Reviews of Acqua Quebec Studio & Retreat (Hairdressing)

Jacqueline Decker

Recently moved to Guelph and found Acqua Salon online for my hair cut. After being in quarantine for several months, it had been awhile since my last cut. Bri was excellent! It was super clean and very friendly staff. I felt relaxed and left feeling like a million bucks!! Love Love Love!

Mike Sweeny

Some might say its a bit pricey, but I have loved going jere for the past 8 years. The scalp and shoulder massage before and the hot towel treatment after your cut are what make this a superior experience to any quick cut place.

Rachel Schuurman Hess

All of the staff are friendly and they go out of their way to meet your needs .

Alana Drone

Pedro always the best

Agnieszka Smyrska

Super impressed with the costumer service .!!!

Alanna Hax Vanderbaan

Stellar service here!! Definitely coming back :)

Olena Bednarchuk

I went in to get my colour fixed after a mishap at another salon, and was thoroughly impressed! Lisa is a miracle worker and incredibly talented. It was so refreshing to see how kind and respectful the staff were towards each other and clients. Great atmosphere, superb service and would 100% recommend!

Mandeep Singh

50 dollars for a haircut go if u can afford it but book an appointment

Tricia Kopec

Acqua has never disappointed! I have been seeing Allie for the past few years and she is amazing when it comes to both cut and colour. She helped me go from black to blonde without any issues. It is totally worth the investment as the Aveda products they use never make my hair limp, dry or fried. I recently had my hair cut short and as usual she did a great job and I love it! I have also had an amazing experience at their sister salon (Acqua Spa Retreat). The ladies are always friendly and my facials and brows have not disappointed!

Maryam H

Gloria, simply the best.

Angela R

Fantastic, professional service. They treat you like gold and their quality of service is impressive. Highly recommend!

Romina Crosato-Granaudo

Had an appointment... waited 30 mins before I was attended to. Time is precious for everyone, don't take advantage of other people's time.

Chloe Spear

Jocelyn did an amazing job with my hair! Will definitely be back! Lovely atmosphere and enjoyable experience!

Kathy Wesselman

COVID questionnaire before you arrive for appointment, safe check-in with taking of temperature, all cleaning protocols adhered to. Great environment. I see the most professional stylist - Liz Smith. Great experience.

Garth Graham

I now live in Vancouver and try to arrange business travel so I can make it back here for a cut. Amazing cut, even better atmosphere. Seems like the staff are all best friends, just having fun doing what they do best.

Stacey Richtler

I'm shocked to see the reviews given below as I have gone to Aqua many times throughout my time at the University of Guelph. Since leaving Guelph I have returned a few times because the stylist Grace is truly amazing. Having curl, hair it is difficult to find a hair dresser who can cut and style my hair. However, Grace has surprised me time and again by providing me with managable and stylish haircuts. I would highly recommend this salon as I have never been dissipointed and would return in a heart beat. The staff is very welcoming and warm and I believe they go out of their way to ensure their clients have an enjoyable and memorable experience. The staff is knowledgable and can provide feedback and advice when asked. I would say this is the best salon I have ever gone to and most girls would agree, when you find a salon or hair stylist that works, you hang on for dear life!

Josh Adams

Have always had great haircuts from Anne, would highly recommend.

Tara Duarte

Acqua Quebec Studio & Retreat is by far the best place you will ever get a haircut/style. I've been a client for 10 years now. You are treated with the absolute best customer service possible. Pre COVID, they had bar service, complimentary hand or shoulder massage as you get your hair done. The Aveda products they use are divine. The scents they use calm and rejuvenate the soul. The vibe is always refreshing. They care for you like you are family. You literally walk out feeling like you are on cloud 9. Bri and her team are nothing but perfection. They are true hair artists that create the perfect cut and hair colour best suited for you. They are continuously learning and pushing the boundaries of their art form. You will see them posting awesome social media posts! Sometimes you will see the queen b Pina, and she will just light up the room with her personality. Let's not forget about Boss aka the studio pup. He brings such joy to everyone's day. This hair studio is truly one of a kind. During COVID, they have amped up their cleaning process (the studio was already very clean), by cleaning high touch points between each client. Also, they've included a pre-screening process before you show up for your appointment, they take your temperature before entering, provide hand sanitizer, masks (if you don't have one), all clients are spaced out throughout the studio, and the hair wash stations have plexi glass between the chairs. You leave feeling your best self, and feeling confident that they've put yours and their safety first. I do miss all the pampering, and my wine glass/coffee mug in hand prior to COVID, but these are hopefully temporary challenges we face. Keep up the great work everyone! Can't wait for my next visit in the New Year. Happy Holidays!

Xander Kennedy

I have been getting my hair cut by Nikki at Acqua for 7 years now. Every visit is a pleasure. The staff make every appointment a relaxing break from every day work life. Steve is a great manager. Pina the owner is always engaged in the business. I will always refer my friends to Acqua.

Timothy Bartley

Very friendly staff, excellent haircuts every time.

David Ing

Aqua is amazing, friendly personable staff, very community minded supporting many charities, quality service and if mistakes are made they own them and fix them. The experience is 1st class from taking your coat, offer of coffee or flavored water, wonderful head massage and world class hair stylists the compete internationally on a regular basis. Call Steve - manager and let him know i recommended them. He will take care of you !!

Goose

Amazing! Great haircut

Chris Kannenberg

Friendly staff, attentive service, and great atmosphere.

Carolyn Robertson

After reading the not-so-great reviews, I was a little hesitant to try this place out. However, I had a great experience. My hairdresser was Melissa MacEachern, and she made sure to go over with me what I was looking to do, and explained what she was doing along the way. I've never had my hair cut where the hairdresser first blow-dried it and then straightened it with a flatiron. She explained why she was doing this, and in the end it looked great. They touch you up with a little bit of lip gloss before you go (neat!). Students get a discount (on cuts only) which was an added bonus. All together with tip it was only $58, and this included wash, cut and style (long hair). My hair feels nice and soft even though it's a humid rainy day! I'd recommend it.

Andrea Loveridge

Great customer service. Excellent colour care and spa treatments.

Irene Berkov

Gloria is an absolute professional, works like an artist to make your haircut just perfect. Also used great products on my hair and it never looked healthier. Absolutely recommend <3

Reno Contracting

Excellent customer service from staff and Pedrito Navajas, hands down to the Barber ! Keep it up Brother.

Sally Hunt

Really great service, it’s worth the price for sure!

Steve Kirkwood

Been going there for almost a year now, best time ever. Im sad I didn't start going earlier. They treat you like a favourite customer everytime!

Joyce Cheng

Left satisfied with my haircut but would have loved more on the styling end as I needed my hair to last the whole day and it fell flat within the hour. However, would definitely come here again as I love the AVEDA products and all the staff are professional and welcoming!

Red Donna

I have been seeing Anne for years, she does such a good job with my curly hair, I wouldn't trust it to anyone else. The products smell incredible too.

Abigail MacKinnon

Great staff! I see Lena for waxing and I cannot say enough good things about her. Makes you feel very comfortable and is extremely kind!

Stephanie Bell

Got charged over 400$ for a hair appt when I was only quoted 200 $ during my initially inquiry. When I got to the salon she quoted me over 300$ which I then agreed too and the bill was way more. I spent 4 hours in the salon and got a colour which wasn't what I asked for and was left with a distinct line of colour at the back of my head (Didn't notice this until later)! It turns out I was charged for a hair cut in which I didn't even receive! I only knew I was over charged because I messaged the stylist over social media and had to chase her for 2 weeks to send me the difference. She was all over the map with her prices and I will never return. Very unsatisfied. Very unprofessional. Unimpressed. Not worth you time or money.

Justin Hendrikx

I just paid nearly $40 for my 3 year old's haircut. Took 25 minutes.

Melissa Kristensen-Smith

Great service and Genny gave me exactly the cut and style I asked for ☺

Reilly Coombs

I have been to acqua a few times, and have always been somewhat impressed by my experience... this time was different. I called to book a last minute appointment and was happy to get squeezed in. When I got there a pretty young girl was my hair dresser (cannot remember her name). Mid-way through the cut it became obvious to me that she was not very experienced. She was taking a really long time to do a pretty simple cut, but I was fine with that. At the end of the cut, I start to realize how very new she is... she actually had to go to a more experienced coworker to "check her work" (as in my hair cut...). The more experienced person combs through my hair, makes a few remarks along the lines of "well thats not how I do my layers" and "well I see what you did here, but it's not how I would do it" and finishes by saying "but thats fine". Hmmm... The finished product was, indeed, fine. I do not have overly complicated hair, but it was way below the standard for what I would expect from for a salon of this quality and for the amount of money I paid. Needless to say, I was very upset about this whole experience. If they have new people who are still in the training wheels phase and have to ask for their work to be checked, Acqua should be letting their customers know BEFORE they book the appointment. Also, if I'm getting a less experienced person, I sure as hell should not be paying the same amount as if I'm getting an experienced person who wouldn't take an hour and a half to cut my hair and does more than a "fine" job. I am not your mannequin. I want to make it clear that if I had been informed that it was a newer person, I would have agreed. I just don't like the fact that I didn't have a choice and, quite frankly, that I paid so much money for a sub-par haircut.

Adam Jay Bridges

My experience at Acqua was adequate. I was nervous coming into the place to find that I was the only male; next to the receptionist. My first hair dresser was with Brittney, who was labelled an amateur given her rate; something like 25-30 dollars for the cut. Personally, I thought she did a fair job. Months later, I called to book an appointment for another cut. I told them that Brittney handled my hair last time and I inquired about her availability. She wasn't available and so they suggested a senior hair stylist: Ann. I suppose she was a senior given her experience and her charging rate; 34-40 dollars. I agreed and met Ann for my cut. Ann did a good job. I brought a picture to illustrate the type of hairstyle I was aiming for. Given the lack of depth on my part, she managed to pull off parts of the illustration to my surprise. Unfortunately it wasn't perfect, but then again, nothing ever is. A couple months later I called again, looking for Ann. She was available and I booked another cut. This experience wasn't as satisfying as the last. The cut was fair but wasn't as dynamic as I was hoping for. Thinking maybe it was just due to the lack of style, I asked her to try styling it. It was... Bad. I typically style my own hair and I understand her lack of experience styling mens hair, but man, it was unsatisfying to say the least. Bottom line: Brittney did a fair job but I can't really criticize her ability as a hair dresser. Ann does a good job but seems to struggle with my sense of direction, unless illustrated, and her hair styling for men could use improvement. Overall: Acqua is a good establishment and meets many expectations. I would recommend it. Note that typically I like to cut my hair dynamically and I don't like it short all around. I like having bangs to style with and progressing layers ranging from short to medium to create a GQ type of slicked back spikey look. Finding a hairdresser to achieve this kind of complex style is no easy task and I still continue my search.

Laine Greenidge

This is by far the best salon in Guelph. I have had nothing but professional and friendly service, from the receptionist, my stylist and make-up artists. When I first got my hair coloured (to mask a bad at home job), I was so impressed with the colour match (no roots yay!) and how long the colour lasted. Other salon's hair colour wouldn't last the 6 months it took me to get back to Acqua. I have also had the pleasure of having my hair and make up done for a wedding - again, professional and friendly staff handed me a coffee, listened to my requests and sent me on my way looking beautiful! More recently, I had a cut and colour that came out better than I could have imagined - my stylist, Anne, took my current style to a whole new level, with a simple but amazing colour and cut. Nothing feels better than a great haircut - it doesn't hurt having a massage, coffee and and a lip gloss touch up either! I would recommend this salon time and time again.

Anita Van Rootselaar @ RE/MAX - Guelph Area Living

I have been a longtime, loyal customer - I love the experience and service and, if I say so myself, my hair ALWAYS looks stellar. This crew is super talented!

Cierra Phillips

Its a beautiful salon and some of their stylists are really great! Only giving three stars because this place is way overpriced and there is no way, in my opinion to justify this.

Ady Nelson

I love this place! It's a little pricey, but usually well worth it. Great service, comfortable and relaxing atmosphere and can't beat Aveda products

hari prasad katragadda

For the very first time I visited this place, I really loved the ambiance and cleanliness in the salon, And most importantly I’m very happy for the work of TC(Tarun) has a very great skill and showed his personality in his work. For sure visit again and again for his work.

Paul Bradshaw

Ask for Teigha!

Niroshan Udith Bandara

They have really talented professionals.

Julia Rowe

worst hair experience I've ever had. Absolutely killed my hair and did not give me anything close to what I asked for. NEVER BEEN SO DISAPPOINTED IN AN ESTABLISHMENT. Would never recommend this place. I will not be returning.

Todd Hollingsworth

Super thrilled. They are caring people doing a first class no world class job. Try the rest.....then deal with the best. You won't be disappointed ever.

A Smith

The hair dressers are fantastic but the prices are insane. They now charge for "curls" after a hair cut...$15 added on. It is sad that these prices keep increasing because I am sure the hair dressers are not receiving a pay increase.

Kristen Kent

I just got my hair cut here last night and had to go back to get it fixed. My bangs were noticeably crooked, too short, and blunt because they were cut 'straight' across and poorly. I had to fix them as soon as I got home. The bottom was also VERY blunt as it was also cut straight across without an form of finishing to make it sit nicer. I went back today to get it fixed and they did a much better job but there were things that still could not be fixed without waiting for my hair to grow.

Dustin Nguyen

Great place with talented people

Rebecca Paylor

Was awesome. Love the cut! Kate Lakatos is fantastic!!

Christina Couture

Everytime I go into the salon I am greeted with a smile and warm face. The staff are friendly and the service is unmatched. Both my husband and I have been clients for years and can’t wait to start bringing our daughter for the Acqua experience.

Chris Boyadjian

Love this place. Friendly. Fun. Professional. You pay a little extra for such excellent service.

Sydney B

I’ve been going to a high end Aveda salons in Ottawa & Toronto for years and decided to try another Aveda salon in Guelph since starting my job here. Although I was happy with the end result I was shocked with their prices. I ended up spending close to $350 after tax for a full set of highlights WITHOUT even getting a haircut! As mentioned, I was happy with my hair but I’ve also been very happy with my hair paying $150 less at other places. The girl who did my hair was also very impersonal which added to my disappointment. Acqua is a nice salon but brace yourself for the prices… and bring a magazine to entertain yourself.

A. Hartman

I grew up in Guelph and with Acqua, I now travel from Toronto to receive their fabulous 5star services and hospitality. An absolute pleasure!!!

Michelle P

My experience was okay. Beware of the price. Thoughts: - The colour and cut was over $300. Not worth the price at all. - Had a good cup of coffee - Stylist was very nice. - Was sat in a busy / dirty basement - Didn't get a scalp massage (or a good wash for that matter). Which is typically one of the reasons why I would pay a little extra. - Was asked if I wanted a hand massage, but was just not a relaxing environment so I turned it down. - While I was getting a wash people were coming and going constantly in and out of closet I think I was sat directly beside so couldn't sit comfortably - There was a salon dog. Cute but I'm allergic to dogs so there's that. Overall, beware of the cost. Way too expensive for the outcome and experience. Would absolutely NOT recommend this place to anyone.

Nicole Sampaio

My hair feels so healthy and smooth! Color is exactly what I wanted♡ love so much highly recommend!

Bryneal Jahraus

Very expensive and not the most comfortable environment. The woman who colored my hair was lovely but I ended up going somewhere else for a color correction.

Raeann Lisiecki

Best pedicure I've ever had!

Damien Swackhammer

Always a pleasure,. It's like being greeted by old friends.

Ivan Ius

Awesome, skilled and professional stylists. Very relaxing.

Miss O

HUGELY overpriced. Had 4 young hairdressers fussing over me at one point it was such a waste and the end result was that my hair color looked like an orangutan for $340 (with discount!). My hair barely touched my shoulders so it was super short. Not in a hurry to return :(

Barbara Turley McIntyre

Best hair salon and spa in GUELPH. Wonderful caring professionals and great atmosphere.

Jan Robertson

Having seen Adam's work on others, I decided to give him a try. It was well worth the wait. Adam not only managed to fix the mistakes of other stylists in town, but actually listened to what I wanted - and delivered. He was professional and friendly. I have found a stylist in Guelph at last. My thanks to you Adam.

Susie Rut

Hi. My first time to Acqua was an amazing experience. I was treated with care and respect as I had my every need anticipated - tea, magazine, kleenex and head and neck massage. That was only the beginning, then I had a delightful experience with Lisa who knew what it was like to have curly hair. She is a knowledgeable and skilled stylist with lots of enthusiasm and an ability to focus on her work and make her customer comfortable. I loved the lighthearted atmosphere. Could go on and on,.... Finished with some gloss and I was good to go. Oh yeah, my cut has got to be one of the best I've ever had. Thanks lots Acqua team with special mention to Timm and Lisa.

Erin McGuire

This Salon is tricky to review.... if you are wealthy it is a 5 star salon. If you a middle class this is a 2 star. I got partial balayage highlights with no cut and it came to $420. If I would have gotten full highlights or a cut it would have been over $500 I am sure. This is WAY to expensive. They show you the price before they start the work, but it is broken up and doesn’t include tax. $260 for partial balayage, $80 for toner, $40 for blowout.

Crys Esteesee

They charged me OVER $220 just to dye my hair. ..it is only not even shoulder length...they also didnt even do a great job...it didnt even cover some of the grey hair on my bangs...it came out to even more because they also charge you for the styling at the end which I had to get as I had places to be after and didn't want to look bad as they only take the moisture out of your hair for free. Then the girl who was blow drying my hair was arguing with manager or someone while she was doing it. I feel like they absolutely ripped me off! I will never go back there. There are plenty of other places around that will do just as good a job and not rip you off!

Brian Turner

Excellent service with knowledgeable and skilled stylists

Caylyn Booth

Great atmosphere!! I went in with a style and colour in mind and Nikki nailed it. Would definitely recommend for anyone looking for an amazing experience. The girls were all so great and even the customers were friendly. Felt like I was hanging out with friends while being pampered! A worth it treat yourself experience!

Rachael Aiken

Acqua Quebec salon and spa is quite the experience from the minute you walk in the door. The staff are all so helpful, friendly and talented and you feel so pampered while being there. I always leave feeling amazing and already looking forward to my next visit. I highly recommend this salon and spa, I promise you won't be disappointed!

Alicia G

Very expensive and not happy with the result.

Andrew Jones

The service on every visit is the true value. Great company.

Sarah Zuiani

The best salon in Guelph by far! Extremely talented and sweet colourists, stylists and esthetician’s. The best service and culture, and a built in bar!

Shawn Marsh

Awesome people, highly recommended!

Aaron John

I'm always happy with my hair cuts and I really enjoy the relaxing massage before we start.

Vik Chauhan

good experience. a bit of an issue with parking as it is downtown

Joe Fortin

Getting my haircut at Aqua is definitely one of my favourite events. Outstanding staff that will make you look and feel like a million bucks.

Bryce Hillis

Great spot, beautiful staff and the service is top shelf.

Carol B

Come here all the time for my hair trims. They give you a head and shoulder massage before they start and my hair always turns out the way I wanted- my only complaint is that it's hard to find parking parking

James Whitfield

I drive from Kitchener to visit, and have for years, and it's always well worth it.

Katie K

Overly priced. Not worth it!