Paul Michaels Hair Salon

That's what people tell me! I get a lot of compliments on my hair since I have been going to this salon. Paul always gives me a great haircut and color at a reasonable price. The entire staff is friendly and professional and that makes this a very nice salon to go into. It's taken me a while to find a great haircut in Virginia - but this is it!

Posted 10/28/09 | Report Abuse

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love my hair. I have hard hair to work with and its very hard to please me. But the experince was perfect. Paul really listened to me and asked me a lot of questions to really figure out what i was looking for. And he listened and now i love the results. The astomphere was very relaxing and the staff was very friendly and warm. Happy to say i found my salon :)

Posted 08/19/09 | Report Abuse

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I just moved to Virginia, and was nervous about getting my hair done here because I'm from Pittsburgh, and have no idea what the stylists down here do. I made an appt at Paul Michaels before checking the reviews.. Once I checked the reviews though, I will admit that I was scared beyond belief to go to this place with my hair. I thought I was gonna get my money taken from me and have something that looked like a lawnmower ran through it! My husband though convinced me to just give it a try though. So I went.. and I have naturally dark brown hair and for forever since I went to Hair Works in PA.. have I been trying to get people to dye it lighter.. Most refuse because of my skin color and/or they say yes but I usually end up walking out with no full color but highlights only. Now I know I'm of a darker skin tone but I can get lighter hair because I'm not that dark.. as long as its done right. Well I'm not sure who I talked to but I'm pretty sure it was the boss because he certainly fit the description. I walked in with my magazines.. pointed at the hair cut I want on one page, which was short in the back, long in the front,, and bangs to eyebrow length.... pointed at the Orange/Red/Blonde Paramour-esque color I wanted on the other.. and he said ooh that would look so nice! A total transformation! It took about 3 1/2 hours to complete the whole thing and cost 210 dollars... but he got it PERFECT! My husband hates.. blondes and short hair.. but he loves mine now.. even more than my waist length dark brown hair I had before.The girls were so nice there.. Always offering me something to drink... This salon surpassed my expectations by far. Just realize they are a bit pricey .

Posted 07/09/09 | Report Abuse

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Poor cut and color.My hair was beautiful then I went to this Paul guy. Assembly line style, 4hrs in salon because he was doing everyone else as well as myself.I'm surprised this place gets any business At all. one positive.... the staff was very friendly. I move around quite a bit so it's always daunting looking for a great salon, but this was the worst experience I ever had .I would never go back nor recommend.

Posted 06/21/09 | Report Abuse

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I just moved from Connecticut where I had to part with my beloved long-time hairdresser. I was desperately searching for a new stylist and found someone with hair like mine and got a referral to Paul Michael. I called to book an appointment with Paul and it took a week to get in. By the time I did though, it was well worth it. I am very happy with the cut and my new highlights. The blow dry even lasted me 3 days and looked amazing. Cute stuff too!

Posted 05/05/09 | Report Abuse

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I had my hair cut 2 weekends ago by Paul. I couldn't be happier!!!! I have had my fair share of bad haircuts, and am very fussy when it comes to someone cutting my hair. I felt comfortable as soon as I sat down and my hair was cut perfectly. I can't wait to make my next appointment to add some color! Great looking salon, excellent stylists, definitely a salon worth trying if you're in search for a stylist, or looking for a change.

Posted 03/27/09 | Report Abuse

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I was very pleased with my hair, Paul did a great job, I had a highlight and cut, his staff is very accommodating, he is very busy guy , but manages it well, they do have plenty of parking, I will definitely go back.

Posted 02/24/09 | Report Abuse

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I actually worked in the hair industry for many years and therefore have a very keen (and scrutinizing) eye on my search to find the perfect stylist in DC. I also needed someone reasonably priced, since I'm in graduate school and on a budget. I decided to give him a shot based on the stellar reviews Paul has online. WHAT A DISAPPOINTMENT!

Honestly I hope other posters do not take too much offense to this, but its obvious that most of his clientele are either unfamiliar or unaware that his technique is beyond sub-par. Well, let me rephrase. From an industry perspective he does great basic techniques (i.e. the first things you learn in school), and he really knows how to utilize the few he works with. But he lacks any knowledge on most of the more up-to-date methods of cutting. I searched his walls looking for any recent certifications and saw none (one of the first priorities for any stylist is continued education).

I've read it on other reviews and got to witness it first hand myself, since he overbooks I was able to watch 4 other women getting their hair cut simultaneously to mine all set up in an assembly line fashion. Industry standard is to also have a AT LEAST a mini-consultation with every customer in order to see their natural styling and texture. He didn't do that with any customer I saw. When I questioned him about it, he commented that he "just doesn't have the time, " which was obvious to any trained, or even untrained eye, due to the overbooking issue. This also caused him to spend a sad amount of time working on my hair focused and uninterrupted.

In his favor, both he and his staff were personable and warm. And again I'll say that if you're looking for simplicity and merely maintaining a cute cut, he might be the go-to guy, but if you're looking for modern/trendy or a change, I'd recommend to stay away!

It's a shame that a guy so young can have such an antiquated technique. If you're on a tight budget and looking for QUALITY, I recently tried Angie at the Verizon center location of Bang Salon and was blown away with her knowledge and personality.

Posted 02/11/09 | Report Abuse

1 out of 1 people found this review helpful.

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I have gotten so desperate that I have turned to the internet to find a new stylist, my search on line lead me to Paul, boy am I glad I found him, he did a really great job with my color and cut, everyone at the salon was very nice.

Posted 02/03/09 | Report Abuse

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I've been going to Paul Michaels since 2007. Paul is the most talented stylist ever. Not only is he sweet and kind, but I can tell him my ideas and he just goes with it. The atmosphere here is great and the customer service is equally great. I would recommend this salon and this stylist to everyone

Posted 12/23/08 | Report Abuse

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This guy is a gem, my hair is amazing. I have naturally curly hair, that was dry and brittle and three different colors when I went to Paul. It is now absolutely beautiful, with perfect curls, the most awesome haircut and spot on color. He listens, he is talented and he is down to earth.

Posted 12/14/08 | Report Abuse

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Paul is a true sweetheart, and a talented one at that, Paul has been takeing care of my hair for 6 years now, since I moved to the area, I cant trust anyone else with my hair, Thankyou Paul ;)

Posted 12/03/08 | Report Abuse

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I got the best hair cut of my life from Paul at his hair salon in Annanadale. Just happened to be surfing the net and found this salon. I thought to myself, I should try it and so I did! The best hair cut of my life (and I'm not that young)! Paul was really nice, friendly and personable. He listened to what I wanted, made a few suggestions and went from there. He's excellent. Recommended

Posted 11/27/08 | Report Abuse

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A friend referred me to Paul and the reviews also helped me make my decision because I was looking for someplace I could go on my lunch break, so it was my first time there. I had a haircut with Paul. He was very nice in taking the time to listen and he was very responsive to what I told him I wanted. All in all it was a really good experience, I thought he gave me a great cut and I will definitely go back.

Posted 11/04/08 | Report Abuse

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I had my hair done at Paul Michaels Hair Salon and it's really, really amazing!!! I was adventurous and decided to go for a totally new look.Paul gave me an above shoulder length, with lots of long layers. (My hair used to be down near my waist). So happy I cut my hair! Going back next month to get highlights. Can't wait!!! This salon is very nice and everyone is very pleasant!! This salon is worth trying. For sure.

Posted 10/06/08 | Report Abuse

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I have never written a review about anyone ever - but Paul has changed that! I have literally traveled to NYC to get my hair cut/colored in the past paying big bucks, never realizing that one of the best stylists I've ever gone to was right in Annandale. Paul is so professional, attentive, creative, accommodating, and up to date with what is best for your hair. His assistants have been nothing but kind and professional, my special requests have always been met with kindness. I highly recommend Paul's salon to you..ignore any negative reviews on this site, they probably can't be satisfied anywhere if not with Paul. Highly recommended!! 5 Stars all the way.

Posted 08/16/08 | Report Abuse

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I moved here from Manhattan about 6 months ago. I had a hair disaster when I first moved to DC and have been letting the color grow out. A friend recommended Paul to fix my botched color. He made it look great, and it feels healthy again. I'm so glad I was able to find someone I can trust. Plus, the salon is super cute and everyone was really welcoming. Parking is great and lots of it, the salon itself is a bit off the beaten path , but well worth the trip. Will be back for sure.

Posted 08/13/08 | Report Abuse

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Paul is a fabulous stylist. He's done my hair for several years and I've always been very happy. Random people stop me and compliment my hair, at least twice a month. That's never happened with any other stylist. For me, he develops truly flattering styles that are unique and edgy yet don't overwhelm my personality or look out of place. He helps me look like the real me, the 'me' I want to project. He knows my habits and understands the amount of effort I'm willing to put into styling my hair every morning. I'm very active in the summer, so he keeps it simple and easy to maintain but still really attractive and fun. Even when I just didn't feel like bothering with my hair last summer, I could use minimal product and NO blow-drying, and my hair just fell into place. For a woman with no interest in curling irons, I absolutely love that! During the winter, I'm willing to spend more time on my hair, so he amps it up. He suggests products but doesn't push them on you. My advice, let him create!

Posted 08/03/08 | Report Abuse

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I was a first time customer at Paul Michaels salon and they made me feel right at home. Paul was my stylist and he was excellent. He answered all of my questions and gave great advice.My hair looked wonderful! I have already scheduled my next visit! Great job paul !!

Posted 07/28/08 | Report Abuse

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I've been a client of Pauls for a few years now but I've always asked him to give me the same boring old cut (...which he did perfectly). When I finally decided to make a *big* change last week (read: really long to really short) he completely rose to the challenge. I LOVE my short hair and my husband, who swore he preferred my hair long...well, let's just say he really likes it, too. ;) I am recommending Paul ! - to all of my friends.

Posted 07/23/08 | Report Abuse

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I've been going to Paul for 2 years now and I have to admit that he is great; however, he tends to very one dimensional in his cutting styles (without a lot of coaxing). Even this I can overlook because I've always walked out with a pretty good cut. I only have two complaints for Paul. First, the place is always 3 inches deep in hair. I've never been to a salon that doesn't clean up the hair in between customers (so you usually leave coated in a plethora of hair that isn't your own). I think this is also tied into my second and biggest complaint - he overbooks. Granted, we're all out to make an extra dollar, but when you work in a service where you pay for one-on-one time, that's what you expect. On every trip to Paul's you can count on NEVER getting a consultation prior to cutting (ALL good stylists should see the hair, of even their regulars, prior to cutting and discuss results and/or changes that are needed). Worse, you can also count on there being 3-4 women in an assembly line manner lined up in a row of seats. Paul merely whisks in, starts chopping, gives orders to the numerous assistants on how to style it, and moves down the line. If you have a change to your normal cut or want to try something different, you'll be rushed and that's when you'll find the cut sub-par (again, without coaxing).
In summary, Paul does wonderful, amazing, cookie-cutter hair cuts! His coloring is superb. His pricing is very average, although not low enough for the "Hair Cuttery" treatment.

Also, I have referred numerous people to Paul who have come back with the same complaints.

Posted 06/26/08 | Report Abuse

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I will say I have been hesitant about trying someone new,my friend turned me on to Paul and after seeing all the great reviews on the insider that sealed the deal for me. My former stylist was getting a little boring, Paul gave me a great color and a really cute haircut, it was just what I needed, I couldnt have been more pleased.

Posted 06/16/08 | Report Abuse

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Finally someone who is nice and pleasant, If you want someone who listens paul is the man,my hair looked great and i feel great,his staff is also all very friendly. thankyou you guys made my day

Posted 05/25/08 | Report Abuse

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sophia did a great job on my highlights and cut, she is very focused and a real perfectionist. I will see her again for sure, staff is also very friendly.

Posted 04/28/08 | Report Abuse

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I dont know about that last review, thats not cool, well I went to see Paul on a friends recommendation , I did have a picture and he did an amazing job, I would recommend Paul with 100% confidence...

Posted 04/24/08 | Report Abuse

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Paul has been my stylist for over five years; I could not live without him. Paul is incredibly talented, educated, and is very knowledgeable about his craft. I can always count on him to give me a cut and beautiful blonde color that is shiny, bright, and healthy looking. I feel like a million bucks leaving the salon each and every time!

Posted 04/16/08 | Report Abuse

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I recently went to get my hair cut and full color. Paul was nice and attentive-- he was quick when cutting my hair but it turned out looking nice! The lady who colored my hair was friendly but she rubbed too hard when trying to get the color out of the sides of my face and when she was rinsing out the color, the water was so hot I had to ask her to make it colder (and I like taking hot showers!) She also scrubbed my scalp hard so I felt like I lost a lot of hair. I might go there again if my hair turns out nice the next day... also not if I want to get a free massage with the service (like they do at Salon deZEN!)

Posted 04/01/08 | Report Abuse

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Ive had my hair cut by Paul a couple of times, as well as highlighted, and he does an incredible job. He listens to you with so much intention to give you exactly what you want, and he does just that. And on top of that, he takes his time, he is patient, and very caring... what a combo!! He is a diamond in the middle of suburbia .

Posted 03/28/08 | Report Abuse

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i went to the salon after reading all the raving reviews, the service i got didn't exceed my expectation.i wonder about the reviews if they are planted there ~~~very unprofessional,dirty and failed my expectation. my hair was orange and the lady had a total attitude. i wouldn't recommend at all.

Posted 03/19/08 | Report Abuse

1 out of 1 people found this review helpful.

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Paul is the best , I wouldnt go anywhere else, his staff are always smiling and friendly, and Paul as well, he gives the best haircuts and the color he does for me is beautiful..and prices are reasonable

Posted 03/17/08 | Report Abuse

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I have naturally curly hair, moderately thick and can be frizzy on occasion. I am always quite careful who I go to. Paul Michael was a godsend! I travel for my job, so I have tried a lot of people... and I can honestly say this is the best haircut I have ever had! I wanted a 'cutting edge' popular style, and he took the time to consult with me about whether or not it would 'suit me.' It did! He was professional and a joy to work with. A true perfectionist--- which is a blessing.

Go to him!! Even curly haired gals such as myself. A true pro.

Posted 02/25/08 | Report Abuse

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I booked an appointment with Paul, for hair color, hair cut and style...excellent overall. Excellent salon. Excellent Service. Excellent Quality and Location. What more can I say? I guess I had an excellent experience at this salon.

Posted 02/21/08 | Report Abuse

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I just relocated from another city and took a huge gamble going to a salon that I was not referred to. I chose it based on the reviews and the location. Scary I know! The salon was trendy and everyone was very nice. My stylist was Paul and he was fantastic. When you have curly hair and like to wear it straight, it is always a challenge finding someone who knows how to cut it. I walked out looking like a rockstar! Thanks Paul!

Posted 02/06/08 | Report Abuse

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someone who can cut hair, best haircut ever. Paul is really really great!! I asked Paul what he thought would look good on me and I just went for it, my hair looked great, he must of cut 5 inches off, I feel rejuvenated, thankyou paul

Posted 01/16/08 | Report Abuse

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This hair salon is the best ! I just had my hair cut and styled there. What a fantastic salon. My hair is very, very fine and flat. My hairstylist, Paul was excellent. He added so much volume to my hair. I'm very, very happy. I would recommend booking an appointment to have your hair cut by Paul at this hair salon. Unbeatable talent and service

Posted 12/21/07 | Report Abuse

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I have been to many salons since I have moved to the dc area 2 years ago, finally found someone who listens, Paul gave me the most spectacular haircut,he does wonderful work. I highly recommend Paul...

Posted 12/05/07 | Report Abuse

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I must say I normally dont trust my hair to just anyone . The reviews I read were enough to convince me to try out Paul Michaels Hair Salon, I called and made an appointment with Paul, and I couldnt of been more pleased. Paul did a fabulous job on the color and cut, he is very pleasant and very professional, I will be back for sure..

Posted 11/18/07 | Report Abuse

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I've recently visited the washington dc area and needed my hair done. So I chose Paul Michaels Salon on a friends referral. Paul worked with me on choosing a hair color, which turned out beautiful. He made me feel comfortable and he was easy to talk too. I am very happy with the results. The cut was just as beautiful. Everyone was friendly.

Posted 11/13/07 | Report Abuse

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I am very pleased to say Paul did a marvelous job on my hair, I saw all the wonderful reviews and I had to give Paul a try , He gave me the cutest haircut, I will be back for highlights, job well done..

Posted 10/11/07 | Report Abuse

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Can't say enough about how happy I am with my haircut. After a big mistake done to my hair, I went to Paul Michaels Hair Salon. I don't know how in the world Paul fixed the hair I had left, but he did! Since you get there, they start looking at your hair, how it will look better on you, listen to what you want and from there is like making art out of your hair. Beacuse that's what they are, a hair artist! Don't spend any more money going to mediocre places, instead just go see... you'll be pleased! , Mia gives you the best hair shampoo in the world, even with some massage! Awesome experience. I'm not planning on going anywhere else ever! Thanks to your reviews I found this fabulous place.

Posted 10/04/07 | Report Abuse

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A friend referred me to this salon about 5 years ago, I walked in and was greeted by smiling, good looking faces . It was a great experience . I had an appointment with Paul. After a thorough consultation chatting about my hair and what i've liked and disliked in the past. I was on my way to becomming a beautiful chocolate brown! I loved my new color and cut; i felt the best I've ever felt. Paul is amazing and 5 years later he still takes great care of my beautiful locks !!

Posted 09/05/07 | Report Abuse

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After reading the countless compliments Paul Michaels Salon received for outstanding hair color and cuts, I decided I would book a color correction appointment with Paul. I have to say that Paul is absolutely talented with color and a very sweet person too! Everyone at this salon was ultra friendly and the prices were very reasonable. I am so glad that I found this salon and finding Paul off this website, it has been the best hair experience I have had to date!

Posted 08/24/07 | Report Abuse

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I went to Paul Michaels Salon for color correction and a hair cut. I walked in with mousy, blah, dry hair and walked out with gorgeous blond highlights and the best hair cut I have ever had. Paul was a delight. His work is exceptional and I am so happy I finally found a colorist who knows what he is doing. I look forward to my return visit.

Posted 08/07/07 | Report Abuse

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I have been growing my hair for a long time and finally decided I needed a change so I went to Paul and we decided on adding layers and doing some gray coverage with a few hilights. I have been hesitant about doing anything becauase of the maintenance and Paul really took that in to consideration. Wow what a difference! not so much a drastic change but just covering those grays and giving my hair layers brought out my natural wave and it's super easy. I love the hi lights too....not too much just right - I've already booked my next 2 appointments for August and September! thanx again ....happy hair days yaaaaaay!

Posted 07/02/07 | Report Abuse

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Paul Michaels work speaks for itself, The one and only true talent in this town, Paul gave me the best cut ever... He listens and gives in honest opinion.....

Posted 06/18/07 | Report Abuse

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I actually found Paul Michael"s Hair Salon through insiderpages.com through all the positive comments which are quite true. I wanted to avoid randomly picking a salon. Looking for a hairstylist that you can put your trust in to design a great haircut for you is hard to find. I made a great choice.My hair and haircut going in was not miserable but it did nothing for me. Paul had an immediate suggestion as if he just knew what would look good with my face shape and such. I felt comfortable taking his suggestion of a drastic new look (6" cut off). The stacked bob he designed is remarkable. It looks great on me and I honestly could not be happier. I highly recommend Paul's skills. I will definitely be returning.

Posted 05/27/07 | Report Abuse

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Finally someone who can highlight my hair without frying it, Paul is great, I am not that picky but, Paul is the only stylist who doesnt re highlight hair thats been already highlighted,he did a great job just blending in the roots with the rest of my hair, he did an amazing job and my hair felt great, wonderful job!!

Posted 05/07/07 | Report Abuse

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I went to this salon because of all the great reviews on insider, I scheduled with Paul for color and a trim and boy was I pleasantly surprised Paul was sooo nice , professional and my color turned out great, It seemed effortless for him, and then he trimmed my hair exactly as I wanted and I left there looking and feeling great! I would reccomend Paul to anyone who wants good service, a warm, inviting atmosphere and overall comfort when getting your hair done!

Posted 04/29/07 | Report Abuse

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A friend referred me to Paul Michael in annandale, when she said annandale , I was like were in the world is that?? I figured out where it was and Paul was very well worth the drive.I would've never guessed that Paul Michaels talent could be found in annandale, he truly is great, I loved my highlights, and the cut was fantastic, I will be back for sure......

Posted 03/14/07 | Report Abuse

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Paul takes the time to get to know his clients so that he can make your hairstyle suitable for both your look and lifestyle. His professionalism and sense of humor make you feel at ease while enjoying your salon experience. His talent and experience lead him to be the best colorist and stylist Ive ever had. I am very pleased...

Posted 02/22/07 | Report Abuse

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