Alright, let me keep you from fucking this up. Text game is wrong, very possible, they're some real pro's out there, but the lack of body language will articulate you're smiley faces into creepy stalker smiley faces. (Sometimes, eh)
So, with that said, let us begin.
Before I get into my idea on the text game in relation to your situation, for an alternative method to avoid the text game I would suggest going back for another hair cut. Here is where you will hopefully seal 1/2 of the deal. This is where you will really game her in that moment.
You: Hey (her name) i'm in a bit of a rush i've got date tonight.
At this point take careful note of her response to when you say this, see if she seems disappointed via body language if possible...anyway!
Her: Oh that's great, what kind of haircut today?
You: the usual
At this point you can get some intell, asking her female perspectives on what a woman may expect in a man or w/e doesnt have to be that but you get the idea you can fish around for the information that would help this situation out better. After you receive an answer you could even say somthing like "what is you're ideal date, get a little personal, in fact as personal as you can get sense you've already disqualified yourself...or have you....hmmm (you can even say something like "Her name" you've been cutting my hair for weeks now and i don't know anything about you "in a playful manner"
Her: Haha, maybe a movie and a dinner would be a great date.
You: perfect that's where i'll take her
Once the haircut is over you thank her and part ways...or do you?
nope, you walk about 2 feet away and make a phone call or text to the girl that gave you the haircut and say :Hey i just finished getting a haircut, i heard your into movies, should we see "A" or B" (movie names) as she answers she's already understood the whole irony behind this whole situation and how it was secretly preordained. Smooth.....at this point if she truly likes you...she will agree if you she says no, you're shit out of luck, lets hope not.
And now for the text game alternative: i have no fucking clue i suck at text game stick to the words above

Besides why text, when you can get up n close, personal, you can read all her signs, via body language and quicker responses instead of waiting 2 days for a response to your "Hey how are you"
And like you said don't rush it but, definitely don't waste time, the holidays is no excuse to pardon you from getting that babe! if anything the holidays is the perfect time, woman are excepting of the idea of a relationship during the cold seasons, summer time is party time, so it's where most break ups occur in my opinion.