What does it take to earn the title of AVEDA Lifestyle Salon Spa? A long list of criteria must be met, but many of the factors come down to one thing: education. For the team at Von Kekel, that means training with Global Masters at Aveda Institutes in London, New York, Minneapolis, and other cities across the world. At these institutes, the staff learns how to get the most out of Aveda's proprietary line of eco-friendly products, which derive 97% of their ingredients from plants.

All of that preparation occurs long before a client ever steps into one of Von Kekel's three locations. Here, the staffers administer salon and spa treatments with the essential oils and natural herbal ingredients of Aveda products. Whether for a haircut with highlights or a cleansing facial with a massage, each visit starts with a complimentary beverage and a consultation. The latter ensures clients get the most out of their chosen treatments, while the former helps meet the daily requirement for liquid-based relaxation.