Let me start by saying that I have been going to Karma Salon in Brentwood since it opened as I followed David (the owner) when he left Edges Salon. David understands the business and the importance of treating your loyal customers well and with respect. He's an experienced professional and a great stylist.
In the last couple of years, David expanded his salon to include the Mahogany location in south Calgary. David has taken more time in that location and now has a co-owner (Mel) who is managing the Brentwood location.
In complete contrast to David, Mel doesn't value long-time repeat clients and lacks professionalism and customer service. She is focused entirely on the profitability of each transaction to the detriment of a long term symbiotic relationships with her clients.
In June 2020, after salons re-opened from Covid closures, Karma switched to a new billing system that increased prices by over 20%. It was so poorly designed that it was double charging for the products that were being used.
I challenged my bill with Mel, who was not listening to me and instead would repeat the standard response that she obviously was taught by the billing system sales representative. It just happened that David was in Brentwood at the same time. He listened to and understood my objection about being double billed and refunded that portion even as Mel continued to object with the same standard response again. For my next appointment in July, the billing system had been corrected and rates were returned to normal.
Additionally, Karma Salon never posts their pricing and are reluctant to provide any pricing when asked. The stylists are obviously told to upsell their clients with as many services as possible and the price is only provided when asked. If you decline a service, it is met with a disapproving "fine". This is not how a salon experience should feel.
They will only give you the credit card receipt unless you request a detailed receipt - and then it is in the smallest, fine print sized font. With the lack of transparency, I wonder how many clients they overbill.
In March 2021, after having my hair coloured and highlighted, I was presented with a bill which again had a 23% price increase from the previous visit. A professional company would inform you of price increase before performing treatments to avoid negative surprises - so I asked for clarification but only received attitude and negative body language before receiving a partial refund.
Since finding a new salon, I realize that shampoo & blow dry should be included (and not an additional charge) as part of a cut and style and that Karma's separate colouring product charges are included with the colouring at other salons. You should leave a salon looking and feeling great instead of feeling angry and mistreated.
What used to be a great salon has become a greedy business that gouges clients. You will read good reviews of this salon - but don't be fooled - these are the people that accept all the extra services and charges - they are treated like queens. So, if you don't mind being upsold and overcharged - then this is the salon for you. For the rest of us - I suggest - stay away. read more
