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Stories from the Chair
Real transformations, honest experiences, and confidence you can see.
Every woman in these stories came in ready for a change—whether it was growing out damaged ends, blending in their grays, or just wanting to feel like themselves again. These transformations are more than just before-and-after photos—they’re about care, confidence, and hair that truly fits your lifestyle.
As a brunette color specialist here in Monrovia, I focus on creating healthy, low-maintenance looks that support your natural beauty. If you’re looking for someone who truly listens and cares about your hair from scalp to ends—you’re in the right place.
Laurenda’s Story
"I never imagined I’d love my long hair — now I can’t imagine going back.”
After parting ways with my previous stylist and going through the “COVID hair” phase of DIY color and cuts, I was ready for a real change. I needed to feel good about myself again.
What stood out to me about E.V.’s salon was the scalp treatments — such a rare and thoughtful service — and the complimentary pampering spa experience during the shampoo. It instantly felt like more than just a hair appointment.
I chose E.V. because someone I trust referred me, and everything just lined up: her pricing is fair, the location is perfect, and her flexible hours work beautifully with my busy schedule.
Since seeing her, my hair is healthier than it’s ever been. I’ve gone from dark brown to light brown without damaging my hair — something I didn’t think was possible. I wore my hair in a bob for years, thinking long hair wasn’t for me. Now? I can’t imagine not having it long. It’s shiny, strong, and I get compliments all the time.
I owe this transformation to E.V.
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Cristina's Story
“You just get me — and my hair.”
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I was looking for a hairstylist with a stable location — someone consistent and professional, but also someone who would guide me with honest suggestions that matched the image I was going for. From the beginning, E.V. delivered on all of that and more.
Over the 15 years I’ve been with her, I’ve always been pleasantly surprised by the thoughtful upgrades to her services — like the relaxing scalp and hand massages, warm towels, and pampering details that make every visit feel special.
As I’ve gotten older, my hair has changed. There’s more gray, more thinning, and a lot more maintenance. But E.V. has helped me navigate it all — blending my grays, caring for my scalp, and helping me look and feel youthful without chasing trends.
I love that at her Sola Salon, it’s just me and her. No loud crowds or chaos. It’s quiet, private, and I never feel overlooked. She gives her full attention, and that makes all the difference.
That’s why I’ve followed her wherever she goes. She just gets me — and my hair.
Christine's Story
"I walked in with a hair disaster… and walked out with hope.”
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When I first moved to the area, I was looking for someone who could work with my slightly curly hair. I had tried a few salons, but the day I found E.V., I had just come from a terrible color appointment. My hair looked fake and overly pigmented — like plastic. I was desperate.
I saw a salon that listed Bumble and Bumble and Aveda-trained professionals, walked in, and the person at the front desk took one look at me and said, “Let me find someone who can help.”
That someone was E.V. — and I’ve been seeing her ever since. That was the summer of 2012.
One of the things I admire most about her is her commitment to continuing education. She’s always learning new techniques and staying current with styling and color trends. That passion shows in every cut and color she does.
Over the years, I’ve asked for everything: short cuts, long layers, bobs, highlights, all-over color — and every time, the results look amazing and suit my texture perfectly. I always walk out loving my hair. I’ve even tried other stylists twice, but each time I felt like I was fighting with my hair. With E.V., it just works. My hair falls into place, and styling is easy.
Now, I’m transitioning to gray, and E.V. is helping me do it gracefully. The texture is changing, and so is the overall look — but it’s growing out beautifully. My current haircut is effortless and works with my natural texture. I love it.
Even as it grows out, my hair still looks good — and that’s the sign of a truly great cut.
Tammy’s Story
“Through every stage of life, E.V. has helped me feel like myself again.”
I first came to E.V. after having a baby — I needed someone who understood what I was going through and could help me feel good about my hair again. That was over 15 years ago, and she’s still the only one I trust.
Now, even my kids won’t let anyone else touch their hair!
E.V. takes the time to truly get to know you — your lifestyle, your preferences, and your hair goals. Even if we don’t always see eye-to-eye at first, she always listens, then gently guides me toward what will actually work for me — not just what’s trending.
That’s what trust looks like. I’ve followed her all over the San Gabriel Valley for a reason.
Life changes, and our hair changes with it. I’ve gone through so many stages, and now that I’m in my 50s, E.V. has me on a healthy hair routine that supports where I’m at now. It’s not just about looking good — it’s about feeling confident, cared for, and like myself again.
Ready to start your own story?
Let’s talk about where your hair is now — and where you want it to go.