Shear Genius Salon in Williamsburg, VA

I had my first experience with Shear Genius recently. It started off very pleasant. The stylists were friendly and welcoming. By the time I left, however, over 2 years worth of growth and expensive products (for 3C curly hair) were completely ruined with this hair cut. Instead of losing one inch across all of my hair, I lost one inch on the bottom layer and anywhere between 2-4 inches on the above layers. The thing is, I absolutely DID NOT ask for layers. To make matters worse, the handling of my situation was completely unprofessional. Here's the story: As the process of trimming my hair started, the stylist was cutting my hair in a way I had never seen before. I later found out the technique she was using was a technique for layering hair, which again, is something for which I never asked. At this time my hair was completely combed out, so I did not see the results in my natural curl pattern until I showered the next morning. I then found that I was given uneven, unmeshed, choppy layers. Even then, this technique was not applied evenly throughout all of my hair. I called and spoke with the woman who cut my hair, who insisted she did not give me layers. I told her she did, and I made it known I was extremely unhappy. Now if someone leaves your salon dissatisfied with the way you cut/styled her hair, I can understand being offended. What I cannot understand is not taking ownership of the mistake you made and instead getting defensive over your work. I came in to the salon so she could see what I was talking about. She saw the layers, and then asked several times about my previous hair length, insisting I must have had layers prior to coming in. Each time I said no and that I had picture proof my hair was all one length before I stepped through the door. Still, in an attempt to stand her ground, she lifted my hair above my head in an effort to show me my hair was all the same length. She seemed to purposefully miss my point, because I told her numerous times I did not care what the length was above my head; I cared what it was in the way my hair naturally falls. There was no resolution. The room was too tense, and I was tired of arguing. As the customer, I should not have had to deal with any of that, especially since I'm the one who has to walk away with ruined hair. I now have to wait over another year to get back what was so carelessly taken from me. As I left, this stylist said she was sorry "I wasn't happy." I was given an apology for my feelings, but not an apology for her mistake. The next day, however, I did receive a call, and she did apologize and offer me a free service to make up for things. No thank you.

I'm so pleased I found this little salon!! I live in PA and was in town for my wedding - after countless calls to area salons, this was one that was willing to meet with me on my short schedule, and even after a mishap of who was to take care of me, they re-worked their schedule and still fit me in for a great trial of my bridal style. On wedding day, as soon as I walked in I already felt comfortable with Karen's styling abilities and she kept me calm while creating the most gorgeous hairstyle for my special day. I absolutely LOVED it and it got so many compliments. I highly recommend this place!

Karen is an absolute genius! Not to mention one of the kindest people you will ever meet. Frankly, the entire staff is wonderful. I went to university around Williamsburg and found Karen through a friend. It has been 5 years and I now live in Northern Virginia. I still drive the 3 hours south to have Karen cut my hair. My hair is super curly and she shapes it into beautiful layers like no other. I've even tried curl-specific salons (costing over $100), but no one is as good as Karen. She listens to what you want, takes her time, and gives you EXACTLY what you ask for. Make sure you call ahead for an appointment because she is the best kept secret in Williamsburg! I've had a cut by one of the other girls in the salon, because I once forgot to make an appointment with Karen, and the other girl did a fabulous job, too. I recommended her to all of my girlfriend in college and I recommend her salon to anyone in the Williamsburg area!

Went for a hair cut with Kerry for the second time today. I wear my hair short and she does a very nice job of keeping it short, but feminine. The prices are quite reasonable too.