Pricing Update Coming March 2024

It’s that time again for a yearly price update. I don’t think much explanation is necessary. We all have seen the cost of goods and services rise over the last year or more and these costs must be covered. I feel the overall price increase in services that will go into effect on March 1 is moderate. The biggest difference will be that I will be properly charging for services that go beyond standard allotted time or color amounts. I want to remain consistent and transparent in my pricing, so please refer to the updated price list below and feel free to come to me with questions or inquire about your specific services. Each service has a starting price based on an approximate hourly rate for the minimum time I schedule for that service and base cost of product required. Note that there are starting prices for short and long/thick hair. Long and/or thick hair takes more product and blow dry time, so reasonably needs to be a bit more. I apply this hourly formula to combined cut and color services instead of charging as individual services, as many stylists do. Additional time or color needed for a service will be additional charges, as are adding foils, toners and the like to a color service. If a color involves multiple steps, formulations, advance techniques, or a significant change a rate of $85/hr will be charged instead of adding up each charge individually. This is easier and usually works out in the client’s favor. Thank you to everyone who has supported me and my business. I look forward to another great year with all of you!

Pricing as of March 1, 2024

All prices are starting prices. Short / Long or thick : Standard Booking Time

Haircut - $74 / $84 : 1hr Color Retouch - $106 / $116 : 1.5hr Retouch & Cut - $148 / $158 : 2hr Partial Foil - $146 / $156 : 2hr P. Foil & Cut - $188 / $198 : 2.5hr Full Foil - $190 / $210 : 2.5-3hr F. Foil & Cut - $230 / $250 : 3-3.5hr Universal Color - $146 / $156 : 2hr Universal Color & Cut - $188 / $198 : 2.5hr Express Toner (quick at bowl) - $25 Full Process Toner - $45 Add-on Foils - $60+ Multi-process, Corrective or Creative Color - $85/hr Additional Charges - Time - $15/15min Color - $5/half bowl (30ml)

COVID-19 Update - November

Please read carefully prior to your next appointment.

As we all know, COVID-19 cases are on the rise again as cold weather approaches and we head indoors.  We, at Salon Vermont, have been diligent about our protocols since we reopened in June.  Now it is time to double down.  I want everyone to read our protocols for a safe salon experience before you come to your appointment.  Some of our policies are unchanged, but need to be reviewed.  We have also made a few changes in our guidelines for added protection.  Please take special note of these changes.  As of yet, salons have not been a source of the spread of COVID and we would like to keep it that way so we can remain open to serve you!

* Denotes a change or additional policy

• Masks are required at all times.  * We may require 3-ply disposable masks at some point.  If this decision is made, we will have masks available (for a small fee) and will inform you of the requirement before your appointment.  The idea behind no longer allowing cloth masks is in order to ensure all of our guests consistently have the added protection of clean 3-ply masks.  

• Waiting areas are closed.  Text me at 802-522-6837 when you arrive at the salon.  Wait in your car until I let you know that I am ready for you to come in.  Please text me instead of calling.  I cannot always answer a call but I can see a text and respond quickly.  It is not a good idea to arrive too early for your appointment so that you don’t need to run your car for a long time while waiting.  

• Wash or sanitize your hands upon arrival.  Sanitizer is readily available throughout both salons, but feel free to wash your hands in the restroom anytime you feel necessary.

• Food and drink are no longer permitted during services.  We will not be offering water any longer in order to keep masks in place at all times.  Sorry for the inconvenience.  

• Practice social distancing.  We have the salons arranged so that we can perform services properly distanced.  Please maintain this distance whenever you might not be directly in the salon chair.  

• Plan accordingly - *Please be aware of your interactions in the 14 days prior to your appointment.  As a service provider, I am up close and personal with you for an extended amount of time.  This creates a scenario that could foster the spread of this disease.  It is important that guidelines outlined by Governor Scott are adhered to for the sake of everyone in the salon.  I am making a commitment in order to keep my clients and coworkers safe and ask that you make the same commitment to have limited and safe interactions with those outside of your household and to quarantine when appropriate.  If you travel out of state or visit with extended family/friends, you will need to have completed a 14 day quarantine or 7 day quarantine with a negative test before coming to the salon. It is at my discretion to cancel any appointments that I feel could put the salon at risk due to possible exposure and cancellation fees could apply to these situations.  I don't want to have to do this so, please, be mindful of your interactions prior to your appointment.  

• *Prescreening questions will be sent before your appointment.  I would appreciate your response to these questions before your appointment. I will try to have it sent 2 days prior but if I don’t I want everyone to know what they are.  It will look something like this:

 Before your appointment, please let me know if you can answer “YES” to any of these COVID-19 prescreening questions.

1. Have you been diagnosed with COVID-19 or are experiencing any COVID-19 symptoms including but not limited to trouble breathing, dry cough, fever, unusual fatigue or body aches and others?

2. Have you recently been in contact with anyone recently diagnosed with COVID-19 or experiencing these symptoms?

3. Have you traveled outside of the state in the last 14 days and have not quarantined for 14 days or 7 days with a negative test?

4. Have you been in close contact with anyone that has traveled out of state or come from another state without quarantining or testing in the last 14 days?

5. Have you followed the current guidelines set forth by the Governor of Vermont concerning social interactions and gatherings for the last 14 days? I understand the guidelines may change, if you are unsure of current guidelines visit accd.vermont.gov or ask me.

If you can answer “YES” to any of these questions, then we will need to reschedule your appointment.  If you have questions or need clarification, please contact me asap.  Be aware that my cancellation policy (https://www.katesands.style/booking) applies to any cancellations or rescheduling with less than 24 hours notice with the exception of sudden onset of symptoms.  If you have been in any of the above situations, I ask that you please give me proper notice to avoid a fee.  The screening process, truthful answers, and appropriate actions are key in preventing the spread of COVID-19.  Thank you for your cooperation!

So, in conclusion, sorry for the long post, but this stuff is important.  We all want salons to stay open, so we all need to do our part.  I appreciate everyone’s cooperation and understanding that getting your hair done is not what it use to be.  I am thankful that we are able to continue services in these times despite these changes and I look forward to seeing you soon!

-Kate

What to Expect at Your Next Appointment- New Guidelines and Info

Dear Clients, 

As we are all aware, the world is not the same as it was just a short time ago.  We have all made sacrifices and changes in our daily lives as a result of the novel coronavirus and its resulting illness, COVID-19.  The same will be true of your salon experience going forward for an unspecified amount of time.  As an industry, we are guided by recommendations from our Governor.  He has made these guidelines with the help of local industry leaders, so please know that these safety measures were created with all in mind.  This new normal will not look exactly the same from stylist to stylist or salon to salon.  Because of limited supplies, resources, time and variable situations, service providers will have had to use some ingenuity in order to keep themselves and their customers safe.  Clients need to be aware of what to expect when returning to the salon in this new normal.  Clients must follow the guidelines that the salon puts in place or they will be denied service.  We are taking this very seriously! Below are the expectations for you, the client, and the precautions the service provider and salon is taking to protect everyone in our salon space.  

Clients

• You will be required to wear a mask while in the salon.  You can wear your own ear-looped mask, or a mask (cloth or disposable are available) will be provided to you.  You must keep your mask on at all times and avoid touching your mask.  If you must remove your mask, do so by the ear elastic.   If for any reason you cannot wear a mask, even medical, you will need to postpone your appointment to a time when masks are no longer required.   I am truly sorry for the inconvenience of this, but it is in order to keep everyone as safe as possible.

• If you are sick or showing COVID-19 symptoms you will need to reschedule your appointment. You will be asked health questions in accordance with CDC guidelines before your appointment either by phone pre-appointment or upon arrival to the salon.  If you are immune-compromised, have pre-existing conditions or are over the age of 70, you may want to consider postponing your service.

• You will need to stay in your vehicle until I communicate that I am ready.  This will be communicated via phone so have it handy.  We will not be using the waiting area for guests because of occupancy rules.  Please bring minimal personal belongings into the salon.  Leave as much as you can in your car.

• Anyone not receiving services will not be allowed to come into the salon with you for your appointment unless needed for aid services.  Again, this is due to capacity limits. No walkins or retail-only shoppers will be allowed to enter the salon. 

• Upon arrival you will be asked to wash your hands for at least 20 seconds with soap and water or use hand sanitizer per CDC guidance.   

• Maintain social distancing.  Six feet between you and anyone else other than your stylist when they are performing your service.

• No facial waxing.  Facial services, including eyebrow waxing and coloring, is not permitted at this time.  Hair services only.    

• No Blow drying.   Unfortunately, because the virus is spread through droplets in the air, blow drying has been suspended in our salon until it is safer to do so. Sorry! 

• No food and limited beverage.  We will not have our self-serve beverages available.  So be prepared- eat and hydrate before you come to the salon so that your mask can remain in place as much as possible.  We will have water available if needed or bring your own.   

• Retail will still be available for sale for curbside pick up.  If you are already in the salon for an appointment, I will retrieve and bag the products for you.  Clients are not to touch the product on the retail shelves nor will we have product testers available.

In Salon

• Stylists will be maintaining social distancing except when performing services on guests.  This includes with our fellow co-workers.  Stations will be either distanced to allow 6 feet of working space or every other station used in order to maintain required distance.  

• Stylists will adhere to strict hand washing and/or sanitation.  Following CDC guidelines, Stylists must wash their hands throughout their day including after eating, using the restroom and before and after each client.  If hand washing is not available, hand sanitizer will be used.  

• Sanitation and Health- Stylists are trained on all cleaning, disinfecting and sanitation guidance by VOSHA and will be held to these standards by an appointed salon rep. This includes disinfecting and/or sanitizing stations, chairs, and equipment that the client may have come in contact with. This cleaning will be occurring between each client as well as throughout the day as needed.

• Bathrooms, common areas and frequent contact items such as door handles will be regularly disinfected.

• Stylists will be monitored and required to report illness and COVID-19 symptoms.  Daily temperature checks will also be performed.  Any Stylist with symptoms, a fever or who lives with anyone with these, will not be allowed to work.  

Please know things will be different and that if we could have them any other way we would.  Our client and staff safety is of the utmost importance to all of us in the salon, so please have patience and understanding when your service is not what you are accustomed to.  Here are some other things I would like you to keep in mind as we embark on the first phase to reopen the salon in the wake of the pandemic:

• Stay positive! We are all so happy to be back in the salon. I want you to be comfortable and enjoy your service and will do my best to make that possible in our new normal.

• Your first appointment may take longer, cost a little more, and be a less social.  There is a lot to do, but this will be short lived!  

• If you have colored your hair in anyway, please let me know when I contact you to reschedule.  No judgement! I just need to know if I will need extra time or product.  

• If you wouldn’t mind pushing your appointment further out than the week you are in line to be rescheduled for, I will give you 15% off your cut or color.

• Please understand that it may not be possible to prebook your next appointment in the same time frame you usually do until I get caught up.  I don’t imagine this being more than one cycle, but it means if you usually book every 4-5 weeks for a color, you may need to book 5-6 weeks out instead.  

• My prices are not changing, but I will have to charge for the extra product it will take to cover the excess regrowth that you have.  

• I will be requiring credit cards to reserve appointments from now on via my online booking tool.  More info on that here  https://www.katesands.style/blog/2020/5/18/sign-up-for-online-booking

• My cancellation policy has changed and can be read here https://www.katesands.style/booking

Thank you and I look forward to see you soon!

COVID-19 UPDATE (Spoiler Alert- No re-open date yet!)

Still no date for salons to open in Vermont, but the Governor said it should be by June 1st and that we will hopefully know more on Wednesday.  So there is an end in sight!  I wanted to give a few updates ahead of guideline announcements.  There are some things that we do know from other states’ salon re-openings and from the already opened sectors in our state about how your salon experience will be different.  I will be posting a more complete list later but a few things to know are:

• Masks will be required. 

• You will need to wash your hands when you arrive.  

• There will be a limit on how many people we can have in the salon.  Anyone not receiving services will not be permitted in the salon. 

• You need to wait in your car until I call you to come inside the salon.  

• Social distancing will be maintained at all times except when performing services.  

• Extra disinfection measures will be taken to ensure everyone’s safety.

Re-booking

Re-booking 2 months worth of appointments is going to be rough! So, please bear with me as I go through the process. Obviously, I can’t get everyone in at once. I am sorry, I wish it were possible! Some will have to continue to wait a little longer to get their hair done. Please know that I am doing my best and I ask for your patience under these unusual circumstances. Thank you!

• I will be contacting everyone who had cancelled appointments.  I will schedule those cancelled first and work from there.  Appointment times will be limited, but I will do my best to accommodate. I will have an active wait list going as well.

• I am adjusting my schedule. I will not be able to see as many clients in a day as usual because double booking is not possible and extra cleaning must be done between each client. This will slow down the process of getting everyone in. Unfortunately, if you were cancelled in the 3rd week of the shutdown, it does not necessarily mean you will be back in during the 3rd week back. Again, I am sorry! I will be working 4 days a week for the foreseeable future to try to get caught up.  

• Please understand that the more specific time you need, the longer your wait to get an appointment may be.  Nights and weekends will fill up quickly.

• Also, the type of service you need may affect booking.  Longer appointments will be harder to schedule.

• If you have colored your hair in anyway, please let me know when I contact you to reschedule.  No judgement! I just need to know if I will need extra time or product.  

• If you wouldn’t mind pushing your appointment further out than the week you are in line to be rescheduled for, I will give you 15% off your cut OR color.

• Please understand that it may not be possible to pre-book your next appointment in the same time frame you usually do until I get caught up.  I don’t imagine this being more than one cycle, but it means if you usually book every 4-5 weeks for a color, you may need to book 5-6 weeks out instead.  

• My prices are not changing, but I will have to charge for the extra product it will take to cover the excess regrowth that you have.

• I will be requiring credit cards to reserve appointments from now on via my online booking site.  More info on that here 

  https://www.katesands.style/blog/2020/5/18/sign-up-for-online-booking

• My cancellation policy has changed and can be read here https://www.katesands.style/booking

I am looking forward to seeing everyone soon and making all of you even more beautiful!

Sign Up for Online Booking

Before we start rescheduling, please sign up for online booking.  I want to gather everyone’s info properly and have a credit card on file for booking.  This does not mean you need to book future appointments exclusively online or that you will be charged before your appointment.  No appointments are available for online booking now. I will contact everyone that had appointments when we get a reopen date and open online booking later. Due to the extremely high demand for appointments after the shutdown, I am going to be requiring credit card numbers to reserve appointments from now on. My cancellation policy will be that cancellations not due to COVID-19 related symptoms without 24 hour notice and all no show appointments will be charged the full price of the service booked.  

Click here for my online booking site

https://square.site/book/ASAQK6VQXJ5PZ/kate-sands-south-burlington-vt

The link works best in Chrome. If using another web browser, copy and paste it into Chrome.  You will select “Sign in” in the top right corner and receive a sign in code after entering your mobile number.  Then please go to “Profile” and fill out your information.  If you have trouble, please text or email me with questions.  

Follow this link for instructions from Square on how to sign in and update your profile including adding a credit card.

https://squareup.com/help/us/en/article/6439-manage-your-client-profile-with-square-appointments

Signing in to online booking before I get started actually rebooking, will be very helpful and speed the process up and I would really appreciate it!  Thanks and I look forward to seeing all of you soon! 

Square offers secure credit card encryption. Check out their Privacy Policy here

https://squareup.com/help/us/en/article/3796-privacy-and-security

COVID-19 Message

Dear Clients,

For reasons that I think everyone understands, I will be discontinuing my services at Salon Vermont for the time being. I feel this is the most prudent choice at this point as we see the situation with COVID-19 progress.

It is unknown at this time when it will be possible to return to business as usual and I will be contacting clients with upcoming appointments. Unfortunately, rescheduling will be uncertain for a time, but I will do my best to accommodate when we do return to the salon. I will not be removing appointments from my schedule in order to keep track of things, so if I have contacted you because your appointment is affected, disregard any notifications from the software. I will not be booking any new appointments or accepting new online booking requests. You may still use online booking to reschedule appointments further out than April 15.

I appreciate everyone’s understanding and patience during this time. Many things are uncertain for all of us. Please feel free to reach out with questions or concerns. Also, as many of you realize, this is my own business and the decision to close temporarily was difficult as it is has a huge financial impact. One way to support local business that have chosen to or forced to shut down is to purchase gift certificates now and use them later when things have settled. I am sharing my link to purchase e-gifts for my business.

https://squareup.com/gift/A6M9WS3NZ1YSS/order

In the mean time, take care of yourself and each other. And remember- it is just hair! We may all look a bit crazy for a while, but we also have very few places to go or people to see right now. ;)

Happy New Year!

Hello!

It’s not very often that I give an update with big news.  Don’t worry- I am not changing salons! In fact, nothing could be further from the truth.  We just celebrated our first anniversary at Salon Vermont and I can’t thank everyone enough for your support during that transition.  It has been a wonderful year! The change had the exact effect on my business that I hoped for- tremendous growth! I think everyone is enjoying the new calming and relaxed atmosphere that Salon Vermont provides.  It has allowed me to refocus. I’ve expanded my booking times and aim to keep double booking at a minimum in order to keep up this vibe and give everyone optimal service. I have taken multiple color and product education classes this year through the salon.  This has inspired both my creativity and knowledge, as well as introduced me to more advanced products and tools from Goldwell and Aveda that I have added to my arsenal.  

With this growth, my schedule has gotten quite tight.  I am almost completely unable to take last minute appointments, reschedule, take new clients or large services without a month’s wait.  Despite actually adding hours to my schedule! It’s a good problem for me to have, but stressful for all of us involved. When scheduling gets to this point, it calls for some tweaks to the business.  I have decided to eliminate both Men’s and Children’s services in order to focus on Women’s cuts and colors, which are my strength and passion. I also need to do another price adjustment. Rather than drag it out, this adjustment will become effective immediately.  You can expect an increase of about $5 for color services. Haircuts will go to a tiered pricing similar in the way color has always been. The base price will be $55, but can go up from there depending on length, thickness or complexity of style. Drastic style changes and straightening blowouts among other factors require extra time and expertise.  The same goes for coloring. Also, as a side note, if you are wanting to make a significant change to your cut or color, please reach out to me before your appointment so we can insure that enough time is provided. You can refer to the “Services” page of this website for an updated price list and cancellation policy on the “Booking” page.  I will also have a complete service menu at my station in the salon.  If you have any questions about what services you usually receive and pricing, please feel free to have a conversation with me.  I really try to give fair pricing based on my costs, demand, skill and local competitors. With continued growth, please anticipate this pricing trend each year at this time.  It’s a decision I do not make lightly, but it must be done. Onward and upward!

Another change that I am making is a tweak to my schedule.  I have already started working some Mondays in lieu of a Tuesday or Wednesday occasionally.  Starting in April, Wednesday will no longer be one of my regular days. I tend to have too many other personal conflicts on that day and want to keep rescheduling to a minimum when I can.  Tuesday and Friday will be my set days every week. I work two Saturdays a month but when I am not working Saturday, I will be in the salon on Monday.  

I really appreciate all the referrals and positive feedback about my business and Salon Vermont.  I want to continue to give as many people as I can great hair and great service and allow my business to grow in a healthy, positive way, as well.  Thanks so much and see you soon!

Q & A Time

Q & A

Everyone has questions about hair- their own or in general.  What is the current trend? What is balayage? Why is my hair so dry, oily, brassy, etc.  I want to address some of these questions here on my website as a source of information for my current and potential guests.  Reader beware, I may hand out some hard truths from time to time. Hopefully, with a little knowledge in your pocket, your salon experience will be even better.  I thought I’d start with a little Q & A!

About me-

What do you specialize in?

    I feel my strength is working with one’s hair as opposed to fighting against it to create a successful style.  I most enjoy designing styles and colors that compliment someone’s texture, coloring and lifestyle. 

What products do you use?

    I work primarily with Goldwell color but also utilize other lines like Aveda and Schwarzkopf.  I use Aveda shampoos, conditioners and styling products. Salon Vermont carries Aveda retail products.  

What days do you work?

    It varies, so it is always best to inquire about specific dates and times.  Though, generally, I do NOT work Sunday, Monday or Thursday.  

What about evenings and weekends?

    I try to have at least two evenings a week and two Saturdays a month available.  Be warned- these appointments are the first to fill up!

How soon can I get in for an appointment?

    Due to a large and wonderful group of regular clientele, I am often booked a month or more in advance.  Longer for evenings and weekends. If you aren’t one to plan ahead, don’t fret- openings do pop up and you can always be added to my cancellation list.  I think many would say it is worth the wait, though. 

What is the best way to schedule an appointment?

    My number is 802-522-6837.  Texting or leaving a voicemail is best.  I cannot often actually answer my phone between being with clients and family.  I will get back to you via your preferred method as soon as possible. You can also call the salon at 802-242-4100.  You will be directed to pick my extension and that will forward you to my personal number where you can leave a voicemail. Skip the middle-man and use my cell number.  

Enough about me...now it’s about you.

Can you look at me and tell me the best style for my face shape, texture,etc?

    It’s a bit more complicated than that.  I focus on taking in multiple aspects to determine what options might work best for you, but is one of the things I feel I do best.  This includes taking things like commitment, budget, schedule and lifestyle into consideration beyond just the aesthetics of the style. 

Will you tell me if a cut/color/style is a bad idea for me?

    Yes.  And I will tell you why.

Do I really need those products you recommend?

    If you want to protect your investment and get your hair to cooperate, then you will at least need some kind of product.  You will see better results with quality salon products. More on this in a future post.

Why is my hair different than it used to be?

    A lot of reasons- health, weather, aging, maintenance, hormones.  My goal is to not necessarily pin-point the exact reason (that sometimes needs a medical professional) but address the symptoms as best we can.

Why does my hair seem dry?

    Dryness is one of the biggest complaints from clients.  It is common and the answer is relatively easy- you aren’t providing your hair with enough moisture.  I can help you find the path to moisture enlightenment (spoiler alert- it includes product and at home maintenance). 

What about damage?

    Damaged hair comes from over processing and over stressing the hair.  Insist on being blonde? Flat iron frequently? Pull your hair tightly in a bun? Never get a haircut? Be good to your hair and it will be good to you.  Sometimes we have to decide what we are willing to sacrifice for our best hair. I can help guide you to healthier hair. Again, more on this and dry hair in later posts.

Is it ok to color my hair at home?

    At home hair color, even those advertised as personalized, do not come with high quality ingredients to protect the integrity of your hair nor the knowledgeable experience of a stylist to formulate and apply it.  If chemistry and color theory are your expertise, then knock yourself out. You will see a difference.

What if I don’t know what kind of color I want/need?

    One word. Free Consultation.  No, wait, that’s two words. Please, if you are unsure what you need for color, either book a consultation or at least reach out to me so we can discuss.  This goes for new clients and existing clients looking for a change. This assures that we can book the correct amount of time and have all the tools needed to complete the service you desire.  

Alrighty, that’s enough for now.  I will delve into a few more of these questions and others with continued posts.  Stayed tuned to learn about cut and color terms, remedies to common hair troubles and how to have a good hair day everyday.