Cary Carter @ Bibbo Salon

I was in SFO for a weekend and I needed a haircut, so I went online and found Cary on citysearch. He had many positive reviews so I went along to MKNYTHMP to try it out.

I was not disappointed. Cary is a master of his art. He loves what he does and it shows.

He's a very calm presence and fun to chat to.

I'd been getting the same haircut for years and Cary talked me into something a little bit different.... Best haircut I've had in ages. I'm only sad that I don't live in SF, otherwise I'd be a regular.

Pros: Cary has an incredible eye for detail

Cons: There are no cons!

Posted 10/11/09

i have highlighted blonde hair. things can go downhill quick with a bad, inexperienced colorist. you could end up with stripes, foil lines at your part, or the "i dumped a whole bottle of bleach on my head" look.
Cary knows how to give you a natural look, time and time again. i used to drive from san francisco to berkeley to see my past stylist. once i met cary, i never went back.
i have extremely long hair and have been reluctant to cut it....cary's technique left me with the best cut i've ever had in my life. he stays true to what you want.
i am not a fan of up-do's ...at all. with most stylists you'll end up with something prom-looking. for a party, i let cary use his own discretion, because i trust him. once again he wowed and my style was the subject of many compliments.
i highly recommend him, you will see once you try him once.

writing again, several months later:
genius, genius, genius! always trust cary to look out for your best "look". cary convinced me i needed a few low lights to achieve a prettier, more natural look . i was scared--but i was totally unfounded! once again, cary delivered the goods, above & beyond my expectations. i absolutely love the very very subtle change..
THANKS CARY!

Pros: cary is a master artist of color and cutting

Posted 03/12/09

Cary is amazing at what he does. He has a degree in art, and it shows in his work. He is meticulous in his approach and execution and he has the rare ability to capture the essence of his client in his art: creating a haircut/style that fits the client's appearance, personality and lifestyle. There were moments that felt 'Picassoesque', as Cary took a step back to look at his work, and then came back to apply the perfect finishing touches. Cary's work is integral: he doesn't just deliver a haircut, he creates the perfect finish to his client's personality. Despite his considerable talent, he is amazingly gentle, humble and unintrusive. How lovely to see an artist of his caliber remain so unbelievable grounded. This man is a gem.

Posted 02/28/09

Cary is a highly skilled professional with the ability to apply the right style perfectly every time. He has patiently and expertly guided me to styles that are current and fit my personality. I have been seeing Cary for more than 2 years and have experienced repeatable and consistent results throughout. I would recommend Cary to anyone in need of an experienced professional who is friendly, knowledgeable, creative and accurate.

Pros: Excellent stylist, excellent location, great value.

Cons: None

Posted 02/28/09

Cary is the best! I have been going to Cary for 3 years. I love getting my haircut from him. All I have to do is show up and he takes it from there. Regardless if I keep my hair buzzed short, or if I am growing it out to have a more trendy haircut - Cary always takes great care of me. He knows what look will look best and keeps me current and stylish. I don't like to book too far in advance and he is very kind with his schedule and is always flexible to squeeze me into his books. Aside from a great haircut - he is a great guy. Cary has a sense of calm about him that makes it delightful to see him. I highly recommend his services. His prices are right too!

Pros: Location/Pricing/Style

Cons: none

Posted 02/05/09

Cary's skill and craftsmanship is incredible. I had my haircut in many places including IvanNoel in Chicago and Shorty's in LA and I have to say, hands down, this is one of the nicest salons, with a GREAT staff.

Pros: Extremely Profesional, parking right across the street, clean, well lit, beautifully designed

Posted 11/15/08

Oh, where to begin in explaining how much I adore Cary!! So I came from out of town for a wedding and called Vidal Sassoon for a recommendation for a stylist to do an up-do. Cary was recommended immediately and i booked my appointment. I sent some photos via email to the receptionist to pass to Cary about some ideas I had for my updo. Not only was the receptionist absolutely sweet and wonderful, but responded immediately with Cary's thoughts on my ideas.

Let me tell you this, I get to MNKYTHMP, which was a pleasure unto itself, had my makeup done by a LOVELY woman and then Cary comes out with a manequin head of his idea for my hairstyle. Seriously, how incredible is that??? He was so enthusiastic about my ideas for a 1920's inspired updo that he practiced on a manequin to show me his creative take on it.

Then he created the most AMAZING masterpiece of a hairstyle on my head, taking my fine hair and making it full and dramatic. He listened to ANY input I had, encouraging me to show him what I thought and make any changes I wanted. I've NEVER had a stylist with so little ego that they would listen to me and encourage me to help if i wanted to!

Needless to say, I was absolutely STUNNED with the results and so was everyone at the wedding. I honestly can say that I don't think i've ever looked so good nor felt so beautiful. I owe it all to Cary!!

Please make him your stylist as if I lived in San Francisco, I know I wouldn't go to anyone else!

Pros: Amazingly warm & kind service, attentive, fun atmosphere

Cons: NONE!

Posted 10/06/08

I have been going to Cary since I moved back to the City 7 years ago. I have been to many different salons but Cary is by FAR the best!! Every haricut he gives me is exceptional! I would recommend him to everyone!

Posted 07/27/08

For a person with difficult curly hair Cary is a godsend. I discovered him accidentally on an all day trip to the spa. The entire outing was nice but what I remember best about that day was how beautiful my hair looked! Cary spent at least an hour and a half (if not 2) pampering my head and when I left his chair my usually out of control, frizzy hair was luxuriously soft and cut in amazing layers that all fell perfectly around my face. Now everyone knows that the true test of any hairstylist is whether or not you can duplicate your wonderful new look at home - when you're forced to do it yourself. For the first time ever, I found myself able to manage something actually close to resembling what Cary had created. His product suggestions ACTUALLY worked! and my hair was much easier to maintain with the newly prescribed regimen. Needless to say, I was hooked... fully addicted to Cary's incredible abilities and I have been a client ever since. Both my husband and I see Cary regularly and, I must admit, he has the ability to make my husband look like a Hollywood movie star. We both appreciate Cary's meticulous approach to his trade as well as his easy going, laid-back demeanor. Anyone and everyone's hair would benefit from Cary's tremendous expertise and demonstrable passion.

Posted 07/17/08

I have been searching for someone to cut my curly hair without making it look like a pyramid. Cary was able to perfectly shape my curly hair with a shape that fits my face, and give me a color with dimention. My experience with Cary Carter at MNKYTHMP (just say monkeythump) was comfortable and quite pleasing. In addition to his great work, the salon he works at is state of the art, modern and very high-end--well worth every penny. Thank you Cary for your curly hair expertise.

Pros: Parking accross the street, modern, clean,

Cons: none I can think of

Posted 06/12/08

There are few people in life to whom I would hand over full responsibility for something vitally important, then relax with a big smile on my face. I've only had one appointment with Cary, but he sure seems to be among the chosen. Maybe everyone thinks they have complicated hair--I am no different: cowlicks, super-straight hair, color-treated. During my Guerrilla Makeover with Beth Alyse, I argued with her extensively that 1) I was quite happy with my current haircut and 2) I wouldn't trust anyone new with my complicated and demanding hair. She talked me into going to see Cary anyway, at least for a color. After our consultation with him, I trusted him enough to let him cut my hair. I can't explain why, except to say that he listens, and exudes a disarming and amazingly humble sense of confidence.

I realized after the cut that I shouldn't have believed my previous stylist in thinking there's only one way to grow out hair. I had given up on having a style that I really like for the sake of growing out my hair. Cary worked some scissors magic, and gave me exactly what I wanted about 14 months ago, but none of 4 other stylists were able to deliver. This was, by far, the best haircut and color experience I've had (it was also nice having the whole salon to myself on a Sunday).

I need someone who can listen to what I want (at length) and make it work with my face and coloring. Cary did both beautifully. He knows what he is doing, and pays attention at every moment to make sure he's doing it right. He attended to my comfort with kindness and sincerity. He seemed comfortable with my sparse conversation. I'm so glad I found him. If you're considering his services, by all means, give him a try. You really can't lose.

Pros: Spotless service, welcoming, extremely talented

Posted 02/21/08

i had a very positive experience with cary at kamala spa. he was very attentive to all my requests and was very patient with my hair. as he is working on your hair, you will notice that he will pay attention to every little detail. the results will show the proof. ive tried many stylists here in san francisco, and he's the best one so far! I love my haircut, and my highlights came out really well! You wont be wasting your time and money with cary! Location is very convenient also being at union square and multiple garages to park in=)

Posted 01/31/08

Cary did an updo for me for New Year's Eve and I received rave reviews from all of my friends. Not only is Cary an artist at his craft, but he knows how to make a girl look her very best for those very special events. I highly recommend Cary for updos. Simply fabulous!!

Posted 01/08/08

Cary at Kamalaspa created an out-of-this-world Marie Antoinette hair style for myself and a friend. Two distinct styles but both won praise all night long at a themed event. Worked quickly and easily, adding tons of extra hair (and feathers!) in record time. So great. My highest recommendation!

Posted 11/16/07

I am new to the City and have been jumping from salon to salon looking for a decent cut and color. What attracted me to Cary was his individual positive reviews, rather that weeding through other salons hits and misses. I was pleased to find he is great at cutting and highlighting, and he gave me a look that was right on. I felt very comfortable with his consultation and his ideals for my sometimes challenging curly hair. To top it off the salon is one of the nicest I have ever seen without all the pretension. Thank you Cary, I will return

Pros: atmosphere, service

Cons: none

Posted 11/04/07

I often have mixed feelings about my hair. Cary made me and my hair look and feel good again! I cannot sing his praises enough. I get many compliments on my new cut. I had searched to find someone in the city after moving here for 3 years and i'm happy to say my search is over. Thank You Cary!

Pros: service, atmosphere, warmth

Cons: only one - cost...but i'll pay it!

Posted 10/31/07

It's hard to find someone who does great color and Cary is that rare breed. I have a fabulous cut and gorgeous color from Cary! The salon itself is lovely too!

Pros: awesome service!

Posted 10/07/07

My visit was business related...my discretionary time was limited...I took the hotel concierge's recommendation for the Kamalaspa. The experience with a gifted stylist, Cary Carter, exceeded my expectations in every way. He didn't know me, my "hair issues", or my reluctance to use anyone that isn't my at-home, styling professional.

Cary did a remarkable job...with great skill, patience and a serene demeanor he put me at ease. It was a wonderful experience. He is a true professional, well suited to his craft, and has the ability to make you look far better than when you arrived. His manner and approach blends with the beautiful and peaceful surroundings of the salon. It is truly an oasis on Union Sqare.

I give Cary Carter and the Kamalapsa superior reviews that are well deserved.

Pros: peaceful, serene, caring and nuturing environment

Cons: my limited time available

Posted 09/21/07

Cary is an amazing stylist. I have never had a salon haircut and I have really frizzy, thick, wavy hair. Cary listened to what I wanted, made suggestions and was immensely patient. He took his time to cut my hair in layers (not easy given the thickness of my hair). He then proceeded to show my what my hair looks like straightened. No one has ever had the patience to straighten my hair, but Cary was FABULOUS. He spent 2 hours working on my hair and made me look so good, my friends didn' t even recognize me! I HIGHLY RECOMMEND CARY!!

Posted 09/01/07

Cary is an amazing hairstylist. Every time I go see him he makes sure that I am comfortable and always discusses what we are going to do before he does anything. The color he does looks very natural and I love the way he cuts my hair. As well, he does amazing updos. He is able to do them so quickly and every updo I have gotten with him doesn't fall until I want it to. That is very difficult to do for my hair since is so fine. I highly recommend Cary and I know other people will enjoy their experience with him as much as I have!

Posted 08/13/07