The Columbian | Serving Clark County, Washington

HAIR STYLIST: Vata Salon

When you entrust your hair styling and care to a professional, it’s vital to be assured of quality results and friendly service. Several salons have fiercely loyal clients, with Vata Salon leading the category for 2011, followed closely by Utopia and The Barbers.

Comments from our readers:

"Jen does a wonderful job cutting my hair... she's friendly, and makes me feel so comfortable."

"Not only do they have a clean, friendly environment, they do a fantastic job on all of their customers! I don't trust any other salon except this one. I definitely consider Vata best of Vancouver."

"Great staff, very professional and friendly."

"Best customer service, hair care & products!"

WINNER: Vata Salon, 8700 NE Vancouver Mall Dr. #128, Vancouver, WA 98662; 360-885-1077.

RUNNERS UP: Utopia, The Barbers, Athena Day Spa, Spoiled Spa & Salon

SPA EXPERIENCE: Rinnovo Day Spa & Salon

Relax, refresh, revitalize… in the elegant and soothing atmosphere of one of Clark County’s several day spas and salons. Think warmth, fragrance, soothing hands and beautiful results for hair, skin, and body!

Our readers especially like Rinnovo Day Spa and Salon, located in an old church building in Felida. Closely following in the vote tally are four other spas that deserve visits too.

Comment from our readers:

"You step in and it’s like an oasis. Peaceful and quiet. Everyone is wonderful in this place."

WINNER: Rinnovo Day Spa & Salon, 12504 NW 36th Ave Vancouver WA, 98685, (360) 573-5611.

RUNNERS UP: Sole Purpose, Utopia, Ashbrook Aesthetics, Athena Day Spa

DENTIST: Smiles Family Dental

Going to the dentist isn’t always fun, but dental practices in Clark County have loyal patients who respect their dentists and appreciate the relaxed atmosphere and friendly professionals.

Smiles Family Dental leads the pack this year, with multiple locations and smiling, friendly staff.

Comments from our readers:

"Excellent customer service, relaxing environment, professional doctors."

"Great service, always very nice."

"Their staff is awesome and the Dr. is knowledgeable and friendly. Love them!"

WINNER: Smiles Family Dental, various locations

RUNNERS UP: Sheron Dental, Wendel Family Dental, Gillespie Dentistry

CHIROPRACTOR: Dr. Troy Dreiling, Absolute Life Chiropractic

All-around wellness is the focus at Absolute Life Chiropractic, the stand-out chiropractic practice this year.

Comments from our readers:

"Dr. Troy is involved in community wellness plans, children’s activities, talk shows and radio shows to help our community become strong mentally, physically and emotionally. Thank you Dr. Troy, you rock!"

"Dr. Troy is Awesome! He will steer you in the right direction with ALL aspects of your health and really helps you resolve any pain issues you may be having."

"Dr. Troy empowers ME to make healthy choices."

"Going to this chiropractic office has really changed my life! I have seen many different chiropractors for my back pain and even physical therapist but none worked as well as Dr. Troy! My back is feeling a lot better and so I sleep better and have more energy and am happier."

WINNER: Dr. Troy, Absolute Life Chiropractic, 9418 NE Vancouver Mall Dr., Vancouver, (360) 260-6903.

RUNNERS UP: Body in Balance (Dr. Scott Brahmer), Dr. Peter Phillips.

FITNESS TRAINER: Brian Stecker of 24 Hour Fitness

When you head out to get fit, a trainer’s services can help with safety, and most importantly, that nemesis, motivation! Brian Stecker of 24 Hour Fitness, and two trainers from Anytime Fitness, stand out for 2011.

Comments from our readers:

"Cares about the total experience, not just training. Sets up a food plan, fitness plan, work out routine and follows up daily to make sure you are meeting your goals. Really cares about his clients."

"A fitness trainer who is focused on his craft. He passes his knowledge on to each client and is thrilled to be in his line of work. He follows the mantra, ‘Love what you do.’"

"He's inspirational and maintains a positive outlook day in and day out."

WINNER: Brian Stecker of 24 Hour Fitness, various locations.

RUNNERS UP: Julie Gross of Anytime Fitness, Jeff Hanssen of Anytime Fitness.