Before May, you’d be hard-pressed to find a world-class salon in Balagtas, Bulacan.

Stylist Nikki Bacay, however, has changed that. Known in the salon and beauty business as Schwarzkopf ambassador and stylist to celebrities, socialites, and politicos, Nikki today opened Section by Nikki Bacay, a salon that offers the same high-end products and services as his Greenhills store does—at trés affordable prices.

The coming of Section is also timely, considering how fashionistas have become “recessionistas”, following the recent global economic crisis. But just how affordable? How about P100 for a haircut, P850 for color, P500 for highlights? Section’s introductory prices are almost too good to be true. But Nikki seems to be out on a mission. “I just want to share my creative and artistic side, give high quality services at reasonable prices.” Coming from humble beginnings in Mindoro Oriental, he knows how it feels like to be hungry for something which was once upon a time exclusive to the elite. “I want people to experiment and discover new looks, or expose them to new tastes in (hair) styles.”

Carrying the Schwarzkopf brand, clients of Section are also assured of only the best products to touch their hair. “We don’t use low-end products that can harm or damage our clients’ scalp or hair,” states Nikki.

Business and Artistic Chops

Nikki’s distinct style carries the edginess of the Japanese, the sophistication of Hong Kong’s stylists, and the trendiness of the Koreans.

“I like to create new looks myself,” he says, “and not be too dependent on magazines or the Internet. I think my cuts are classic, but not boring. They fit the Filipina sensibility well—adventurous, but fashionable enough to not be too punk.”

With 15 years in the business, and just “sipag at tiyaga” (hardwork and persistence)to keep him moving up, he’s mastered the art of precision cutting and advanced coloring. Twice a year, he leaves the country for training in Schwarzkopf centers in Southeast Asia to bring back the latest technologies and techniques to his own staff.

While his strength is clearly the creative side, Nikki has likewise honed his business chops, opening Nikki Bacay Salon on Wilson Street in Greenhills three years ago.

Section—aside from it targeting a mass market and being present predominantly in emerging urban areas—differentiates itself by being a one-stop salon. Its 75 squaremeter space has a nail section, and will offer traditional foot reflexology.

While the rest of the mall bustles with the noise of pop music and arcade games, Section is quiet and cozy. Its sleek red and black interiors—designed by Nikki—reflect the discriminating service Nikki Bacay and his staff are known for.

“High quality cuts and services should also be made available to people outside Metro Manila, or the major cities,” Nikki says. “Pero at prices na ma-afford nila. I think it’s a nice idea, di ba?”

Section by Nikki Bacay is located on the second floor of Balagtas Town Center, Balagtas, Bulacan.

For inquiries, call or text 0922-8466689.