Pros 
Cons A Mixed Bag of Experiences: Diving into James Gray Salon Reviews
James Gray Salon, nestled at 12b James St, Mount Gambier, consistently scores a strong 4.7 rating, promising a quality hair experience. However, a closer look at recent customer feedback reveals a somewhat varied picture. While many patrons praise the salon’s skilled stylists and welcoming atmosphere, some have encountered issues with service speed and communication. The salon offers convenient opening hours, including late Thursdays until 7:30pm, and readily accepts various payment methods – credit, debit, and NFC mobile payments – making it accessible for a wide range of clients. They also thoughtfully cater to families, noting they are “good for kids”, a significant advantage for many. Crucially, appointments are recommended, though walk-ins are sometimes accommodated.
The accessibility features are also a major benefit, with both wheelchair-accessible parking and entrance available. But what do the customers really think? Let's break it down.
Top Marks for Stylists Like Marika and Rose
A recurring theme amongst positive reviews focuses on the exceptional skills of specific stylists, particularly Marika and Rose. Several customers highlighted Marika's expertise, especially with curly hair:
"I got a Haircut from Marika and am so happy with my service! The best curly haircut I have ever had, she was kind to take my appointment on short notice and had great advice and suggestions for my hairstyle."
Another customer shared a similar experience:
"What a wonderful experience... Marika fitted me in at short notice for a colour and cut; she was absolutely fabulous, very professional, gave me some great advise, set me up with a new ghd platinum straightener and hair products."
Rose also garners significant praise for her colour work. One customer eloquently stated:
"Booked in with the fabulous Rose for a cut and colour refresh... the colour is stunning and the care she took to achieve the look I was after was great."
Beyond individual stylist expertise, customers consistently appreciate the salon's commitment to quality:
- Quality Products: Multiple reviews mention the use of high-quality hair products.
- Skillful Cutting: "Excellent cutting skills" is a frequently used phrase.
- Honest Advice: Clients value the stylists’ willingness to provide honest opinions about their hair.
- Comfortable Setting: Described as a “comfy salon”, highlighting a relaxing atmosphere.
- Welcoming Staff: Customers remark on the friendly and helpful nature of the staff.
Areas for Improvement: Speed and Communication Concerns
Despite the overwhelming positivity, a few customers experienced issues that warrant attention. One individual describes a particularly rushed experience:
"Requested the most simple hair cut... Booked for 4:45pm. But I wasn’t able to sit on the chair until 4:55pm... Finished cutting with less than 10 cuts. No layers at all. Then I had to get up and leave the chair. Paid $29. And walk out at 4:58pm.”
This reviewer noted a lack of basic care - no water sprayed before combing, hair pulled hard during cutting - and a very quick, unsatisfying result. They felt the salon was rushing to close.
Another customer expressed dismay over a miscommunication regarding their stylist:
"I had booked in with Rose specifically to do my hair. I was horrified when Marika called Rose away and advised me that she was going to cut my hair!... Not the service I was after, especially when spending a few hundred dollars!! I felt it was unprofessional."
This highlights the importance of clear communication with clients and honouring pre-booked appointments with preferred stylists. The customer, while praising Rose's colour work, was left feeling disappointed by the unexpected change.
| Issue | Frequency | Potential Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Rushed Service | Low | Dissatisfaction, Poor Haircut Quality |
| Stylist Change Without Notice | Low | Dissatisfaction, Feeling Unvalued |
| Lack of Basic Care (e.g., no water spray) | Low | Discomfort, Potential Hair Damage |
Fixing a Mishap: James Gray Salon's Remedial Skills
Interestingly, James Gray Salon appears to excel at correcting haircuts gone wrong. One customer walked in after a disappointing experience at another salon and was incredibly pleased with the results:
"Walked in for a last minute appointment. They were very happy to accommodate me. Plus another hair salon messed my cut. It was difficult to explain to her that the style just didn't sit right even when I would spend a lot of time trying to style my hair. The hairdresser at James Gray was diligent to fix it to my satisfaction and the style stayed good and easy to maintain. Will go back!"
This demonstrates a commitment to client satisfaction and a level of skill in problem-solving, suggesting the salon has the capability to deliver excellent results even in challenging situations. Similarly, another customer’s wife was "very pleased" with both her cut and blow wave. This reinforces the idea that when things go right at James Gray Salon, they go very right indeed. You can reach them at +61 8 8725 2524 to book an appointment and potentially experience this firsthand.