Yesterday, I made the trip to Manhattan for a special treat — a professional haircut from Mark, owner of the Mark on Madison salon.

After donating 8+ inches of my hair last summer, I had to adjust to shorter hair and just let it grow out again. My hair is so super straight and thin that I don’t bother to do much with it.

I get a trim twice a year for $15 and color it myself — so getting the invitation from Mark to get a professional haircut was a thrill!

Mark landed an apprenticeship with world-renowned hairstylist John Barrett at his Bergdorf Goodman salon, and opened Mark on Madison seven years ago. He has worked for Sports Illustrated and Vanity Fair, The Academy Awards, New York Fashion Week, and Good Morning America. So I was going to be in excellent hands!

Mark specializes in hair shaping and extensions — he is one of only three local hair stylists to use hair tape extensions and Klix Extensions (micro links weft extensions) made from natural human hair. These adhesive weft extensions are applied without the damaging effects of heat tools.

I took the train to Grand Central, the No. 6 Subway for just three stops, and walked for two blocks to make it to the salon on 78th Street between Park and Madison Avenue.

The small, modern salon is set up in Suite 602, and there was only one other client, which makes it feel very exclusive and laid-back.

When I met Mark, he asked me what I liked about my hair. I told him I needed something that’s low-maintenance I can pull back, and that I’d like to try layers. He knew exactly what to do, and after only 10 minutes and a nice chat about life in NYC, California and social media, I had a beautiful new haircut I love!

It’s still long but has more movement. I’m spoiled forever — I don’t think I can go back to a $15 haircut. It makes such a difference to go to a skilled hair stylist who really knows his craft.

Thanks, Mark — you made my day, and it was such a pleasure to meet you.

Need a new hairdo? Then make an appointment with Mark!

Mark on Madison

39 East 78th Street (between Park and Madison Ave, Suite 602), New York, NY 10075. (212) 470-3604 ~ markonmadison[at]gmail.com.

{I received a complimentary haircut but no other compensation. Opinions are as always my own.}