Chelsea Friedman barber, hairstylist

Mar 2024

Chelsea does a really high quality hair cut, and does it with great service- from conversation, to scalp massage during hair wash, to careful styling iteration with feedback that she actually remembers between appointments, to the straight-razor neck/ear shave. Her new space at Marquee Salon is chic in it's minimalism with sizable mirrors. Booking has always been easy. The only drawback for me has been the price matching the quality (was about $75 for the slightly longer time mens cut + wash + scalp massage, without beard trimming). That said, it's good value and the quality stands for itself.

Aug 2019

So I'm the type of OCD person who tends to research the heck out of things before coming to a decision and will get incredibly disappointed and dwell on things if they aren't to my expectations. I finally was booked with Chelsea and will definitely say that I was not disappointed. I don't usually go to outside barbers or stylists since it's really hard to trust them to do what I'd like (my mother usually cuts my hair), but Chelsea was excellent and more than exceeded my expectations. She studied the pictures I brought, made changes that I would bring up on the spot, and gave great advice on what might look good. After cutting my hair, washing & shampooing it, and then touching up afterward, I can confidently say that this was a physically delightful and pleasurable experience. Nothing was rushed and the pacing was comfortable and relaxed. If anybody's read the philosophical 1942 novel, *The Stranger* by Camus, this experience reminded me of the absurd physical pleasure Meursault finds in washing his hands and drying them on a nice fine cloth (think ASMR-like sensations). I was savoring the moment so much that I'm really tempted to just go back again even if I didn't need a haircut :) And I know she was supposed to be friendly and likable, but gosh, did I really enjoy talking to her too. She's such a fascinating person as we discussed philosophy, language, science fiction, and art (ask about her marionette making!) Quite the unique individual. Chelsea definitely has an eye for aesthetics and I will be making her my go-to person to get a haircut from now on. Highly recommend.

Mar 2019

After my hairstylist moved away, I went through several different people before I stumbled upon Chelsea. She keeps great notes on previous haircuts if you want "the usual", and is also great at helping you figure out something new. I leave happy every time. She's also friendly, interesting, and easy to talk to. Highly recommended on all fronts!