Let me tell you about the best salon experience I've ever had. I came in on a Saturday morning and was warmly greeted, offered coffee, and invited to change into a comfortable robe. Leigha was very thorough in her consultation with me before we got started: she wanted to know all about my dream hair, so she could make it a reality. Leigha is kind and warm, and I could tell that she truly cares about giving her clients what they want. I opted for lots of balayage highlights. The whole experience was luxurious and relaxing. I sipped on my coffee and chatted with Leigha throughout the process of hair-painting, shampooing, conditioning, toning, and styling. I also asked her about every hair trend under the sun--balayage, color theory, Olaplex, types of curlers, styling products--and Leigha knows it ALL! She has years of experience managing her own salon before she moved to Gates Salon, and I could definitely tell! I'm now ultra-informed, and I'd look forward to seeing her again just to talk to her. On top of the attentive service and gorgeous results, the price is definitely reasonable. I was expecting to pay double, and I'm sure I wouldn't have walked out of any other salon with great hair, tons of information, and a new friend. Ask for Leigha--she's amazing! read more

The Gates Salon - Beautiful blonde balayage by Leigha! - Skin Care Near Me - Pasadena, California

I'm pretty sad that Mary canceled my facial 15 minutes before our scheduled time. I have breathing issues when I'm flat on my back, so I respectfully requested a pillow to prop me up for my facial. I even told the scheduler that I could bring my own wedge if they wanted me to. I've requested this at countless other locations when getting a facial and it's never been an issue - everyone is more than happy to accommodate me. But only a few minutes before my scheduled appointment Mary told me she couldn't accommodate me. I'm stunned. I've never had this happen to me. I wasn't asking for anything out of the ordinary for accommodation. I hate that I can't just get a facial like everyone else - I wish being flat on my back was easy for me. I would expect a nice place like The Gates wouldn't discriminate against someone with a disability - but it appears that those with disabilities are not welcome at The Gates. Incredibly hurtful. And maybe also against the law? read more

My hairdresser, who I'd been seeing for 10 years, was losing steam. Dissatisfied with the way he'd been coiffing me lately, it was definitely time for a change. So I decided to consult with the people at The Gates Salon to see if they could help me with my hairdo dilemma. OMG...I was paired with the COOLEST stylist ever! When I walked in, Gina introduced herself to me and began by giving me a tour of the salon. Then I sat in her chair and we discussed my hair issue. She was very attentive to questions that I had and gave great suggestions on the type of style that would work for me. She also gave me tips on how to maintain my new hairstyle (in plain English) and the products I should use in doing so. As a result, I walked out of there with a cool new 'do! Couldn't wait to go home and show the husband - I was feeling quite sexy. Thanks to Gina, I have found a new salon. Besides haircuts, The Gates also provides skincare services and manicures & pedicures. They also have an entire corner in the salon dedicated to hair and skin products. YEAH! read more

The Gates Salon - Skin Care Near Me - Pasadena, California

MERI IS WONDERFUL! Her work is excellent. Meri got my troubled skin ready for my wedding with a series of facials and she also provided waxing services (face and brows). Her waxing job is great, very minimal pain. I've been waxing for years and years, and I truly have not had someone wax me that was so painless. Usually I dread my waxing, especially on my face, but with Meri I never really sweat my appointments. Meri is the esthetician at The Gates Salon and her works is truly amazing. My skin was very troubled, suffering from cystic acne likely caused by all the stress of wedding planning and finishing my master's degree but Meri truly transformed not just the look of my skin but the feel... the overall texture. My husband noticed the difference. Meri is very gentle and I love how she describes each step and what it is doing for my skin, it really is comforting because I am a big baby with pain, like extractions, but she is so calming! I highly recommend her services. She also provides great recommendations on what products to use at home to maintain good skin. I highly recommend facial services from Meri, it is worth every penny! The Gates Salon is beautiful and the staff are great. They also provide excellent bridal hair and make up services. Michel is very talented, and from what I've seen is especially talented with cut and color. I haven't had the chance to have my hair cut or colored by him but he did do a great hair trial for my wedding, but I ended up needing to go with someone else due to timing. Meri is also the make up artist, she is so good. Makes your skin look smooth and bright. read more

What an experience! First off, I loved that the salon was located right in the heart of downtown Pasadena. The decor captures the essence of Pasadena's charm. As to the services themselves, I couldn't have been more pleased. Even though I was simply getting a standard men's cut, I was still treated to the full service experience as they washed and conditioned my hair, offered me drinks, cut my hair, and styled it. Michel was a great conversationalist. Most importantly, the cut was exactly what I was looking for. If you are even close to the shop, you should try to get in and enjoy the experience. read more

The Gates Salon - Skin Care Near Me - Pasadena, California

Absolute perfection. The first time I ever had my hair colored or permed was at the Gates at the tender age of 14. For years afterwards, this has been the go to spot to get something done that no one else can do. It's certainly pricy, but worth it. Vicky, the head colorist and owner's daughter, is absolutely a joy. She's kind, careful, and very knowledgable. She's also a pretty classy lady. She's been doing my mom's hair since about 1993 I think and she's never had a bad day as far as I can tell. I usually only pop in now a days when I need some serious fixing or I'm scared to let anyone else try something complex on my hair. But I know I'm always in good hands when I come to the Gates. The salon is upscale, busy all day long, and a great environment. The staff is friendly, you never want for anything bc they're constantly asking you if you need anything, and offers a wide range of services and products. From hair tools, products, to makeup, you can certainly buy it all here and go home looking awesome. Parking is sometimes difficult but usually I find a spot right out front. This place is just amazing. read more

Daniel is AMAZING! I cannot thank him enough. I live on the west side and will now drive to Pasadena to get my hair done. A girlfriend from USC has recommended Daniel for over a year and I finally made it! I have long, colored beach hair and Daniel was able to get rid of my dead ends but still maintain the "beachy" and effortless look I aim for. Also, the young woman at the front desk was so nice and accommodating - they fit me in for a same day cut! read more

Michele does the BESTTTT hair cuts!!! I recently moved to the OC, but I definitely will make the drive to get a hair cut by him. After he did my hair, I fell and looked like a million buck--in my opinion;-) You know, "they say" it's all about the hair cut. You can have great color but without a great hair cut, you just look ordinary. His technique is top-notch. My hair had movement at every angle--just stunning!!! Thank you so much!!! I finally found a real hair stylist!! read more

Came in today for a double process (root touch up plus highlights) and a cut. Jerry was the stylist referred to me and he was amazing! He completely understood the look I was going for and kept my hair looking natural. Sometimes haircuts look too even/perfect and I prefer more of a bouncy natural look. He gave my hair so much movement I felt like I was in a shampoo commercial! The color is perfect and I've never had so many foils removed SO gently at the wash bowl. Usually it hurts while the stylist removes the foils but he was so gentle! He's very experienced (over 10 years) and he speaks very fluent Mandarin. I'm really glad I came here. Jerry and his assistant went out of their way to make me comfortable. They always refilled my water/coffee and even brought me chocolates from the back office. I already received so many compliments and feel SO good about my hair I just had to write about it! PS: I forgot to mention how beautiful the salon is! It very big, bright and chic. Everyone is super friendly and the place has a great vibe. Can't wait to come back :D read more

I went in to have my hair dyed lighter after being strictly dark brown to black. I had never bleached my hair and usually don't splurge on myself when it comes to my hair. Right away, I was greeted by my stylist, Jerry Wang. He listen to my request of wanting the newer trend bayalage. He really took his time to make sure everything was perfect. Jerry was so confident and at ease with his work it put my nerves to rest. He also made sure I was comfortable brought me water and magazines. I will most defiantly be coming back!!! Thank you!!! read more

The Gates Salon - After - Skin Care Near Me - Pasadena, California

I was referred to Juliana for highlights and I'm now a loyal fan. An experienced Colorist, she consulted with me to get just the right color to complement my skin tone and natural color - she gets it, and is a true professional. Each time I return, I leave happy with her suggestions and the results. I followed Juliana's recommendations for hair products (she uses them and knows of what she speaks) , and my hair is as healthy as it's ever been... despite the chemical treatments I put it through. And as if that weren't enough, the stylists Priscilla and Lanette are pros. Very experienced, careful and never rushed. The entire Gates experience is a winner. read more

The service here was great and neat! I love it and l'd love to come another time. At first my hairs color was a mess. It was a mixture of different colors! Then I came to Jerry and he did an amazing job beautifying my hair. He is the best stylist that I ever met! Here are some pictures to show you his wonderful job on my hair. read more

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This place is great for several different types of services. The pedicures are done in quiet room with a water feature and tons of magazines. The ladies really take their time to do a great job. Same goes for manicures, but those are done out near where hair is done, so it's not as relaxing. I've had my hair cut here a few times and have no complaints whatsoever. All the stylists are great and work quickly and efficiently without rushing it. The salon itself has been there for a very long time and is owned by a local couple, I believe. It's been kept in great shape, is airy and clean and the people at the front desk are very nice and helpful. I really look forward to going again! read more

I've been going here for about 3 years and have always been very satisfied. Seriously, no one touches my hair but Lanette. I may not always look completely put together, but she really works to make me not look homeless (that's a joke, people!) My wife has her hair and such done here too, and she's way pickier than I am. Not cheap, but worth it. read more

I have been going to The Gates since it was bought by master stylist Michel Gurule. Michel was my guy for many years before he struck out on his own, and I have never found anyone better. He gives you the kind of haircut that you can manage when you get home, and it grows out beautifully. He listens to what you want, and makes it work for your lifestyle. He also stays on top all the innovations in color and cut and I always look my best, which in my industry, really matters. In fact, the few times I have not been able to get an appointment and had to gt an emergency cut elsewhere, the stylist commented on how well my hair was cut and how beautiful the color was. They can tell these things! The front desk is great, really work with you, and the shampoos include a fab head massage. True, going to the owner is a bit pricey, but in this economy, when I can't see Michel as often as I would like, he has even coached me on what color and brand of touch-up I should buy. Who does that? On top of all the professional pluses, I want to add that Michel is one of the most decent people I have ever met. Can't recommend him enough. read more

The Gates Salon has the best owners, Michel and Mayren! They are GENUINELY sweet and hospitable to every person that comes in. The atmosphere is peaceful and professional! Not to mention, the salon itself is clean, fresh smelling, and well organized. The Gates Salon did my wedding hair by the way! I was so happy and pleased about how well my hair looked not only in the wedding photos but after as well. They make sure you are taken care of and that you are left very confident and satisfied with your haircut! They deserve MORE THAN a five star rating to be honest! The assistants are also personable and pleasant to be around. The Gates Salon crew knows what they are doing! Please, go to the Gates Salon - I guarantee you will love the experience and your haircut! read more

I wanted to share how kind Mayran was to me when I visited The Gates Salon yesterday. She went out of her way to listen and offer suggestions to help me. Great customer service and an amazing beautiful woman who has a welcoming friendly smile! Thank you Mayran!! I'm still so touched!! I will definitely go back just beacuse she cared so much about her customer and these days that's getting harder to find! Nice and clean salon too! read more

First of all, I am NOT a "wealthy socialite type" of person! I am a regular "go to work everyday" gal. That being said, after I have been with Vicki, my hair LOOKS like I am SOMEbody! the color is PERFECT, and while I there, I am treated like a queen! Vicki is a perfectionist, in every good sense of the word!! Additionally, after a friend had a "botched" job at another Pasadena Salon, Vicki consulted and then totally remediated the horrible color and texture! read more

I have the best colorist working on my hair right now. I naturally have dark brown hair and Rose, nails the blonde... all the time. I've been going to her for years and always pressuring her to post more social media but she's quite modest about her work. She's an excellent colorist. If you need fire engine red, lavendar purple, cotton candy pink, or platinum blonde she can do it for you. What I love about Rose is that she will tell you what you can achieve and what you can't for your hair without breaking it. She's been doing this for years and knows her coloring formula. The Gates salon is an excellent salon to go to. Everyone is super friendly and attentative. It's always busy but you can always get an appointment in. The owners and the managers are extremely nice. They're not afraid to know their customers. I love their customer service as well as the hair products they sell. Love the Gates Salon! read more

After years and years of waiting I decided to color my hair at the ripe age of 26. Banessa was recommended by a friend so I had high expectations. Not only was she fun to talk to but a complete perfectionist. I felt at ease with her handling my virgin hair and couldn't think of anyone else making it a better experience. But wait..there's more. Once, the color process was complete she turned me over to Gina who is probably the sweetest person on the planet. Gina then cut and styled my hair to add to the new look. I was completely satisfied and even went out on the town to celebrate. These ladies are amazing and what they do and I am so happy to have found them. read more

I have been going to Meri for my eyebrows and waxing after a friend recommended her and I am so glad she did. Meri is an expert in these skills, she listens and delivers exactly what I want every single time....highly recommend her! read more

Jerry Wang is the absolute sweetest and I love my new hair. It is exactly what I wanted and he knows how to make you feel beautiful. He was very quick and efficient. Thank you Jerry and all the nice staff at the salon for making me feel very welcome on my first visit. I would highly recommend getting your hair colored/cut at this salon, you will not be disappointed. I will definitely come to the Gates Salon for my next hair cut, thank you again :) read more

The Gates Salon - Stylist: Jerry Wang at the Gates Salon and Spa, side view. - Skin Care Near Me - Pasadena, California

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Love this new location! The salon is very trendy and clean! Meri has been my makeup artist for a while now. She's been dolling me up for all my events! Meri takes her time and listens to you when you want s specific look. She is a complete sweetheart and SO talented!!!! In fact, everyone in the salon is welcoming & friendly - very hard to come across. If you're in the Pasadena are, this is a go-to salon! read more

I've been getting my haircut with Michel for a while now, and I am never disappointed! I get tons of compliments on my hair. Michel did a dark subtle balayage for me today, and I am AMAZED with how natural and blended the highlights are. He's a true master colorist, and he's able to listen and create what I want. Michel and his staff also wanted to make sure I was completely happy with my new color, which I appreciate a lot! The salon is located in the heart of Pasadena, lots of parking (street and structure), and the interior is gorgeous. read more

Emily took my hair from my natural dirty blond to ravishing red! I wanted it for Halloween so she used a Demi-permanent dye that will slowly wash out. She helped me pick a color that will look natural and go well with my skin tone. I've gotten tons of compliments! When I first entered I was warmly greeted by Daisy who helped check me in and offered me all sorts of delicious beverages. Arielle cut my hair exactly how I wanted. She left me lots of length yet it still has great movement thanks to layers. Definitely an A+ experience and I will gladly return. read more

I've been looking for a new salon and I think I've found it with The Gates! 1) Lynette worked on my hair and did a great job. She listened attentively to my concerns and preferences and was able to take a good first step to not only fix the problem a previous hairdresser had created, but also explain to me what will be involved in getting my hair back to the way I like it best. Thumbs-up! 2) Kristine gave me an amazing facial that even included a neck massage. She was incredibly generous with her time and the session included a consult with me about my skin's changing needs (I haven't had a facial in a few years), what she was doing as she was doing it, as well as some ideas for how to change up my current routine to help my skin look its best. I wanted some suggestions for new skin products, and I felt that Kristine was very knowledgeable about an array of products and not married to just one skin care products company as has so often been my experience at other salons. Fabulous experience! Definitely going to see Kristine for a facial in future. read more

I have been getting my hair cut (and sometimes colored- shhh!) by Michel for years. His staff and his wife are always very good to me.. treating me nice and getting me coffee. The cuts are always fabulous and color is so subtle no one guesses I am coloring. I get lots of compliments. Also I saw at least one instance where a mother brought her daughter in after a dreadful color and cut from another salon and Michel helped recolor and cut the hair to fix all the problems. He works wonders. If you are in or near downtown Pasadena, and need a cut, there is no better place to stop in and get beautified. read more

This is by far the best salon I've been to and their new location is even better. It's absolutely beautiful inside, very trendy New York vibe; they definitely upgraded from their last location which was a little outdated. The Gates has the best hair professionals, skin care specialists, makeup artists and products. They carry Kerastase and Bumble and Bumble which are my two go-to brands for hair care; plus they have Skinceuticuals and Epicuren which aren't really easy to find. The best part is that the owners are genuinely nice people and are so accommodating every time I come to get my services done. The wife even gives me discounts on products when she's at the register; super generous! They always know how to make clients feel welcome and appreciated. The front desks girls are great at that as well, they greet you with warm smiles and always offer refreshments. One of the beautiful girls at the desk even put some coins in the meter for me. They really know how to make a person feel special. Michel is my go-to "hair person" for my balayage and cut/styles; he always listens to what I want and delivers every time. Meri is my girl when it comes to keeping my skin healthy and firm with her speciality facials. She even does lash extensions which turned out so beautiful and natural. read more

I work on the same street and came in to ask one of the stylist about color and was rudely approached by whom I presumed to be the salon manager. Anyhow the woman yelled at me for walking past the receptionist to talk with the colorist. Just because I was in my work medical scrubs doing a flyer drop for my doctor she presumed something else and treated me like crap and literally kicked me out without letting me get one word in to explain! Would have been nice to have a salon to go to near work but I won't be coming back since they can't even treat ppl like human beings!! read more

My fiancé was referred to Juliana for highlights and a new color. I told her go ahead and try the place out. I recommend it. She was completely satisfied with the way they were with her. And personally I love her new hair color and highlights. I don't think my fiancé will ever be going anywhere else other then The Gates from now on. A bit on the dollar side but we'll worth it. She personally would recommend Juliana for hair color and she also gave my fiancé some advice about products to maintain her hair as we'll as which was her preference. read more

If I could give more stars I would seriously absolutely love Jerry and Hayley! What a great team they are! The salon is also so beautiful! Talk about awesome lighting in the salon! All natural light so you know what color your getting! My color came out fantastic. My cut is wonderful. Seriously Jerry cuts my hair the best! I won't go anywhere else now! His hands are magic haha! Customer service is on point also! So hard to find a good salon and stylist but I DID! read more

So The Gates is my Go To Salon/Spa that has become my one stop for all needs pampering...!:) The staff, Daisy, Pam, and Vicky are always on hand to answer questions, book appts,' get all my beauty needs taken care of! I have become a huge fan of the Gel Manicures and always go to Mary for my gel manicure/pedicures and I can't say enough about her,' she is Awesome!!! I have been bringing my Mother and Aunt for services as well,' such as Pedicures & Massages.' They quite frequently see Terri for pedicures and Kristine for massages/facials and have only great things to say about the services provided.'We have become quite the regulars!!:) read more

Banessa is Wonderful!! I have very difficult hair to get blonde and she has done it! She consults with you before she starts and really listens to all your concerns. I went through 2 other colorists before her and am finally with someone who can envision my dream and achieve it. Thank you Banessa! read more

This is a wonderful and relaxing all-service salon. They are very professional, but extremely welcoming and accommodating. The salon is beautifully maintained and bright. They have private rooms for their pedicures, facials, massages, etc., so you never feel as though someone is going to walk in on you during these services and the atmosphere is always quiet and soothing. The stylists never answer phones or cells while working so you feel that your time spent there is focused on you and the service that is being rendered. I have never seen any children being allowed to disrupt the serenity of the salon. My elderly mother goes with me to wait while I enjoy their pedicures or hair treatments and everyone is always so kind to her in making sure that she is comfortable and has a beverage while she waits. I now have standing appointments for pedicures, facials, and hair treatments because I trust the management of this salon to continue to provide this excellent service. read more

This is now my third update for The Gates. After a bad experience with my pedicure several weeks ago, the manager, Pam, convinced me to come in and give them another try, with no charge to me. It was like I was at a different salon this time around. The pedicure was great. I had Elisa as my technician, and she did an excellent job. The pedicure was almost an hour and half long, and she took time and attention to give me a fabulous experience. Everything was top notch, and they also included a parafin wax dip, which I love. Elisa also sent me home with a nail file and a mini pumice scrubber to use in the shower. I really appreciate businesses that read their customers reviews and address concerns. Thank you Pam for taking the time to do that, and to invite me back for such a nice experience. I would not hesitate to come back for this service now. read more

I love The Gates! Banessa is an incredibly talented colorist! I've been going to The Gates for seven years and cannot imagine going anywhere else! read more

I love this Salon! Not only is it GORGEOUS but the stylists are amazing and knowledgeable. Also recently got a mani and pedi and loved the private room. Highly recommend!! read more

Expensive, but amazing hair cut! My stylist really took the time and listened to what I wanted. Best haircut!

You might wonder why an X-Beverly Hills hairdresser would choose to go to a South Pasadena Hair Salon...the answer is easy, I go there because I love the little chic street called Mission Ave. and love even more The Gates Salon. My Hair dresser is Michel who is a master hair cutter and stylist and I have see Rina for my manicure and pedicures...she is wonderful. I love the friendliness of the Salon- it is very clean and upbeat. I highly recommend The Gates. read more

This is the best salon! Michelle is amazing and has been doing my hair for 6 years. I have extensions now and he does amazing color and blow outs. Would highly recommend to everyone.. read more