me if I wanted to cancel my appointment. She said multiple times that they probably weren’t going to have anything that would work for me and that no one was going to be available. I would ask about a time or day and I swear, at least 5 times, she said «No, there’s nothing available. Would you like me to cancel your appointment?» But I never said I wanted to cancel, in fact I was repeatedly trying to find any available appointment. Finally though I just said «Fine, cancel it.» I mean, she certainly wasn’t trying to schedule me… As soon as I did she couldn’t get off the phone fast enough, «Ok. It’s cancelled.» Click. Not even a have a nice day, or a goodbye. Just very snotty and dismissive the entire time. So much so that I wrote my first Unilocal review after reading them for years. Basically, she couldn’t be bothered to help me find a time or date that would work, and seemed super eager to cancel my appointment. Frankly just rude. So, fine. I guess they don’t need the business, or they are just too cool for someone who’s busy. And I guess if that attitude is profitable, and for some companies it is, then good for them. But I think I can find a place that is both able to do an edgy cut, and friendly.

my stylist is kate montgomery and i can’t say enough about her talent her ability to make the client feel comfortable and at home. she can perform miracles — my hair is one of them. she listens to what you want, gives her input, and then sets about making you look great. i so appreciate her and the entire staff @parlor including rachael and jyoti.
it’s a pleasure to go in there and a pleasure to walk out feeling that your head is at the top of its game:)
i have to comment on the rhonda h. review — she must have some serious issues!!! i’m just saying.

Love the talented Parlor team! The atmosphere is relaxing and chill, embracing the true spirit of RVA. Mahri and Tiffany have both worked their magic on my head. Love these ladies!!!

Being new to the area, I first tried finding a salon on my own. Through some trial and mostly error, I finally decided it was time for some local help. I came to Unilocal because I believed reviews on this site would be more honest than others. I’m re-​thinking that position.
First…if you believe that paying $ 55 JUST for a cut, then by all means, trust the $$ cost ranking. But I for one, think it’s outrageous and the ranking should be a minimum of $$$ if not $$$$, especially if you add other services. After all, we’re only talking a haircut here! I’ve been to salons in Boston and DC that didn’t charge that much for just the cut!
Second…though the salon’s website is great and makes it very easy to contact them through various uses of today’s technology, what they don’t tell you is the reverse is not so true. I sent an email explaining exactly where I was coming from, was looking for, a bit of history on my previous styles, colors, etc… and how anxious I was to come in a give this ‘highly ranked’ salon a try. I especially looked forward to the consultation, after which I would be paired with the stylist that best suited my needs. However, I never rec’d a response. I waited (because the international bike races had recently happened, I figured I’d give them time to catch up) But no, still nothing after 2 weeks. So I contacted them via another means and was given an appointment, which included my consultation, but oddly enough, did not include color, which is what I so desperately needed. Okay, maybe that’s how it’s done here? I don’t know. But I didn’t want to wait any longer (hadn’t had anything done since mid-​june and this was september), so I accepted the appointment for the consult and cut, after saying I was disappointed not to have gotten a full service one.
Well…to begin with, I was a little surprised that the stylist had already been assigned before the consult. But I went with it thinking perhaps they HAD in fact, read my email and assigned her accordingly.
Wrong. I sat in the chair, we talked at length about likes and dislikes, I had about 6 photos for her to see of cuts and color that I liked and wanted to work toward. So, we talked color, growing out, past history of cuts, etc… and I felt at ease and comfortable that she knew where I was headed cut wise and color wise, and she was sure she could get me exactly where I wanted to be with the cut (my hair was plenty long enough to have any of the options I’d shown her, and the color would be a multi-​step color process beginning next visit, and I was okay with that.
Before the scissors even touched my hair, she was off and running telling stories of herself, which is fine normally, encouraging even, but in this case, the more she talked, the more she cut.
One of the first things I told her about my hair was that I don’t like a lot of short layers or texturizing, and I like my hair long enough to ‘move’. Oh well… that was no longer an option.
Okay, it’s only hair right? I even told her that. I was visibly disappointed, but I’ve had short hair my whole life and figured even though it wasn’t even close to any of the photos I showed her, I thought she had a plan and would leave me with something I could work with. NOT
I got my hair cut a month ago. I waited to do this review because I know that sometimes, even the worst cuts can be manipulated and worked around, to achieve something nice, maybe even better than we’d hoped for. NOT
To this day, I can honestly say, this is THE worst haircut I’ve had in 50 years. After its month of regrowth, it’s worse than ever. I’ve tried gels and waxes… irons and air drying… blowing forward and backward… nothing makes this cut look anything even close to okay, much less good. I honestly believe I could have done a better job myself, at home, with my kitchen shears.
I hate negative reviews, I really do. And I don’t do them as a rule. If I don’t like something, I just don’t re-​patronize. Money talks after all. But here, I felt I had to speak up because this salon gets glowing reviews consistently. What happened with me? I’m not easy to please, trust me. And I’m not antagonistic. I even left her a $ 10 tip! I don’t like saying or doing negative things. Which is the reason I’m not saying the stylists’ name here. This is not to call her out personally. I just wanted to vent that I left that salon a very unhappy person who felt cheated. Yup, I said it… I felt like I’d been cheated out of the experience every reviewer here so far seems to have had! I’ve even read the reviews since my experience, and they remain the same. I don’t get it. I really don’t. I was clear in what I wanted, I had pictures, I know how to speak ‘hair’ and still???
I didn’t go back for the color appt needless to say, and I won’t be going back at all. Not that they need my 55 cut bucks, but I believe there are two sides to this salon and you should know it.

Absolutely love this place. Got my hair done by Erin Pfefferkorn and I have to say it’s probably the best cut I’ve ever had. This review is a couple of months late which makes it even better because I can say that not only was the cut great on the day but it grew out better than I could have expected. Love the hair love the girl!!!

I don’t even know where to begin. This place is so rad, I can’t believe it’s real! I found this place as a recommendation from a friend. I did my research, as I was in the hunt for a new salon and stylist. I found them on social media and was blown away. The pictures of clients before and after were amazing. I was sold. I called to make an appointment and for help picking a stylist. They suggested Erin. Funny, because I had already been watching her Instagram and was already drawn to her creativity. I had a consultation and at first, I was nervous. Once I was in there and met the receptionist Jyoti, I was at ease. That girl is the bee’s knees and adorable. Then I spoke with Erin. She was confident, sassy, professional and super stylish. After Erin and I had our consultation, I walked out of there feeling like I could rule the world. Today was my appointment and I left there more than satisfied. I can’t remember the last time I loved my hair. I was in tears after because I was so incredibly happy. I also had the pleasure of meeting the manager Rachel, (who looks like a supermodel), the salon apprentice, Alaina, (who has mad skills) and the hip and talented salon owners, Kate and Mahri. I will be back and will tell EVERYONE I know about this place, the amazing Erin and the rest of the incredible staff.

I just moved from California to RVA and of course I had to go through the dreaded process of finding a new stylist.
So fellow Unilocalers led me to Parlor and I am not disappointed at all! This place is very chic and hipster and I greatly appreciate the clean and open environment.
I also loved how I could text or call to schedule an appointment. With work and everything, it was very convenient to just text an appointment! For my first time, they even allowed me to send a pic in so I could get the right stylist :)
I have returned to Erin again because she is very welcoming and did what I was comfortable with my hair.
She understands my style and hair and I greatly appreciate the Parlor!

Finding a new stylist is typically a chore for me, but from the second I set foot in Parlor I knew I would never go anywhere else. I’d faced challenges doing interesting things with short hair in the pass and usually ended up with the same style. Tiffany works absolute magic though and is always able to give me a different and unique style each time I see her. If I’m not too sure about a style I had in mind she’s able to give me options and use her knowledge to create something fantastic that works for me and always looks flawless. After trying several other salons in the area I doubt I will ever stop going to Parlor. Staff is always warm and welcoming and you feel positively pampered and comfortable while there. I look forwards to trying other services in the future such as coloring, as I’m sure I will be elated with that as well.

Mahri is the absolute most amazing hair stylist/​artist I have encountered. I have short hair and I went in just to get my neck cleaned up. I was expecting just a quick 1 minute clipper trim. I must have thought I was at Hair Cuttery for a minute. Anyway, Mahri cleaned up the back and sides with scissors and a razoor. I was amazed at how much she was able to do with just a quick clean up hair cut.
I have also gone to Mahri when my hair was longer. It is naturally thick and curly. I always felt like a supermodel after she was done with it. When I decided to go short again I put my trust in her and was not disappointed.
How awesome do I think she is? Let’s just say, if I won the lottery I’d be hiring her as my personal hair stylist.
I love seeing all the well deserved success she is having.

Parlor Salon, I love you. Tiffany (Hair Goddess) is so impressively skilled and her technique, unparalleled. I have been a client at some of the most sought after salons from NYC to Beverly Hills and can say, without hesitation, Parlor is top 3. Armed with a picture (albeit blurry) and convoluted idea of what I wanted to see achieved, Tiffany not only brought this fragmented idea to life, but FAR exceeded any vision I could have conjured on my own. So, cut and colored, I walked out feeling refreshed and confident– a winning combination! The salon aesthetic is so on point and the vibe, equally, if not more, sublime. Please do your hair and spirit a favor, give Parlor a go. Your strands will thank you!

By FAR the best hair salon! I started going to Mahri at a really low point in life, she literally gave me a fresh start and newfound confidence. That might sound odd to some people, but I truly credit my positive turn to her making me feel beautiful. Love my ombré, but she is a true color genius and can change it depending the season or my mood.
Parlor is amazing! There is a stylist for everyone there (color, blondes, guys, pixie, everything!)

I am one of those terrible people who use Unilocal extensively and never contributes reviews them self. Well, I LOVE this salon so much that… wait for it… here’s my first ever review.
Parlor is a beautiful, new salon that is a treat to go to in a great part of town. It is downtown, but parking has never been a problem for me, plus there are fun shops and restaurants to hit up before or after your appointment!
Mahri is my stylist and she is a color genius. If you are not sure how to verbalize what you are wanting, she will help you through the process of cuts and color and make educated recommendations to help you achieve your desired look. She is amazing. Period. Although I have never had my hair cut by any of the other stylists, they all seem great and I know Kate specializes in cutting and styling curly hair (which makes a huge difference if you are a curly girl as she is).
Rachel helps run the salon and is so kind and professional. She texts me reminders of my appointment and is always a joy to work with. You can expect top notch customer service at this salon.
Last, but not least, I had my first massage today with Linda of Essential Body Works (inside parlor salon) and all I can say is WOW!!! I have had probably 100 or more massages and this was by far my best massage experience ever. I suffer from chronic headaches and carry lots of tension in my neck, shoulders and back. She literally melted the stress away. I am so lucky to have found her and love that I can make it a day of pampering with Mahri and Linda.
Would i recommend this salon!!? Heck yes! Call now.

Love this new, hip salon! I especially missed my hairdresser so her being there just makes it that much more amazing! Everyone is extremely welcoming and the relaxing ambiance is just right for a hair salon! Richmond is a perfect home for Parlor.

It’s hard to see so many 5 star ratings and not stop and wonder if it’s too good to be true. I hope you take a leap of faith to experience that this IS the real deal. The care taken from the moment you step inside the door into the beautiful open space is exceptional. From the warm greetings from Rachel (GENUINE warmth — not that fake smile you see in other salons), to the creative, talented group of ladies who will LISTEN to you and offer great, appropriate solutions and ideas (it’s not about the upsell — can you imagine??) it’s a truely relaxing and satisfying experience. The team is focused on making you happy and letting you take a few mins to relax and find peace. Don’t let the downtown location scare you — the area is revitalized and thriving. Parlor also offers massage services that are the best in RVA. Try them out to see that all these 5 stars have been earned by the hard-​working, caring team at Parlor. A special shout-​out to Teresa Justis for introducing me to this exceptional experience!

I L.O.V.E. Parlor!
Kate Montgomery has been my Curly Hairdresser for over 2 yrs. Her talent as a stylist is always evolving, which I appreciate. I let Kate do what she thinks is best w/​my hair and I walk out feeling like a beautiful woman.
Kate & Mahri have created such a sanctuary for their clients and friends. The minute you walk into the salon, you can tell the details of the space was made not just for creating amazing hair, but to renew your soul and feel safe.

Very cool space and REALLY great and talented staff! I go to Tiffany — I follow her wherever she is. She does the best cut and color in town!

Have been a client of Mahri’s since my very FIRST visit/​consultation with her. Yes, I fell in love with what she does for my hair (and self esteem) — her artful color and styles. First time in my life I’ve gotten so many compliments on my hair. I have not been disappointed with her professional opinion and eye. I’ve even followed her to her new salon. For me the drive is DEFINITELY worth it! LOVE YOU MAHRI!!!
As for Parlor Salon — great place and great people here. Some I’ve known, and some are new to me. Rachel is a gem who mans the front desk. No chair for her as she keeps busy juggling all her various front desk tasks with a vibrant, friendly attitude.

My girlfriend, who has curly hair, has followed another stylist, Kate Montgomery, here because she’s so pleased with her results. Several other stylists here and even a massage therapist! Taking care of their clientele IS A PRIORITY. Thanks!!!

Kate Montgomery! Is a magician! I can attest in two ways.
One: I can explain to you how, after Kate cuts my hair, I find myself strutting around the first public place I can find making my best Gisele Bundchen face because I feel THAT badass.
Two: I can tell you how many friends of mine also see Kate. I’m pretty sure that figure clocks in around 80% — and the other 20% simply haven’t discovered her yet. She transforms my (let’s say… selective) fiancé’s hair into a perfect modern man-​sculpture that he adores, and my best friend drives from Charlottesville once a month to see her.
The most important aspect of working with a style genius like Kate is that she takes every detail into account — your facial shape, your color and texture, your ‘look’, your home hair tendencies (even when you have none and prefer to leave your house with a shower-​wet head, like me) — and uses them to transform you into a new, hot version of yourself that you didn’t even know existed. How does she do this?
I think she might be psychic.