Hair Maven

Hair Maven is a salon in Minnetonka that operates as a one-person business. Its owner, Mykel Gradwell, started the business about seven years ago after more than a decade in the hair industry. Services cover cuts for women, men and children under 12, color, blowouts and styling, bridal and extension work, and hair and makeup for bridal parties, photo shoots and special events. The business lists service areas including Minneapolis, Edina, Plymouth, Wayzata, Roseville, Woodbury, Eagan and Coon Rapids.

Every visit starts with a complimentary consultation covering lifestyle, hair history and goals. The conversation shapes each cut, color and style, so the result is built around the client's texture and daily routine. Because one stylist handles every appointment, clients keep the same person from consultation to finish, with full attention and no rotating team.

Color is a major part of the menu, with balayage, mini, partial and full foil, all-over color, gloss treatments and retouches that cover root regrowth of up to 8 weeks. Keratin smoothing is offered as a semi-permanent treatment that leaves hair straight and smooth, priced at $350. Blowouts range from a classic version with a shampoo and a brush-based blow dry to a hot tool finish, and specialty styles are built to last into the evening. A conditioning treatment can be added to any service.

Pricing depends on hair length, thickness and the amount of work involved. Bridal and extension pricing is discussed at consultation, and the salon says it aims for transparent pricing with no surprises at checkout. Extension services include hand-tied, keratin and tape-in methods, with consultation, implementation, touch-up and removal. Hair and makeup services include bridal trials, up-dos, half-up and down styles, and airbrush makeup for bridal and special events.

The salon has worked with Jessica Strobel Photography on headshot and branding shoots and publishes blog posts on hair and makeup for branding photos and Twin Cities hair trends. The salon describes itself as Minneapolis' premier hair stylist and as a top hair colorist in the city.

Each client has a complimentary consultation on lifestyle, hair history and goals, and cuts and color are customized to the client's texture, lifestyle and style. The business is run by one stylist, so clients work with the same person throughout.

The salon describes its chair as a relaxed, nonjudgmental spot where conversation or quiet are both welcome.