I was thrilled to find Brian! He 'got' my hair! .. or at least He pretended to and I trusted him, completely, until a bad customer service exp. left me misled and waiting ("another 45min.".. another 30min... another hour?") __entire afternoon before leaving without ever having been helped... nor was I given the courtesy of a return phone call by way of apology or explanation for this. . Everyone deserves a second chance.. and apparently the owner & manager had felt that had nothing to do with him?? I returned approx. a year, later, only to find Brian didn't really 'get' my hair after all when he gave me pretty much the same sort of cut He'd criticized. I had lovely swinging long spaniel ears on either side of my head; it was completely unworkable and exactly the kind of wreck I had spent years growing out & had gone to him to fix in the first place when he had joined me in criticizing the other stylists for not knowing better, also condemning them in saying they would "never own" their mistakes. He "owned" his by telling me 'his' cut required 'my' hair to be parted differently__?! (than I do?) My third and 2cnd corrective cut (5th visit to the salon over this one haircut) it was blamed on communication, which is pretty unforgivable given the history and calibre we were dealing with, and for all my effort and returning. Not only was Brian "too busy" to discuss or deal with me between all My efforts to sort this out, but I completely relate to the others complaints of being left waiting, as every time I went to the salon, the girls were having to apologize for this. But on this particular occasion, I was careful and clear in stating I could only book in If I was "in & out" of the salon by a specified time, due to travel plans. I was left not just in the waiting room, but then again in Brian's chair for another 3/4 hr with a cold coffee and "0" explanation, while 2 girls tried awkwardly stalling & repeatedly brushing my hair out - apparently on Brian's directive - until it became annoying, and I asked "why"? Terrible customer service! I can also relate to the product push, which is more conspicuous than any salon I've been to, before, not only because of the tactics -- thrust it into ones hand and say 'you need this!',.. but that nothing Brian's sold me, insisting it 's perfect and just what I need, has ever been a product that I use and enjoy, where as anything I've purchased at other salons was used & well. The one time I tried lowlights, which we had discussed as an option for the future, (to see how we could blend --"very natural and subtle" is my hair mantra and away from the phony, harsh black and white contrasting I'd been traumatized by - pre-Brian - ) it resulted in what looked like a black jiffy-marker streak... one thin one and one thick one down the side of my head. (far from "natural", or any colour from my 'realm' or range of normal spectrum) It was surprising and nothing I would try again, but at least Brian knew how to cut my hair, which I loved. Or so I thought., at the time. The last time I left with bangs that looked like a child had cut them (the new stylist thought I'd done it). Oh well _ it takes just a few years to grow out mistakes, right? And then there's the gossip... and "the "professional ethics" ( how much is it All-Right or O.K. to share certain information when it's gleaned via one's business'?) While I bent over backwards for the chance to speak to - rather than about - him, at some point the frustration goes Somewhere; esp. when you're paying money & time for a service. As I said, 5x to the salon over one haircut and B's too busy to talk or call. Well, then, you're too busy for me; and perhaps you should stop boasting about the first-rate customer service. At some point first-rate marketing has to return to first-rate products and service, not just expansion and 'push', while we sit hours waiting for the good haircut that no longer happens, while you're far too 'high' above any criticism to hear it (we'll see how quickly this comment disappears). I love you Brian but you're never getting near me with scissors _ or a color tube _ again. read more

MUST READ THIS REVIEW!!!!! THIS SALON SAVED MY HAIR!!!! My name is Kimberlee, and I went to a diff salon to get my hair done. Long story short, didn't turn out too well lol. Two hair colourings later and complete stripping of my hair my head was burning n I was in tears. The owner said I could find a salon that might be able to handle it and he'd pay for all expenses. I went to MAFFEO!!!!! I called and talked to Bryan the owner and I felt instant relief just from his kind voice. He truly cared to help me. I was scared I'd never get anyone brave or knowledgable enough to help my dilemma. He said he was just closed for a couple hours but he'd wait for me so he could meet with me and see what we had to work with. I was so relieved. We met at his salon after hours and my bf was there for support too. Bryan said he's dealt with people coming in from these situations before and that he'd do his very best and assured me that we will take the utmost care and caution. He kindly made an opening for me as he's in high demand. He gave me an amazing hair repair treatment to cake on my hair overnight. I went in the next day and it was like instant comfort. Greeted with smiles and good energy. Not to mention their mini cafe! They asked me to sit in the lounge area and I was asked what kind of special coffee, latte, herbal tea etc I wanted. :) I was so happy. He then did amazing work on my EXTREMELY FRAGILE and hideous coloured hair. I've never felt safer in any hairdressers hands. We immediately clicked. He was so down to earth and good spirited. We talked the whole way through. My very supporting boyfriend was there waiting for me and he sat out on their beautiful deck and relaxed with the sunshine beaming down on him. He came in a few times and said how happy he was to see I was in such good hands and that he feels that this is all going to work out and that my hair will be ok. My hair was treated with the utmost professional care. The staff were amazing and friendly. Lets not forget the music!!! I LOVED his music!!! It was acoustic to reggae to classical to mainstream to everything you love. Best salon I've ever been to. Hands down. My hair turned out absolutely beautiful!!! I was given so much knowledge on hair than I had ever before in any other salon. Right down to the way my hair should be trimmed for the naturally curly hair I had etc. Bryan has so much experience it's actually quite impressive. I had a professional from the moment I had him on the phone nearly in tears thinking id lose my hair. MAFFEO salon saved my hair. Oh, it was also my 1 year anniversary the next day and I needed my hair to look fabulous. I would recommend thighs Salon and Bryan to do anyone's hair no matter what the state. Good or bad hair. You'll feel safe relief and at home here. I'm very thankful for what Bryan and his staff and salon did for my hair. The products I bought are also wonderful. They have kept my hair in beautiful condition. Thank you for reading this for I felt it was necessary to give recognition where it is deserved most. Love & Light Kimberlee read more

I absolutely love the ambiance at Maffeo Salon! The music and warm environment always have me leaving relaxed. The staff are super friendly and personable. Not to mention the beautiful coffee shop with delicious coffee! Brian has been cutting and coloring my hair for years (since Maffeo Salon opened). I have never been disappointed! To be honest, this is the only salon that I have ever been a return client at and I cannot imagine allowing anyone else to touch my hair ever again. I have never been more pleased with the colour and cut, especially after my most recent visit. I also had Brian and the team at Maffeo Salon do the hair for my wedding. Everyone's hair was absolutely stunning! I can honestly say that the morning of my wedding was extremely relaxing as I knew we all were in good hands. Thanks to the team for all their hard work! read more

New York Fashion on Vancouver Island!! Unbelievable experience!! After 10 years in Nanaimo, cuts and colors ranging in price from $110.00 to $280.00 ( for short hair) and salons noted as the top in the country (sigh) FINALLY....! my hair is "current" again and my spirit renewed thanks to Brian Rice!! I feel 10 years younger and it's like being back in a city again..... people I don't even know actually stop me and ask me "who does your hair"!!!. YaY!! Best of all, if you can believe it.... the hair is like the icing on the cake, the entire Maffeo experience is transformational! Brian invests fully and it's so obvious in the environment, the team, the community and oh yes MY HAIR!! If you're in a hair rutt RUN to Maffeo Salon for a transformational rescue!!! read more

I have been a client at Maffeo Salon for more than 3 years now and I am continually impressed with Brian's passion for creating the best customer experience possible. Even though "it's just a haircut", I feel like I've been able to escape from the stresses of everyday life for just a little bit every time I visit. The staff are professional, friendly, personable and totally focussed on doing what they do best. In the end though, it's about the cut. I get compliments on my hair all time time and as a stylist, Brian knows what will or won't work. I could say "he's a natural" but I know he works very hard at his chosen profession. Just one note - it's a good idea to book ahead. The place is hoppin'! read more

Best Hair Salon and Spa in Nanaimo! I have been coming to Maffeo Salon and Day Spa since July 2008 and couldn't be happier. The service is amazing, the salon is beautiful, the coffee is delicious, and the hair stylists are so talented. I am always extremely happy with my hair colour and hair cut, and receive compliments from friends, family, and strangers on a regular basis. They also have a spa upstairs, where I've had the pleasure of getting a pedicure while my hair color is processing. What a lovely experience. If you are looking for a hair salon or spa in Nanaimo, check out Maffeo Salon and Day Spa. You won't regret it. read more

I have been a client of Brian's at Maffeo Salon since it's opening. I followed Brian there from his previous place of employment. I can't imagine anyone else cutting and highlighting my hair. The color is very flattering and my hair is in the best condition it has ever been in. Quite often I get asked where I get my hair done, and have sent numerous people in his direction. They are never disappointed. I also love Maffeo Salon. The atmosphere is very relaxed and comfortable. Feels like an evening out instead of a hair appointment. Sandy B. read more

I am a returning client at Maffeo Salon. I have never once, walked out without a smile on my face. The staff is very professional, and cheery. A very positive, uplifting experience. I feel like a new person every time I leave and am grateful to be part of such a great group of ppl. If your looking for a warm, welcoming, comfortable place to put your feet up and have a relaxing, enhancing experience I highly recommend calling now and making your first appointment. Its worth every bit of your time. read more

Looking to get spoiled? This salon really does that. I often see Emily for any of my waxing needs or pedicures! I was pleasantly surprised with Emily makeup skills for my recent photo shot! Recently I have started to get my hair cut by Brian. Not only do I have a hair cut that is easy to maintain and fast to style but I have developed a great friendship! We often enjoy a coffee and visit during the haircut so I always make sure I am not in a rush! read more

After arriving in Nanaimo 10 years ago with a bad haircut & over-processed hair, I had the good fortune to make an appointment with Brian Rice. Brian is a talented, terrific stylist & has been "my guy" ever since. I receive many compliments on my hair & always recommend Brian & his stylists at Maffeo Salon & Day Spa, they are the best. For a unique & positive experience, visit this charming full service salon, you won't be dissapointed. Judy read more

Brazilian Waxing and Eyebrow Waxing I recently went to Maffeo Salon and Day Spa and had a Brazilian wax and my eyebrows waxed by Crystal, their esthetician. Talk about amazing!! Her energy is so warm and her services are over the top. She makes you feel comfortable, and does a truly amazing job. If you need a brazilian wax in Nanaimo, or need your eyebrows waxed I would definitely recommend Crystal at Maffeo Salon and Day Spa. read more

This is a fantastic place to get your haircut. I have been going for 3 years, and the owner cuts my hair perfectly every time. Based on my haircuts, 4 other people routinely go to Brian now too. The coffee shop is a great place to wait, and the coffee is a fantastic treat....Vancouver Island roasted! read more