Wendy H is the best! I am not a slave to my hair. I once saw a quote, "At my age I consider wearing my hair down making an effort." I get a good cut that grows out so it still looks ok and then I start yanking it up most of the time. My hairdresser of 30 years moved on so I called Backstage and asked for a master stylist. Wendy had a cancellation and I've been going back ever since. The salon is lovely and doing everything to keep everyone safe. A little more pricey than some places I checked but since I only go a couple of times a year so it's worth it. read more

This salon used to be outstanding, but it has gone down hill. There are hardly any stylists and you can never get an appointment anymore. Additionally, the owner significantly increased the prices. I understand prices have gone up everywhere, but an $18 increase for a blowout?! I hope the owner reevaluates her business practices and is able to turn her business around. read more

the staff are friendly here but not as personable in my experience. I have not been super duper satisfied with any of my haircuts here. the building is kept very clean and the organization is nice. i prefer a little more homey of an ambiance but that's just my preference. not bad but not great either. read more

Beautiful salon...I had high expectations and was excited they had so much weekend availability, but left super disappointed. My full foil came out looking choppy and streak, def not worth the $200+ I paid. Stylist didn't even ask how I wanted it blown out and the "consultation" lasted about 10 seconds. Updated 10/14/19 - salon manager contacted me and took the time to listen to why I was unhappy with the color. She scheduled me with another stylist for a few days later to correct the color and I left very happy with my hair. read more

I had a bridal hair and makeup trial a few weeks ago at Backstage and I'd highly caution any bride looking to book with them. I had the same stylist for each service but will not name them. Honestly, one of the biggest concerns I should note is that they originally booked my trial 3 weeks prior to my wedding but their cancellation window for the entire wedding is 4 weeks. I didn't even realize this until after my trial appt. Luckily I had moved up my trial to 5 weeks prior to the wedding so I had a week to cancel. I was told to come prepared with my veil, earrings, any hair clips I'd like to use, and photos of preferences - all of which I did. But upon arriving to the stylist's work area she said I didn't need to bring those items. I showed her photos of what I wanted - half up/ half down with curls on the bottom and a little volume up top. She offered to do twists on the side but I said that since I have thin fine hair that I didn't really want to waste hair by twisting it up. She said she really likes that look and recommended we try it - so she did that. I immediately didn't like the lack of volume and asking for a basic pinned back style on the top half, which she then needed to rush through since the twisting took so much time. Then, I asked if I should wash my hair after the rehearsal dinner the night prior to the wedding or wash it the morning of. She confirmed that I would be styling and curling my hair for the rehearsal dinner and then added that I should not wash my hair at all after the dinner or in the morning and that she would "touch up the curls." Girl, please, I can "touch up" my own curls - I'm not spending hundreds for you to touch up my hair that I styled the night prior for my WEDDING DAY. I honestly should have walked out without paying at that moment. It truly was an accurate representation of all the ignorant things she said the entire time. So I initially liked the appearance of my hair from the front and she took photos. I looked at these photos upon getting home (I should add this is a destination wedding and a 5 hour drive roundtrip - such a waste of my time). The photos from me sitting in her chair showed the top being lop sided and the curls as frizzy and messy! Not at all like the photos I showed her and not professional looking! Onto the makeup...I again showed her photos especially of a glam metallic eye I wanted. She started by applying a warm copper brown eye shadow and showed me that. I said I didn't like it since it was warm not cool and matte not metallic. She said they didn't have any shimmery, glittery eyeshadow and if I wanted that look I'd have to bring glitter from a craft store. Seriously? Shimmery eyeshadow is so common! So she didn't change it and continued with foundation, powder, bronzer, and blush. It was cakey near my nose so I asked what I could do to prevent that the morning of, as in more or less lotion. She didn't give me a clear answer and said "sure, maybe more lotion." Not helpful at all. She then asked me to look at my face again and I said I wanted different eyeshadow, a dramatic eyeliner, mascara, and my lips done. She did a wing liner which she herself said she didn't like but didn't redo it! It was awful, honestly. I had to be very clear with the eyeshadow - cool brown or charcoal and she added a little cool brown which she said she liked more now since I have "so many warm colors going on already". I'm a redhead, how did she not notice that to begin with? I also plan to get lash extensions before the wedding but don't have them on yet so she didn't offer to put mascara on me, which I had to ask for and do myself. She also asked if I wanted to see the "final look" before she applied lipstick. Had to ask for that too. I was so frustrated. I honestly should not have paid nor tipped but I was so flustered I did. I was too embarrassed to even go out in public for a nice dinner that evening. A couple days later I called to cancel and luckily they didn't give me a hard time but kept offering to switch me to a different stylist. read more

The best in the area! Had my bridal party in the salon on Saturday and from day one Alex and team were fantastic! Each girl had their own requests and they fulfilled everything flawlessly! I was so impressed with their ability to juggle everyone and stay on time. The hair and makeup experience can be hit or miss as a bridesmaids/bride and my girls were blown away by the salon itself but most importantly the stylists that made us all beautiful. Thank you Backstage!! read more

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This is a one stop shop spa. You can get all sorts of beautification services here from your hair, nails, massage, and skin care treatments. I have gone many times before when visiting my parents in Boston but the last time was surely an experience to remember and rave about. I went to a pampering day at the spa for a birthday present and received the works. My massage was the BEST that I have ever received.. she was thorough, friendly, and knowledgeable. In fact, the massage was so relaxing that I have already set up my next appointment with her. My manicure and pedicure have lasted for 2 weeks, which is unheard of, and the red still looks classically fabulous! And while I was there, I was able to pick up my Gold well hair products that I was running low on (love Gold well). When I arrived for my spa day they suggested that I get my hair washed, dried and styled before my big birthday dinner and I thought, "what a fabulous idea, great service!!" So I did, and it looked fabulous and I was more relaxed than ever when I left Backstage. read more

I always know that this salon is too notch but today they raised the bar. Flew in with a recent hair cut that was looking too good. Thought it was the bangs so I scheduled a trim. Nancy took me back and spruced them up and then asked me if I was happy with the the rest of my hair. She offered several observations and they were in target. We scheduled another appointment to spruce up. Gotta tell you, she took ten years off me and I am thrilled with this hair fix. It is an amazing cut. I only hope I need to travel back in 8 weeks! read more

I decided to try this salon for a haircut this past Saturday because my regular stylist had to cancel my appointment due to an emergency. The stylist I had was a Level 1 stylist and she seemed ok. The next morning when I washed my hair I realized the right side was quite shorter than the left. I called them and went in the next day (Sunday) for another stylist to fix it. She was very nice and did even it out however, I don't like the way it was cut and it doesn't come out right when I blow it dry. Long story short, I will never go back there again. It looks like a high end salon in Boston but it is definitely not! I paid for (1) haircut and (2) tips because I felt bad for the 2nd stylist because she had to fix the mess the 1st stylist made. But I'm not happy with it and can't wait for it to grow out so I can go back to my regular stylist at a different place. read more

Narissa is a HAIR GOD. I came in with an extremely complicated request that required a balayage, foil and root shade. She spent 3 hours on my hair and it came out exactly like the picture I showed her. The color was BREATHTAKING. She was very detail oriented, took her time, and even offered to come in early on Sunday for me. I've received so many compliments since seeing her. She is the best colorist out there and is an absolute perfectionist which makes for a fantastic job! And I am usually a picky person and I was blown away. See her for color and you will not regret it! read more

I'll be in the minority of these reviews as a guy but here goes: I've been going to Backstage for almost 11 years now. I started gong after the local barber shops would inevitably turn my "just a trim" to a mess. I went to Tammy for my first cut and haven't gone to anyone else since. I now live in NYC but my family lives in the area. I come back every 2 months- half of the reason is to see the family and the other half is to get my haircut at Backstage (and thats saying something coming from NYC). Tammy is an absolute pro. If your hesitant to try Backstage for any reason- ask for Tammy- Make sure you call at least a day or 2 before hand though because her schedule is always pretty booked (with good reason). 10 years of not-going-anywhere-else quality of getting my haircut has to count for something. The girls at the front are super friendly and its just all around an awesome place. read more

First, let me say that I have truly liked every stylist that's done my hair here at this beautiful salon. Because of my crazy schedule I usually just call and book with whoever's available. But until now, no one's been able to truly turn my brassy/gold-prone brown/blonde hair into more of a beige/ashy look. KIM P.... you gave me EXACTLY what I'd been hoping for!!!! I can't stop looking at all the shades and how they blend so perfectly! You totally get my hair and when you said "I know exactly what I want to do" and started putting those foils in with so much focus, I knew you knew how to handle my hair. I'm absolutely amazed. I don't think I've ever loved a color so much!! Again, you really can't go wrong at this salon, and I really never write reviews but I had to give a shout out. Thanks Kim!!!! read more

My sister referred me as she has been going there for years. I was nervous as I wanted to cut 8" off my hair. Kim D did a great job!!! I'm so happy with the result. read more

I was referred to this salon by a close friend after my hair was nearly destroyed with poor coloring products/talent. As a young business professional, I needed a fix ASAP. I got an appointment the very next day and Donnie saved the day, and possibly my career! Lol. He was so delightful to sit with and talk to; extremely hospitable..always asking to carry stuff and making sure I was taken care of the entire time. You really need to see the before and after pictures of this serious color correction, and what he accomplished in one visit. Find him on Instagram. I learned my lesson and will let Donnie take the wheel from this point forward. It is so hard finding someone you can trust with your hair!!!!! Thank you so much Donnie!!! Amazing is an understatement!! read more

I had an accident with my hair and Donnie knew exactly what to do. He was funny , engaging and very nice. I definitely recommend him

This goes out to anyone that wants to apply here for a job. Very unprofessional, they contacted my work and I didn't even get called in to go on an interview with them. I believe you ask permission to call my work after an interview not the other way around. read more

I FINALLY got a good haircut. It looks wonderful and shiny, and falls right into place without multiple products and agony on my part. I found this spa through craigslist and Yelp. I called, and got an appt. with Tammy, a senior stylist, the next day. She talked with me, then cut quickly and surely. Like a miracle, from a shaggy sheepdog pseudo-bob from one of the many just ok stylists I've tried, I got a sleek waterfall that stays out of my face! I got a tour, and it looks like they have a lot of services in a nice setting. The cost was $10 more than the going standard rate for haircuts in the Newburyport area. Only $10 more! My hair is so well cut, I might be able to go longer between cuts, but I'm so happy with the look that I don't think I will. Yea, you could say I liked the place! read more

I have been going to this salon for about 6 months now. I have finally found the salon who understands my needs! Hair stylist Jaclyn Canto takes care of me in a professional and friendly manner. She colors my hair and knows exactly what shade is best for me. They use Goldwell hair color which is so rich looking and makes my hair look so shiny and healthy. Jaclyn really knows hair color and I would highly recommend her to anyone looking for a natural beautiful look. Jaclyn also cuts and blow dries my hair. Again, I am very pleased with her work. She is young and knowledgeable and is constantly taking classes to learn the latest trends. Summing it all up, I would highly recommend this salon where the atmosphere is friendly and accommodating. read more

Backstage Salon & Spa has exceeded my expectations by a landslide! From the friendly and professional front desk to the amazing and talented stylists. Every service since going there for my root color, hair cuts and blow-outs has been phenomenal. Backstage carries a sensitive scalp haircolor line "Inoa" that they special order for a few clients, such as myself. Both stylists Nicole and Kim have gone above and beyond to make sure I am comfortable throughout the entire process where I have had sensitivity issues previously at other salons. Even the owner checked in on me today knowing that I was one of the clients with scalp sensitivities. I can't thank this fine group of professionals enough for making my experience at this salon so wonderful. read more

I went here once and I loved it! My stylist was very nice and polite and i loved how she didn't cut way more than I wanted her too. Listening to you clientele is the most important thing of all when dealing with someone's look and appearance. I would definitely go back for another haircut. read more

So after a few calls we finally were able to bring my daughter back for a fix. We go in and the manager basically says I shouldn't have been allowed back in for a revision because of the time frame that passed. I get it but if you'd have called me back, we'd have come back within the time frame allowed (14 days). Or how about telling me the color would come out so fast? 180.00 dollars should last longer! After all her color came out within 4/5 days of the original appointment and she's been walking around with gray hair. The manager made a point to tell me it was a one time exception ( in front of my daughter an several other customers) she was obviously trying to assert her authority. So I said well since I dropped over $500.00 in this salon in ONE WEEK this is the least you can do. She didn't seem to care. Apparently that's not a lot... My daughter looked terrible! Need less to say Jess fixed her right up and she looks great now! Really awesome job Jess! You are fantastic and we'd love to keep going to Jess but I doubt we would go back to this salon after being made to feel like we did something wrong. 3 stars for doing the right thing- if it was without attitude you'd have received 5 stars. read more

Brittany is back, not only as a nail tech but also a stylist now too! So happy! Brittany does a fabulous job with my self dubbed "problem nails". I always walk away VERY happy! Backstage has been great about fitting me in around my crazy work schedule. Book an appointment with Brittany, manicure, pedicure, acrylics, what ever...You'll be glad you did it! Such a treat! read more

I go to Backstage for eyebrow waxing. I love that I can always get an appointment, either calling before or as a walk-in. The only negative is that I feel I have to be very clear in how I would like my brows shaped. Each stylist has their own style, so the outcome does vary. read more

They took me in at the very last minute and I got a great haircut by Kim...cute atmosphere and remodeling in the works to expand. Try it!

Whether you are getting a hair cut, color, wax or your nails done, you will be satisfied. I wouldn't go anywhere else to get my hair done. Christi is the best for a cut and color she understands all types of hair. I have really curly hair and I have had nothing, but great experiences. The stylists and so professional and top notch. This place is a gem. Oh and they have so many people working you can basically get an appt whenever you need the connivence is on point. read more

I went in to treat myself to a manicure - something I've done maybe four times in my life. I called at 1:30p for an appointment and they said they could get me in at 2pm. I hustled over there and got there at 1:50pm. Around 2:30pm I was still waiting to be called. No one even checked to see what was going on until I asked how much longer it would be. They explained the woman before me had nail polish that was difficult to remove but it would only be another 5 or so minutes. At 2:45pm I was sat in the manicure chair. First of all, they do not clip your nails - they merely file them. There is no water involved so it is a "dry" manicure experience. She began painting my nails before realizing there wasn't enough polish in the bottle. I had to pick a new color. The woman was very nice, however, the manicure was sloppily done. It missed large parts of my nails and covered my cuticles - this meant it started peeling up/off in a matter of days. I emailed the owners about the issues and quickly heard back. However, we played phone/email tag for about a week before anything was resolved. They offered me another manicure and I went back to give them another chance. The woman was, again, very nice and this time incredibly meticulous. I must say, my nails looked amazing. Unfortunately, within a week the polish was chipping and peeling off again. I'm not sure if it's the polish or application but, regardless, it's a huge waste of time and money. I, once again, contacted the owners about a refund. I was told they'd get back in touch with me to talk about the matter. That was two days ago, I still haven't heard back. I'm sure I'll get a refund but that doesn't make up for the fact this is a terrible place to get a manicure. read more

I was a loyal customer for a while but two incidents have me questioning it as a reputable business. One of the tables in back has the top part (that you lay on) wobbling on the pedestal underneath. The top part fell off the pedastle while I was on it and I fell to the floor. They have yet to replace it more than a year later. Beware of the back tables that you lie on to get services done! I recently bought two very expensive face creams and needed to return them but they told me their policy is that you can only exchange for a gift card. Very un-customer focused business that I will never go back to. read more

What a wonderful experience. Amazing staff that take the time to really listen and ask questions about your hair (what you want etc.) I will definitely be back! It was my 1st visit (my last experience was horrible and left my hair a total disaster). They took the time to really listen and start to "fix" my hair. If your looking for a salon you will not be disappointed read more

I have been getting my nails done at Backstage Salon, with Brittany, for more than 9 years. Brittany is the best nail tech I have ever gone to--professional, meticulous and very accommodating and caring. My nails looks gorgeous and I often get compliments, not just from friends, but by others in the salon/beauty business. The newly renovated salon is beautiful--I look forward to when the nail center is completed. I must also compliment the receptionists who are always lovely and accommodating. read more

Backstage Salon has been my go to for everything ranging from highlights, lowlights, haircuts to manicures, pedicures, and waxing. Both Wendy and Jordan Hovey have provided me with outstanding service for the last eight years or so. My grandmother, mother, sisters, and even brothers go to Backstage for any personal service needed. Not only is the end result always fabulous, but the customer service at the desk is outstanding from that moment you walk in to the moment you walk out. For the high level of service they provide for you, the pricing is still extremely fair. Backstage will leave you feeling fresh and beautiful! read more

I am usually very happy with this place but today I got my hair colored there and they didn't have time to blow dry me so I had to leave with dripping wet hair.... and it was -10 degrees. Two minutes under a blow dryer would've made a world of difference read more

Professional looking staff and a great salon owner truly appreciates the value of customer service

i've been going to this place for awhile, and the last few times have been ridiculous. i asked for blond hair, and came back with grey one time. and the last time i asked to go blond again and instead i came out with a very brassy, screaming orange hair-do. i immediately asked to have it fixed, and went back in..well, the girl made me wait 20 minutes, and then rushed through it, leaving it just as orange as before. after paying 140 dollars, let's just say i'm very disappointed. i don't know whether to go back a third time, or just go see somebody else at this point. its very frustrating and i feel like they really don't care about their customers, their stylists have NO idea what they are doing, and they charge an arm and a leg. i'm puzzled at all the glowing reviews on here, honestly. read more

This is such a beautiful, well manicured, and efficient salon. The front desk is very accommodating and professional. I see Nicole regularly and she is absolutely phenomenal!! Love it here!!! read more

If you don't want to deal with a huge headache, I highly recommend you do not go here. I've had problems almost everytime i've been. I spoke with the management once about my issues here and they were no help to me what so ever. Seems to me this place is very unprofessional. read more

I've been going to Backstage Salon now for a couple years and can't go anywhere else!! Christy does my hair and she is the absolute best! I honestly would never trust anyone else to cut my bangs. She is friendly, awesome, and does an amazing job with a dry cut and style. The rest of the staff at Backstage is friendly and personable as well! Love, love, love this place and travel from Boston to get there because it's totally worth it :) read more

I have been going to backstage for 16 years now! I started there and now my 4 daughters also enjoy the services and staff there! Wendy H.knows exactly how to make my troublesome thin hair look full and healthy. Manicures are great, and oh their facials are incredibly relaxing ! I still have to try a massage!! read more

I'm back in to update my review. I had originally written a pretty stern review because I was super unhappy about the lack of communication regarding an upcharge for my service, which was not mentioned until checkout. However, the salon actually called me today to apologize and make the situation right. I truly appreciate them taking the initiative to reach out to me. Consumers need to advocate for themselves and good businesses should listen and respond. Good for Backstage on this count. The color came out great, too. read more

My eyebrows were over waxed, i tried to explain that I like them thicker and she disregarded my input and said she knew what she was doing...apparently not. read more

Tammy is a fantastic hair dresser. She is able to get my curly hair incredibly straight and also does great high lights. I would highly recommend checking her out! read more