Whether you are in a rush or looking to be pampered, salon owner Linda Parker works to make each experience at A Cut Above Salon and Spa all about the customer.
Parker’s personal investment in her customers combined with her highly trained team of stylists creates an artistic, creative atmosphere that focuses on making people feel and look good. From feather extensions and colorful human hair extensions to cutting edge relaxing and coloring methods, the wide range of services offered at A Cut Above helps customers to achieve the look they desire.
Parker said she makes sure she and her staff are up to date with the latest hairstyling techniques. Between in-salon education, where artists and educators come into the salon to teach new methods in coloring and cutting, and attending outside classes, Parker said she is determined to lead a team that shares her enthusiasm and drive to learn new styles.
“It’s all about creating something beautiful and interesting to make the customer feel good,” she said.
A Cut Above was one of the first salons in the area to offer one-day keratin treatment, Parker said. This curl relaxer lasts longer compared to regular keratin treatments and allows customers to wash their hair the next day. Parker also offers a more natural alternative to relaxing hair with the gentler Phyto Relaxer, whose formula is derived from ingredients like soy and other plant products.
By using specific cutting techniques, Parker said she can either bring out a natural wave in hair or downplay a customer’s curls depending on what look the customer is trying to achieve. Parker said she also uses precision razor cutting to create short, feminine styles.
Despite the number of services offered at A Cut Above, establishing open lines of communication between stylists and clients is what Parker said keeps customers coming back to the Lawrence salon.
“I take the time to learn about my clients so I can help them achieve the right look for their personality and hair type,” Parker said. “I teach them how to upkeep their styles and tell them which products, brushes and techniques to use.”
Three brands that Parker recommends to clients are Pureology, Phyto and Redken. These product lines are available in the salon, ready for purchase.
“I am really selective about what I bring into the salon,” Parker said. “I research all new products before I bring them in and suggest them to my customers.”
Parker said she is aware of the effects of the economy and is exploring ways to minimize procedures while still delivering maximum results. One way the salon does this is through dimensional hair coloring. Parker said this method uses one color dye to add multiple tones, creating a highlighting effect without the customer having to invest in highlights. Parker also offers special deals on select services exclusively available on the salon’s Facebook page at facebook.com/acutabovesalonandspa.
“Customers look to me and the other stylists for suggestions and ideas to keep their look fresh and exciting,” Parker said. “But you have to always keep the client in mind.”
Parker is planning two events to help further connect to the residents of the Mercer Area. On Sept. 25, the stylists at A Cut Above will come in on their day off to give hair cuts that will raise money for HopeCuts, the largest beauty fundraiser in the country for cancer and HIV/AIDS.
Parker is also planning a photo shoot to showcase the hair and makeup styles her staff creates. Parker said customers will be able to sample certain services and receive makeovers.
For more information about A Cut Above Salon and Spa, go to acutabovesalonandspa.net/staff or call (609) 896-2500. A Cut Above is located on 160 Lawrenceville-Pennington Road in Lawrence.
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