If you’ve ever walked through Iowa City or Coralville looking for a place that doesn't feel like a sterile, fluorescent-lit chain, you've probably stumbled upon Thompson & Co. Specifically, their "Parlor" concept. It’s a bit of a local legend. Honestly, it’s not just a place to get your hair cut; it's more like a community hub that happens to have world-class shears.
Bobby and Kayla Thompson started this whole thing back in 2015. They aren't just some business owners who decided to open a salon on a whim. They’re artists. Bobby spent years training at heavy hitters like the House of Bumble and Kenneth’s in Ohio. Kayla is an Aveda Institute grad. Together, they’ve built something that feels less like a business and more like a family living room—if your living room had a full bar and a gaming table.
What is "The Parlor" Exactly?
Most people get confused. Is it a barbershop? Is it a high-end salon?
Basically, it’s both. The Parlor by Thompson & Co (located at the Crosspark spot in Coralville and the original Iowa City hub) is designed to bridge the gap between "I need a quick trim" and "I want a luxury experience."
The vibe is intentionally nostalgic. You walk in and see artwork that feels personal, video games tucked away for a quick round of nostalgia, and—this is the big one—a full bar. They even have a beer cooler and "on the rocks" liquor storage for members. It’s meant to be a place where a father and son can go, or where you can sit and get some work done while your color processes.
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A Tiered Experience
They don’t do "flat rates." Everything is tiered.
- Tier 1 Stylists: These are your pros who are solid but perhaps newer to the Thompson & Co. culture. Prices usually start around $40 for a cut.
- Tier 6 Stylists: These are the masters, including Bobby himself. You're paying for decades of international training and a seat in the chair of someone who views hair as architecture.
It’s an "a-la-carte" system. You pay for what you need. No hidden fees, though you should keep in mind there’s a 3% convenience fee for credit cards.
Why People Keep Going Back
It's the culture. They use a motto: Community, Culture, and Couture.
That sounds a bit corporate, but in practice, it’s anything but. They actually partner with local businesses. They treat their staff like co-owners—because some of them actually are co-owners now, like Brandi Beaver and Kristen Brinson.
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And then there's the membership.
It's sorta genius. For about $60 a year, you get two free neck touch-ups between your big appointments. It’s specifically for people with shorter hair who want to look "crisp" without paying for a full service every two weeks. Plus, you get 10% off their own brand of products.
The "Secret" Services
One thing most people don't talk about is their private room.
They use it for men’s hair replacement—toppers and pieces. It’s a sensitive area of grooming that many shops ignore or handle poorly. Thompson & Co. carved out a specific, private space so people can feel comfortable.
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They also do:
- K-18 Treatments: For when you’ve bleached your hair into oblivion.
- Hand-Tied Extensions: A specialized service that requires a consultation first.
- Beard Coloring: Because grey happens to the best of us.
The Reality of the Experience
Is it perfect? Nothing is.
If you go during a peak Saturday, it's loud. It’s high-energy. If you’re looking for a silent, spa-like Zen retreat where no one speaks, The Parlor might be a bit much for you. It’s a social club. People are talking, beer is being poured, and music is playing.
Wait times can also be a thing. Since they are one of the most popular spots in the Corridor, you can't just walk in and expect a Tier 6 stylist to be free. You've gotta book. And they have a strict 12-hour cancellation policy. They respect their stylists' time, so they expect you to do the same.
Actionable Next Steps
If you’re thinking about heading in, here’s the best way to do it:
- Check the Tiers: Don't just book "a haircut." Look at the team page on their website. See whose style matches yours. If you want a classic fade, look for the barbers in the Parlor. If you want a balayage, look for the Tier 5 or 6 stylists.
- Book Online: Their system is pretty seamless. Use the online portal rather than calling during the mid-day rush.
- Consider the Membership: If you get your hair cut more than four times a year, the $60 membership literally pays for itself just in product discounts and neck trims.
- Arrive Early: Grab a drink. Sit at the bar. Actually enjoy the space instead of rushing in and out.
The Parlor by Thompson & Co is really a testament to what happens when you combine technical skill with a genuine desire to build a local community. It's a slice of high-end style tucked away in Iowa, and it's well worth the visit if you value the craft.