Lighten with Josie

Preparation will look slightly different depending on whether you’re coming in for an initial installation, a move-up appointment, or color + extensions on the same day. Here’s what you need to know:

What you wear can make your appointment more comfortable and help ensure a seamless service experience.

Please wear a top that you’re comfortable sitting in for an extended period and that you don’t mind potentially getting product on. While I do my best to protect your clothing, color services involve water, brushes, and movement, and occasional splashes can happen.

Avoid:

• high collars
• turtlenecks
• hoodies with bulky fabric
• delicate or specialty fabrics you’re worried about

Comfort matters. You’re welcome to bring layers if you tend to run hot or cold, and feel free to bring headphones, water, or anything that makes your appointment feel relaxing and enjoyable.

Absolutely, I actually encourage it. Inspiration photos are a helpful way for us to align on your goals and make sure we’re speaking the same visual language.

When choosing photos, I recommend selecting images that focus on:

• overall color tone (warm, neutral, cool)
• placement or brightness
• length and density (for extension clients)
• the mood or feeling you want your hair to have

It’s also perfectly okay if you’re not sure what’s realistic for your hair history or current canvas — that’s what your consultation and my expertise are for. Together, we’ll tailor the look to something that suits your hair, lifestyle, and long-term maintenance needs.

Yes, a selfie means you’re feeling yourself and thats always the goal! You’re welcome to take photos or short videos during your appointment. Many clients love documenting their transformation or sharing a behind-the-scenes moment.

The only things I ask are:

• Please keep your camera focused on your own service area
• Avoid filming other guests or stylists without their permission

If you’d like a specific angle, a before-and-after, or a close-up of your color or extensions, just let me know — I’m happy to assist.

Monthly giveaway

Each month, I host a giveaway exclusively for clients. To enter, simply share a photo or video from your appointment and tag @lighten.with.josie on Instagram. Every tag counts as an entry, and winners are selected at the end of each month.

It’s a fun way to share your hair, support my small business, and maybe win a little something in the process.

Arriving right at your scheduled appointment time is perfect. I reserve the full duration of your visit just for you, and this helps ensure the day flows smoothly for all guests.

If you arrive more than 5–10 minutes early, please feel free to wait comfortably in the lobby or your car until your start time — I may still be preparing the space or finishing up with the client before you.

If you’re running a few minutes behind, just send a quick text to let me know. I always do my best to accommodate small delays when possible.

I kindly ask that you come to your appointment alone. While the salon is a shared, open space, I’m not able to guarantee seating or a comfortable place for additional guests to wait during your service.

Bringing someone along can also create distractions in a busy environment and may impact the overall flow of your appointment. My priority is to give you my full attention and make sure your experience feels relaxing and uninterrupted.

If you have questions about accessibility needs or special circumstances, please feel free to reach out prior to your appointment.

For safety reasons, I’m not able to accommodate children in the salon unless they are infants who can remain securely in a carrier or car seat for the duration of your appointment.

The salon environment includes hot tools, chemicals, and limited seating, and I’m unable to supervise mobile children while also focusing fully on your service. If your child is an infant and can stay safely contained, I’m happy to accommodate as long as it does not disrupt the flow of the appointment.

For all other ages, please arrange alternative care before your visit to ensure a calm, safe, and relaxing experience for you and everyone in the space.

You’re welcome to bring anything that helps you feel comfortable and relaxed during your appointment, especially during longer services such as color transformations or extension installations.

Most guests like to bring:

• headphones or something to listen to
• a book or tablet
• water or a small snack
• a laptop if they need to work quietly

If you have questions about bringing something specific, you can always reach out ahead of time.

A note for extension clients

Extensions require precise, detail-focused work, which means I’m typically quiet and very hands-on during the application. Because these appointments can be longer and more structured, I recommend bringing something to keep yourself comfortable and occupied while I work.

You’re welcome to park in any of the paid parking lots near the salon (marked on the map above), or in the surrounding street parking along L Street, 17th Street, and the nearby side streets. Midtown can be busy, so I recommend allowing a few extra minutes to find a spot and walk comfortably to your appointment.

Once parked, head toward Mane Aura’s main entrance on L Street. If you have trouble finding the building or navigating from your parking spot, feel free to send me a quick text, I’m always happy to guide you in.

If you’re running a few minutes behind, just let me know. I always do my best to accommodate small delays when possible.

Your appointment time is reserved especially for you, and I begin preparing for your visit well before you arrive. If you need to cancel or reschedule, I kindly ask for at least 48 hours’ notice so I have the opportunity to offer your time to another guest.

I do not charge fees for last-minute cancellations, but clear communication allows me to keep my schedule running smoothly and continue offering a high-quality experience for all clients. If something comes up unexpectedly, please just send a quick message, I truly appreciate it.

A no-show is when a client does not arrive for their appointment and does not communicate before their scheduled start time.
Late cancellations (even within the 48-hour window) are not considered no-shows — I truly appreciate any communication you’re able to give.

If a no-show does happen, I simply ask that you reach out before rebooking. Repeated no-shows may require a deposit for future appointments to reserve your time.

If I ever need to adjust your appointment due to illness, emergencies, or unforeseen circumstances, I’ll reach out as soon as possible with alternative dates and times. My priority is always to minimize disruption and ensure you’re rescheduled promptly.

I deeply respect your time, and I approach rescheduling with the same care and professionalism I ask of my clients.

If you’re unsure which service fits your goals, don’t worry, most clients aren’t! My service menu is designed to make booking simple and clear.

Here’s a quick guide:

• If it’s been less than 4 months, you likely need a Dimensional Mini or Dimensional Refresh.
• If you’re wanting a significant brightness change, tonal shift, or lived-in transformation, a Dimensional Full is usually best.
• If you’re brand new or unsure what your hair needs, you can always reach out to me directly and I can guide you from there.

Complimentary Color Consultations

I also offer optional, complimentary color consultations for anyone who prefers an in-person conversation before booking. These are never required, they’re simply available if you’d like guidance, clarity, or help choosing the right direction for your hair.