There are not many salons where you can get your hair snipped and coiffed, then hop onto a bar stool for a celebratory drink.
Remix Hair & Beauty in West Hampstead clearly has the right idea when it comes to customer service, after winning Best Salon in London at the 2023 Salon Awards.
The small, independent business in Broadhurst Gardens offers beauty treatments and nail colour in the basement, cuts and colour on the ground floor, and, between the hairwashing station and dryers, there's a licensed mezzanine bar leading onto a pleasant garden.
The UK-wide awards recognise high standards and achievements in the hair industry, and are judged on a detailed application, customer reviews, and a 'mystery shopper' who tests out the service.
Salon manager and stylist Nick Petkov says they have won several awards this year for a service which prioritises individual care in an environment that's both professional and homely.
"Many clients have been coming here for 15, and keep coming," he said.
"It's important for us to hold onto our staff because the most important thing is our customers like us. They like to see the same person when they come, and have conversations.
"In the summer we are flexible and can move outside into the garden to enjoy the weather, and with the bar, they can chat and meet friends, and have their hair done before a party on a Friday or Saturday night.
"It's a fun atmosphere."
With its comfy break out areas and individual decor, Nick says Remix isn't like other sleek but impersonal salons.
"It's a mix of modern and traditional, the customers don't like the feel of too much luxury, they want to be comfortable.
"We focus on the delivery of a service to satisfy everyone. If they haven't come for a long time, we contact them to ask for feedback and see if something has gone wrong."
He adds: "It feels like a massive achievement for us to win best salon in London. We had the whole team at the ceremony and we were shocked! Shouting and screaming. It was a memorable night, and the customers have been very proud. The whole team is very happy."
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