Circe Salon Spa

I sent my husband to get his haircut to this place under the impression that this was the best aveda in the washington area based the the reviews. My poor husband came home and I was shocked.... he had chunks of hair missing and a strange fringe at the bottom of his neck. I mean come on. My husband is too sweet to complain and even tipped the stylist who butchered him. I am going to get the electric razor and shave it all off. He's going to be bald for an awards ceremony in his honor! We might go buy a wig or toupee.

Posted 09/01/09 | Report Abuse

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ok I did my color at home and really messed it up..called circe becuz i read about them and they r the best with color...i now love my color and I especially like how I was treated from Angie at the desk and my colorist,,Maria---got fit in for a cut too...loved it even though it was a trim she really took time to do it.

Posted 08/10/09 | Report Abuse

1 out of 1 people found this review helpful.

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I read about Circe in Oprah Mag and decided hey- if Oprah rates is top I'm going to give it a shout out!
Luxury spa they are not but urban retreat THE BEST great massage and I loved the hair color I received..subtle and the stylist spent a lot of time talking to me first! five starts from this urban-ite

Posted 08/10/09 | Report Abuse

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I had a wonderful massage at Circe! It was relaxing and energizing. The massage therapist was excellent. I got to choose a scent for the massage (I chose the citrusy bergamot), and had a delicious tea afterwards. I ended up buying the tea - it has peppermint and licorice root, which seems to help keep my sensitive skin calmed. Love the spa, the people, & the products!

Posted 04/24/09 | Report Abuse

1 out of 1 people found this review helpful.

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The fabulous staff at Circe put their talents to work and provide experiences that will have you walking on air each time you visit them. The atmosphere is both professional and relaxing. I entered Circes door in 2005 and couldnt be happier with all the services I have experienced. When I wanted to change my hairstyle in 2008, everyone in the shop was so excited. Afterall, a stylist dream come true, a new cut on an established client. Next we added coloring to top off the new look. Wonderful, Wonderful, Wonderful experience! And the comments from co-workers and friends lasted for months. Circes talents dont stop there this is the place for routines in relaxation and beauty. Massages, pedicures, microdermabrasion and facials are part of my routine and Circe tops the charts with experienced staff for these special areas. Highly recommend giving yourself a treat and you will get hooked on Circe too.

Posted 04/11/09 | Report Abuse

1 out of 1 people found this review helpful.

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Called last minute for a haircut and not only did I get the BEST haircut with a New Talent ( Jamie) but I was delighted with a massage for half price---just because I was new and the Circe staff wanted me to try out their spa! Now that's great customer service and I will be back--the massage was fantastic! (melissa)

Posted 03/20/09 | Report Abuse

1 out of 1 people found this review helpful.

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This spa was reccommended by a friend so I tried it out. She raved about how nice it was, but when I got there, I thought I had entered the wrong spa. It really didn't live up to my expectations. I waited in a dingy hallway for my facialist to come get me, that was really awkward. While I was having my facial, I could hear a lot of background noise which didn't make for a good experience overall. The price was way to high for such an unsatisfactory spa experience. I wouldn't reccommend this place to my friends. Actually, I'll urge them to go elsewhere.

Posted 12/28/08 | Report Abuse

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I recently moved to the area, and I was in dire need for a haircut, and my friends said I should go see Juan or Angela to do my hair. When I called to book the appointment, I was told that Juan no longer worked there, and angela was booked. The sweet gal on the phone told me I could book with a " new talent " and that they would do just as good of a job. So I thought I would give it a go. So, I visited circe with high expectations, and I was very disappointed!!! I had a cut from a "new talent", and clearly, that is an understatement... My cut was maybe a step above the haircuttery, but I paid ALOT more. I told the hairdresser what I wanted, and I got the complete opposite! clearly the person who does the hair for the photos on your web page does not work there... I thought I would be getting a " A carefully chosen professional who completed (an) advanced training program". I will say that she was very nice and attentive, but I wasn't paying for nice. I simply wanted a good haircut. If I could have waited I would have tried angela.

- sadly disappointed customer

Posted 12/09/08 | Report Abuse

0 out of 1 people found this review helpful.

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I recently took my mother to Circe for a mother daughter Spa day. We had a wonderful time, very relaxing and the staff was very attentive to our every need. We enjoyed the whole day which included massages, facials and body wraps... I would recommend a Cicre Spa Day to anyone who visits Alexandria.

Posted 12/03/08 | Report Abuse

1 out of 1 people found this review helpful.

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I'm not one to write reviews but I feel as though this spa is more than deserving. They are so accomodating. If you get on thier email address you can even catch some deals. Check them out.

Posted 11/15/08 | Report Abuse

3 out of 3 people found this review helpful.

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I have been to several hair salons for cuts and coloring. I finally found the perfect place at Circe! I went to my appointment (with Tielle) for full-cover highlights. Once I started talking to her, she actually recommended getting partial highlights saying with my cut you wouldn't be able to see the color underneath. I was grateful for that - it definitely saved me $$ and time! The color turned out so beautiful and she truly took her time to getting it right. The cut was amazing, too. It's got a style, but yet it's low maintenance. I have received more compliments on my hair in the past couple of weeks than I ever have! I have actually had strangers come up to me to ask where I get my hair done! While I was at my appointment, I swear everyone that came in for a haircut and/or coloring looked beautiful when they left! It's a great big team of talent! You just can't go wrong with Circe!! I obviously highly recommend it!

Posted 09/29/08 | Report Abuse

2 out of 3 people found this review helpful.

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It has been some time since I have been wowed by anyone. After some research I decided to check out this Circe Place. They set me up with an appointment with a stylist named Juan. I must admit I was a bit difficult with him as he asked question to figure out what I did not like and did like about my color and haircut. After some pictures to make sure we were on the same page he proceeded to tell me what he could do today to achieve what I wanted and what would have to take place at my next visit (this is the first time I have ever had a stylist tell me that I would have to come back). He continued to color and cut my hair and he was so focused on what he had to do. I thought it odd that he did not speak during the actual processes, outside of telling me what he was doing and what was next.

After he blow dried my hair, and turned me around, I was so very pleased with the outcome of my hair color and hair cut. It was the first time since my late 20's that I have been wowed. After I left he was good to share information about products and leading me into the right direction with color shampoo and a special hair mask for my dry hair. I am looking forward to my next appointment with him and being wowed again.

My only negative was the size of the salon. It reminded me of a studio size salon, small and at times crowed. Nevertheless it was a pleasure to be in a environment that people really cared about what they did and how it was done.
They seem to have a great staff. I look forward to visiting again and experiencing the other services Circe has to offer. THANK YOU CIRCE AND THANK YOU JUAN!

Posted 07/17/08 | Report Abuse

2 out of 6 people found this review helpful.

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**This is an edit because there was a post saying that reviews like this were written by salon workers... and I want to say that is not true. I am a happy customer who just took the time to research the website and get my information together before I posted, unlike someone who couldn't even mention who did her hair. And is there turnover? Of course, but you get that in such a transient area as this no matter where you go. And if you ever took the time to ask about the picture, you would know that it is kept as merely historical. The owner met him at a gala the night before infamous Sept 11th. And are you telling me if you had a signed picture from the president, you wouldn't display it? **

First of all, in reading the reviews on this page, I am wondering what salon some of these people went to? I have been to Circe several times after the reccomendation of a friend and it is the first salon in the area that I was able to get what I wanted and feel like everyone there was competitent to do it. They have a total of 9 stylists ranging from new talent (which does NOT mean new to doing hair... it means they are new to the salon and they have just went through Circe's rigorous training program) to the senior staff (who's prices are a little more expensive, but they also have been doing hair a bit longer). I have seen Tielle who is new talent but has been doing hair for 3-4 years and I have also seen Juan who is now senior staff. EVERYONE there is great from the hair I have seen leave the salon though.
Your cut starts off with a great consultation... not the first time you go, but EVERYTIME. They make sure you are both on the same page (At times (especially for color) a new talent may call over someone from senior staff just to get a second opinion on the color formulation but to me, that just shows great team work!). Then, you get a great scalp, neck and shoulder massage with aromatherapy... BEST PART (excluding the shampoo that comes next). The stylists at Circe go above and beyond what they "should" do to make you feel comfortable and at home, from the massage, to the offering of tea and coffee and snacks, to them running out to feed your parking meter should it be running out of time. And there is plenty of parking, you just have to know where to look. Within 2 blocks every direction of the salon, there are parking lots or you can opt to park at a 2 hour meter. The stylist do not even have parking at the salon itself... that is just a minus of Old Town, not the salon.
I would DEFINITELY reccomend this salon to anyone and everyone that I know.
For color, see Tielle(new talent) or Maria (senior stylist who only does color)
For cutting, Juan (the stylist team lead), Angela or Sung are AMAZING.

Posted 07/14/08 | Report Abuse

2 out of 7 people found this review helpful.

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I have been going to Circe from many years now and have built a fabulous relationship with Maria-the BEST colorist! I have known the Circe hairdressers for many years (more than 8 years)and -as you may have a stylists--come and go--Maria, Angela, Angie, Juan, Sung, Teresa-have been there for years.
I would trust any of the Circe hairdressers to do my hair and have!

Posted 07/08/08 | Report Abuse

3 out of 8 people found this review helpful.

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I have tried Circe twice, two different colorists every time. On both occasions, the work has been sloppy and I am left wondering if the colorist knows what they are doing. The latest colorist dropped dye on my jeans, and there is also a distinctive line at my hairline that will look strange if I pull my hair back. The cost was $230 (just highlights- no haircut) and I can't believe seemingly inexperienced colorists cost that much. I won't be going back.

Posted 05/18/08 | Report Abuse

6 out of 10 people found this review helpful.

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I was in town for a busniess trip and a fellow traveler recommended I go to Circe for my color. It was a last minute trip and I needed my hair colored BADLY. I was very nervous about going somewhere new to have my hair colored and cut.

But the staff was inviting and professional. The colorist and stylist went through a consultation before starting, which made me feel more comfortable.

Not only did my hair turn out great, I was offered an express pedicure and manicure while my color processed. The manicure and pedicure was done all natural...which I love.

Next time I'm in town, I definitely will visit Circe again.

Posted 04/25/08 | Report Abuse

4 out of 10 people found this review helpful.

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I am knew to the area and I was in need of a new color and a serious haircut. The last place that I had went to gave me the worst color ever known to man. When I came in I was greated so pleasantly and offered a beverage (they have this great tea you have to try!) and for my appointment we started off with a cosultation. That is the best thing ever because it made me feel like they cared about what I want. They saw how bad my color was and saw how bad I needed a haircut. During my process time they offered me a chair massage (how could I turn that down). My haircut was honestly the best haircut I have ever received....well ever! I have never cared about where I went as long as the job was done but now....I will never leave Circe!

Posted 04/09/08 | Report Abuse

5 out of 10 people found this review helpful.

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My girlfriend wanted to surprise me with a facial and a couples massage for my birthday and brought me to Circe. I have to admit this was a new experience for me but by far was it the best. From the time I came in, to the time I left I received 200% customer service. That was my first facial and it definitely is not going to be my last. I was given a consultation about my skin type before I received the facial which was very informative and I am glad that I know know! The couples massage was great. It was the best form of relaxation that I have every had and the massage therapist definately knew what she was doing. I had walked in with some back pains and knots and walked out feeling like a new man!!

Posted 04/09/08 | Report Abuse

5 out of 9 people found this review helpful.

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Probably my worst experience with a business. Needs to value customers and develop better communication skills. Color and cut were very different from what I asked for. Ended up being a big waste of money.

Posted 04/04/08 | Report Abuse

5 out of 10 people found this review helpful.

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I am in a high stress job and the one thing I look forward to is my weekly visit to Circe for massages, hair color, nails...the works.After I leave this wonderful place, I feel like I can conquer the world. I love the staff at Circe. They really do care about you...they are so warm ....I feel like have found a home away from at cIrce.

Posted 01/31/08 | Report Abuse

4 out of 8 people found this review helpful.

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I have never been happier with my hair color ever! And the Brazilians the best in town! They are always on time and really do care about me. I am always welcomed each and every time with smiles and great service. I love Aveda hair color and my stylist is so creative and caring. I recommend Circe to all my friends.

Posted 12/20/07 | Report Abuse

2 out of 7 people found this review helpful.

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I am new to the area and was very nervous about trying a new salon. But when I received an email promotion from a local salon...well I decided to cast fate to the wind and try it out.
I am not easy to please---you might even say I am a bit of a princess. The moment I walked in to Circe, I was greeted by a warm receptionist who welcomed me as a first time client and offered me hot tea and a complimentary seated chair massage. (I must have looked stressed from fighting DC traffic) never the less I easily accepted the stress relief. Afterwards I was given a thorough consultation with an excellent hairdresser (Angie/Angela I think her name was) -I felt confident and relaxed. Then came the scalp massage....mmmm and the best shampoo ever! I have to tell all of you who are looking for a new salon where the staff really does care about you and your needs...Circe is it.
My hair has never looked so shiney and the cut...perfect.
She recommended some Aveda products (which I have used and appreciate the conditioning benefits they have given my hair)
I was offered a comp make-up touch up to finish my make over---what a treat!
I rate Circe 10 starts if I could! Go and check them out!

Posted 12/14/07 | Report Abuse

3 out of 7 people found this review helpful.

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Who says you can't get a New York haircut in DC....I have been looking forever for a salon that would match my New York Stylist-whom I had leave earlier this year--due to a a job relocation.
It can be a nightmare out there trying to find a great haircut---until I had a friend recommend Circe---now I'm hooked!!!

Posted 12/14/07 | Report Abuse

1 out of 5 people found this review helpful.

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I have gone to Circe about three times now. I will never go back. About a month or so ago I went in for a haircut and got a horrible cut. It literally was a mullet. I expressed that I was not satisfied trying to hold back my tears. They told me that it was the "vision" of the stylist and that there was nothing they could do. I ended up going to a salon in the city later that evening to get it "fixed". When I walked into the second salon the stylist looked and my hair and said that it was clear whoever cut my hair had horrible technique and "vision". I will never go back to Circe.

Posted 10/17/07 | Report Abuse

7 out of 10 people found this review helpful.

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When I came in for my trial run with my mom, the staff at Circe made us feel so special..they had cookies, hot herbal tea...they even ran out and got us lunch. The hair was amazing..,,thank you Maria!!!.I brought a picture and I am very picky....the stylist made it look BETTER than the picture.The make-up was fabulous-Sarah did my make-up...she was very detail with the lashes...the make up was stunning-not too much but just enough .
They even gave me $75 worth of make up in exchange for the trial run make-up.
The day of the wedding...some of us were late but no worries-the staff made it happen. Not only that-we switched it up-some of us decided to add make-up and the staff even made that happen. I am so thrilled with my decision to have my wedding day hair and make up at Circe-I am now a full time client-try their Brazilians-they are the best!!!!

Posted 09/10/07 | Report Abuse

0 out of 5 people found this review helpful.

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I scheduled a test-run as part of a wedding packaged offered by the salon. In order to reserve the package, I had to put down a large deposit, refundable only if canceled 14 or more days in advance of my wedding day. I went for a test-run 13 days prior to my wedding, and as a result of the unbelievably BAD results of the test run, I attempted to cancel my package. I was told that it was not within 14 days of the package, so my deposit would be "for fitted" [sic]. When I politely asked if there was any chance of a partial refund, I was ignored. Repeatedly. I am not very picky when it comes to hair and makeup; I'm not much of a girly girl. However, my hair, while done nicely, was completely flat and nearly straight (from a wavy/curl) by the time I made the 10 minute trip back home. My eye
makeup was extremely uneven (to the point that I laughed so hard I cried) and they didn't even use foundation or concealer (for bridal makeup!) In all, the services were poorly done and over priced, the staff indifferent, and the management disinterested. They lost my business and my entire wedding party's business, and I lost my deposit. In the end, though, I did my own hair and makeup, saved $600, and looked a thousand times better than their lackluster attempt!

Posted 09/04/07 | Report Abuse

7 out of 9 people found this review helpful.

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I've read a lot of great reviews for Circe, so I decided to try it. I made an appointment with a "New Talent" stylist (since they're the cheapest). I walked in, and immediately felt comfortable. It's a very pretty place, and I LOVE Aveda! (They're an Aveda concept salon). I was informed that all of the staff has had years of experience, so I didn't worry that my stylist was new to the salon. When he first sat me down I got a little antsy... he seemed to hesitate a little when he was cutting, like he was new at this. Not to fear; my hair turned out great! I'm very happy with the cut and don't regret a thing. Everyone else was leaving with great haircuts, so I'm sure all of their stylists are great. I then got my eyebrows done which turned out pretty well. I've had slightly better. I've read some reviews that the hair salon can be heard from the spa treatment rooms: that wasn't my experience at all! I was totally relaxed during my waxing. I would go there again, but maybe go a step up and get a "junior stylist", someone with more experience. All in all, I had a good experience there!

Posted 05/16/07 | Report Abuse

1 out of 6 people found this review helpful.

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I am a spa snob! I expect a high level of service and skill, and I refuse to pay ridiculous prices. So believe me when I tell you, that if you are getting your nails done by anyone other than Min at Circe, you are getting less than you deserve. She is phenomenal, professional and a great person. Also I had an amazing experience with Cho! Her technique with my eyebrows is unlike anything I have ever experienced. She used aromatherapy on her hands which I found calming and she actually spent TIME shaping my brows with immaculate detail. Thank you Circe for hiring such skilled, passionate, talent and keeping true to what the AVEDA experience is supposed to be.

Posted 04/28/07 | Report Abuse

1 out of 6 people found this review helpful.

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I've been to this salon many times over the past several years, but have never been that thrilled with the color that I've gotten there. So I decided to try a different stylist and I'm really glad I did. Mari got my color PERFECT on the first shot, where most of the other "senior" (ahem) stylists have always just done an okay job at it. So if you need highlights - go to Circe but be sure to ask for Mari!!!

Posted 03/13/07 | Report Abuse

0 out of 5 people found this review helpful.

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If I could put less than one star, I would. If I could put less than one star, I would. If I could put less than one star, I would. If I could put less than one star, I would.

Posted 01/16/07 | Report Abuse

2 out of 6 people found this review helpful.

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If you are looking for a HAIR salon, then this might be a great place...but the spa services were more expensive here than other area spas and the lack of ambiance ruined any hopes of a relaxing/peaceful spa day. First, the pedicure chairs are located behind the hair salon area, separated only by about 4 feet and a makeshift curtain. So, you get to hear all of the noise from the hair salon area (talking, water running/washing people's hair, blow dryers blasting, etc.). And, Circe doesn't even have the whirlpool pedicure chairs! They bring you a large stainless steel bowl of luke warm water to dip your feet in. It was also unclear whether the nail file, etc. were NEW for each customer. On to the massage/facial.... the "treatment rooms" are located in a narrow hallway RIGHT BEHIND THE RECEPTIONIST/MAKE-UP AREA! And, right across the hall from an old bathroom in need of being remodeled. During our massages/facials, my friend and I could hear the toilet flushing, people talking in the reception area, etc. The spa also uses music with lyrics which can be distracting. For the prices, I expected to feel pampered and be issued a robe for the afternoon, but instead, felt like I was in the way of people getting their haircut. If you haven't been to other spas, you might be fooled into thinking this is a high quality spa, but do not be fooled! It is not worth the money!!! Very disappointing!

PROS: Location
CONS: Everything else!

Posted 08/24/06 | Report Abuse

6 out of 8 people found this review helpful.

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Good for brazilians. this place gets busy and if you can get in with cho, you're golden. she's quick, efficient, and doesn't mess around! fastest wax ever!

Posted 05/26/06 | Report Abuse

3 out of 7 people found this review helpful.

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I was given a referral to Circe for a make-over and spa day. The receptionist was so helpful and sweet...I was late but no matter....she was happy to see me and delivered a cup of tea as she ever so calmly -took me to the salon to start my "make-over"day. The stylist was so professional and recommended a color and cut -perfect for me! My hair never looked so good or felt so healthy-Aveda hair color really is the best! And my massagemmmmmmm. I especially enjoyed the sound therapy which helped me relax and left me in a state of alpha bliss. I never experienced a Thai massage before---looooooved it! It was great that the therapist used different techniques on me -a little Thai massage, a little swedish and even some cool and warm stones.
I will go back again and again.I'm a client for life! Thank you Sheila, Angie, Meka, Kyori and Simone for making my month!

Posted 12/20/05 | Report Abuse

1 out of 5 people found this review helpful.

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I read about this treatment in Allure Magazine so I booked an appointment. The service lasted an hour but I was floating the rest of the day. I wish I had booked a couple of other services to go with it like a manicure. The design and atmosphere were great.

Posted 12/20/05 | Report Abuse

1 out of 5 people found this review helpful.

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I had the warm heat massage, and the therapist was great. But the room left a lot to be desired, and there was no waiting area, per say. You had to check out in the regular store, and I had to wait on line, which blew the ambiance.

Posted 06/14/05 | Report Abuse

1 out of 4 people found this review helpful.

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