When asking yourself about something to do near me in Ann Arbor with a group of friends or family, consider
Ulta Beauty
Why Ulta Beauty is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Ulta Beauty stands out as the largest specialty beauty retailer in the United States, offering an extensive range of cosmetics, fragrances, skincare, haircare, and salon services that make it an ideal meeting spot for beauty enthusiasts and friends alike. With over 35 years in business, Ulta Beauty combines the convenience of a nationwide retail presence with a strong digital platform to serve customers both in-store and online. Its stores are designed for a comprehensive and enjoyable shopping experience where customers can explore popular brands alongside exclusive products like the Ulta Beauty Collection, which emphasizes clean ingredients and cruelty-free certifications under their Conscious Beauty program. The retailer’s unique omnichannel strategy integrates physical stores, e-commerce, and salon services, ensuring that visitors can shop, test, and enjoy beauty treatments in one place, fostering an engaging environment to socialize and discover new trends. Additionally, Ulta Beauty's recent international expansion, including acquisitions in the UK and planned entries into Mexico and the Middle East, demonstrates its commitment to becoming a global beauty hub. With innovative approaches like the upcoming Ulta Beauty Marketplace, customers can expect an even broader selection of curated beauty products, making Ulta Beauty a dynamic, welcoming destination to meet up, explore, and indulge in self-care together.
Here's what people think of Ulta Beauty
As of recent, Ulta Beauty holds a 4.3-star rating based on 114 reviews.
User reviews of Ulta Beauty present a varied picture, reflecting both widespread satisfaction and some notable concerns. Positive reviews frequently highlight the broad product selection, reasonable prices, and friendly store environments that make shopping pleasant and convenient. Many customers appreciate the exclusive brands and the introduction of Ulta’s private label, which offers quality, trend-right products reinforcing the store’s innovative and conscious beauty efforts. The salon services also receive praise for professional staff and enjoyable experiences, adding to Ulta’s appeal as a one-stop beauty destination. On the other hand, some negative reviews point out issues primarily with customer service and account security. For instance, there are reports of account breaches and difficulties resolving these incidents in a timely manner, which have caused frustration and impacted customers' online shopping experiences. Seasonal staff shortages and inconsistencies in service quality at certain locations have also been concerns. Despite these challenges, Ulta Beauty’s management actively responds to feedback and continues to invest in improvements, including upgrading digital security and expanding services. Overall, while there is room for improvement in customer experience and support, the positive sentiment about product variety, store atmospheres, and innovative offerings sustains Ulta’s strong reputation among beauty shoppers.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Isabella Meredith
Just went in to browse perfumes with my boyfriend and felt like I was being watched the entire time. We were walking around the store for about 10 minutes and got asked if we needed help/anything probably 3 times. One of those being from an older woman wearing sunglasses who asked “can I help you find something” in a very rude tone and when I said no we’re just browsing she scoffed, said okay, and walked away. My boyfriend and I continued to browse and decided I wasn’t buying anything so we went to walk out of the store. While doing so, two of the workers almost cornered us at the front door (including the older woman with the sunglasses). Overall was a terrible experience and we both felt extremely picked out and uncomfortable. It’s a shame this location continues to treat guests like this when there are multiple complaints going back years. Won’t be returning.
Rima Dobbins
They are so GREAT at making sure customers know they are there to help. Every time I go there I always have several associates right behind me, especially when I’m dressed more casually which is so sweet! They must know I’m in a hurry and want to help. Even when they don’t approach to offer help they are always watching you and following nearby just incase you need anything.
A Rarity
Great selection. Great service. Arslyn was absolutely wonderful with being patient and able to assist a picky shopper! :) Shout out to Sara for coming out of her own pocket to make sure customers have a “welcome gift” with an approval of a credit card. Extremely thoughtful! Will 100% be returning very soon! Thank you girls for your assistance!
NADIEN- نَادِين
Maya did a fantastic job with doing my hair, she’s a wonderful hairstylist. I would highly recommend her she went above and beyond!! I booked a blonde appointment and that’s what I got, I loved it so much!
E B
My mother & I had the pleasure of visiting this Ulta location and it was by far the most inviting customer service we've experienced in a long time. The manager Latoria was very helpful in assisting us find specific beauty products as well as suggest similiar options. The cherry on top was witnessing her extend the same supportive service to her employee's.
How to reach Ulta Beauty
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Website: None
Why Ulta Beauty may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Ulta Beauty with your friends?
Ulta Beauty serves as an exceptional venue for gathering friends because it merges the excitement of a group outing with indulgent self-care and discovery. With a strong 4.3-star rating based on over 114 reviews, Ulta combines a welcoming, vibrant atmosphere with something for everyone's beauty taste and style level. At Ulta, your group can explore over 25,000 products spanning cosmetics, skincare, fragrances, and haircare from more than 600 brands, ensuring there’s a treasure hunt feeling as you discover new favorites together. Beyond shopping, the full-service salons in every store offer professional hair, skin, makeup, and brow services — perfect for friends to refresh or glam up side by side. This dual retail-and-salon format encourages socializing, pampering, and creating lasting memories in a relaxed setting. Additionally, Ulta’s commitment to inclusivity and personalized experiences invites everyone in your circle to feel comfortable and celebrated, making it more than a store — a community hub where fun, beauty, and friendship intertwine seamlessly.
What activities are available at Ulta Beauty for a group meetup?
Ulta Beauty is more than just retail; it’s an activity-rich destination ideal for a group looking to blend shopping with interactive beauty experiences. First, you and your friends can embark on a product discovery spree, exploring everything from coveted luxury brands to innovative indie lines, as well as Ulta’s exclusive private label, all under one roof. This diversity of offerings sparks lively discussions and recommendations among your group, enriching the meetup.
Next, Ulta’s full-service salon presents a variety of treatments — haircuts, coloring, styling, skincare facials, brow shaping, lash extensions, and even ear piercings are available. Booking appointments together turns an ordinary meetup into a mini spa day where friends can glow inside and out while enjoying expert care. Special workshops hosted by Ulta’s beauty professionals add another layer of fun by teaching do-it-yourself techniques and the latest beauty trends in engaging, hands-on sessions.
Furthermore, Ulta frequently hosts in-store events like product launches, pop-ups, and themed parties where groups can revel in the latest industry innovations and enjoy exclusive giveaways or discounts. A loyal customer rewards program enhances the shopping adventure, offering points and perks that your group can share and celebrate over time. All these components make Ulta Beauty a lively, multi-faceted environment tailor-made for groups who want to bond over beauty and self-care in a welcoming, stylish setting.
Why is Ulta Beauty perfect for hosting meetups with friends and family?
Ulta Beauty’s combination of extensive product variety, professional salon services, and a focus on community and personalized experience makes it an outstanding choice for meetups. Unlike traditional stores, Ulta puts self-expression and fun at the heart of every visit, creating an inviting atmosphere where groups can relax, socialize, and indulge in shared interests. Friends and family members of all ages and backgrounds feel embraced by the store’s inclusive range of products — from makeup shades that cater to every skin tone to haircare solutions for all textures and preferences.
The spacious and well-lit layout encourages browsing together or comparing items, fostering spontaneous beauty advice and laughter. The availability of simultaneous salon appointments means no one has to wait alone; everyone can get pampered side-by-side, which enhances bonding and creates a memorable shared experience. Ulta’s expert staff also lend helpful and friendly guidance without pressure, further reducing any stress that might come from group decision-making.
Additionally, Ulta Beauty’s loyalty program rewards customers with points redeemable for free products and services, which can add an element of excitement and reward to group visits. Special beauty events hosted periodically introduce exclusive products and experiences, turning the store into an event destination that keeps guests coming back. All these facets combined position Ulta Beauty as much more than a shopping destination — it’s a social beauty hub that makes every gathering with friends and family feel special and celebratory.
How does the salon enhance the group meetup experience at Ulta Beauty?
The salon services offered at every Ulta Beauty store elevate the meetup from shopping to an immersive pampering experience. Licensed beauty professionals provide haircuts, coloring, deep conditioning treatments, and blowouts alongside skin treatments like facials, brow shaping, and lash extensions. This variety means friends or family can customize their experience according to individual preferences while still sharing the joyful environment.
Organizing salon appointments for a group fosters camaraderie as you watch transformations, exchange compliments, or simply relax together in a chic setting. For those eager to learn, Ulta’s workshops led by salon experts on styling techniques or skincare routines offer interactive sessions that deepen engagement and skills.
Special services like ear piercing offer a trendy and fun option that friends can do together, making for an unforgettable bonding moment. Ulta also carefully manages sanitation and safety protocols, which provides a reassuring environment for group visits. Overall, the salon component turns Ulta Beauty from a retail stop into a destination spa where your group can make self-care a shared and spirited event.
What makes Ulta Beauty’s product range and shopping experience suitable for groups?
Ulta Beauty’s extensive and inclusive product range makes it ideal for groups with diverse tastes and beauty needs. Boasting more than 25,000 products from over 600 brands — including high-end labels, trendy newcomers, and Ulta’s proprietary collection — the store offers an unparalleled spectrum of choices. Whether your friends prefer bold makeup, natural looks, skincare essentials, or niche fragrances, Ulta’s aisles invite curiosity and exploration.
The layout is designed for ease of browsing with clear categories and testers, which encourages interactive shopping. Groups can share opinions on color choices, try on samples, or exchange recommendations about best-sellers or newly launched items. Ulta’s staff are available to provide expert advice and help find personalized product matches, making the experience educational and fun.
Additionally, with options such as curbside pickup and mobile ordering for group convenience, Ulta adapts to various meet-up styles — whether you prefer a laid-back browsing session or more planned shopping. The store’s diverse price points also ensure that everyone can find something within their budget, reducing barriers to participation and allowing the entire group to enjoy the outing.
What are the special events at Ulta Beauty that enhance group visits?
Ulta regularly hosts in-store events designed to bring customers together and create memorable, social experiences. These include launch parties for new brands and collections where guests can try limited-edition products, receive free gifts, and participate in exclusive promotions. Such events make a group meetup feel festive and exclusive.
Beauty workshops and tutorials presented by industry experts offer a chance for groups to learn new techniques collaboratively – whether it’s mastering contouring, skincare routines, or hair styling trends. These interactive sessions provide a social setting that combines education and entertainment.
Ulta also celebrates customers’ milestones like birthdays with personalized beauty parties, allowing groups to book private or semi-private spots for celebrations rich in pampering and fun. Seasonal and themed events further enrich the calendar, offering varied attractions that encourage repeat visits as a group.
By transforming the shopping trip into an event, Ulta Beauty fosters a sense of community and excitement that perfectly complements the social nature of group outings.
How does Ulta Beauty’s loyalty program benefit groups planning meetups?
The Ultamate Rewards loyalty program enhances group meetups by adding value beyond each visit. With over 42 million members, this free-to-join program allows customers to earn points on every purchase that can be redeemed for free products and salon services. For groups, this means every outing contributes to rewards that can be shared or saved for future group experiences, encouraging frequent get-togethers.
The program also offers members exclusive access to discounts, birthday gifts, and early notifications about special events or product launches. This creates a sense of belonging and VIP treatment that can make meetup days feel extra special.
For groups who enjoy exploring new items together, earning points on both purchases and services motivates deeper connections through shared beauty goals and discoveries. By combining value with a community focus, the loyalty program reinforces Ulta’s role as a premier gathering place for beauty enthusiasts.
Why does Ulta Beauty’s inclusive environment matter for group events?
Ulta Beauty’s commitment to diversity and inclusion enriches group meetups by fostering a respectful and welcoming atmosphere for everyone. The brand celebrates beauty in all forms — accommodating all skin tones, hair types, genders, ages, and abilities. This inclusivity ensures that no member of your friend or family group feels excluded or overlooked.
The product selections reflect this ethos with broad shade ranges in makeup, haircare for multiple textures, and skincare products that address diverse needs. The culture of acceptance and personalized service means guests feel comfortable experimenting with new looks or requesting advice.
This welcoming vibe creates a safe, judgment-free zone where groups can express themselves confidently and support each other's beauty journeys. Ulta’s environment thus transforms group outings into celebrations of individuality and collective empowerment, deeper than typical shopping trips.
What makes Ulta Beauty a memorable and convenient meetup spot?
Ulta Beauty’s blend of extensive offerings, salon services, engaging events, and warm community culture makes it a memorable meetup destination. The store’s convenient hours and multiple nationwide locations ensure accessibility for groups across regions. Options like curbside pickup and online browsing add flexibility for diverse plans.
Within the store, the lively atmosphere energized by friendly staff and colorful product displays invite spontaneous fun and creativity. The ability to combine shopping, pampering, and learning means your meetup can flow naturally from one activity to another without leaving the premises.
Additionally, Ulta’s loyalty rewards and frequent promotions provide ongoing incentives to return together, turning each visit into a treasured ritual. The holistic, vibrant, and inclusive experience guarantees that groups leave feeling connected, inspired, and glowing — physically and emotionally.
Ulta Beauty is truly a comprehensive venue where friends and families can rally around beauty, fun, and friendship all at once.