We've truly come full circle in my house when it comes to my six year old's hair. There was a time when he'd cling to my leg when confronted with a haircutting appointment. This was followed by the 'cling to a lollipop and sob silently whilst getting coiffed' stage. Next was the 'cling to the handlebars of a special motorcycle seat while watching Power Rangers' period. This past week, we entered the 'beg for a haircut while clinging to a picture of favorite band, Big Time Rush' era.
Carson just had to have the 'Kendall', because he's so way beyond the 'Bieber'. He's SIX…Lord, help me!
Unfortunately, Carson's follicle fixation took firm hold on Wednesday when his favorite spot, the Village Barber, was closed. This filled my eight year old girl with glee, because she was eager to experience exactly why so many of her best-tressed pals frequent Anthony Garubo. We were able to get two appointments, Carson begrudgingly agreed to give it a go, and off we went.
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I have to say Katty did a stellar job on Carson's cut, rendering it a picture perfect replica of his Nickelodeon idol, and the damage before tip was $20. Carina's cut, by Kyle, was more expensive ($25) even though it was a simpler bob-style cut. I attribute the cost difference to the amount of time spent blow drying and styling her hair (glamour she wouldn't have gotten at the barber).
In the nearly 9 years we've lived here, we've certainly gotten around when it comes to places in town that cater to kid's cuts. To be honest, our loyalty to one place over the other is usually based to availability for day of appointments.
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Here's a rundown of Maplewood places, hours and prices that make our short list for kid's cuts:
Anthony Garubo: Katty has my vote for skill, patience and negotiating (Carson wanted his hair to look longer after the cut. I wanted my investment to amount to substantial clippings on the floor…and we both left pleased.) Kyle's blow-out and pampering made my daughter feel like a Princess/Super Model. Kids cuts start at $20. Call ahead for an appointment.
174 Maplewood Ave, Maplewood, NJ 07040 973.762.1212 Hours: Mon, Salon Closed; Tues, 9am - 6pm; Wed, 9am - 9pm; Thu, 9am - 9pm; Fri, 9am - 8pm; Sat, 8am - 5pm; Sun, 10am - 4pm.
Chelsea Set: The salon has great stylists in general, but our family's favorite is Veronica. She has a loyal following of clients of all ages, but she is known for catering to specific styles and cuts for hipster boys and girls. Kids cuts start at $20 and up.
2 Depot Place (973) 762-4200. Monday thru Friday 9:00am - 8:00pm. Saturday 9:00am - 5:00pm.
Fringe: If your child likes their locks edgy in cut or color, Fringe is the place to go. My neighbor, who has two boys topped with effortlessly rock star manes, swears by Donna. She books 2 children appointments on Thursdays and Fridays, cost: $25 (ages 12 and under). You can always try the day of, though- Donna will try to accommodate you if she can. Fringe is also THE spot for those bold color extensions you've probably seen popping up around town - 2 for $10 - and you gotta love the fact that they're temporary!
1874 Springfield Ave (973) 762-7222 Hours: Tues-Wed 10-6, Thurs-Fri 10-9 Sat 9-5.
Village Barber: This cuttery may not have bells or whistles, but it is the least expensive, most available place on the list. We've yet to get a bad cut there, but have been particularly impressed with Shannon and Karin for both boy and girl cuts. My kids love picking their free lollipop after they're coiffed and I love the price: an average cut will run you about $16.
167 Maplewood Ave., 973-763-4710 Hours: Mon, Tues, Thu, Fri, 8am - 5pm; Sat, 8am - 3:30pm; Wed, Sun, closed.
C'mon- don't be snippy! Share your favorite stylist and salon shout-outs below:
