Ivy Salon & Gallery NORTHSIDE

Ivy Salon & Gallery has two locations: 116 Main Street in Hamilton and 4108 Hamilton Avenue in the Northside neighborhood of Cincinnati. Both double as a gallery that shows work from local artists. Each location greets guests on arrival and offers water, coffee, tea or wine.

The salon says it welcomes everyone and wants its space to feel safe for anyone to express themselves. Its service list is not divided by gender, since the salon sees hair care as open to all. Stylists spend time learning what each client wants before a service begins, then explain how to keep the look up in a way that fits the client's day-to-day life.

Prices are starting points and can rise depending on the service. Each stylist has their own pricing level, which is talked through with the client at the start of the appointment. A free 15-minute consultation lets clients ask questions and talk through ideas before they book. Walk-ins are welcome when a stylist is free, though booking ahead is recommended, and a card on file is requested to book. Commission stylists ask for at least 12 hours' notice to cancel without a charge; a cancellation inside 12 hours is charged at half the service price, and a no-call, no-show is charged the full price. Booth renters set their own cancellation rules, so clients should ask them directly. Clients can bring food and drinks, though counter space is limited.

The salon uses Davines for color and products, and says its hair products are organic, vegan, cruelty free and sustainable. Hamilton is open Tuesday to Thursday 10 AM to 8 PM, Friday 10 AM to 6 PM and Saturday 10 AM to 4 PM, and Northside keeps the same schedule. Both are closed Sundays, and Mondays are by appointment only. Hamilton has a free lot behind the salon with entry through the front or back door. Northside has a paid lot on Blue Rock Street by the Transit Center, plus metered and free street parking, and sits within easy walking distance of the Northside Transit Center, where several bus routes meet.

Stylists take time to learn each client's vision and needs before a service, then explain how to maintain the look with methods that suit the client's lifestyle.

A relaxed, considered space where local artwork hangs on the walls and a greeter welcomes you at the door.