If you've booked in for colour with us for the first time, you might spot the word "consultation" and wonder what it actually involves. Is it a hard sell? A long form to fill in? Happily, no. A colour consultation is really just a proper chat before we start — a few minutes that make the difference between a colour you tolerate and one you genuinely love. Here's what to expect when you sit down with us here in Gortnahoe.
We start with what you're picturing
Every colour appointment begins with your idea. Maybe you've a photo saved, maybe it's a vague "something warmer for autumn," or maybe you just know you're bored of what you've got. All of that is a fine place to start. We'll ask what drew you to the look, whether you want a big change or a soft refresh, and how you feel about your hair right now. There are no wrong answers — the more honest you are, the closer we'll land to the picture in your head.
We look at your hair as it actually is
Next we get hands-on. We'll check the condition of your hair, its natural depth, any grey coming through, and — crucially — its colour history. Old box dye, henna, a home toner or highlights from a year ago all still live in your hair, and some of them behave in surprising ways under salon colour. This isn't us being nosy; it's how we keep your hair healthy and predict how it'll take the new shade. If lightening is involved, we may do a quick strand test so there are no surprises.
Great colour isn't just about the shade you want — it's about where your hair is starting from.
We talk honestly about what's achievable today
This is the part that matters most. Some looks — going from dark to icy blonde, for example — can't safely happen in a single sitting, and we'd far rather tell you that up front than rush it and damage your hair. We'll be straight with you about how many visits a look might take, how it'll grow out, and what suits your natural colouring. Whether it's a full-head colour, a soft balayage, or a few face-framing highlights, you'll leave the chair understanding the plan. You can see the full range on our hair colour and styling services page if you'd like a browse beforehand.
We match the upkeep to your life
A colour you love in the mirror is only half the story — the other half is living with it. So we'll talk about maintenance: how often you'd need a top-up, whether the regrowth will bother you, and what it'll take to keep it looking fresh at home. If you've a busy life and little patience for salon visits, we'll steer you toward a lower-maintenance option like balayage that grows out softly. It's your hair and your time, and the plan should fit both.
A few things that help us help you
- Bring photos — good and bad. A couple of shades you love and one or two you don't gives us a clear target to aim for.
- Mention any allergies or past reactions. If you've ever reacted to a colour, tell us — we may need to patch test before your appointment, so it's worth flagging when you book.
- Ask about anything. Timing, cost, how it'll fade — no question is daft. We'd always rather you asked than wondered.
That's really all a consultation is: a warm, honest conversation so we get it right the first time. Ladies, gents and children are all welcome, and every colour service starts the same way — with a proper listen. If you've a look in mind, or just a "help, I've no idea," we'd love to talk it through. You can find our salon and booking details here, or give us a ring on 056 88 34637 and we'll set aside the right amount of time for you.
Thinking about a change? Book a colour appointment and we'll start with a proper consultation — no pressure, just good advice.