1st Balayage Appointment

What to Expect at Your Balayage Appointment

(By Haley Reeb, Balayage & Lived-In Blonde Specialist at July Hair + Events in Columbus, OH)

If you’ve been thinking about booking a balayage appointment in Columbus, you might be wondering: What exactly happens during the process? How long will it take? What should I do to prepare?

As a balayage and lived-in blonde specialist, I love walking clients through the process so you feel comfortable and excited for your transformation. Here’s everything you can expect at your first balayage visit.

Step 1: The Consultation

Every appointment starts with a one-on-one consultation. We’ll talk about your:

    •    Hair history (color, highlights, or chemical treatments you’ve had before)

    •    Lifestyle (how often you want to come back for touch-ups)

    •    Inspiration photos (Pinterest or Instagram saves are welcome!)

    •    Long-term goals for your color

This step ensures your balayage is customized, not a one-size-fits-all approach.

Step 2: Hand-Painting Your Color

Balayage is a freehand painting technique. Instead of traditional foils, I place lightener exactly where it will enhance your natural color and face shape. The result? Softer, more natural highlights that grow out beautifully.

Depending on your starting color and desired brightness, we may use a combination of balayage painting, foils for lift, and toners for the perfect shade.

Step 3: Processing + Relaxation

Once the color is applied, you’ll relax while the balayage processes. This is a great time to sip a coffee, scroll on your phone, or catch up on emails. Processing time varies, but most balayage services take between 2.5 – 4 hours total from start to finish.

Step 4: Gloss & Tone

After your balayage is rinsed, we apply a custom gloss/toner to perfect your shade. This step neutralizes brassiness, enhances shine, and makes your color look polished and fresh.

Step 5: At-Home Care & Maintenance Plan

Balayage is known for being low maintenance, but I’ll send you home with product recommendations to keep your color looking fresh. We’ll also set up a plan for future gloss refreshes (every 6–10 weeks) or balayage touch-ups (every 6-9 months).

Your Balayage Appointment, Made Simple

A balayage appointment is more than just getting your hair colored — it’s about creating a look that fits your lifestyle and enhances your natural beauty.

If you’re ready for balayage in Columbus, OH, I’d love to meet you at July Hair + Events!

📅 Book Your Consultation Here

📍 Located in Grandview, serving clients throughout Columbus, Upper Arlington, and beyond.