modena salon - Berkeley, California

TS

Love this salon! It is a modern and relaxing space to get your hair done. The staff are super friendly and I am always greeted with a smile at the front desk when I arrive. Kim (the owner) is very knowledgeable, and a skilled stylist and colorist who I have been going to for over 15 years. I travel from San Ramon to the Berkeley salon every 6 weeks because she does such a great job. I wouldn’t consider going anywhere else. Highly recommended!

Leila Laumann

Vesi is awesome and did a wonderful job on my hair today, I feel like a princess! Always have a great experience here! Xo

vanessa contreras

While Vessi was kind . I regret to inform you that my overall experience was unsatisfactory.
Even after two months I am still in awe with my hair, and the experience I had with Kim.

My primary goal was to have my ends trimmed as my hair was not in the best condition, but I wanted to avoid cutting too much off. Vessi recommended that all the damaged hair be removed for a better look. While I understood his professional opinion, I was uncomfortable with his comment that my hair would never look nice unless the blonde was completely removed. His negative remarks and the way he handled my hair made me feel less confident about expressing my preference for a simple trim as I originally requested, regardless of the current condition of my hair I didn’t not want to chop it off at all. I felt that he was more concerned with making his job easier than respecting my wishes. As his mind was already made up for chopping it off as the haircut continued he talked so much crap how my other stylist sucked at cutting hair making negative comments through out the entire process .

As a result, I left the salon with a haircut that is too short and has many layers, making my hair unmanageable. This experience has left me deeply dissatisfied, and I believe the following points should be addressed:

1. Avoid making negative comments about clients’ hair. Clients visit salons to feel better, not to be subjected to negativity.
2. Educate clients about the condition of their hair without using it as an excuse to make the stylist’s job easier. If a stylist is unsure about cutting a certain type of hair, they should speak up.
3. Ensure that clients’ preferences are respected rather than imposing a stylist’s perspective.

Additionally, Vessi recommended that I purchase a Kevin Murphy Smooth Again hair mask. Unfortunately, I had an allergic reaction to it due to the presence of Octinoxate and BHT, which my doctor advised are hazardous chemicals. I do not recommend this product to other clients.

I reached out to Kim, the owner, on Thursday, June 27th, as she offered to speak with me. However, my conversation with her was disappointing. Kim appeared more concerned with defending her salon’s reputation than addressing my concerns. She dismissed the impact of Vessi’s negativity and failed to acknowledge the importance of a client’s mental well-being during a salon visit. Her response only reinforced my decision not to recommend this salon to others, particularly those with textured hair. This salon is not a safe space at all. Due to the lack of respect for my preferences and the unsatisfactory service. I will definitely tell everyone to stay away.

I hope you take this feedback seriously and implement the necessary changes to improve your service.

Marguerite Munoz

I’m so happy to have found a go-to salon and a stylist who I can trust! Modena is a beautiful, light and airy, plant-filled space and Vesi is a true artist in his approach to cuts & color - not to mention, fun to be around.

I went in for a hair color, added a hair trim last minute, and left with a rich chocolately brown color Vesi expertly mixed from three colors and a major improvement to my haircut. Vesi walked me through areas from a previous haircut that needed to be corrected (gaps in layers, places where my hair had been thinned out) and worked his magic while making me laugh, singing along to the music playing in the salon (he has a beautiful voice!), and sharing his passions for healthy living in the Bay Area, sports, nature, travel, family and friends.

Highly recommend Vesi - he’s an expert stylist who knows what styles will bring out your natural features.

Kirsten W

Around five years ago I was looking for a new salon and came to Modena on a friend’s recommendation. Beyond time to pass it along! If you’re browsing for a salon, I highly recommend Modena. Keila is the best colorist I think I’ve ever been to, and the entire staff is professional, welcoming, and client-centered. Keila takes the time to listen to you and ensure you are both on the same page before getting started - no surprises, only amazing results!

Erik Eichner

My family’s go-to salon for any service for years. Always professional and guaranteed excellent. The salon has a beautiful upscale atmosphere, with a happy and peaceful vibe that leaves you with a sense of beauty and belonging.

Lauren Sandor

Vesi gave me the best haircut I ever had! I’m so happy that I found a stylist I can trust. 10/10 recommend.

Isa Woo

I was a bridesmaid for my friends wedding and had such a great experience with Kim. She asked each of us how we normally wear our hair, so that our hair was styled in the way that was comfortable. Kim did an amazing sophisticated twist/bun and placed the bridesmaid hair accessory so beautifully. It was beyond my expectations and I had so many compliments! My hair lasted throughout the day and night, dancing and partying away. And bonus, Kim squeezed in some time to do some quick curls and pinned in a beautiful hair accessory in my daughter's hair without an appointment. She felt like a princess and it made her day! Simply and truly amazing!