Tipping question

I am new to this board and I saw some questions on tipping, so I thought I would add mine - hope it doesn't seem too silly. My question is, is there a proper "etiquette" to how you give your stylist his/her tip? I always feel awkward. I go to a large salon where there is a receptionist. I usually hand my stylist his tip, but he always seems a little surprised or something, like that's not how it's done. Sometimes I just leave it at his station, but he looks back at me like, "what are you doing?" so I feel maybe this is not appropriate either! Should I give it to the receptionist? Previous to this I went to a small salon where I just handed the stylist my tip as there really wasn't another option. This is a very trendy, "hip" salon, and so I am a little intimidated to ask! I have tried observing what others do, but the stations are so separated that it is hard to do. Thanks for any help!