Introduction

Tom Zappala has devoted over 25 years developing a unique philosophy to his craft which pairs well with the tactile skills accrued through a relentless pursuit of excellence. Since his arrival to Australia in 2006, he has established a solid profile as a reliable and highly regarded independent practitioner.
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Philosophy

Traditional hair salons are akin to visiting a bulk billed GP doctor. Their do-it-all, social media targeted approach typically favours those with more conventional needs. Tom's practice is for those that require a specific and dedicated hand. As such, it's no surprise a Google search for 'curly hair hairdresser' or 'curl specialist Melbourne' leads so many here. His skill and experience with cutting challenging textures of hair is particularly renowned. His intention is to provide an alternative, well considered service with a focus on communication, transparency and satisfaction. For additional information about Tom's philosophy and ethics, his blog will provide a valuable resource.
Updated: 07 October 2018

Focus
Tom is a specialist practitioner exclusively for women who embrace their natural hair texture with a healthy, low-fuss lifestyle. This focus enthusiastically supports all types of curls (up to and including 3c), particularly those of Caucasian-African, Middle Eastern, and South Asian heritage. Tom is equally recommended for women with difficult, fine, thick or multi-textured hair. Those with an 'I don't even own a blow-dryer' type of aesthetic are the ideal. What is offered here is very anti-salon: No flat irons, round brushes, product sales or 6 week trims.
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Space
Tucked away inside Smith Street icon Wabi Sabi, the single chair private practice studio offers an exclusively one-on-one haircutting service, ensuring each session thorough consultancy and undivided attention to detail. It is a sensory-friendly space, which has been designed to be simple, soothing and considerate (ASD/anxiety supportive).

Shapes
Tom's haircuts are renowned for their flattering and functional shapes which grow out very well over an extended period. They are often cut dry and designed to be high functioning, providing natural body and movement to encourage easy day to day living without the need for a lot of effort. The style sense is highly considered and contemporary. Its is loose, lived in and textured. The finish is natural and aims to resemble that which is typically done at home. Minimum return booking interval is 3 to 6 months on average.

Curls
As curls and waves are best cut dry and in context, it is required to arrive with your hair adequately prepared in a natural state. This means untangled, air dried or diffused and not tied back for any part of that process or on arrival. Dirty is fine. Product or conditioner in the hair is okay as so long as it is not sticky or tacky (no gel please). For more info on the topic or curls and methodology there are important posts here and here. Rest assured, Tom not only has curly hair himself, he has been successfully working with all manner of curls well before the Curly Girl method was introduced.
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Clients
Tom's method and philosophy appeals to an older, culturally diverse group of women from all across Australia, Asia-Pacific, and well beyond. Those who make their way upstairs are primarily in their 30's to 70's who prefer a more natural aesthetic throughout their beauty ritual.
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Booking
Bookings are made exclusively online via this website and require a valid email address and Australian mobile phone number.  A successful booking instantly dispatches an email to the address entered. An automated SMS reminder will arrive on your mobile phone 24 hours prior to the booking. The booking email includes a 'manage reservation' link to easily make a change if needed. Changes can only be made outside of the 48 hour notice period.
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Openings
Tom does not contact clients regarding cancellations or openings. There is no 'waiting list'. Clients are encouraged to recheck the booking site on occasion to see if an earlier opening has become available if their first preference is not an option. Typical wait time is 4 to 6 weeks all year, and can be considerably longer around holidays and leave. Bookings run from June through April with a 6 week hiatus upon conclusion.
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Policy
New clients are required to make a $100 PayPal deposit to secure a booking. All bookings require 48 hours notice for change or cancellation. Change or cancellation of a booking within 48 hours of the allocated time will incur a fee of $100. If the changed or cancelled booking does fill, this fee will be fully waived. There are no other exceptions. The 'manage reservation' link provided in the booking email is only functional if more than 48 hours from the allocated time. Allow up to 24 hours to process the return of deposit from a valid booking cancellation.

Guests
Guests are not permitted during a booking. This includes but is not limited to parents, partners, friends, infants, adorable children or pets. If you have specific concerns or questions about this policy, please use the email provided on the contact page to inquire prior to making a booking.

Courtesy
It is politely requested that guests please refrain from wearing strong or heavy perfume which can linger in the space for others. Also, Tom is hypersensitive to them. It is requested that mobile phones be switched to silent upon entry.

Arrival
Bookings commence with a formal, seated consultation. Hair texture, lifestyle, expectations and maintenance will be addressed. The process is similar to what one would experience visiting an osteopath, physio or other alternative health practitioner. The purpose is to provide the opportunity to learn about and discuss each client's history, needs, challenges or frustrations.

Ethics
Tom believes strongly in operating an ethical practice. There are never additional or hidden charges regardless of length, density, type of cut or amount of product used.
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Payment
Tom Zappala Haircutting is a fully compliant independent small business. Cash, Eftpos and credit facilitates are available. GST is included in the service price listed.