Nicole and Company in Baltimore: Hand-Tied and Tape-In Extensions with Consultation
Nicole and Company is a single-location hair extension studio in Baltimore specializing in hand-tied wefts and tape-in applications, operated by owner Nicole with a focus on client consultation before installation.
What Nicole and Company actually does
The studio provides two primary extension methods: hand-tied wefts, which involve sewing rows of hair onto braided cornrows, and tape-in extensions, which use adhesive strips to attach pre-cut sections to natural hair. Hand-tied wefts typically last 8 to 12 weeks before requiring a refit; tape-ins last 4 to 8 weeks depending on hair growth and maintenance. Both methods use human hair, which can be color-treated and styled like natural hair. The studio operates as an appointment-only practice, meaning no walk-in availability.
Services and pricing
Hand-tied weft extensions start at $400 for a partial application (adding volume or length to specific sections) and run $600 to $800 for a full head, depending on the amount of hair used and the density requested. Tape-in applications range from $300 to $500 for a full head. Removal of old extensions costs $50 to $75. Root touch-ups or refits on existing hand-tied work average $250 to $350. Prices may shift seasonally; confirm current rates when booking.
The studio requires a consultation before the first appointment, typically 15 to 20 minutes, to assess hair texture, natural color, desired length, and lifestyle. This step is mandatory and helps Nicole determine which method suits the client's hair type and maintenance capacity.
How Nicole and Company compares to other Baltimore extension providers
Baltimore's extension market splits between full-service salons offering extensions as one service among many and dedicated extension studios. Salons like Aria Hair Studio in Canton provide extensions alongside color and cut services, which can be convenient for one-stop visits but often means fewer extension specialists on staff. Nicole and Company's single-focus model means faster booking and consistent application technique, but it requires a separate trip if you need color work or a cut at the same time.
Tape-in extensions at general salons in Baltimore typically cost $250 to $450, placing Nicole and Company in the mid-to-upper range. Hand-tied wefts are less common in the Baltimore market; most salons default to tape-ins because they require less specialized training. If hand-tied wefts are your preference, Nicole and Company may be one of few local options that prioritizes that method.
Choose Nicole and Company if you want a dedicated extension specialist and prefer hand-tied wefts, or if you need frequent refits and want consistency in application. Choose a full-service salon if you plan to combine extensions with color correction, balayage, or a cut in one visit.
Who this place suits and who it does not
Nicole and Company suits clients with fine to medium-textured hair who are willing to commit to the maintenance schedule (refits every 6 to 8 weeks for hand-tied, every 4 weeks for tape-ins). The studio also suits clients who want a consultation before committing to a method, since the assessment step prevents mismatched applications.
The studio does not suit clients seeking walk-in appointments, those with severely damaged or thin hair (which may not hold extensions safely), or clients who want extensions plus other services in a single location. Clients needing quick fixes or last-minute appointments should look elsewhere, given the appointment-only policy.
What the first visit involves
Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early to complete intake paperwork. Nicole will conduct a consultation, examining your hair's texture, thickness, and natural color under salon lighting. She will ask about your daily routine, heat-styling habits, and how long you typically maintain extensions. Based on this conversation, she will recommend hand-tied, tape-in, or a hybrid approach, and discuss expected cost and timeline.
If you decide to proceed, the installation appointment typically takes 2 to 3 hours for a full head of hand-tied wefts; tape-in applications usually run 1.5 to 2.5 hours. You will sit in a comfortable chair while Nicole works, and she will show you care and styling techniques before you leave. No color treatment or cut is typically done on the same day as installation.
Hours, parking, and logistics
Nicole and Company operates by appointment only; exact hours vary by booking. Verify availability and hours by contacting the studio directly before planning a visit. Parking depends on the studio's neighborhood location; on-street parking in Baltimore is typically metered or permit-restricted, so confirm parking options when you book.
Extensions require active maintenance: wash gently every 7 to 10 days with sulfate-free shampoo, avoid sleeping with wet extensions, and schedule refits on time. Most clients budget 1 to 2 hours monthly for upkeep appointments.
Nicole and Company fills a specific gap in Baltimore's extension landscape: a dedicated studio with hand-tied expertise and mandatory consultation reduces the risk of poor fits that plague chain salons. The studio suits clients willing to plan ahead and commit to the refitting schedule.
