UPDATE: This review was originally a one-star review. I spoke with a manager, Lauren, who sincerely apologized for the experience I had last week. She said that this is not the normal standard they hold themselves to at Varuna and she would follow up with the stylists, and receptionist involved to make sure they're more transparent with guests. I appreciate having an opportunity to talk about my experience with Lauren and I am willing give Varuna another try. I am a long-time Aveda lover and this is the first time I've been disappointed by the Aveda salon experience. I booked my appointment with Jessica from home and paid in advance. The day of my appointment I got a call from the receptionist at 4:45 PM asking if I could come in 30 minutes later because the client ahead of me was taking longer than expected with her color. When I arrived at the salon at 6:25 PM, the receptionist greeted me with a pained look and said that Jessica had just started cutting the previous clients hair. She said it would be another 20 to 30 minutes before I could be seen. I said I would wait as this was the only time I could get my haircut. I waited in the back for another 20 minutes until a different stylist approached me and said that she would be cutting my hair instead. She did not introduce herself and as I approached her station there was hair all over the floor from a previous haircut. Not the clean environment I've come to expect from Aveda salons. As I later learned, Andi was my stylist. While my hair was being shampooed, she continually gossiped with another Aveda stylist about personal matters that I don't believe should be part of the customer experience. They even involved another client in the conversation too. This made me feel uncomfortable and was not the experience I wanted to have. At that point I was ready to request a refund and walk out. But I hadn't had my hair cut since October and it needed to happen. So I sucked it up. The haircut itself was great and I am happy with the results. Andi listened to what I wanted from the haircut and delivered. She was very efficient and skilled. I even got a few new styling tips in the process. What I am not happy with is the lack of customer service and my overall experience. When I make an appointment and book ahead of time, I expect that time to be honored. If Jessica wasn't done with the previous client in time, the staff should have had someone else lined up ready to take me so I didn't have to wait an additional 20 minutes, not counting arriving 30 minutes later as requested. This is my second time at Varuna and my experience on 5/10 is extremely different than my first visit. read more

In a city of failed spa efforts, and trust fund diva attempts, Varuna stands out as the sole professional in the group. Nestled in the cold warmth of the Westin/Park Place plaza at the north eastern edge of Annapolis proper, Avedas endeavour here is a shining example of what a spa should be. With professional and courteous therapists, stylists and service folks, they can assist you in all of your relaxation needs. While the waiting space can be cramped, the rooms are warm and cozy. Personal relationships are the key to this places success, so start one of your own today. read more

My mom and I visited the spa on a weekday. This is exactly what we wanted! While it's not a resort-like spa with complete and absolute tranquility and relaxation, it was an EXCELLENT day spa. The spa itself is separate from the salon--which is good. It cuts off all the noise and hub bub! (The nail section, though, is connected to the salon.) There's a waiting area with low lighting and comfy chairs in the spa's hallway. They have it partitioned off by ceiling-to-floor curtains. The requisite spa music plays--though on our day it was a little loud! But, really, can the sound of water rushing be too loud? I had the Caribbean Body Scrub and a Facial. Jess was the body scrub specialist, and I recommend her wholeheartedly. She's obviously a massage therapist--really great. The service was AMAZING--exactly what I like--great scrubbing followed by amazing moisturizing. Really, if you don't like massages or want something different from a massage, get a body scrub! Glinda was the facial expert. She was wonderful. I don't like to talk during those, and she accommodated. Love, love, LOVE the special treat of feet mask-and-hot-towel-wrap! No extractions, but I don't like them anyway--not sure if they go that route. My mom had a facial and the Caribbean Hand and Foot experience. She was thrilled! She said it was the best facial of her life. The next morning she said she couldn't see the fine lines around her mouth--a miracle, she says, for a 65 year old! She's excited to use the products. We both liked how Glinda didn't push the products. She wrote down what she used on us, but it was my no means a hard sell. We felt no obligation whatsoever. It was great. There a lot of pluses. I was blown away that after my two treatments they offered to wash, dry, and style my hair for free. As a scalp massage is included with the body scrub and the facial, I was THRILLED. My mom and I also ADORED the warm neck wraps offered to us as soon as we walked in. Soooo inviting! Only two minuses: the robes! They were short and white! I felt a little too out in the open, especially with a gentleman sitting in the spa waiting area while I was waiting (for only a few minutes) between my services. The robe is too short to sit in a comfy chair and too see-through to be around a guy who isn't my boyfriend. The other "minus" is completely fix-able--there was no basket or bag in my first room in which to place my clothes. I think it was an oversight. My room was also missing slippers--another oversight. Jess brought them both to me when I was ready to leave her room. Also, the parking wasn't validated. But what can you do? I definitely recommend Varuna Spa! I will go back there for sure. read more

If you think $60 for a great hairstyle is expensive then I dont think you know Annapolis very well. In the land of overpriced and under quality services (Im from NYC where theres actual competition in service industries) I think Varuna is one of the best bargains. I love the complimentary hand and scalp massage before your haircut. One stylist Tracy, who I love, only charges $50 including the blowdry and style. Plus if you work anywhere in Park Place you get an additional 20% off. The girls are some of the nicest people I've ever encountered in a salon. My girlfriends love this place and if you want quality at the right price this is where to go. read more

I booked a last minute appointment to get a hair cut - while staying across the street at the Westin on a business trip. Brittany was my stylist and she was great! I am always so nervous getting a haircut because I have thick long hair and stylists usually want to get really creative and start chopping a bunch of layers into it, but they don't listen to me that I need the weight and it helps with breakage to keep the layers long. She really took the time to understand what I wanted, then cut my hair dry before washing and styling. I was really pleased and would definitely go back to her. read more

So my review is really only for the retail area. Every time I go in there to buy product its empty. Empty of customers buying and empty of customers getting their hair done, to be fair I have never been in there on a Saturday. Everyone working there except two older people I suspect may be the owners are young (early 20's) tattooed, thin and white. I haven't seen anything older (older than 35), heavier, and not white. So it feels very homogenous there. Very suburban. I think they want the staff to seem hip and it seems the exact opposite to me. No variety, just young, thin and white with tattoos. Again, I haven't had services there, just bought stuff. read more

My experience at The Varuna Salon was exemplary. The friendly receptionist was able to accommodate me with an appointment the very same same day I called and was very helpful in honoring a gift certificate that I had had for ages. My stylist was Hannah. She was extremely easy to talk to and really listened to how I wanted my hair cut and was able to interpret what I wanted in a way that flattered me. Its my absolute favorite hair cut ever. I would definitely recommend this amazing salon to all. read more

Varuna is one of the best hair salons I have been too. I used to only color my own hair with stupid box dye but I will never do that again and will only go to Varuna for my hair coloring. Chris did my partial highlights and have never a blow out. The color came out amazinggg and my hair felt out of this world! The ending result is well worth the price! I will only go to Varuna and recommend them to everyone I know. read more

Continue to get lost in the Park Place parking lot, but it's worth the frustration, as the stylists at Varuna are always superb. Now go to Christina regularly for color and cut, and always leave smiling, and with zero interest to put on a hat. read more

Went here for the first time today and Angela highlighted my hair and cut it and I love it! I will definitely be back. Thanks again

"If you think $60 for a great hairstyle is expensive then I dont think you know Annapolis very well." For the record -- I have lived in the Annapolis area my entire life, nearly 30 years. So unless you are nearing 60 I think it is safe to say I "know" Annapolis better than you, as you admittedly are from Miami. It is true that the "fancier" or large chain salons are extremely overpriced and under-quality, as competition in this small town is low. I thought I'd give Aveda a try since I like their products. But if you want a great haircut at a decent price, I recommend trying the smaller, local salons which may look less appealing from the outside but provide excellent service at half the price. I now go to a salon in Londontown and it is so much better. read more

I went for the first time today for a massage. Something happened with their scheduling and my appointment got deleted. To compensate they gave me a complementary 30 min massage and a gift card for a 60 min massage. It was a great massage. If I could have given them more stars I would have. read more

This is a beautiful salon, but the stylists are not so great. I had highlights done on one occasion and they came out super chunky and uneven. My haircut on another occasion was just ok. I will not mention the stylists names, I will only name in positive reviews, but they were young and nice, but not experienced enough for the price. I also got a really limp hand massage while my hair was setting. Very strange. Again another young girl who seemed like they just hired her that day. Though the location is hip, this salon has a way to go in terms of developing strong stylists. Or maybe only see a senior stylist. Last note, you cannot tip on your credit card, so bring cash. This can be a bit inconvenient if you forget cash. A lot of salons do this now, so its not really a critique, just an FYI. read more

I had a spray tan there Friday before Memorial day. Took less than 5 minutes. Felt like hot air blowing without any product in dispenser. I requested highest level of color application. No visible results. This was done by hand not an automated booth which results should be better. Don't waste your 40$. read more

Friendly staff! Lovely products and service. I even received a complimentary neck and shoulder massage with essential oils while my hair color was processing! read more

I got a Stress-fix massage here from Aimee. It is aptly named. Aimee is really gentle and kind as well. She told me that she does facials; maybe the next time I visit I can get one of those too! The check-in staff was friendly; they gave me delicious tea before and after the massage. The subtracted point is just that I was able to hear people move in and out of the adjacent rooms. I think the frames of the doors are all connected and flimsy, so you can hear a lot of opening and closing - but I think it was really just during the beginning and end of the massage as people were coming and going. read more

I thoroughly enjoyed my Calming Embrace spa package here. From the massage, to the facial, hair, and makeup, everyone i came in contact with was friendly and professional. I went in stressed and came out feeling like a new person! The spa itself was very clean, beautifully decorated, and inviting. I definitely plan on going back here! read more

This place was more expensive than what I am use to but then again I was not the one getting my haircut. It was my little treats for my wife, anything to make her feel better and feel beautiful. The people didn't really talk very much, however Amanda was an amazing stylist. I give the store 4 stars, but I gave Amanda 5 stars read more

Went to see Emily for a hot stone message - she was EXCELLENT. Can't wait to go back!

I'm not sure what happened, but over time my hairdresser seemed to get worse instead of better and more comfortable with my hair. I've since gone elsewhere. read more

Came for a massage and facial package and had a great experience. I really appreciated the blow dry and make up touch up. Top notch and professional staff. read more

Christina gave me a trim and was so amazing. I'm a guy with longish hair and she not only gave me a great trim but some great advice on brushing and hair care in general (use a large bristled paddle brush - no combs on dry hair!) she was warm hearted and kind and really knows hair. I would recommend her to anyone. I went in not sure what I wanted exactly and a bit nervous (mainly because I don't know anyone there) and came out feeling super happy. She gave me advice based on the two options we narrowed it down to and I was able to decide based on her assessment of how my hair would respond to each. If you're not sure - ask for her. You won't be sorry. read more

Did a search for Aveda and the top beauty salons in Annapolis, and I was lucky enough to have Angela do a highlighting and cut. She listened to what I said, looked at the pictures, and did a great job! I will be back, and was happy to have found a place that the Marriott shuttle could take me to while traveling on business. read more

The people at Varuna Salon were extremely welcoming and kind. The salon is clean and has a nice vibe to it. I used them this year for my wedding,as I was getting married in Annapolis. I went to them in March for a wedding hair (Andy) and makeup trial (Lauren) and both stylists were helpful in bringing what I was thinking about into actuality. My hairstyle had braids and curls and side bun messiness to it, while my makeup was very natural and not overwhelming. When it came time for the wedding in June, they both had great notes and remembered me from my trial and were able to make their magic work again. They also did the hairstyles for my bridesmaids and were able to handle all 4 of us within 1.5 - 2 hours total. Also, try the tea... it's delicious! read more

My massage was very good, but I don't think this place has any business calling itself a spa. The relaxation "room" is a curtained off portion of a hallway, with people walking by, and a swinging door constantly opening and flapping closed. And beyond shampoo/conditioner, they offer nothing to get yourself put back together - no comb, no lotion, no blowdryer. And beware, they tried to charge me $15 for a "steam shower" which was lovely, but is nothing more than them turning on the steam in a regular shower. Oh, and there are no lockers, so I had to carry my purse and clothes around with me. So - good massage, but I'd rather go somewhere where I can have the relaxation experience extended via the facilities. read more

Can't speak for the Spa experience, never got there. Charged my credit card $70 on Jan 8th for a surprise for my mother's 70th birthday. On Feb 28th she showed up only to be turned away. I finally spoke to the Owner Ricardo. He couldn't care less. He arrogantly asked me to prove that I had actually paid. I did via email. It is now 30 days later and he still hasn't refunded my money after following up several times, apologized for embarrassing my mother or to me. This guy is a piece of work. The Spa looks nice but the guy running it is a first rate buffoon. read more

As a first time customer, I've never been so pleased with a hair salon in my whole life. The staff members are very pleasant from the front desk to the stylists. Chris layered my hair the way that most hairstylists will not dare to do and I've never been happier. I will most definitely come back and get my hair done here. It is a very relaxing and friendly environment. read more

Disappointing!! I did a surprise spa review for Spa Magazine and was not what I expected. The Nail department is in chaos. Three different ones many left and services done differently by each. Only one who recently left much to their loss, Debbie, was the only one who did the true Aveda therapy pedicure. I find the loss of people in such a short period of time very questionable. Front desk was excellent. My review gives 2 stars and I will not be a return client. Annapolis needs a good manicurist and I am out to find them. As of today it doesn't exist at Varuna They were close but they lost it. On to the next salon read more

Tom is the best massuer ever. Bar none. I don't know how he does what he does, but he is able to offer a HUGE variety of massage based on needs of his clients. I have seen him after running a marathon and the next day, felt as if I never had. I saw him before I got married and he did energy work with his massage and I left so full of love and excitement I was ready to explode. Whatever your needs to getting a massage, take it to Tom and you won't be disappointed! read more

The stylist was nice and friendly, but I don't think she was experienced. I wanted long layers and only 2 inches off, but what I got was a bunch of random lengths and definitely way more than 2 inches off (more like 3). I've never been so completely unhappy with a haircut. I loved my long long hair going in. Now I feel like I have a hack job that will take a long time to grow out. I searched out an Aveda salon because I thought it stood for quality and experience. But I could have gotten the same horrible haircut at the Hair Cuttery for a lot less. I was asked to fill out a new customer card that mentioned a complimentary shoulder and scalp massage. That never happened. One sales associate did assist me with lipstick. She was patient and nice, but the salon had a very poor stock of lipstick choices. So half of the samples on display were not in stock. read more

Went here for the first time today. Cut & color, loved it. Did not like the fact that they asked me which complimentary service I would like while my hair was processing (Hand massage, scalp massage etc) and then did not provide it. First impressions matter, you need to get this right... read more

Hannah has transformed my hair - so talented and delightful. Helped me survive the "growing out" and gradually shaped a new look that's a perfect fit for me. read more

I came here on two separate occasions, both Saturdays. Have to say that I was not impressed with this place at all. To be fair, the nail area looked fun (though I didn't have time to get a pedi) but the rest is a miss. The services I received were extremely mediocre and, during my hair trial, I felt as though I was being rushed out of my chair. Some of the staff seemed snotty and the bridal coordinator was difficult to get a hold of. Needless to say, I took my business elsewhere. read more

Mediocre at best. I think my frustration grew as time went by after my color and haircut at the salon. I came for roots touch-up and a trim. The haircut didn't get scheduled somehow, though it was discussed on the phone, so it had to be squeezed in. The haircut did nothing for my short hair. It went limper and lost the form it had before. But the color is what really got me. I needed root touch-up to cover greys, dark hair and match the rest of my highlighted hair. The greys were covered, but the roots stayed dark, the highlights got even lighter and yellow and I looked like a high contrast version of myself. Regrettably, the stylist didn't have a vision of what I'd look like. The knockout came with the price. Total: $252! I felt RIPPED OFF. My hair certainly didn't show much for it. I was given a $13 discount for coming in on Tuesday as a 20% off special on "any hair service" (as the website says). A simple calculation tells me the discount should have been $50. False advertisement. On another note... my husband waited in the lobby for 2 and some hours. No one offered him water, tea or anything, with the salon being practically empty. I might not expect it from other salons, but I would from this one. Lastly, parking is available only in the nearby garage. So, add that to the total cost. Needless to say, I will never be back again and would not recommend this salon to anyone. Shame of a salon. read more

I booked a VERY last minute appointment, and was very pleased with my service. I chose this place because I was looking for an Aveda salon in the area. I got a massage and would certainly recommend Varuna. I felt very comfortable and the staff was very kind. One note - it is more of a "zen" place vs. "plush". read more

Roni is amazing! She is super sweet and did an amazing job doing a blonde color correction on my hair and also a fantastic hair cut. The entire staff is so friendly, from the moment you walk in they greet you with a smile. I was offered tea and water multiple times. Definitely ask for Roni when booking any color/cut service! read more

I accompanied a friend last week to get a pedicure for some girl time. After arriving on time for our appointment, we had to wait 15 minutes to be taken back and get started yet our services lasted only 30 of the stated 45 minutes for the Essential Pedicure. The Zoya nail polish while a soy based product, gave an awful end result. My nails are all bumpy, perhaps it could be from a rushed polishing to make up time. Also, the lighting in the nail room made choosing a nail color challenging (one of the techs had to hold a light up for us to see the colors). I was disappointed with the seating for the pedicure tubs, a long hard bench wasn't what I expected from this salon. Overall for the money, I don't think that I could recommend this salon after this initial experience. Also, be sure to bring some cash for tipping as they don't allow adding tips to a credit card. Pretty cheap route for a higher end salon. read more

My FAVORITE! This relaxation of the spa hits you as soon as you walk in! It smells divine and is super clean. I had all my bridal services done here AND I frequent the spa services! The facial is to die for. I ALWAYS add the ayurvedic (spelling?) eye treatment. I have never had my hair cut/colored here so I can't speak to that, but seriously, if you want to relax, hit the spa! Their packages are pretty luxurious and affordable (150.00 for 3 hours of treatments!). read more

Excellent salon and spa in the Annapolis area. I've had several services at Varuna: color, haircut, manicure/pedicure, facial, and waxing services - and have not yet been disappointed. read more

Whatever you do... DO NOT go here!! I called weeks ago trying to get an appointment for an all natural treatment they offer that supposedly removes frizz from your hair for 3 months... The girl I spoke to said they were all booked up for the coming weeks so I told her I would try again. I tried calling again this past Wednesday and was told they ran out of the product and they weren't accepting appointments but to try again friday, when they might get the product in and could schedule me for an appointment that Saturday... Well here I am... Its Friday and I just called, and again told they were booked for the next two weeks. I was also told I needed to come in for a consult because the stylists won't stay past close if the service runs longer (if I were a stylist I would welcome the tip on a $300 service). I religiously get my hair colored and cut once a month and was looking for all natural services. Too bad I couldn't even get through the door. read more