Visiting a premium hair salon for the first time can feel a little intimidating, particularly if your previous experience has been with budget or mid-range salons. At Iron + Ivy Hair Studio in Queenstown, we want every client to feel completely at ease from the moment they walk in. This guide covers exactly what to expect at your first visit, so you arrive confident and leave delighted.
Before You Arrive
Book Online or by Phone
Iron + Ivy Hair Studio Queenstown offers online booking through our website. For colour services, new clients are encouraged to book a consultation first, this is complimentary and gives us the chance to assess your hair and give you an accurate time and price estimate before you commit to an appointment.
Arrive With Clean Hair (Usually)
For most services at Iron + Ivy Queenstown, arriving with clean, dry hair is ideal. If in doubt, wash your hair the morning of your appointment.
Bring Inspiration
If you have a colour or style in mind, save some reference images on your phone. Instagram and Pinterest are excellent sources. Bring three or four images rather than one, it helps your stylist understand the common thread of what you are drawn to, which is more useful than a single image that may not translate directly to your hair.
What Happens at Iron + Ivy Queenstown on Your First Visit
The Consultation
Every new client at Iron + Ivy Hair Studio Queenstown begins with a thorough consultation. Your stylist will ask about your hair history, current condition, lifestyle, and what you are hoping to achieve. This is not small talk, it is essential information that shapes everything that follows. Be honest, particularly about any home colour you have applied, any chemical services you have had elsewhere, and any products you use regularly.
The Service
At Iron + Ivy, we take the time the service requires, we do not rush appointments. You will be offered a refreshment when you arrive. Throughout the service your stylist will explain what they are doing and why. If something is different from what you expected, say so, it is much easier to adjust at the beginning than to correct at the end.
The Finish
Every service at Iron + Ivy Queenstown ends with a professional blowdry or styling, so you leave looking and feeling your best. Your stylist will also give you product recommendations tailored to your specific hair.
Do You Tip at a Salon in New Zealand?
Tipping is not a standard expectation in New Zealand salons, including Iron + Ivy Queenstown. It is entirely your choice, and if you want to express appreciation, it is always gratefully received, but it is never expected or implied.
How to Get the Most From Your Visit to Iron + Ivy Queenstown
- Be honest about your hair history, omitting past colour services leads to unpredictable results
- Share your lifestyle, how much time do you have to style at home? Do you swim or work outdoors?
- Ask questions, we want you to understand what is happening and why
- Give feedback, during and after the service, your honest feedback helps us deliver exactly what you want
Book Your First Appointment at Iron + Ivy Hair Studio Queenstown
We welcome new clients at Iron + Ivy Queenstown and look forward to showing you what a premium salon experience looks like. Book online today.
Frequently Asked Questions
How early should I arrive for my first appointment?
Five to ten minutes. It gives you time to park (free, outside the door at Queenstown Central), settle in with a coffee and complete your client card before your artist is ready.
Should I wash my hair before I come in?
No need. Every appointment includes a wash, and day-old hair is easier to assess for colour. Arrive with no heavy product and your hair down, not in a tight tie.
Do you tip at hair salons in New Zealand?
No. Tipping is not expected or customary in New Zealand salons. The best thank-you is rebooking with the same artist and leaving a Google review that names them.
What if I am running late or need to cancel?
Call 03 428 2595 as soon as you know. We ask for 48 hours notice for cancellations; colour appointments carry a booking fee from $100 that is forfeited on late cancellation, because that time cannot be refilled.
About Iron + Ivy Hair Studio
Iron + Ivy Hair Studio is at Queenstown Central, 19 Grant Road, Frankton, five minutes from Queenstown Airport with free parking at the door. The team, led by Creative Director Lauren McMurray, specialises in blondes, balayage, hair extensions and precision cuts, and every colour price includes the bond treatment, toner and cut. New colour clients start with a free consultation.
Chat to one of our warm and friendly team at Iron + Ivy Studio
Where to next? See balayage in Queenstown and our blonde specialist services, or book a free consultation and we will plan it with you.
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