I was recently invited to get a blow out at the 941 Brickell Avenue Trini in Private Location. It's close to where I live–I'd actually noticed it a few months ago and made a mental note to check it out for my next haircut. I'd read a bit about the salon previously and was really excited to try it out.
A bit of background: the founder, Trini, is a noted Parisian stylist with 20 years of industry experience. She came to the States and built herself a beauty empire. She relocated from France to Miami in 2003 and her spa has several other locations, and not just in Miami–she also has two location in New York City and an academy! If you want to learn more about the salon, visit the website: www.triniinprivate.com.
I really like her brand because her philosophy focuses on each woman's individuality. Her stylists use their gifts to bring out your own personalized beauty. They recognize that what works for one may not work for all and they work to customize their approach and tailor their work specifically for you. (Case in point: does anyone remember when everyone had "The Rachel"??? I mean seriously…thank G-d Trini's people recognize and embrace individuality.)
As I walked in, I was greeted warmly by the super-chic yet friendly staff and offered something cold to drink. My stylist, Gustavo Cagiao, gave me a tour of the salon. The atmosphere is bright and airy with high ceilings and plenty of natural light, which gives it an upbeat, modern feel. I'd describe the decor as urban zen. The mood is mellow, yet vibrant.
There's a separate spa area in the back where the vibe is geared towards relaxation. Gustavo explains that even the music is different from what is played in the front and designed to make you disconnect and float away. He tells me that they offer an entire menu of spa services: they do massage, spray tans, waxing, manis/pedis, facials, eyelash extensions, makeup application, etc. You name it, and they probably do it. Their spa brand is Germain de Capuccini. Another cool tidbit: they use an organic French makeup line: Couleur Caramel. The spa is clean and spacious, and feels warm and private, not at all stark or clinical.
Then Gustavo took me back to his station and got down to business. He told me that he's been in the beauty industry for more than 20 years and came to Miami by way of Argentina. He shampoos and conditions my hair with PHYTO products (which they sell right in house, along with L'Oreal Professionel products). Trini holds the distinction of being the first PHYTO Concept Store to be opened in the USA, which is actually a huge deal.
Gustavo told me he thought he should blow my hair out straight because that would work best for me and then proceeded to work very quickly and methodically. Now, my hair is naturally really thick and super curly. Whenever I go to a salon, I am used to the stylists yanking and pulling and breaking my hair while they wrestle to get it sort of straight. I was so impressed with Gustavo–not only did he NOT hurt me or snarl my hair AT ALL, but it was seriously the straightest, and softest I've ever seen it. I was so impressed with him that I booked him to do my hair before I go to a wedding at the end of June. I also bought all the PHYTO products he used on my hair. Anything that can make my hair feel actually soft and supple–there was no question I had to own it.
Here's a pic of what my hair looked like after that I forced my then-boyfriend (now fiance!) to take.
When you leave the salon, they give you a single white rose. This seemed appropriate to me–it perfectly encapsulated Trini in Private–elegant, unusual, and fresh. I can hardly wait for my next appointment!!!!
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