I purchased a Groupon for a cut, deep conditioning and partial balayage. They honor the Groupon price in the salon, which was helpful because I did not have to commit to the purchase until after additional fees were communicated to me based on my specific hair color/length and upgrade options (full balayage). The salon is cozy and they serve complimentary coffee, water and wine. This was my first time doing balayage, but the stylist was really friendly and helpful at easing my nerves. I brought in a few photos. One for cut and 3 very similar for the color. After the stylist explained the process and difference between the partial/full balayage, I chose the partial because he said he could accomplish the same results with a partial as shown in the photos I brought. When the color was complete, I was kind of quiet because I wasn’t thrilled with the results. He sensed this and asked a lot of questions to help me communicate how I’d want it to be fixed, which was extremely kind and patient of him. The owner, Christine, also popped over with her suggestions and they worked together to try to meet my needs. I still wasn't crazy about it, so I ended up coming back another day for her to fix the color once more and I LOVE it now.
My suggestion to new clients would be to come prepared with communication points to describe exactly what you want and do not rely on photos alone. Explain where you'd like the color transition to begin, what color, etc. Since I had never had balayage done before, I did not know how or the need to be specific. If you can find high-end stylists on Instagram, they usually explain why they chose a particular technique/style/shade for their clients based on their face shape/tone, which should help you to communicate what you want done. Christine, in particular, is really good at knowing these things without prompting though.