Canada > Ontario > Toronto > Aphrodite's Sanctuary

• Stylist:

  Nadine Bastien

  Rating:

  

  Review:

  I've never had a devacut before, and I've always had my hair cut by the same woman for 20 years -- out of sort of 'routine' I suppose, and a little afraid of anyone else touching my hair. But when I decided to start wearing my curls naturally, I realized perhaps the cheap 16$ hair cut was not the way to go anymore as I had a sort of pyramid thing going on when I styled it curly(as I was learning to do after years of updos or straightening, thanks to naturallycurly.com!). Looking at all the reviews, I decided to go with Nadine at Aphrodite's Sanctuary and I'm glad I did. She touched my hair, asked what I wanted, then told me what she would do before she even touched her scissors. She explained how she would put in layers, asked what I wanted with my bangs, etc. When I left, I loved my hair -- she'd done a fantastic job and the whole way home I was smiling. It wasn't anything more than a trim and some layers, but I feel like it made a huge difference and I love how it looks, even months later. :)

  Reviewed by Moonface (Curly Twirly - 3a) on May 15, 2012

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• Stylist:

  Nadine B. & Kim

  Rating:

  

  Review:

  I read about Afroditie on the Naturallycurly website and then heard about it from one of my good friends. I had been looking for a new stylist who would be able to give me great cut with my curls and colour for a reasonable price. I had tried many other curl speciliasts, salons and products but none that were worth sticking too. My priorities in looking for a new salon were for someone to be able to reviatilze my curls, give me a good cut that would last through its growing-out phase and give me the blonde colour that I wanted; At Afroditie, I found ALL three expectations. My hair was in dire need of a boost, I had started loosing my hair and curl and going to Afroditie revitilized it completely, I have gotten my hair coloured and highlighted blonde twice by both Kim and Nadine as well cut by the both of them. I now have all my curl back, a great cut and vibrant colour. They are both full of great energy and listen to what you want as well as give their professional opinion. They were also able to recommend great products to be used and showed me how to do my hair. Every time I have left I have been very satisfied, and everyone always gives me many compliments on my hair. I have recommended the salon to many people and recommend it to all you curly heads. I am proud to say Afroditie is now my new salon and Kim and Nadine, Thank you for your excellent work and enthusiasm!!

  Reviewed by Meryt (Curly Spirally - 3b) on Mar 30, 2012

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• Stylist:

  Kim Gabriel

  Rating:

  

  Review:

  Kim is an amazing stylist and is extremely knowledgeable! She teaches you the best ways to care for your hair as well as style it. Although, it was my first time at the salon, I completely trusted her which is rare when dealing with a new stylist. Highly recommend this salon.

  Reviewed by amandab (Curly Kinky - 3c) on Mar 24, 2012

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• Stylist:

  Kim Gabriel

  Rating:

  

  Review:

  In addition to having beautiful curly hair herself, Kim is an excellent curly hair stylist. You'll be able to replicate what she has done at home because she is really good at explaining how to do it, including short cuts and tips for busy people. She is very knowledgeable about products and styling. Kim and Nadine make Aprodite's Sanctuary a haven for curly heads of all types.

  Reviewed by annarachel (Curly Spirally - 3b) on Mar 16, 2012

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• Stylist:

  Kim Gabriel

  Rating:

  

  Review:

  I've been a client of Kim's for over 4 years . I've always had long hair and have been to many, many stylists over the years. I can honestly say Kim is the best. I have curly hair and she's not only a great stylist , but has a strong interest in hair care. She can zero in on your hair care concern and come up with a customized plan. She's wonderful at styling hair straight, but also always encourages a healthy and even curl pattern, so things are always versatile. She's an amazing colorist and wonderful at cutting ( and won't leave you with short hair if you only want a trim!) In addition to all of this, she's a really fun,nice person! I'm lucky to have her.

  Reviewed by Natashia (Kinky Coily - 4a) on Mar 14, 2012

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• Stylist:

  Nadine

  Rating:

  

  Review:

  Knowledgeable about hair texture, styling, and products; handles hair peacefully and respectfully. Professional stylist with excellent interpersonal skills. Highly recommended.

  Reviewed by cheekycurl (Curly Spirally - 3b) on Feb 04, 2012

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• Stylist:

  Nadine Bastien

  Rating:

  

  Review:

  I've had a lot of really bad haircuts over the years and a lot of mediocre haircuts over the years and only a handful of really good haircuts. Nadine seems to really know what she's doing. She is one of the two stylists I've been to in my life where after my haircut I didn't have to go straight home and wash my hair to try and "fix" it. After Nadine's haircut my hair was not only great all day, but the next morning as well!! I'm very, very happy with the results. I love the salon, too -- very intimate and simple..no product pushing, no loud annoying music. I'm so tired of hair salons that try to look like nightclubs and double as espresso bars and/or spas, while not having a whole lot of interest in hair. Aphrodite's Sanctuary is all about hair. And both Nadine and Robyn are very pleasant, personable and down-to-earth women with no pretensions other than making your hair look its absolute very best.

  Reviewed by Bazel (Wavy Whirly - 2c) on Sep 12, 2011

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• Stylist:

  Robyn

  Rating:

  

  Review:

  I had always believed that because I had curly hair, I was doomed to have a boring style. Not only did Robyn give me a cool cut that makes me feel polished and stylish, but she took the time to teach me how to best manage my curls at home, giving me realistic pointers and techniques that I can do in my day to day life. Since I have been to the salon, my cut has maintained its shape and using the products and techniques that Robyn recommended, my curls are much less frizzy, but also easier to maintain. Hair maintenance takes half the time that it used to, a crucial selling point for a curly headed girl. I would definitely recommend trying the salon.

  Reviewed by mophead (Wavy Curvy - 2b) on Sep 11, 2011

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• Stylist:

  Robyn

  Rating:

  

  Review:

  Wonderful salon with a great atmosphere. Robyn is friendly and professional and I love the way she does my hair. I would recommend Aphrodite Sanctuary to anyone with curly hair and I'm definitely going back!

  Reviewed by wupddoo (Curly Twirly - 3a) on Sep 06, 2011

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• Stylist:

  Nadine Bastien

  Rating:

  

  Review:

  I decided to take a chance on Aphrodite's Sanctuary after reading all of the fabulous reviews on NaturallyCurly. It was a big gamble as it was over a two hour drive. Was it worth it? A resounding YES! I have never had a hair cut I have been so happy with! The cut is fabulous and the techniques I learned from Nadine made it possible for me to effortlessly recreate the look when I returned home. It's a wonderful, relaxed atmosphere and my curls have never looked better. A+++

  Reviewed by mrslid (Curly Twirly - 3a) on Aug 31, 2011

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• Stylist:

  Robyn

  Rating:

  

  Review:

  The salon is quiet and relaxing. Nadine and Robyn are really nice and relaxed - what a nice experience getting my hair cut there! I was very happy with the way Robyn blended my layers so that my curls fell nicely, without creating large gaps. She was very helpful with suggesting products and techniques to me, without trying to sell unecessary things. I will definitely be back!

  Reviewed by amurphy (Curly Twirly - 3a) on Aug 07, 2011

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• Stylist:

  Nadine

  Rating:

  

  Review:

  Found Aphrodite's Sanctuary through reviews on naturallycurly.com, and was impressed enough with the comments to give them a try - NO REGRETS AT ALL! Nadine gave me a fantastic cut, the best I have ever experienced in Ontario, and I have traveled all around the province trying salons that supposedly cater to curly hair! Robyn washed my hair only after it was cut, so Nadine could see where the hair curls when it is dry and knew exactly where my "problem spots" were. To explain my hair type: my hair is fine and thin with frizzy messy curls, and when it is wet you can never tell how far it will curl up or even where the curls are, but when it is dry it becomes a giant puff-ball. I have had some truly disastrous cuts in the past because of this, but Nadine's method of cutting it dry made all the difference! I ended up with soft curls framing my face without any extra bulk or frizz, and the shape has lasted almost 2 months so far (I have short hair). Loved how they didn't try to sell me on any of their products either, to me this meant the focus was on the service being provided. The professionalism and quality was exceptional, and I left the salon feeling thrilled to have both a beautiful cut and the knowledge of where to go for future cuts! THANK YOU Nadine and Robyn, I will be back!

  Reviewed by sld (Curly Spirally - 3b) on Aug 02, 2011

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• Stylist:

  Robyn

  Rating:

  

  Review:

  Another great haircut! My last haircut was done by Robyn with Nadine's careful guidance. Today's haircut was done by Robyn herself. Since my last haircut, Robyn has been to New York City where she learned how to do the Deva cut from the experts at Devachan. She obviously paid careful attention in class! I love walking out of a salon ready to continue my day instead of running home to wash and re-style my hair. Well done Robyn, and thank you!

  Reviewed by innervoice (Curly Kinky - 3c) on Jun 30, 2011

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• Stylist:

  Nadine & Robyn

  Rating:

  

  Review:

  I will be going back. This is the second curly hair salon I have tried in central Toronto, and I much prefer this one. Nadine and Robyn spent a lot of time and attention on my cut and style. They communicated well. In larger salons, I have sometimes felt "rushed" when handed over from one person to the next, and maybe a little bit forgotten. Nadine cut my hair dry, and Robyn then washed and styled it, very carefully. Results were great and the styling tips were very helpful. I spoke to Nadine the most, and she appears to very knowledgeable about curly hair. Nadine listened to me when I described my morning routine, and how much I had for my hair, and worked with that information. My family really like the cut. My appointment started on time. There was no "hard sell" of products. A very comfortable and successful experience.

  Reviewed by Lyla (Curly Spirally - 3b) on May 30, 2011

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• Stylist:

  Nadine

  Rating:

  

  Review:

  Nadine is extremely nice and friendly, and this in itself makes her a pleasure to visit. I chose her salon because of the consistently good reviews; my second choice was going to be Curl Ambassadors. The Positive: Amazing haircut! I've only ever once before gotten such a good haircut, and that was in DC ... so I can't go there anymore. Nadine clearly uses a unique approach and she is very good at what she does. Plus, she continually upgrades her skills and doesn't rest on her laurels, like many stylists do after a few years. Without question I will go there again. The Negative: I didn't really care for the way my hair was styled post cut. To be fair, Nadine listened to what I wanted, its just that I am very particular about how I style my hair. So after it was styled, I went home, re washed it and re styled it. However, the quality and fair price of the haircut are more than enough to make me overlook the styling issue. You will not be disappointed - go!

  Reviewed by evelyne.kostanska@gmail.com (Curly Twirly - 3a) on May 26, 2011

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• Stylist:

  Nadine & Robyn

  Rating:

  

  Review:

  I found Aphrodite's Sanctuary after doing my research on www.naturallycurly.com. What impressed me most was just how consistently wonderful the reviews are, and that she had recently been recognized by naturallycurly.com as an exceptional curly-hair specialist. I gave her a call, we chatted a bit, and I made an appointment. The first time there was just to style my hair for a special event. I was so impressed by Nadine's technique ( and the product samples) that I made an appointment to have my hair cut before leaving. That haircut was last week. Under Nadine's supervision, her new assistant Robyn cut my hair using the dry cut technique. Without exaggeration, this is the best haircut I have ever had. I was even stopped while walking my dog to ask about the products I use and where I got my hair cut. I will definately be going back.

  Reviewed by innervoice (Curly Kinky - 3c) on May 19, 2011

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• Stylist:

  Nadine

  Rating:

  

  Review:

  This was my second time getting my hair done at Aphrodite's Sanctuary but first time getting a cut (I had previously just had my roots touched up). Nadine did an amazing job on my cut, using the dry cutting technique. She actually listened when I said that I wanted to keep as much length as possible while still getting rid of my fried ends so my hair looks healthier. Nadine also touched up my roots, matching the rest of my platinum blonde hair perfectly! Overall, I had a fantastic experience and felt totally relaxed in Nadine's chair, knowing that my hair would look fantastic when I left. As an aside, Nadine's new stylist, Robyn, is a total sweetheart and was meticulous about diffusing my curls so they looked perfect!

  Reviewed by champagnecurls on May 11, 2011

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• Stylist:

  Nadine

  Rating:

  

  Review:

  I searched all across Toronto to find a stylist who made me feel comfortable about getting my haircut, had a presentable establishment and who had the right price for my needs. Nadine had it all! She took her time cutting my hair, thoroughly examined my curl pattern (which is type 4 - VERY kinky curly hair) and invisioned my ideas for my desired short hairstyle. I couldn't be happier with my new haircut nd I will without a doubt return to Aphrodite's Sanctuary to get my hair done in the future! Another thing I loved about Nadine's services is that she offers her clients gift vouchers and monthly promotions. As a student this was music to my ears! Nadine offers the best curly hair styles for the best price! Also, she never once pressured me into buying any products. My experience with Nadine was awesome and I definitely give her 5 stars as a hairstylist!

  Reviewed by mcdowalc (Kinky Ziggly - 4c) on May 02, 2011

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• Stylist:

  Nadine Bastien

  Rating:

  

  Review:

  Thus far I've been to Aphrodite's Sanctuary twice and have been extremely happy with the results. Nadine appreciates the concerns of her clients and understands how frustrating wavy or curly hair can be without the right style. The first time I went to Aphrodite's Sanctuary Nadine suggested changing my hair style slightly to make it look more dynamic. I was somewhat hesitant but Nadine explained exactly what she was going to do and showed me a picture so that I was totally comfortable and at ease. I absolutely adored the cut when it was complete and received several complements on it. I have total confidence in Nadine's ability to bring out the full potential of my hair and would absolutely recommend her to anyone looking for a highly competent and compassionate stylist!

  Reviewed by Brans (Wavy Curvy - 2b) on Apr 21, 2011

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• Stylist:

  Nadine

  Rating:

  

  Review:

  I went to Nadine about 6 weeks ago for the best haircut I've ever received. She not only gave a great cut, but wonderful tips about how to keep the style up. Usually in the winter, I just pull my hair back, but this year I've been wearing it out with wonderful curls that keep all day! Thank you, Nadine!

  Reviewed by Catherine I (Curly Spirally - 3b) on Feb 12, 2011

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• Stylist:

  Nadine Bastien

  Rating:

  

  Review:

  Nadine is a miracle worker! She has completely transformed my curls and the way that I care for them. My hair has never looked better - I wish I had found Nadine years ago. She is hands-down the best stylist I have ever been too!

  Reviewed by kathrynlee (Wavy Curvy - 2b) on Dec 16, 2010

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• Stylist:

  Nadine Bastien

  Rating:

  

  Review:

  Fantastic stylist!

  Reviewed by mariannep (Wavy Curvy - 2b) on Dec 16, 2010

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• Stylist:

  Nadine Bastien

  Rating:

  

  Review:

  Nadine can style and cut my hair so that I can style it and look great up until my next hair cut ! Talented young woman !

  Reviewed by Maureennione (Wavy Swavy - 2a) on Dec 15, 2010

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• Stylist:

  Nadine

  Review:

  I first met Nadine when she worked at Chiggy’s Touch. After the staff started dropping like flies, I ended up with her for an appointment after my stylist quit. Having had MANY bad hair cuts in my life, I was worried handing over my curls to Nadine but I didn’t need to be. Nadine has shaped my hair and given me some of the best hair cuts I have ever received. I feel like a million bucks each time she is done cutting and/or colouring my hair. She took the time to examine my hair and suggest products that would respond to its thickness and coarseness. Her cuts frame my face just right and the colour livens up my face. I have gotten so many compliments from people since I’ve started seeing Nadine, that I’m glad to give out her information to anyone who asks. Anyone debating about seeing Nadine, I tell you to head over and meet with her. She will win you over with the knowledge, hard work ethic and contagious smile. Five stars all the way.

  Reviewed by Curlyandlovesit (Curly Kinky - 3c) on Nov 23, 2010

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• Stylist:

  Nadine

  Review:

  Nadine has an uncanny ability to choose the perfect colour for my hair each and every time! She really takes the time to know her clients and is exceptionally personable and professional. I would follow her anywhere to any salon she might go to. Her cuts are amazing, from day one to the grow-out stage. She has taught me so much - from how to condition my hair to keeping it styled and manageable. I've thrown out my cabinet full of products and am now down to two! I've learned to love my hair and wear it proudly - a fact completely down to Nadine's care and ability to educate me. I would recommend her highly to anyone looking for an excellent cut and a relaxing salon experience. There are many who claim to be haircutting experts for curly hair, but actually don't know what they are doing. Nadine is the best of the best. She takes this burden seriously and does an excellent job each time.

  Reviewed by squidgeaboo (Curly Spirally - 3b) on Nov 18, 2010

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• Stylist:

  Nadine

  Review:

  I started to going Chiggy's touch after a very long stretch of bad hair cuts. Nadine made me look and feel great. When Nadine left Chiggy's touch I stayed and was set up with a new stylist. When I say new I mean NEW. Her hands were shaking! It took her two hours to give me the worst cut of my life. I paid $70 for a cut that made me cry! A few weeks later I got a letter from Nadine telling me that she had opened up her own salon. I've been seeing her since and we're undoing the damage from Chiggy's touch. My hair is starting to look good again and Nadine is to thank.

  Reviewed by DeeJacob (Curly Kinky - 3c) on Nov 10, 2010

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• Stylist:

  Nadine

  Review:

  Finding a stylist who can deal with my hair is something I'm always stressed about. Having recently moved to Toronto it took me a while to find someone who could style my hair in such a way that I wouldn't want to pull it into a pony tail once I left the salon! Nadine has done a great job over and over again with my hair. Not only does she cut it well she does wonderful things with the colour. I couldn't be happier and would enthusiastically recommend her to anyone!

  Reviewed by curlyalibella (Curly Kinky - 3c) on Nov 09, 2010

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• Stylist:

  Nadine

  Review:

  I've been going to Nadine for over a year now and I absolutely love how she cuts and colours my hair! She is the first stylist who has been able to really bring out my curls and my hair has never looked better! Nadine is professional and sweet and I would highly recommend her. She also did my hair for my wedding and I couldn't have been more pleased with the results.

  Reviewed by siodowling (Curly Twirly - 3a) on Nov 09, 2010

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• Stylist:

  Nadine

  Review:

  I have naturally curly, extremely thick hair that drives me crazy most days! Nadine taught me how to treat my hair from the washing to the drying to the styling products and we are still trying products that work best for ME. She realizes that everyone's hair is unique and uses her knowledge of curly hair to help her clients - her heart is truly in her work and she is always striving to make herself a better stylist and her customers happy!! I totally trust her from the colors she picks (which everyone loves) to the cut (I never tell her how much to take off - she just knows my life, what I do and what will work best for me). I drive an hour to go to her because she is worth it and knows exactly what she is doing. I trusted my hair with the wrong stylist for years and my previous stylist even had naturally curly hair but I learned more from Nadine in my first appointment with her than I had in years from my other stylist. That's how you know she's good at what she does and cares about what she does. Don't trust your curly hair with anyone else!!

  Reviewed by lillyspad (Curly Twirly - 3a) on Nov 08, 2010

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• Stylist:

  Nadine

  Review:

  I have been trying to find someone who knew how to cut and style curly hair for years. That search has taken me to many salons that claim they know how to manage naturally curly hair - and resulted in many bad hair days. Now that I've found Nadine those days are behind me. Working with Nadine the previous mistakes in my hair have grown out and I'm finally happy with my cut. She also has coloured my hair to bring out the true me. Nadine is not only a professional but also a true hair artist. I've never been happier with my hair.

  Reviewed by Emmkay (Curly Twirly - 3a) on Nov 08, 2010

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• Stylist:

  Nadine

  Review:

  Have no idea what cole67 is talking about. I have stubborn wavy hair that prefers to turn into dreadlocks rather than curl and Nadine helped immensely. I honestly have not had a random dreadlock since. Also, I have a strange phobia of getting my hair cut and Nadine helped me overcome a few obstacles to help me trust the process. Yay Nadine! Boo cole67. . .

  Reviewed by veggiegurl (Wavy Curvy - 2b) on Nov 08, 2010

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• Stylist:

  Nadine

  Review:

  I went in after seeing she is from Chiggy's Touch and receiving a letter from her, girls i should have known better!! I went in for a cut and color and i did get a make over alright that left my hair uneven and the color started fading off in three days. I would never recommend anyone to her and now i think i know why she left chiggy's touch, she is not chiggy material. I ended up going where i should have gone to begin with. I went back to Chiggy's Touch were i was helped to correct the cut ad color. Now do not be fulled by "from Chiggy's" What i should have figured is why does she desparately want to associate herself with Chiggy's Touch, if she was good she would have no need to. Do not be fulled curly girls Chiggy's Touch Is the best... Check them out! you know where i call myself dumb i am a chiggy's girl and somehow Nadine Stole my detail info from chiggy and send me a good offer, That was cheap on her part stealing but stupid of me to use it. Nadine's pitch tells me she is not smart and reaps off what she did not sow i should have known better! Shame on Me!!!

  Reviewed by cole67 (Wavy Swavy - 2a) on Sep 26, 2010

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• Stylist:

  Nadine

  Review:

  Formerly of Chiggy's Touch in Toronto and Barrie, Nadine is fantastic at colouring and cuts of all types especially curly girls! She is one of the sweetest and most honest people you will ever meet! She uses Deva products and will be carrying a selection in the coming weeks!

  Reviewed by trace1971 (Curly Twirly - 3a) on Jun 24, 2010

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