Getting your kids excited about a hair cut is almost as tough as getting them excited about a trip to the dentist. But thanks to the newly opened Snip-its Kids Salon at Crossroads Bellevue, stylists are not only trained in the latest kids’ hair trends, but also how to work with young, nervous clientele—making each visit to the salon a fun and memorable one. If your crew is in need of cut, trim or style, read on for the inside scoop on this kid-centric salon that is making kids feel special and pampered with every visit.
photo: Snip-its Kids Salon
The Important Details
Snip-its is conveniently located near the center of Bellevue Crossroads Shopping Center (near the food court and stage area) and offers a bright, exciting space for kids to get their hair cut, trimmed or styled. Focused on creating “magical experiences for kids and parents,” Snip-its employs specially trained stylists who love kids and it shows. Stylists are also certified by Autism Speaks to help make the whole hair-cutting experience a positive one for all.
About the Owner
Owner Duc Quan wants to make sure this often seen “task” of getting a hair cut is turned into something fun for kids along with an educational experience. That’s why he provides information to kids and parents about correct kids hygiene and age appropriate products. With a 4 1/2-year-old daughter himself, Quan knows a thing or two about kids. And his passion for good products for kids is seen on his shelves. The salon offers Snip-its brand shampoos, conditioners and styling products, plus a 100% vegan brand, Original Sprout and perennial mom-favorite, Moroccanoil.
Walk-ins Encouraged
Unlike many other kids’ hair salons, Snip-its is primarily walk-in only—great for when you don’t want to plan weeks in advance (who can?) or when your little monkey is suddenly drowning in hair. And while walk-in service can sometimes be tricky, Snip-its offers up to four stylists at any given time, activities in the waiting area and the food court and mall right next door, so wait times (generally no more than 5 minutes) go by in a blink. Psst! Bellevue Crossroads is full of ride-on mechanical toys to entertain tykes (think two-minute rides on an elephant or train for $.25), as well as kid faves like WiggleWorks kids, an awesome candy store and Creatively Yours, a ceramic studio that offers paint-it-yourself ceramics.
Perks That Come with Each Service
At the beginning of each appointment, haircut recipients receive a key-card-like pass to hold during their service. After their appointment (which can include a haircut, a shampoo & cut, added styling or just a simple bang trim), kids drop their passes into a special slot on a Magic Box to earn a cool prize. Computer tablets are also available during haircuts for pint-sized entertainment and fun accouterments are available as well (think sparkles, washable hair color or hair tinsel which is like a weave that stays in for a considerably long time). Higher-end hair accessories and toys are also available for sale.
Low-Sensory Appointments
If your little monkey needs a bit more of a relaxed or quiet environment or if he or she is feeling tentative about the hair-cutting process, Snip-its is more than accommodating. They offer specifically scheduled appointments at quiet times during the day and when the sounds and lights can be dimmed for your appointment.
More Than Hair
If your mini fashionista is into more than just amazing hair cuts, Snip-its also offers mini manis and pedis, ear-piercing, facials and even parties! Choose Glamour, Hollywood, Spa or Rock Star and let your little one get duded up with his or her pals in the nearby Community Room. After the glam treatment, partygoers get to walk the red carpet, catwalk or prance on stage in all their fabulousness.
Mark Your Calendars for the Grand Opening Party!
Everyone is invited to come and check out the salon at the official Grand Opening Party on Saturday, March 25 at 2 p.m. Eric Haines (a Cirque du Soleil entertainer!) will be on-hand to wow the crowds with a variety of amazing feats (think stilts, unicycle and other silly fun). Plus, face painting will be offered, along with music, a free spin of the prize wheel (you could win a 6-pack of hair cuts!) and more.
Good to Know
This is the first franchise location of Snip-its in the Pacific NW, but Quan has his sights set on opening four more locations in areas such as Bothell, Bellevue, Issaquah, Lynnwood and Greenwood. Keep an eye on their website for more Snip-its fun for everyone!
Snip-its of Bellevue
Crossroads Bellevue Shopping Center
15600 N.E. 8th St., Suite F-4
Bellevue, Wa 98008
425-429-2570
Online: snipits.com
Have you been to Snit-its? Planning to visit soon? Tell us about your experience in the Comments below.
— Jennifer B. Davis (all photos courtesy of the writer unless noted)
