By Alicia Wanek
Regardless of whether you call them your hairstylist, hairdresser, or coiffeur, the relationship often becomes a dedicated partnership that weathers numerous ups and downs. Given that every month or two, they provide you with focused attention for at least an hour, it’s probable that this is more time than you spend with many of your closest friends or family members. These talented individuals not only excel at cutting hair and applying color, but the truly remarkable ones are also attentive listeners.
My own hairdresser has been cutting my hair since before I had a driver’s license, marking over 35 years of our relationship. During high school, Andrew gave me numerous perms, and I’ve had several foil highlights throughout the years. He was instrumental in helping me decide how to style my bridal veil, and after I faced a car accident just weeks before my wedding, he skillfully cut bangs to disguise my scar and even attended the ceremony. When I was on bedrest while expecting twins and anxious about when I would manage to leave the house after their birth, he came to my living room to cut my hair while I sat at the sofa’s edge. Now, he is assisting me in covering my gray hair.
A few months ago, Andrew went above and beyond in a way I never anticipated. My grandfather, who was 99 years old, was hospitalized just days before his scheduled haircut. When we finally brought him home to spend his last days, he appeared quite “scruffy.” Andrew actually visited him at home to give him his last haircut just five days before he passed away. While not representative of Andrew’s exceptional skills, he provided my grandfather, a 30-year Air Force veteran who served in three wars, with a dignified haircut he deserved for his funeral with full military honors. In that moment, I realized Andrew was much more than just my stylist—he is a true friend.
Recently, I’ve come to understand that I’m not alone in this lasting stylist/client connection. A recent study in the UK revealed that while only 69% of adults reported being in a romantic relationship, 74% claimed to be committed to their hairdresser.
LOCAL WOMEN SHARE THEIR LOVE FOR THEIR HAIRSTYLISTS:
“My hairstylist is the only person who knows my natural hair color! She’s like my monthly therapist—someone great to catch up with who can tell when my life is going well or not. She holds me accountable since she sees me every month. I adore Evelyn!” – Laura
“I went to Doreen at a salon nearby with my daughter Lindsey when she was just an infant. Lindsey is turning 40 next month. Doreen hails from Long Island, the same area where I used to teach. Over the years, she has been present at my kids’ weddings, my 70th birthday, and even at her father’s funeral. When she had her second child, I gifted her a week of childcare. I can’t even count how many people I’ve referred to her. Of course, we’ve tried some wild hairstyles over the years too. I’ve brought in old photos and said, ‘Doreen, what were we thinking?’” – Patti
“I’ve been seeing Vida for nearly a decade. She’s not just a fantastic stylist but also an amazing sounding board. Although she’s pricier than a therapy session, every penny is worth it!” – Kristina
“Visiting Leigh is even better than going to a bartender! She has supported me through my divorce, my return to dating, my concerns about the empty nest, and my transition into this new chapter of my life. She even met me in the Kroger parking lot on her day off to apply lashes for my first date after my divorce. Her dedication is something I truly appreciate. Not only do I leave her salon looking better, but I also feel significantly better.” – Tricia
“I’ve always heard that women share secrets with their hairdressers, but I never experienced that until now. My hairdresser is like a therapist—mostly because he doesn’t talk much. He just listens, nods, and agrees!” – Katie
“I’ve known Jean-Claude for almost 30 years, having discovered him by chance while he was fresh from France working his magic at the Jose Eber Salon in Dallas, and then later following him to his own salon. He’s been with me through thick and thin (both in life and hair). I’ve taken phone calls, rehearsed speeches, shed tears over spilled milk, and met work deadlines on my smartphone while he cut, colored, and styled my hair. Throughout it all, whenever he has chimed in with his charming accent, it has always been with the utmost care and kindness.” – Sheryl
