I have literally had women stop and take pictures of my hair cut, courtesy of Chip Perry at Illuminate Salon! One woman (an elegant magazine editor in Charlotte for the DNC during September of 2012) said that she had to tell her stylist in LA that she wanted my cut. I smiled and let her take a few shots with her phone and thought, "If only Chip could see this!" Even my boss told me that she wanted to get my haircut! In fact, when I was in for my last trim I didn't even make it to the front desk without another Illuminate Salon client asking about my haircut. She was there for color that day but wanted to come back in for a cut like mine. I can't take any of the credit. It's the talent and magic of Chip Perry! All of the stylists and staff at Illuminate Salon are fabulous! Step inside and you will enjoy their laughter, smiles and talent. And when you leave, get ready for the compliments and referral requests (take Illuminate Salon cards with you - you'll need them)! read more

I just had to add this business to Yelp. I just left there with one of the best hair cuts I've gotten in my life! I actually saw their sign just driving by and decided to stop in to see if they could take me as a walk-in as I was badly in need of a trim. The girls at the front desk were so gracious and were more than willing to take me in right then. They actually set me up with one of the owners, Brandi Piana. She was so warm and comforting. She listened to what I wanted and more than delivered. I am so happy with the results. Lots of products to purchase, but they didn't pressure me to. The atmosphere is very intimate and cozy. They are conveniently located in the Hawthorne shopping center, so book a hair appointment with them, get your nails done next door, and finish with a margarita at Loco Lime. Sounds like the perfect afternoon to me! read more

Moving from one creative stylist to another can be stressful and I can tell you, I don't trust just anyone with giving me a cut that works for short and fine hair. I had been with one stylist for over ten years and due to scheduling challenges on my end I had to search for someone new. Brandi is a genius when it comes to not only short cuts but all lengths of hair. Her personality is simply nerve easing and you'll leave the salon feeling so great about yourself. As far as Illuminate's atmosphere .. it's beautiful, relaxing and calm ... you don't have folks running around doing five color processes around you, or a stylist bouncing from one chair to another to try and finish a record number of clients. You are the stylists priority ... and you know it when you are there. read more

I've been going to Chip for several years now, and wow -- what an amazing transformation my hair has experienced since then! Chip immediately identified several issues with what was then my current style routine and put a plan in place to get my hair where I wanted it to be. I never thought my hair could be this long, healthy and thick, with amazing color and texture, but thanks to Chip - it is! The entire staff is welcoming and warm, and I always have a fantastic experience. The salon itself is gorgeous and relaxing - not intimidating the way other high-end salons can sometimes feel. I never feel rushed or ignored. I highly, highly recommend Illuminate Salon and Chip Perry. Amazing service, great conversation and my hair just gets better and better. read more

I have been a loyal and happy client of these awesome and creative peeps (the best of best in Charlotte) for almost 17 years! The stylists at Illuminate are second to NONE and I couldn't imagine going anywhere else! If you want a fabulous cut, color, or good laugh...book with Brandi or Chip. Brandi is down to earth, funny, and incredibly talented. Chip is a master at so many things and so much fun! I have known most of the staff for many years and walking into Illuminate is like walking into my own home. It is so comfortable. There is no fuss, no airs, and everyone looks as gorgeous lounging in the cozy color area in foils as they do when they leave!! Best of the best in Charlotte, hands down!! read more

Well, this has got to be the easiest review ever! If you are searching for someone to do something to your hair -- from a cut to a color and anything and everything in between -- seriously, you can stop right here. Chip Perry has "tended" to my hair for almost 17 years now. If THAT doesn't speak for itself, I honestly don't know what does!!!!!! I simply cannot tell you how many times I walked into that salon and told him to just do whatever he thought would work for me . . . each time I walked out with some fabulous hair and a smile on my face. And, he won't just take care of your hair, he'll warm your heart. He's just the best ever!!!! read more

I'm so happy for Chip and Brandi and their new adventure at Illuminate Salon! I've been a client of theirs since I was in high school (and that was a LONG time ago), so obviously I think the world of them and their unbelievable talent. Brandi is THE one I trust with my thick, long hair. Whether it's my color, cut or the change your life Keratin treatment, I always look forward to seeing her. Never once have I left dissatisfied! If you need a new stylist, looking for something fresh or just flat out want a COOL stylist, this is your place! You will NOT be disappointed! Love you guys! read more

Brandi has been cutting and styling my hair for over 5 years now. She is an amazing stylist. I have never left her chair unsatisfied. She knows my hair and always gives me suggestions on changing it up when we get the urge. i have very straight fine hair. I struggled for years with trying to style long hair. The first time I sat in Brandi's chair she gave me the most fun, funky easy to style short cut. I will never go back to having long hair again. I absolutley love love love my hair now. I get compliments from strangers all the time. Thank you Brandi, you are the best!! read more

Illuminate Salon! Check this place out. Chip Perry has been cutting my hair for almost 10 years. I would follow him anywhere. He is not only an amazing stylist but also colorist. His friendly demeanor is inviting and comforting as is the crew that he works with. The colors and decor of the salon are warm and welcoming. Illuminate Salon truly wants you to have a relaxed, peaceful experience, as I do every time I visit them. The location for Uptown/Plaza/Modwood/Chantilly/Elizabeth/Eastover areas couldn't be better! Thanks to Chip and I will be back to see you all very soon! read more

I started going to Brandi over three years ago. I have natural curly hair and finding someone who was an expert with it was difficult. From my very first time in Brandi's chair, I can honestly say that I absolutely love my hair. I get compliments almost daily on the cut. She gave me the best cut that I have ever had. Besides the style, Brandi is great to spend an hour with. She will have you laughing and you will definitely leave her salon with a smile. Illuminte is a gorgeous salon with a very cool vibe. The entire staff is great! read more

I have been a client of Brandi's for 5+ years. She is a fabulous stylist and does an amazing job with color!. She is both professional and friendly. I am thrilled with her new venture at Illuminate Salon. The new salon is sleek and modern, while also being very relaxing. I would follow Brandi anywhere for hair color, but am thrilled that she and her partners have opened their own salon. I always look forward to my appointments at Illuminate, and I always leave feeling years younger with freshly styled hair. read more

Everyone knows how important your relationship is with your stylist. Chip Perry rescued me from bad hair doldrums and I've never looked back! I trust his judgement and he always keeps me looking fresh! Every week, someone asks me about my hair and where I have it styled - no joke!! It's a great feeling to know you look good and that you're style is current. It gives me a lot of confidence. The whole place is a lot of fun and I look forward to my appointments. I love being around happy people! read more

I have had the pleasure of having Brandi do my hair. She is not only very talented but friendly as well. I know that I can come in there and talk through what I want with her comfortably. Then I walk out of there happy. She always has good suggestions as well if you're insure if what you want to have done. There is no feeling of pressure in regards to the products they sell either. I have always felt very welcome and comfortable with the rest of the staff as well. read more

I love going to Illuminate. I have been a client of Brandi Piana's for over 10 years and even drove 3 hours for her to cut my hair when I was in graduate school! I always tell her to do what she wants and she never ceases to amaze me with what she comes up with. Throughout the years, I have had all different cuts and colors and she always does a fabulous job. Illuminate is a friendly, modern salon with great cuts/colors but even better people! read more

I have been a client of Chip's for 15 years and I wouldn't go anywhere else. I have referred so many peeps to him and if they can't get in with Chip then I have told them anyone at Illuminate rocks so you can't go wrong. I moved to High Point, NC 7 years ago and I still drive to Charlotte to get my hair done! I receive numerous compliments on my hair and I owe it all to Chip! Thanks to the amazing staff at Illuminate Salon for all you do! read more

Rob Murphy is absolutely amazing! He has cut my hair for many years and I never walk out of the salon less than ecstatic. Never have I had more compliments and it is now common for strangers to stop me and ask where I get my hair cut. Rob is great at suggesting changes that always keep my cut updated and stylish, he really knows his stuff! It's a treat to visit the salon, great relaxing spa-like atmosphere and even greater staff!!! read more

Brandi Piana is an awesome stylist at Illuminate Salon! I have been a client of her's for 12+ years. I am ALWAYS happy with my new cut/style everytime I leave the salon! She has a great eye for new hairstyles that will fit your face shape and your lifestyle. Brandi has a great sense of humor and I always look forward to my hair appointment because I know I'm going to get a great cut and we'll be laughing the whole time, too! read more

Brandi Piana is the best stylist! I have been going to her for over 5 years and NEVER had a cut or color that I didn't LOVE!. She takes the time to listen to what you want and then magically makes it happen. If you're not sure what you want, she is great at coming up with the perfect suggestions. Illuminate is a very warm and inviting salon and It is always a joy to go there. I highly recommend both Brandi and Illuminate! read more

My 11 year old had never really had a "style" before and was looking for something to start middle school. Ember gave her a cut that people stop in stores and compliment her on. What a confidence booster. We've known Ember since she was at Fuze and my baby was 6 months old. She has given me some of the most beautiful haircuts over the years. Love the new salon, it is a beautiful and relaxing space. read more