Need a New Hairdresser? Look Here

One thing I truly believe in is giving back to your community and “shop small, shop local”.  So when it was time for a hair cut, I did just that.

I moved to the Fairfield area in August after moving back to the Norwalk area about a year ago for work. I trekked here from Colorado, leaving behind resources of hairdressers, dry cleaners, coffee shops and more, essentially starting over.

When it was time to get my hair cut, naturally I asked my family and coworkers whom they recommended. But this was not just a trim; I decided to go back to my normal short hair cut, the one that I have not had for quite a while. I need a professional cut (since I have been cutting my hair myself. Yes, and terribly too!) 

I need a stylist who knows short, fine hair with a slight curl. You know, the person who can tell you how to get the look you want….the ultimate mind reader!

When I investigate a service, I first go online to look over their marketing. Since I work in digital marketing, I run through a checklist of services: does the business have a website, social media channels, storefront image, years in business, etc. I want to know what their story is.

For me, social media is key. Working with social media since 2008, I can look at any Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram page and get an instant feel for how the business talks in public: How social and engaging of a business are they? Do they have customer reviews and are they responding to their customers online? This is important because if the business sounds rude online, they will be in person too.

After several calls between Darien and Fairfield to many salons, I found out that the average haircut is roughly $75. That, to me, is a lot of money for short hair like mine, so the cut better be worth it!

So, where did I end up? I found Ryan John Salon in Fairfield, and the stylist is Renae. They have a website (under construction), but they have an active Facebook page with a small amount conversation occurring.  I noticed their sign a few times driving past their business, and I saw their advertisement in Fairfield Magazine. I called and they could take me that afternoon.

What I loved was that Renae spent time with my hair and me. She did all the things an experienced stylist would do and I immediately felt comfortable with her. I could tell my hair was in good hands.  A great cut is a cut that will grow with it’s shape, and a good test of any seasoned stylist. Best of all, when I walked out of the salon, I felt great and even ran a few errands knowing my hair looked great too.  Not having to go home and wash my hair or put a hat on says a lot!

When I returned back to work that same day, the Wall Street Journal shared a story on YouTube on How to Get the Haircut You Want. So I looked that over and was pleased I had a similar experience. And an even better end to the day; John Ryan Salon is located near another recent and fabulous find…the Pantry! A local market that carries local sundries, baked goods, deli, salad bar and organic local coffee! Now I need a dry cleaner and tailor. Any suggestions?

Nancy Kenney is the Principal of Green Girl Media, LLC, | Digital Marketing and Social Media Management. Ms. Kenney is a Blogger and guest blogger sharing content about digital marketing, social media trends, and she is an eco lifestyles blogger for Green Girl Around Town, which focuses on living a green lifestyle.