We’re all trying to save a few dollars these days. Did you know that the Seattle area has schools whose students provide terrific services, and they’re all overseen by professionals. Ever try a three-course meal at a culinary institute? How about a haircut, or getting your teeth cleaned – all at drastically reduced prices. Here are some of our favorite ways to cut costs around the Sound.
Portfolio Restaurant
The Art Institute of Seattle North Campus
2600 Alaskan Way, Fifth Floor
Seattle, WA 98121
206.239.2363
http://www.artinstitutes.edu/seattle
Portfolio serves as an educational dining lab for culinary arts students at The Art Institute of Seattle. Open to the public, the restaurant presents a tempting menu of fine-dining courses emphasizing fresh seasonal favorites. Portfolio Restaurant, with a stunning view of Elliott Bay, offers elegance at an affordable price. Dinner seatings are Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays from 5:30pm – 7:00pm. Call for reservations. Dinner is served in three-courses, designed and executed by upper-level students at the Art Institute Culinary school. Wine and beer are available with your dinner. A three-course dinner is usually less than $25/person.
Gary Manuel Aveda Institute
1514 Tenth Avenue
Seattle, WA 98122
206.302.1044
http://www.gmaveda.com
Enjoy soothing services at relaxed prices! At Gary Manuel Aveda Institute, you can treat yourself to hair, skin and makeup services with outstanding Aveda products–at a fraction of the cost you’d expect. All services are provided by capable students (future professionals) and supervised by talented instructors. Appointments are Mondays – Saturdays between 8:30am and 5:00pm. You’ll experience a fashion-forward setting, Aveda’s cutting-edge curriculum and enviromentally responsible products. An hour facial runs for about $40. There are also body treatments, waxing services and a full menu of hair services from cuts to color.
Cortiva Massage School
425 Pontius Ave N
Seattle, WA 98109
206.204.3170
http://www.cortiva.com
With two locations, including Seattle and Federal Way, Cortiva’s Massage Therapy Center provides Cortiva students the opportunity to gain the kind of practical experience they will need to be successful as professionals, while still under the supervision of experienced Licensed Massage Practitioners. They offer relaxation and treatment massage at a reasonable cost. By utilizing the student Massage Therapy Center, you can afford to maintain your health and wellness while supporting student learning and growth. Usual rates are $35 for a one hour massage. Seniors over 55 receive a $10 discount on appointments booked at 2:00pm and 3:30pm Monday through Thursday. Book appointments online.
Gene Juarez Academy
10715 8th Avenue NE
Seattle, WA 98125
206.365.6900
http://www.genejuarezacademy.com
Gene Juarez stylists and nail specialists get their start at two academies, in Seattle and Federal Way. Their highly-skilled students are trained on the latest trends in beauty and style, so you walk out with confidence, attitude — and a whole new look! In fact, you may forget you’re at a beauty school. After all, you don’t have to spend a lot to look like a million. Gene Juarez Academy offers all types of services from cuts and color to retexturizing treatments and nail care. Appointments can be made Monday through Saturday from 8:00am to 7:00pm. Pedicures are priced at $17.95. A parafin dip can be added for $5.95. Call for an appointment at either location.
Dental Care
Pierce College Fort Steilacoom
Dental Hygiene Clinic
9401 Farwest Drive SW
Lakewood, WA 98498
253.964.6694
http://www.pierce.ctc.edu
Low-cost preventive dental care is available to members of the community at the Pierce College dental hygiene clinic, located on the Fort Steilacoom campus. Dental hygiene students perform oral health assessments, x-rays, teeth cleaning, dental hygiene periodontal therapy, sealant and fluoride applications. Restorations (fillings) are performed on selected patients. Work is done by dental hygiene students and is checked by instructors who are licensed dentists and dental hygienists. (Procedures take longer than in a private dental office, but remember, it’s a lot less expensive than the dentist!) Call for an appointment.
