Amber + Slate Aveda Salon

Jan 16, 2025

The care and attention to detail is unmatched. Chill, welcoming, supportive, and confidence building. What more could you ask for for a salon?

Jan 16, 2025

When I first started going to this salon, it was during the early days of the pandemic--over four years ago--when masks were still required. Over the years, I probably had my hair cut there every six weeks or so, amounting to over thirty visits. I always appreciated my haircuts, often receiving compliments on them. I also valued the consistency and the rapport I thought I had built as a loyal customer. Recently, however, I forgot an appointment. I was in the middle of some work-related tasks when my phone rang. It was the salon calling to ask, “Did you know you had an appointment today?” I was momentarily taken aback--I had completely forgotten. I apologized immediately and asked if I could reschedule. That’s when I was informed that missing my appointment would cost me the full price of the haircut: $40. I was stunned. After years of being a loyal customer who always tipped well and never missed an appointment, this was the response I got? I dare say I had never been anything but accommodating--waiting patiently when they ran behind schedule, sometimes for as long as 30 minutes, without ever complaining. On a few occasions, they had called me to shift my appointment time, and I had always been happy to adjust. Yet, when I made one honest mistake--I was helping a distressed person whose needs, frankly, were more appointment than a haircut--my loyalty didn’t seem to count for much. I expressed my frustration and explained my situation, asking if they could make an exception, just this once. The money didn't matter, I made it clear. I just wanted my feelings acknowledged. The person on the phone said they’d check with my stylist. After a few hours, they called me back and said they could cut the fee in half--to $20. I paid it, but, after thinking through this experience, I’ve decided not to return. This experience left me wondering: why couldn’t they have approached this with more humanity? A simple conversation could have sufficed: “Hey, when you miss an appointment, it costs our stylists money. They work hard and make time for you. Please try not to let this happen again or there will be a fee.” My response would have been heartfelt: “I’m so sorry. It won’t happen again, and if it does, I’ll pay the fee.” Then they could have said, "Thanks for being such a great customer." That kind of exchange respects the customer’s loyalty and acknowledges their humanity. Instead, the rigid enforcement of a fee, a complete lack of a principle of reciprocity, left me feeling like just another transaction. I am suspicious that the place has decided that male haircuts aren't worth their time, and so treated me this way to get this result. They could have just told me, "Hey, we're moving away from this service for economic reasons." It’s not about the money. What's $40? It's about how I was treated. It's a harsh world. It's about dignity, respect, and humanity. It’s about how businesses communicate with their customers. Loyalty is built on relationships, not rigid policies. I liked this place a lot. It's part of my little Hilton Village community. I wanted to continue supporting it, but this experience made it clear that my years of patronage didn’t matter at all. Treating customers like human beings should always take precedence over enforcing policies to the letter. Sometimes, all it takes is a little understanding and willingness to have difficult, slightly awkward conversations.

Jan 06, 2025

Jess has been taking care of my hair for several years. After I stopped coloring my hair, I was fired as a client by my long-time stylist. Soon after, I was lucky enough to be recommended to Jess, and she has taken beautiful care of my curls and never once tried to convince me to cover my silver. That's respect for my choice from a pro. Recently, I've begun getting facials from Emily. What a relaxing experience! My skin looks and feels great! If you want to feel pampered, relaxed and beautiful, go check out this wonderful full service salon. It's the spot!

Dec 06, 2024

Cindy did amazing with my hair!! She was so nice and made my hair look amazing for winter!! She knows what she is doing!!!!

Nov 06, 2024

I made an appointment on August 8 for a full balayage with Alex. I can say that I am highly dissatisfied with the services she provided. The photo with the honey blonde curls is what she did to my hair. The picture with the dark brown hair and blonde streaks was what I was expecting she would do to my hair. I did a balayage in Bozeman, MT back in 2021 and that photo was the end result. As you can see Alex was not able to even get close to that. Majority of my hair is honey blonde now which is not what I wanted. I did mention to her how I wish I could have my hair which is the picture next to it with the whiter blonde mixed with other shades. I chose Alex because of her experience and education. However, based on these results there is absolutely no reason it should have costed me as much as it did. The receipts show how much I had to pay her for her service. I even tipped her to be nice! It’s been a month now and after communicating with her how unhappy I am she has not made a reasonable offer to make it better. She just left me on seen. I even bought the products she recommended to help strengthen my hair. Last night I went to a different hairstylist and she didn’t think it was fair how my hair turned out especially for the price I had to pay Alex. The lady who blow dried my hair yesterday only charged me $35 dollars to wash my hair, put rollers in it and have me under a drier, blow dry my hair straight and then wrap it. I am a 100% disabled U.S. Navy veteran and was wanting my hair done for my swear in ceremony at NASA LaRC. My curls dropped about 3 hours afterwards. I explained this to Alex ahead of time and did come on time to my consultation and scheduled appointment with her. I did not pay even half of what I paid Alex when I did my first balayage at Canyon River Spa in Bozeman, MT. She should cut her prices down if she’s going to not do what her services said she would do. She didn’t even bother to put a picture up of what she did to my hair on her instagram.

Jul 06, 2024

Do not trust them if you're a man with long hair. If you do, you won't have it for long, and not in a stylistic nice way either.

Jul 06, 2024

Experience is everything for me - and Amber and Slate has it going on! Great atmosphere and refreshing essence. You want a hot tea on a brisk fall day? They gonna take care of you with 3 different steeped teas to choose from. Fresh flowers and beautiful plants adorn the comfortable waiting area that's open for conversation with a stranger - You never know who you're going to meet. My stylist Trish is such a sweet soul. She does an amazing job and always makes sure I feel good with the style before I leave. They are very experienced to be able to coach you on your specific hair needs. LOVE LOVE this Salon!

Jul 06, 2024

Yulerys did an absolutely incredible job on my hair today. I came in with some inspo pics and she was able to give me exactly what I wanted (honestly even better than what I came in asking for). She was so caring, attentive, and walked me through every step she was doing making sure I was comfortable at all times. She even gave me the most soothing hand massage while I was waiting with my hair in a mask. I wish I could give more than 5 stars. Will definitely be coming back because of how welcome and comfortable she made me feel the entire time we spent together. Thank you Yulerys! You deserve a raise girl, you did your thing today!!!

Jun 06, 2024

Jess is our girl! She's been cutting, coloring and styling my hair for years. Now she does my husband and my daughter's cuts. The salon is always so elegant and welcoming. Everyone is so nice!

Jun 06, 2024

The best salon in Newport News. I am very picky about who does my hair and Trish is incredible. I always leave feeling brand new.

Jun 06, 2024

You have to book an appointment with Alex! I always see her for my haircuts and coloring! She does an amazing job! The salon staff are so welcoming and nice! Love the ambience of the salon.

Apr 06, 2024

I recently had the pleasure of visiting Jayleene for my first Brazilian wax and armpit wax, and I couldn't be happier with the results. From start to finish, Jayleene provided an exceptional experience that exceeded my expectations. First and foremost, Jayleene created a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere. From the moment I walked in, I was greeted with a warm smile and made to feel at ease. Their professionalism and attention to detail were evident throughout the entire appointment. When it came to the Brazilian wax and armpit wax, Jayleene demonstrated their expertise and skill. They were incredibly thorough, ensuring that every hair was removed with precision. Despite the inherent discomfort of these treatments, Jayleene managed to make the experience pretty much painless through their gentle technique and soothing demeanor. I truly appreciated their ability to maintain a high level of professionalism while still putting me at ease. I highly recommend everyone to come and see her! Instagram: @bareivy.esthetics

Apr 06, 2024

My daughter recommended Cindy when I was looking for someone to cut my hair. Cindy has been my stylist for the last 10 or 11 years. I’m always extremely satisfied with my hair. I trust Cindy implicitly with my hair because I know she will do an outstanding job. She listens and makes suggestions if I’m not sure what I want done with my hair, or if what I want isn’t a good look for me. I’m so impressed with her that I have recommended her to my daughter-in-law. She also cuts my grandsons hair. I’m amazed at the patience she has with my somewhat uncooperative little boys. Although they won’t sit still their hair cuts still look good.

Feb 06, 2024

Absolutely amazing. I love Erin. She always does such a great job!

Feb 06, 2024

Amazing team of stylists and beauty professionals.

Feb 06, 2024

Amber and Slate Newport News has a new massage therapist! I had the absolute best massage I’ve ever had today.

Feb 06, 2024

Awesome, they really know what they are doing!

Feb 06, 2024

Both my boys get their hair cut here. Awesome solan and Jess is a Treasure.

Feb 06, 2024

Cindy is the best! She has cut my daughters hair twice now and each time she has gone above and beyond making her feel special and styling her hair so well. Would recommend to anyone!

Feb 06, 2024

Excellent salon for any hair style! The stylists listen to your wishes, educate you on ways to improve or maintain what your hair goals are..you will not be disappointed if you book an appointment here! Update 8/2023 still as amazing as ever!! Great salon for all your hair care needs, plus new self care services and great products!

Feb 06, 2024

Heather is absolutely amazing! I love how she did my hair and will be returning.

Feb 06, 2024

Professional and kind!

Feb 06, 2024

Service was exceptional but highlights were practically invisible and not at all as described or promised. Not pleased with highlights especially at the high price point. Otherwise service was extremely good

Feb 06, 2023

Heather is amazing and always delivers!!!

Feb 06, 2023

I love Amber and Slate. The customer service is impeccable. You feel very welcome here. Like you've been a client for years. Even when it's your first visit. I chose Jessica for my first haircut here. She gave me a great shampoo, cut and style. I booked another appointment before I left. If you've been looking for a full service salon, Amber and Slate is an excellent choice for pampering yourself.

Feb 06, 2023

I was visiting from out of town and I needed a haircut BAD! Luckily they had a last minute cancellation and were able to fit me in. My hair is thin, curly, and fairly uncooperative and I went from shoulder length to pixie cut. I’m very happy with my end result! Molly did a great job! Also, the whole vibe of the Salon was great. It was relaxing and everyone was super nice! It was a great experience! ❤️

Feb 06, 2023

I've been going to Amber and Slate for years. I love Jess. She is the best at haircuts on my fine hair.

Feb 06, 2023

I’ve been seeing Tricia for years and she is absolute perfection! Every stylist at Amber + Slate is amazing and the environment is adorable. Do yourself a favor and treat yo self to this awesome place. You will NOT regret it!

Feb 06, 2023

I’ve been to this place twice so far and fell in love. Place is clean, staff is very polite and professional. Heather did my highlights and today I had appointment with Jess. She did color toner and haircut. Both ladies did a great job! I can’t complain! It’s exactly what I’ve been looking for so long! Other stylists (in different salon ) told me it would not look right if I have layers with my somewhat thin hair, even though back in a day I used to have that haircut..just couldn’t find right person to do it again. Jess and Heather listened to my ideas, paid attention to details. It tuned out exactly how I wanted! I finally found my place and my stylists. Thank you so much Jess and Heather. Already booked my next appointment! I highly recommend this place!