Braids by Mel

Crochet styles are done with hair the client provides, while other styles use Xpression Kanekalon hair supplied by the braider.

Appointments are required; walk-ins are not accepted and the salon does not book late-night slots. A $25 deposit secures a booking, is non-refundable, and counts toward the total price. The remaining balance is paid at the visit by cash or card, and the salon strongly prefers cash. Clients are asked to arrive with hair that has been shampooed and dried straight with a comb attachment on a blow dryer; if that is not feasible, hair should be untangled, parted into sections, and secured in large twists or braids. Hair needs to measure at least 4 inches all over. Anyone booking a tapered cut or shaved sides should send a text before scheduling. One reschedule is permitted via the link in the booking confirmation email, with no additional deposit required.

Late arrivals have set consequences: $15 for arriving 30 minutes late and $25 for an hour late. Arriving more than an hour late keeps the appointment, with the style shortened to fit the remaining time. Arriving 30 minutes late without calling counts as a cancellation and a no-call/no-show. The studio does not offer travel appointments and does not style young children's hair, though daughters 13 and older can be booked at the same pricing. The entrance has about five steps and the space is not wheelchair accessible. Questions the FAQ doesn't cover can be sent by text.

Works by appointment only, with clients asked to prepare their hair in advance and follow set arrival and late-arrival rules.