James Joseph Salon

I have been a faithful client of Cristina Viselli for over 5 years. She was recommended by a friend. I have long, thick, wavy hair. Since she has been cutting and coloring my hair, I have received numerous compliments from friends and strangers. I completely trust her judgement...I just show up and she does what is needed...no more photos or worries.

Cristina also is extremely generous. On November 8th, she and several of her coworkers have donated their time to raise money for homeless pets. The hair cut-a-thon event is being held at the James Joseph Salon and features special guest, Miss Teen USA (Cristina is her regular hairstylist).

I highly recommend the services of Cristina and the James Joseph Salon.

Pros: Excellent color and cuts.

Posted 10/18/09

HOT HOT HOT! LITERALLY! So, I burnt a very large section of the back of my hair. I thought for sure I was doomed as I sheepishly walked through the door to go see Cristina?. I can not even tell you how grateful I am to have such an expert stylist. I walked out of James Joseph Salon that day much different than I walked in. I can?t even believe the cut. It is amazing. You would never know that I had a ?whoops? and that?s not the first time she has fixed one of my self inflicted ?WHOOPS?. The color is always perfect and her cuts always exceed my expectations. I actually even have some of her cards in my wallet because I got tired of trying to explain to people where I get my hair done! Cristina ? If you are reading this, please don?t ever move out of the area! :) A++ every time!

Pros: Atmosphere, location and Cristina!

Cons: None

Posted 09/22/09

I got my hair cut by Eva about a month ago. I normally don't write reviews, but had to this time because I was so impressed with the cut Eva gave me.

The way Eva shaped my hair is incredible. She gave me long layers throughout, and my curls just fall in place and frame my face perfectly. All I have to do is wash, put product in, and be on my way.

I am super picky, and Eva's haircut is by far the best I've had. Her assistant was really nice too! I am so happy with the cut, I could go on and on :)

Zara

Pros: Results!!!

Posted 03/16/09

It was my first time, I read good and bad reviews but decided to check it for myself. My appt. was with Erica, she seemed nice as well as her assistant, but she left me with the same color nothing new nothing great same brownish colors with "highlights" mm I dont think so, and then when she did the my hair it was so horrible.. my hair ended up with static and it was impossible for me to enjoy the night out because my hair was flying all over!!! I paid 180 for NOTHING seriously!! i think the salon is very expensive and they give you less than average results! Dont go with Erica!!

Pros: ambience

Cons: really bad hair color

Posted 02/19/09

I read so many reviews on this salon before finally deciding to take a chance and they all said nice things.Pricey but ok. I don't mind the price as long as I get what I want. I wanted a cut/color, brought a picture of exactly what i want and had before, my hair has the right texture, i had the cut before and it worked but somehow i left the salon with a pale resemblance of what i wanted. and after i washed my hair was so hard to manage because the cut is not correct. the color is ok, again not what i really wanted. and really, i think after spending 400$ with all tips included, i should love what i see,right? i'm very upset and don't even want to go back for a correction because they fail the first time...
the good thing is that they are friendly and nice, but i don't really want that, i want a great cut and a perfect color!
if you really care about your hair, color and style, i would not recommend this place.

Pros: ambience, friendliness

Cons: skills

Posted 02/15/09

Decided to treat myself to a Newbury Street experience before the holidays. Researched online and the reviews for James Joseph seemed very positive...in addition reviewers had mentioned it was reasonable for Newbury Street. Went in for some "low lights" for my single processed blond hair and $367 later left with the worst hair color of my life. I've been to Newbury Street before, but have never spent over $200...I was so incredibly depressed. The color was so dark I went back a week later to add highlights...needless to say the stylist was not very cordial and didn't even look to see how the color was after I dryed my own hair. Worst hair salon experience ever!!!!

Pros: Ambience

Cons: Terrible value and customer service (as a new customer they conveniently neglected to mention the $50 charge to dry my hair and that tips were cash only).

Posted 01/04/09

I have been in Boston for almost 3 years and have never found a stylist that did my hair the way i liked it. Lindsey is awsome! I went on the website and saw that she liked to do blondes so I thought I would try her out. Thank god I did I LOVE my hair!! When I met her she was so friendly and outgoing she told me that my hair was lacking depth and that I needed lowlites, I was a little apprehensive at first because I love being blonde but I trusted her judgment and it came out sooo good. The lowlites were just a darker golden blonde and it was so shinny and natural. Before my hair looked so fried and damaged and now it looks so healthy. I cant wait to go back and see her again!

Pros: Friendly staff, nice atmosphere

Cons: parking

Posted 11/18/08

I had the frizziest and most difficult hair to deal with. It wouldn?t curl and it wouldn?t stay straight either. It used to take me forever to make my hair look half presentable everyday. I have been to many hair salons in Boston and I have not found anyone that would be remotely interested in helping me with my hair. Every time I went to a salon my hair would end up greasy and plastered to my head instead of smooth and shiny.
Thankfully, I went to James Joseph and found Cristina. When I first met her I felt so
relieved because she knew exactly what do to with my hair. She sat with me and went over everything that I needed to know in order to have beautiful hair. Cristina introduced me to an Italian keratin treatment which totally changed my life. My hair has never ever felt or looked this way before. Now, I can make my hair look great in less than 10 minutes. My morning dreadful routine is finally over thanks to her.

Pros: Super sweet and knowledgeable stylist. Reasonably priced. Great ambience.

Posted 11/04/08

I've spent my life chasing the perfect haircut. From Supercuts (I know, I deserved to look bad), to the dizzying array of high-priced salons on Boston's Newbury Street, I've plunked down as much as $300 for drop-dead-gorgeous hair, only to feel dissapointed, super broke and super stupid.
I started to blame my hair. Maybe trying to transform this long, straight, part-down-the-middle hair into something drop-dead gorgeous was, well, unrealistic. Then I met Eva, whose scissors are truly a magic wand.
This girl can cut. Eva is more than a hair stylist. She is an artist who knows her medium.
For the record, my hair isn't the easiest to work with. It's pin straight with a kickin' cowlick above my right eye.
I wanted to keep my length but have some style. Maybe even leap into bangs. Eva really listened to what I wanted and took the time to study how my hair moved.
Eva knows hair texture and shape, and how to make a cut compliment the contours of your face.
Friendly and confident, as Eva snipped, she explained how the hair would fall, what works and what doesn't.
When she was done, I had what I was looking for my entire life. A conservative look for my career but with a little edge to keep it sylish and interesting.
After my first visit to Eva, I was standing in line for coffee when two women told me I had beautiful hair.
After the fourth visit, I know my life-long search for perfect hair is over.
My straight hair has shape and blends flawlessly. Even my cowlick behaves, and every cut grows out beautifully.
It's like I was actually born with great hair. All it took was a trip to Eva's chair to realize it.
Thank you Eva. You love hair, you love people, you love your job and it shows!
Everyone at James Joseph, especially Eva's fantastic assistant, Anastasia, has been friendly, fun, and provided great service in a relaxed atmosphere.
Visit Eva. You will get a haircut that enhances your life.

Pros: Eva

Cons: cost, but the cut is worth it

Posted 10/27/08

After a few of my co-workers had gone here and come back with great looking hair, I wanted to follow the trend. A couple of them saw Derek, and another saw someone else. I went to Derek as well. The over-all feel of the salon was so full of energy from the beginning.

He came over and sat me down with a smile. We had our little girl talk, and I basically told him to do whatever he pleased because who else would know better. He was very specific with details on what he was going to do. Couple inches off the bottom, some more simple looking layers for my super fine hair and a straight across fringe as he called it. I got my hair washed and got back into his chair, and he worked and worked, almost like nothing existed but my hair, not much conversation but thats OK.

I left feeling a little ehhhh, whatever. But a couple days later I realized I just didn't need to work that hard to style my hair and thought to myself that thats where his magic is! Such a young KID literally, but don't be fooled, he's got it going on. Cute kid to boot. Love him.

Posted 10/18/08

I have nothing but good things to say about this salon and the hairstylist. If you are looking for good service and not to break the bank you need to go there and see Cristina. She is fantastic!
I have tried a lot of salons on Newbury Street. I feel that I get less and less highlights put in my hair and the cost keeps on getting higher and higher.
Cristina had my hair in so many foils, I felt that I could pick up TV channels. I was really pleased in how neat and detail orientated she was. She made my hair color look so natural, and her pricing really fit my budget.

Pros: excellent hair color, great price, fantastic hairstylist

Posted 10/16/08

James Joseph Salon is great! I received exceptional service. It is worth every penny! Before I visited the salon, my hair was a complete disaster. My stylist is Lisa Proulx. SHE IS AMAZING!!! She worked magic! I have never received so many compliments on my hair. It looks stylish, healthy, and simply fantastic!

Pros: Everything!!

Cons: Parking is difficult on Newbury Street.

Posted 09/21/08

I cannot rate this salon, because I have not been to it. However, after reading the negative and positive reviews on this salon, I will absolutely not be going. It's not so much the negative reviews that are turning me off, but William George's responses. How can you not blowdry a clients hair? How can you have the nerve to charge upwards of $200 for a service and NOT blowdry your clients hair? You seem to be giving a multitude of excuses. I have been working on finding a salon that I love since I moved to Boston 2 years ago. I've have been to many high-end salons, here and in NY, and have two good friends that work in very high-end Newbury Street salons. That being said, I have never heard of someone NOT receiving a blowdry with their service. Instead of responding to these customer reviews with "well..too bad..we don't blowdry hair unless you're willing to pay $50"; how about some sincere customer service? Why is it that high end salons get annoyed when you are unhappy with the hair service. As if to say, 'How dare they criticize my work!'. I know that when I have gotten bad haircuts in the past, it is very emotional. It can make or break your day. Instead of making customers feel more satisfied with their new look, all you say is "well..thats how the cookie crumbles!" I'm sorry, but that is just not acceptable. I will not be coming to your salon anytime soon, based on what I've seen here today. I don't care how high end you are, that does not excuse you from having manners.

The most recent salon I've tried is G-Spa, on Newbury. The stylist was extremely friendly and literally did exactly what I asked for. No questions, no arguments.......along with one hell of a good blowdry (and she used a straightening iron, just for good measure...without me even asking) Most salons want to give you a COMPLETE styled look.

Good luck to everyone searching for a salon that does great hair......and doesn't make you work for it.

Posted 08/19/08

I went to the James Joseph Studio at Station Landing, Medford, the latest in the JJ family. I had never been and asked for an advanced stylist who would be able to listen to my needs and wants. Unfortunately I got no such thing. I had a very solid idea of what I was looking for and after two cuts (both of which I was required to pay for, even though the second was requested to correct the first), and a color, that cost me a total of $190 (though that included the tips I was foolish enough to leave), I didn't even have anything remotely resembling the cut and color I requested. While it was a decent cut, it wasn't worth the price paid, and wasn't what I wanted. In fact, it made me cry.

Further, I sent a detailed complaint to William George, requesting a refund. The complaint was signed for on July 5, and now, 20 days later, I have not heard a word. Even if Mr. George felt the complaint was not valid, good customer service would dictate, at the very least, acknowledgment of the complaint. The letter included my mailing address, email address, and cell phone number. Yet, silence.

For the reasons listed, I cannot in good conscience recommend the James Joseph Studio. I could have received the cut I have at Great Cuts for $20.

Edit: I did hear from Mr. George 4 days after posting this review. He had been out of the country, hence the delay in response. I had a nice conversation with Mr. George and we agreed on a partial refund, a correction cut, and a new color should I decide to do that. I'm satisfied with the resolution, and only time will tell if I return to James Joseph after my correction cut, but at least I can say he did take my complaint to heart and did work with me to offer a solution.

Pros: None

Cons: Overpriced, Stylist didn't get it

Posted 07/24/08

Being new to Boston, I researched a bunch of best of Boston salons before I decided to go with the James Joseph Salon to get some highlights. The receptionists were extremely polite when I was making the appointment and got one for the following morning with Rudina (I didn't have a preference for stylist since I had never been there before).

When I arrived for my appointment the next morning (15 mins early as requested) I got changed and was told Rudina would be with my shortly. 35 minutes later I was still waiting and she took a client from off the streets and agreed to touch up her roots.

Eventually when Rudina was free she took me over to her station and I attempted to explain to her what I was going for...only she didn't seem to understand what I was saying at all!!! After a few attempts we settled on a half head of chunky blonde highlights. The entire time she was doing my highlights she did not say a single word to me and also, she barely even said hi to begin with. While I was under the dryer waiting for my highlights to dry she did offer me a drink or a magazine and left me sitting there for 30 minutes until her assistant came over to wash my hair.

Once my hair was washed I was brought over to the direction of Rudina's station but then re-directed to an empty one where her assistant combed out my hair for me and then proceeded to HAND ME A HAIR DRYER and tell me that I can start drying it now. I had no idea what was going on and just sat and waited for my stylist to come over and finish her work. Eventually they must have realised that I wasn't drying my own hair (because what kind of a wacko would pay $150 to dry their own hair!?!?) and Rudina came over and said that if she was to dry my hair it would be another $50. This is the point where enough was enough! I have been to many top-end salons London and throughout Europe and never in my life have I been told to dry my own hair!!

I will NEVER go back there again!!

Pros: None

Cons: Price, rude staff

Posted 07/01/08

i'm loving my new hair...
i was in yesterday with samantha, i had seen her once before and was extremley happy!! she gave me the most beautiful dark brown hair with toffy highlights.. IT looked amazing and i rocked it, EVERYONE LOVED it... but this time i wanted to go ALOT blonder.. when i came in and told sam she was so excited, which mad me feel even more excited, any way my hair looks the best it has ever looked.. I feel like the most beautiful blonde with so much demension.. so much more than i expected. i thought she was just going to do an all over color.. she did a full head of highlights, and some browns and honey color.. oh my god.. I'M IN LOVE WITH MY HAIR....
THANKS SOOOOOO MUCH SAM
CANT WAIT TILL OUR NEXT VISIT :)

Pros: it just keeps getting better

Cons: nothing i look awesome

Posted 06/25/08

The best highlights and haircuts my hair has ever seen - I just keep coming back! Michelle and her assistant are the best team in town. Makes me wish I could do hair. Maybe my next career. Thanks Michelle!

Pros: location, stylists, friendly

Cons: expensive (but worth it)

Posted 06/10/08

my hair stylist michelle moved from james joseph studio to james joseph salon. she's the best hair stylist i've ever had. that is really the truth. she gives me the hair style that fits my life, personality and over all appearance. i love that the highlights are not too flashy and that the hair cut keeps its shape even as it grows out. i've been going to michelle for hair cut and coloring for about 3 yrs or so. when you find a good hair stylist, you go back and change salons when they move b/c good stylists are hard to find. thanks michelle! i love my hair color and style.

Pros: my hair stylist michelle

Cons: parking is still hard but great service makes it worth the effort

Posted 05/29/08

I just wanted to say the reason i chose James Joseph was because of this web-site. I was still not sure because there is well over 100 salons on Newbury St. I was in Starbucks on Boylston, and saw this woman in front of me with the most AMAZING color and CUT!! its not often you'll se both.. So i asked her where she went! She told me Samantha from James Joseph salon, she said i would love her...OK i was convinced. i walked right over and made an appt. It took a little over a week to get an appt, but it was worth every second.. I do LOVE her... and my HAIR.. best color and haircut i've ever had.. my hair is medium brown, i had no highlights... Samantha put some chestnut and toffy colors in my hair, it looks so natural but still pops... now i'm the one getting asked where i go!!!!!! thats NEVER happened to me before :)

THANKS SAM.. your the best :) I'll definitly be back

Pros: love SAMANTHA

Cons: staff at front desk needs work

Posted 04/24/08

I tried out James Joseph based on reviews here. I have short hair. I got the worst cut in probably 10 years. I liked my previous cut, and to test out the place, asked the hairdresser to just do the same thing. It was cut so poorly (it was curling out in random places, and in others just hung flat) that I went back. I hesitated to go back (they let you go back for free within 2 weeks and get a cut from the same person), but then thought maybe she could just tidy the bits that looked weird. The second round does look better, but its still sticks out in places and the style is completely gone. It looks like a flat barber cut for someone over 60! Really disappointing. Especially for the price ($60). If you have short hair, don't go to Mary! The other salon I've tried in Boston is Delaria, and they did a good job and for $20 less!

Posted 04/22/08

I recommended James Joseph salon to my roommate and she hated her haircut. When I saw her I could not understand the reason for her frustration, once I thought her hair looked absolutely fantastic. the best I',ve ever seen on her.
So, here's what I concluded (and I'm sure it applies to many of the negative reviewers): she is extremely overweight, going through some serious emotional problems and she is trying to find reasons to blame the rest of the world.
This is a hair salon! You won't find psychiatrists there! Just extremely highly qualified hair stylists. My favorite: Rudina! Best highlights and haircut you can possibly get.

Pros: Always exceeds my expectations

Cons: I'm broke...

Posted 04/08/08

i'm blonde and have never felt like a natural blonde until i was reccomedned to Samantha. i've been coloring my hair for about 15 years, A woman i work with just raves about her, and said i must go. I love to be blonde but have never been 100% happy with the results. when i first met Samantha, she sat with me and really listened to my concerns, i felt like she knew exactly what i was trying to say.... well i have to say she is AMAZING!!!!! i felt lika a new woman when i left the salon, and the great thing is, I literley get stopped on street with complements on my hair. I would HIGHLY reccomed her to any one. She also cut my hair and in just love it as well. its just amazing how someone can change your life, i wish i meet her 15 years ago !!!!!!!!!
thanks

Pros: samantha is the best with blondes

Posted 04/02/08

I recently moved here, and as all of you know finding a GREAT stylist is a hard thing to do.

I researched online, and asked some collegues at work for some recomendations. After all my research, I chose Eva at James Joseph Salon.

I was met by the front desk with the BIGGEST smile. It make me feel comfortable as soon as I walked in. I was shown where to change, and hang my coat. When I was done, Eva's assistant was waiting for me and offered me an array of beverages.

Next thing I knew it I was sitting in Eva's chair for a consultation where she actually listened to what I wanted. Next was the most amazing shampoo, and head massage that I have ever had. Her assistant (Ashley I think it was) was amazing.

I got a full hair cut of almost 45 minutes, where we shared laughs and stories. Eva made me feel like I had known her for years. In the end, I had the BEST hair cut I have ever gotten.

I checked out at the desk, and they had a few products that Eva used waiting for me. No pressure to buy, but of course I did get the shampoo since it smelt amazing, and felt like it worked great (or maybe it was the head massage that I got, I don't know).

I already booked my next appointment, and can't wait to come back!

Pros: Friendly Staff, and Amazing Head Massages

Cons: Boston Parking...

Posted 01/17/08

Finding someone who can interpret exactly what you want and deliver fabulous results is hard to come by especially for anyone who cares about making a statement with the way their hair looks. It?s also difficult to find a salon these days where you really feel like you?re getting the total customer experience. I?ve been seeing Michelle for quite some time now and she always come through in giving me wonderful creative cuts and vibrant color services. With each consultation, she offers different ideas which I love. I?ve had a few different hair styles since I began seeing Michelle and my hair is so much healthier as well with the product recommendations she educated me with. I?ve received compliments each and every time I?ve gone to see Michelle at James Joseph Salon. The receptionists and assistants also make the entire customer experience second to none in Boston.

Street Parking is metered, but plenty of parking lots in the area. 100% worth it too!

Pros: Quality of Service and Knowledge of Stylist, Great Overall Customer Experience

Cons: Parking

Posted 12/26/07

I have been all over Boston to many different salons looking for the right haircut. I have to say George at James Joseph is by far the best men's haircut in the city. He understands style and doesnt give me the basic boy cut that everyone learns in haircut school. He also doesnt go too crazy either! He hits the nail on the head every time and his attention to detail is the best I have seen. Most stylists thow a guy in and out of the chair in under a half an hour. Here, I am surprised with how much time and care George takes. The receptionist is never over friendly, and always seems a little inconvenienced when I show up, but nothing would stop me from getting my haircut!

Pros: Great cuts!

Posted 11/11/07

I know this place has a lot of good reviews but I have been there a whole bunch of times trying to give them chance after chance after chance to get it better next time. I like bumble and bumble so hair salons that carry that I give extra chances to. Their hair cuts are alright but if I'm going to spend over $60 for just a trim, I better get some great service. Only once did they actually style my hair afterwards. Once I could tell the woman wanted to leave for the day and another time the guy was overbooked with two clients waiting. I even asked the lady to cut a certain part of my hair because it was awkward from the last time she cut it and she said no! So it's not that the cuts are horrible or anything (nothing to jump for joy over either) but I believe that if I'm spending all this money for a haircut I shouldn't have to turn the straightening iron on right when I get home. I'd expect that from supercuts. So yea they might serve coffee and give you robs but the end result is a good hairstyle. These guys have to get their scheduling and priorities in order.

Pros: Free wine on Thursday nights

Cons: Feel like you want to put a hat on for the walk home to your straightening iron.

Posted 08/27/07

I am the first to admit it -- I can be a little high maintenance. I have been known to politely throw a minor tantrum or two and over the past few years, disgruntled after years of service that hadn't lived up to my high standards, I took to coloring my own hair. It wasn't terrific, but for the most part I knew what I was getting. Then last weekend something went horribly awry. I wanted Auburn and instead got a horrendous muddy cherry that looked like I had used Manic Panic a couple weeks before. I called out sick from my office job (there was no way I was meeting a client with my wanna-be Goth do), donned a bandanna and desperately paced Newbury Street in search of an open salon that I didn't already dislike... James Joseph was open and the girl at the front desk was kind enough not to laugh in my face. In fact, she was comforting, attentive and understanding -- I was sold.

The girl at the desk called Giovanni, a master of color correction with impeccable taste, immense talent and good humor. I left in under two hours with my hair looking better than ever and my wallet really no worse for the wear. I will definitely be going back soon. Move over Michaelangelo and Leonardo -- there is a new Italian artist who will be the ONLY one to touch my color. Finally I have a real color care specialist -- I can't wait until it's time for a cut (I will be sure to update my review)!

Posted 08/04/07

I called James Joseph Salon (August 2007) to book an appointment for a service for my high school aged daughter. I booked the appointment, and just as I was about to hang up, the receptionist asked, "How did you hear about us?" I told her I saw their website, and then remembered that the website offered free shampoo and conditioner for first time clients. I mentioned the promo, and the receptionist said: "Oh, that's only for haircuts." I said fine, but then when I hung up, I thought it was odd that they would offer it, and when you call, they take back the offer. I was inspired then, to do more research on this salon. I read the terrible reviews on this site (this is my first ever review) and the owner's many replies, about wishing people had contacted him before leaving. So I thought, okay, I'll call. I called and asked for the owner, but he wasn't in. I spoke to the manager, and explained that I thought it was odd. He said they used to only offer it for haircuts, but then they got complaints like mine, and now they offer it for everyone. Okay, now I'm hearing about more complaints, directly from the manager, and he's telling me something completely different than the receptionist. And the manager's attitude was: Why is this woman making such a big deal out of a stupid shampoo offer? He couldn't have cared less and just wanted to get off the phone. And I felt like telling him: hey, it's all about trust. Why should we trust our hair to you when your salon doesn't even honor the offers you make on the website? But why bother to clue them in? They don't care. They lost me as a client before I even walked into the door.

Cons: Who cares? attitude

Posted 08/03/07

I'd just like to mention that although this salon doesn't have as many feedbacks or as many POSITIVE feedbacks, they are at least honest about their reviews.

I haven't actually yet been to James Joseph's but I'm just doing my research on which hair salon to go to, and I realized most top rated hair salons are all cheating by their their staff write their reviews. This is very obvious and I think City Search should address this problem. I'd just like to say that I appreciate how the owner/manager would take his time to address each issue that has been brought up and didn't ask his employees to leave cheater remarks.

I'm hoping to book an appointment sometime this week. I'll be writing a review after I get my hair cut. I hope they won't let me down!

Posted 07/29/07

If you've ever had a bad experience with a haircut, you can appreciate any basic haircut- they do what you want, no unevenness, they are conservative with cutting length, it looks alright in the end. However, if you're looking for a awesome, looks and feels different and incredible haircut, you will not find it with Mary at James Joseph Salon. The cut was fast and my hair looks good, but I think any person off the street could have done the same cut. The price was $60 for a cut and dry, which is not bad for Newbury street, but I was still not blown away. At least it's seems dependable?

Pros: Decent haircut, staff very nice.

Cons: Not exceptional.

Posted 07/29/07

I hadn't gone to a salon in probably about 8 years so my hair was extremely long and in desperate need of a cut and style. I researched Salons online and thought I would give James Joseph Salon a try and wish for the best. When I went I was a bit nervous because I didn't want some funky cut that was going to take forever to grow out leaving me to look like an escaped mental patient. So I specifically made an appointment with Rudina because she seemed to be very popular and had curly hair like mine so I figured she would be the best fit. SHE DID AN AWESOME JOB! I couldn't believe how great the cut was and how revived my hair looked when she was done. I love the style and I loved how professional and extremely skilled Rudina was. She listened to exactly what I wanted and made me feel comfortable about the style she was giving me. I would recommend her to anyone (my sister-in-law plans on going to see her too!) and I will continue to go to her as my stylist. The Shampoo girl was great too. Awesome head massage!!
The whole salon was a great experience.

Pros: Excellent Cuts and Styling from Rudina

Cons: Parking

Posted 07/18/07

I recently made an appointment for 9 AM on a Saturday morning. I showed up at 8:45 and was told that they had received a call from me cancelling my appointment. They had there information completely wrong. Why would I cancel my appointment and then show up (on an early Saturday morning no less)? The stylist apologized for the inconvenience and told me to reschedule and that they would then comp the haircut. Later that day I received a call from their store manager who basically insinuated that I had concocted this whole thing to get a free cut. Realizing that his poor communication skills should not impact my relationship with the stylist, I kept my temper and left my rescheduled appointment on the books. Unfortunately as my morning went on I became increasingly upset by the situation and called the manager back to cancel my appointment. Sunday afternoon I received a call from the receptionist to confirm my appointment. ?NO, I cancelled this. Please remove me from your books.?

It?s a real sad situation when one person?s actions are cause for 2 people losing business. While I love the amazing cuts from Rudina and the detailed eye of Erica I will NOT be returning to James Joseph Salon.

Pros: Awesome Cuts & Colors

Cons: Poor communcation skils of their Store Manager

Posted 07/15/07

I was only in Boston for the summer doing an internship and I wanted to get my hair dyed but didnt know where to go so I found James Joseph online and decided to give it a try because it seemed to have really good reviews. I got there early (10:15 for my 10:30 appointment) and at 11:00 I still hadn't been take so I asked the front desk if my stylsit was just really busy or forgot about me and they checked with her and she said she would be with me in a minute. She finally took me around 11:15 and didnt even apologize for being late. I wanted my medium brown hair to be dyed to cover up the old highlights that were showing through and make it a little bit darker. I left the salon with wet hair because by the time I was finished there it was almost 2pm. I think she must have been busy running around doing other things becasue when my hair was dryed it was pretty much black and not what I wanted at all. So I called and made an apointment to get it fixed. At this appointment she put toner on it, which did nothing and told me she thought it looked lighter even though i couldnt see the diference. She seemed agitated and not very freindly the whole time she was with me and made me feel like she just wanted to get me out of there. So i just left and had to get it fixed at another salon. On a postive note I thought that the shampooers at both appointments were great and very friendly and also the girls at the front desk were very nice. They apologized for the stylist taking me late.

Posted 07/11/07

I recently tried James Joseph Salon after seeing them advertised in Stuff at Night Magazine. They were advertising their 10th anniversary, so I assumed they must be good! So I called the salon, and the receptionists helped me find Rudina. Rudina cut my hair, and made me feel great! She listened to what I told her, and then made some recommendations based on my job, and lifestyle at home. I love this salon, and
rudina is my new stylist!

Pros: Massaging Chairs

Cons: No Parking

Posted 06/11/07

i've been seeing beth for a few years now. i wanted to say good luck this weekend and good luck in new york!!!!

Posted 05/03/07

I was so excited to try a different hair stylist to get my hair cut. I have been to James Joseph before and have been disappointed but I thought I would give them another try ,big mistake. When I left to go home and looked at my hair it was so uneven that I had to go back to my regular stylist to fix it. When I called the salon to speak to the manager I told him what happened and he said he would give me a call back. Because I had to get it cut again and didn't go back there because I didn't want them to further mess up my hair he said there was nothing he could do for me. I work in Boston and I am going to tell people never to go there. He was basically taking the hairdressers side and didn't even care that I was extremely unhappy.

Pros: Funky salon

Cons: Stylists do not care

Posted 04/12/07

I recently went to James Joseph Salon and got a highlight and cut before going home for Easter. All I can say is WOW! The stylist actually listened to what I wanted, and then gave me what I wanted with both my color and cut! Samantha, your AMAZING. My family did nothing but compliment me on my hair all weekend!

She was also very pleasant, personable and just fun to be around while she was doing my hair. Anyone that is scared to see a new stylist, should try James Joseph Salon. They are good at what they do,and at a very reasonable price.

Pros: Late Night Thursdays with FREE wine, massaging chairs, and Friendly staff

Cons: No parking, or validated parking

Posted 04/10/07

I had a stylist there who completely frustrated me and wasted my time. I had asked for partial highlights with color for the rest of the hair, describing the degree of lightness for the highlights and the shade of the color to great detail. I then asked - 'could you give that to me?' and she said yes... then as we washed out the dye and highlighting creme i realized the my hair looked bright ORANGE and not blonde, so i asked her if she could put the foils on for a little bit longer. Not only was her attitude bad and seemingly irritated (like i was wasting her time) - she REFUSED to do it. claiming it would damage my hair "A LITTLE". I told her that I used to home process my hair a lot and anything a salon could do to damage my hair wouldn't even compare to what I used to do 3 years ago. She still refused. I simply can't BELIEVE that such a high end salon would refuse a customer service like that... I had to get a manager, and it turns out that after he said it was okay to do - that she hadn't booked me for the full amount of time it should have taken to complete my process. (or i think that this is true at least...) This sucked!

Because I love this salon, and most of the stylists there, yet my favorites are always booked. and this situation really frustrated me. I should never have to feel like i need to put my foot down about what i want when i'm paying $200 + ...

Also, they attempted to charge me the cost of full foils rather than partial foils because she had to do it twice... because she didn't leave the first ones on long enough... is that fair??? maybe i'm just expecting too much, but i don't think that's true...

Pros: excellent cuts - this comes from a person who used to care less about my cut...

Cons: some stylists are difficult and stubborn

Posted 03/07/07

I have been looking for a great hair stylist/color expert for about 8 years now. Whenever I went to see a new hair stylist, I alway had to explain in detail what I wanted color and cut wise. I'm a brunette with curly/frizzy brown hair and it was always hard to explain and get it right!

I was refered by a friend to Beth, when she was at Umi. She was the first hairstylist that i didnt have to explain that I wanted a "natural looking" cut and color. So I obviously followed her to James Joseph. My hair has NEVER looked so healthy and I constantly get compliments from everyone. Beth is super talented and I'm so happy to have found her!!

Posted 03/06/07

Everyone knows Newbury Street is the place to go in Boston if you are looking for a great hair style. What everyone doesn't know is that the best stylist to go see is Beth at James Joseph. I won't let anyone else touch my hair. She listens to what I want and makes great suggestions. She takes her time and I am never disappointed. Everytime she does my hair I feel so renewed - she is able to make it fresh and interesting each time. I always get tons of great feedback on how great my hair looks after I have been to see her but mostly I am happy with how it looks. She is a real pro!

Posted 02/16/07

I'm new to Boston and this salon came recommended by a friend. The stylist recommended was not available, so I made an appt. with a fairly new stylist - Kerri. I was a little skeptical because of some of the bad reviews i read of the salon (it only takes a few), so i went in prepared to be a little disappointed, however, I was very pleased walking out. Kerri really took her time and did EXACTLY what I asked, which is one of the most important aspects of a good stylist for me. She made some great suggestions on the cut for next time and I really appreciate how she didn't try to hardcore sell me any products at the end. i also really appreciate how the owner takes time to respond to critism on this site. Great Salon!!!

Pros: 2 thumbs up

Cons: none

Posted 01/02/07

I use to salon hop all the time, but not since I've been to James Joseph. Derek has been my stylist for a couple of months now, and I love him! I am a very picky person and if, I think he's great, then he must be really good at what he does. He's a perfectionist so you know that your hair is in good hands. He's very professional and knows what he's doing. Most of the time, I'm not sure what I want to do with my hair, but Derek always gives me wonderful suggestions, and that's what I love about him. He is able to do exactly what you want. Take my advice and go for a free consultation with Derek. Derek knows beauty. I love having a dependable salon to go to. James Joseph is such a friendly environment. Everybody is extremely nice there. No more salon and stylist hunting for me! This is it!

Pros: Wonderful service

Posted 12/07/06

Beth is no longer at Umi Salon, and is pleased to announce that she has joined the talented team at James Joseph Salon.

Happy Holidays!

Posted 12/02/06

I moved up to Boston from NYC three years ago and was afraid I wouldn't be able to find a good stylist here given past experience. I stumbled upon JJ salon and Michael Joseph and have not gone anywhere else since then. I have stick straight hair, which is hard to mess up, but easy to leave just blah and that has never been the case there. Michael gives me what I want to perfection every time. He's taken me from super long, layered hair to full bangs and back - he's amazing.

Pros: Open Sundays, great stylists

Cons: Expensive parking in the garage

Posted 11/30/06

the salon was clean & comfortable, the desk staff was more than helpful, and my stylist liz gave me just what I was looking for....the entire experience was complete from begining to end....will be back for sure!

Pros: atmosphere

Cons: parking

Posted 11/15/06

I have been going to the same salon on Newbury Street for almost 10 years now. After 2 botched colors and cuts from my usual stylist, I decided it was time to try somewhere new. A couple of friends told me about James Joseph Salon and I decided to give it a try. I called the Salon, and spoke with one of the front desk staff who listened to my dillema of changing stylists, and coached me through the process of finding a new stylist. They recommended a couple of different stylist based on my hair type, and what I was looking to have done. They even stayed on the phone with me while I looked at each stylist on their website to see who I thought looked the best for me. After choosing my new colorist and cutter I made my appointment.

I came in for my appointment, and was amazed at the size of the salon, and the amount of clients getting their hair done. I thought uh oh, I am going to get lost in the shuffle and this is going to be another bad experience. But I was shocked when the front desk staff checked me in, gave me a robe, and a tour of the salon. My colorist came right over, set me up in her chair and TALKED to me before going to work on me. After my color I got my cut, and boy was he amazing. From the massage while getting shampoo'd to the total education of how my hair should be treated was amazing.

When I left I did spend a bit much on new products that my cutter recommended, but I trusted him. He gave me exactly what I wanted, and showed me how to style my hair on my own. Nothing is worse than when you get a new cut, and then the next day you have no clue on how to get it to look the same way as the way the stylist did it.

Anyway, if you want a amazing color, and a cut that is out of this world I would definitely tell you to go see Erica and Seth. They are now my new colorist and cutter!

Pros: BEST STAFF, No Attitude Atmosphere, and Amazing head Massages

Cons: No Parking, No Validated Parking

Posted 11/03/06

So after searching the many salons on Newbury Street I have finally found a stylist who listened to what I wanted in a hair cut. Her name is Taylor, and she gave me exactly what I wanted, and her price was reasonable! I would definately recommend Taylor for anyone who wants a stylist who listens!

Pros: Stylists who listens

Cons: Street/garage Parking

Posted 10/15/06

One of the worst things about moving cities is not knowing where you'll get your haircut. After I moved to Boston I had a couple of bad experiences until I tried James Joseph salon and now I have been going for over 2 years with the same stylist and colorist. The salon is pretty cool- exposed brick, nice decor, clean and good atmosphere. My stylist- who has gorgeous hair herself- is great: really listens and I have never been unhappy with her work. This place is EXPENSIVE though and can get busy. The major downside is the attitude of the telephone and front desk who manage to be consistently rude and undermine the good work of the stylists and colorists. Also some of the decor is looking a bit tired (like some of the massage chairs that don't work) and could do with freshening up. Also if it gets busy the service can be brusque and you are shunted around the salon so other clients can be seated while you wait for color etc.
Overall would highly recommend it for the hair cut which is the point of a salon- but the artists and technicians there should get together and make it clear to the telephone and front desk that surliness and bad attitude undermines their work. If the prices are going to be that high then spend a bit on freshening up the place too. If you are willing to pay and want to be guaranteed a decent cut/color would come here.

Pros: Stylists, colorists

Cons: Front desk and telephone staff, tired decor

Posted 08/23/06

After moving to Boston from SF where I'd had the same stylist for YEARS, I was terrified just thinking of the number of bad haircuts I'd have to endure before I found someone new. Lucky for me, a coworker recommended the James Joseph Salon. After just one cut, I knew it was the only salon I'd have to test-drive. Rudina listened to what I was looking for, made some recommendations based on my hair texture and lifestyle, and gave me the perfect cut: conservative enough for my office enviroment, layers to give me volume and curl control, and low maintenance so I don't need to spend an hour getting ready in the morning. I've been back twice since, and have never been less than completely satisfied.

The best part: the cut and blowdry were only $70... but I feel like a million bucks!

Pros: location, knowledgeable stylists, great cuts!

Cons: always busy (but I've never had a problem getting an appt)

Posted 08/03/06

When I moved to Boston, this salon came highly recommended, so I gave it a try and really liked it. I initially bounced around from stylist to stylist depending on availability and price. Some were good and others not so so good. I finally found someone who I thought would be my "regular" stylist. She has great hair herself and did a great job on my cut and color the first time I saw her. I was very pleased, so decided to book her again. Let me just say that the second experience was just completely horrendous. I could even tell during the appointment that it was not going to turn out well... she was very rushed and was just going through the motions throughout the color and the cut. Sure enough, when it was all said and done, my hair simply looked awful. The color was terrible-- she highlighted and lowlighted my hair with two terribly contrasting colors. I ended up with a yellowish blond highlight over a mousy brown color, and there were not enough highlights. When I part my hair to one side you cannot even see the hightlights, making me think that she left out an entire section of hair in her rush. Also, when she cut my hair, she left it really long in the back, with obscenely short layers on top of it. It looked strange enough that people I work with actually made comments to me about it, letting me know it did not look good. It's not every day that people will actually let you know that you've received a bad haircut... usually people at least lie and tell you it looks good to spare your feelings. The worst part was, when my hair was dried the stylist gave me the old "Wow, it looks great! The color looks beautiful!" line, even though it was obviously not the case. The bottom line is that I was very disappointed in the inconsistency, and I'm struggling with the thought of giving them another chance.

Pros: Atmosphere

Cons: Inconsistent performance

Posted 06/22/06