The Salon Magazine August 2024

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Editor

Ailsa Newgreen ailsa@cimltd.co.uk

Managing Editor

Jade Evans jade@cimltd.co.uk

Publication Manager

Declan Wale declan@cimltd.co.uk

Tel: 01795 509 112

Account Managers

James Davies jamesd@cimltd.co.uk

Katy Terrell kt@cimltd.co.uk

Tel: 01795 509 112

Design and Production

James Taylor james@cimltd.co.uk

Grant Waters grant@cimltd.co.uk

Administration Manager

Natalie Murray admin@cimltd.co.uk

Credit Facilities Manager

Gwen Lee creditcontrol@cimltd.co.uk

Tel: 01795 509 103

Marketing Manager

Lucas Payne lucas@cimltd.co.uk

Social Media Manager

Lily Lawson socials@cimltd.co.uk

Sales Director

Tom Woollin tom@cimltd.co.uk

Chief Executive

John Denning

Editor’s letter

Welcome to the latest edition of Salon Magazine. As the sun beams through the window, I’m hopeful summer has arrived, but I’m surely keeping my jumpers and jackets at the ready as it can’t seem to make up its mind!

It’s not just the weather that’s continually fluctuating; in this ever-changing and fast-paced world, we know that staying informed and connected is integral to salon success. In light of this, we’ve curated a diverse range of articles to keep you at the top of your game and continually elevate your clients’ experiences.

As a trade publication that aims to deliver current tips and advice month upon month, our unique August features are led by staffing and recruitment as we delve into the staffing crisis currently facing the industry and endeavour to understand how salons can navigate this. Swiftly following is our inclusivity feature as we discuss how to foster a welcoming atmosphere where all clients feel valued and respected.

These features are alongside our much-loved regulars, including Duck & Dry as our Salon of the Month, Sustainability Solutions from Green Salon Collective, and Social Media Look Book, providing all the inspiration for the upcoming month. But that’s not all. If you didn’t manage to attend the inaugural HairCon event, we’ve got you covered with our in-depth post-event roundup!

We’re very proud to announce that as of the July issue Salon Magazine readers can now gain CPD Group learning points each month! This partnership reflects our ongoing commitment to providing essential business advice for salon owners & managers across the UK.

That’s all from me; all that’s left to do is kick back, relax, and enjoy this latest issue of Salon Magazine!

Contents

12 RISING STAR

This month’s rising star is @oliviaannicenailartist, founder of @thenaildeskco, and she discusses the need for community, not competition, in the industry.

18 ESSENTIAL 5

With help from Louise Guilfoyle, founder of Skin Deep Careers, we learn five essentials for hiring success in 2024.

22 5 MINUTES WITH

Kleek apprenticeships share their top tips for supporting apprentices to achieve their full potential.

48 PRODUCT FOCUS

Take a look at this month’s must-have products to elevate your salon’s treatments.

53 INCLUSIVITY

As part of our inclusivity focus this month, we shine the light on four salons in the industry striving to ensure their salons provide inclusive environments for all.

Fellowship Announces New Executive Board for 2024

The Fellowship for British Hairdressing is unveiling the next phase of the iconic institution, welcoming the youngest ever President, Ashleigh Hodges, and introducing the new Executive Board for 2024.

Under the guidance of CEO, Barry Stephens and President, Rob Eaton, the past two years have seen incredible growth for the Fellowship, celebrating their highest membership to date, opening three Centres of Excellence, and continuing to provide the industry with educational opportunities for their members in the shape of Hair & Vision and the digital knowledge platform.

Ashleigh said, “The Executive Board want to encourage the growth of those who are new to the industry and those who have worked in the industry for many years. The Fellowship will be collaborating and bringing the industry together from all over the UK – with a focus on inspiring, educating, and encouraging salon stylists, salon owners, freelance stylists, and barbers”.

“At this moment in time, the Fellowship has a range of exceptional projects and initiatives. Our goal is to evaluate how we can elevate our current projects, continuing to make them even more special. We want to energise the next generation of hairdressers and barbers, and make them recognise what an inclusive, diverse, and exciting industry they are coming into”, Ashleigh continued.

The Fellowship Executive Board is made

up of:

Barry Stephens - CEO, Ashleigh Hodges - President, Michelle Griffin - Vice President, Simon Shaw - Head of Education, Jackie Holian - Head of Strategic Partnerships, Karolina Saunders - Head of Session, Lisa Farrall - Head of Creative Direction, Sally Brooks - Head of New Talent, Junior Green - Head of Textured Hair Innovation, Colin McAndrew - Fellowship Ambassador for Scotland and Andrew Barton, Fellowship Ambassador for England.

TerraCycle Launches

SalonCycle in the UK

Following a successful launch in the US, international recycling leader TerraCycle is bringing SalonCycle www.saloncycle. co.uk to the UK. SalonCycle is a recycling solution to help all hairdressers and hair & beauty salons become more sustainable and reduce the amount of waste they send to landfill and incineration, by providing a convenient and simple to implement solution to recycle many of the hard-to-recycle types of waste they generate large volumes of.

The hair and beauty care industries produce a huge amount of waste per year - out of 95% of beauty packaging thrown away, 14% makes it to the recycling plant and only 9% is recycled whilst the rest ends up landfilled or burned.

TerraCycle’s new SalonCycle solution provides all hairdressers and hair and beauty salons a convenient and simple to implement solution to recycle their hard-to-recycle waste and divert it from landfill or incineration. www.saloncycle.co.uk.

Pedal With Purpose on Sunday 22nd September 2024

The Hair & Beauty Charity is inviting all cycling enthusiasts (and those less enthusiastic!) to Pedal with Purpose and take part in its new one-day bike ride challenge taking place simultaneously in the Peak District and Tunbridge Wells on Sunday, 22nd September 2024.

The event features two scenic circular routes:

• Northern Route: Hosted by Paul Brooks of Alan Howard, this route will take cyclists through the picturesque Peak District

• Southern Route: Hosted by Toby Dicker (The Chapel) and Philip Sharp (Salon Vision), this route will guide riders through the beautiful landscapes around Tunbridge Wells

The entry fee is just £25, which is contributable towards a minimum fundraising pledge for the Hair & Beauty Charity of £100.

Pedal with Purpose will generate vital funds to support the Hair & Beauty Charity’s mission of providing financial assistance to struggling industry professionals and their families. Your participation and donations will help make life a little easier for those who have nowhere else to turn.

Register for your place todayhttps://hairandbeautycharity.org/shop/p/one-day-uk-bike-ride

L’Oréal Colour Trophy Award

Overall 1st Place Winner

Gee-Kent Ho, Newcastle Upon Tyne

Gee-Kent Ho

2nd Place Winner

Brooks & Brooks, London

Marlon Hawkins

3rd Place Winner

Trevor Sorbie, London

Francesco Merico, Viktoriia Vradii

London Regional Winner

Brooks & Brooks, London

Marlon Hawkins

Southern Regional Winner

Trevor Sorbie, Brighton

Giuseppe Di Rosa & Daniel Courtnage

Eastern Regional Winner

Strictly Xtended, Bishops Stortford

Perry Davis

Western Regional Winner

Zoe Hodgkiss – Hair Artistry, Holsworthy

Zoe Hodgkiss

North Eastern Regional Winner

Gee-Kent Ho, Newcastle Upon Tyne

Gee-Kent Ho

North Western Regional Winner

SAKS Hair, Newark

Emma Goodlass & Lucy Sprigg

Northern Irish Regional Winner

Peter Mark, Lisburn

Joseph Comer & Stephen Hanna

Scottish Regional Winner

Jason Hall Hairdressing, Edinburgh

Daniella Bulpit & Jak Hall

L’Oréal Colour Trophy Star Award Winner

Peter Mark, Belfast

Tyler Knox

L’Oréal Colour Specialist Award Winner

Frances Marshall, Sunderland

Amelia Hall

L’Oréal Colour Trophy Afro Award Winner

Headmasters, Soho

Edd Moss

L’Oréal Colour Trophy Moving Image Award Winner

Lauren McNeela

Stripe Colour Studio

L’Oréal Colour Trophy Future Talent Winner

Alex Doherty

Brandon Marchant

Elsie Macdonald

Francesca Bay

Isla McKelvie

Simplicity Speaks Volumes

This month we feature ‘BLANCO’ a collection by Schwarzkopf Professional as our front cover and Creative Director, Suzie McGill discusses the effectiveness of white on white photography, putting the hair in the spotlight and the products used to create these standout looks!

Leanne Read from Tonic Hair Design

Every year, the Schwarzkopf Pro education team offer an ASK education course focused on the Pro Photoshoot experience. This year, a team of creative hair stylists from the Schwarzkopf Professional salon network created this gorgeous collection; BLANCO, under the guidance of award-winning hairdresser, Suzie McGill.

Suzie McGill, Schwarzkopf Pro UK Ambassador and International Artistic Director at Rainbow Room International shared, “Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication, and Blanco embodies just that. This photographic image collection, created by Schwarzkopf Professional hairdressers under my creative direction, is a testament to the power of minimalism. White on white, it’s a canvas where hair and colour take centre stage. Blanco allows us to

Blanco allows us to showcase the artistry of our talented stylists and the transformative magic of Schwarzkopf Professional products.

showcase the artistry of our talented stylists and the transformative magic of Schwarzkopf Professional products. It’s an ode to the purity of creativity, where simplicity speaks volumes, reminding us that sometimes, less truly is more.”

The inspiration behind the collection is a clean palette, putting the hair back

in focus using session label products from Schwarzkopf Professional to curate the looks. When Suzie was asked about her favourite look from the collection she shared, “It’s hard to say my favourite as they all work so well as a collection, with each stylist putting their very own personality and stamp on the look!”

Louise Miles from M&L Design

Sian Tulloch from River Hair Company

Sini Pieviläinen

The Perfect Polish

Featuring as our Rising Star this month is Olivia Annice, also known as @oliviaannicenailartist and founder of @thenaildeskco. Olivia discusses community, not competition, and the importance of continued training for qualified nail technicians!

When did you notice your passion for nails?

Growing up, I worked as a Saturday girl in my sister’s beauty salon and always loved watching the nails being done. As soon as I turned 16, I gained my qualifications and began practicing with clients. Although I enjoyed working as a nail technician, I still carried on studying academically and obtained my University Honours Degree in Law. It wasn’t until I found myself prioritising fitting in my student clients nails instead of writing my dissertation that I realised, although I found law interesting, nails were my passion. After this, I never looked back!

How did you find your style, and what are your tips for other nail techs trying to stand out?

Personally, I am a plain Builder Gel girlie through and through. However, for clients, I love to be creative with fun and funky mix-and-match sets. The best thing about nails is that it is an art form. Although everybody has their own style, you don’t have to pick one! Never stop

learning new styles and techniques, and if there’s one you love, amazing, keep practicing and posting because the best work comes when you enjoy it; and if there’s one you hate, you never have to do it again.

What would you describe your speciality as, and how did this define your target audience?

My speciality is prescribing builder gel manicures for my clients based on their

individual goals and nail health. The service I focus most on is transforming my clients’ nails and growing them naturally, always keeping natural nail care at the heart of the treatment. I love to show my clients that, no matter their starting point, they can achieve beautiful nails. A lot of people believe that because their nails are shorter, they must have plain colours to hide the length. Instead, I show them that it is possible to achieve art on even the tiniest of nail beds, boosting their self-confidence and

Olivia Annice

giving them something to be proud of and show off.

Social media marketing is key to increasing a beauty professional’s client base. How did you grow your following, and what content works best to increase bookings?

When I moved to university and began branching out more with nail art, I noticed a huge increase in interactions on the more fun and funky sets. Ever since then, I have been working on always trying to make my content fun, and showing the personal side of what I do too! People love to know who they’re engaging with, not just another random account full of nail pictures. I would always recommend to engage and interact with other nail technicians in the community, as well as potential clients, because it is essential to help each other out! Community, not competition.

What are your goals for the future, and how do you plan on achieving them?

One of my main goals, ever since I found my passion for nails, has always been to teach. I love helping others achieve their goals and maximise their potential, so opening a training academy is soon to be ticked off my bucket list! There are far too many essential topics that are not commonly discussed in traditional courses. Combatting this issue and enabling my students to leave equipped with all of the essential knowledge, and more, is something I strive to achieve. While taking some time off to travel,

I used the spare time to enrol onto a teaching diploma, which will soon be finished and allow me to achieve this goal!

How did you start offering masterclasses, and what would your top tips be for anyone looking to do the same?

The techniques and products are constantly evolving in our industry, and it is essential to never stop learning

and enhancing our knowledge. A lot of people tend to focus on teaching beginners how to do nails, but they never teach already-qualified nail technicians how to level up their skills in line with these changes. I wrote my masterclasses to combat this issue and teach nail technicians’ essential topics not commonly taught in traditional courses, as well as all of my hints, tips and tricks, and techniques of the trade that I’ve developed over my 9 years in the industry.

Salon of the Month Duck & Dry, Chelsea

Opening 10 years ago as a blow dry bar priding itself on good hair and a good time, Duck & Dry has become a salon synonymous with expert hair styling and a luxury experience that is still fun! Overall, being a social concept salon, Duck & Dry believes in the natural beauty of hair and strives to enhance it into the best version through expertise, with one of their prominent mottos being “Your Hair, But Better!”

After 10 years as a leading salon for blow dries, the time had come to introduce something new, in the form of a colour bar led by colour specialists Backstage. Backstage is one of the largest beauty salon chains in Ukraine, and they are experts in colour; it couldn’t be a better fit! Duck & Dry Founder, Yulia Rorstrom, shared, “As I am Ukrainian, I felt it was an amazing fit for the brand in the next phase of our journey. Our Chelsea salon now has an expanded menu of services, including a colour bar, nail bar, brow bar and even men’s grooming.”

After being a pillar of the London beauty industry for 10 years, Duck & Dry has built a strong reputation within the industry. With this in mind, Yulia shared, “We have a connection with the consumer mind for quality styling; whether people come to us once a year for a special occasion or regularly for their weekly blow dry, we’re an established brand that clients can rely on.” Duck & Dry also prides itself on having a triedand-tested product line that stylists use day in and day out on clients. Being a brand that creates quality looks with quality home-grown products gives the salon a point of difference from competitors, which is why the salon is so confident for the next stage of their journey and introducing new services. Yulia noted, “We’re very excited to be building the same level of expertise and reputation with the new colour bar in partnership with Backstage.”

With the Chelsea salon being the original Duck & Dry, it already has a strong, aesthetic brand look, which has been further enhanced with the addition of Backstage’s signature

coral branding. To create a luxurious, welcoming environment, the salon has been upgraded with splashes of duck egg blue, which integrate perfectly with the marble and green tones within the salon.

Such an aesthetic interior lends itself to further enhancing the client experience. With this in mind, Duck & Dry pride themselves on the fact they don’t feel like a traditional salon, enabling clients to enjoy quality service alongside great music, cocktails, an expert product line and a buzzing atmosphere. Adapting and accommodating on-the-go lifestyles, clients have noted they love the fact they can book an appointment at the last minute or walk-in to have their beauty needs met!

Interiors and atmosphere are great, but what really keeps clients returning is the top-quality service received when visiting Duck & Dry. When selecting stylists for the salon, quality of service is paramount, quickly followed by their attitude towards working as part of a team to foster a positive in-salon environment for all! Yulia highlighted, “We really value a can-do attitude, as well as being specialist professionals in their trade.”

When it comes to the growth of the salon, Instagram has definitely helped in building a broad client base. Acting like a secondary website where people can see the faces behind the brand and day-to-day BTS, Instagram has enabled the salon to connect with clients and influencers, which has been instrumental in pushing the Duck & Dry experience to a bigger audience.

In modern business, sustainability is no longer a mere buzzword and must be an integral part of salon life. At Duck & Dry, the team is dedicated to reducing their carbon footprint and caring for the planet as much as they care for your hair! Duck & Dry reduces their carbon footprint while also supporting the local community by using their own product line containing natural active ingredients, packaged in recyclable materials, and made in small batches in the UK in carbon-neutral labs.

For the salon, there’s been a multitude of milestones on their journey to success, from launching a product line to working with renowned brands to launching in Harvey Nichols. Yulia shared, “One of the biggest milestones has been establishing the brand as a leader in all the business pillars, from branding and training to products, and turning that into “a business in a box” that we’re currently taking international. We’re now actively looking for franchise partners to help achieve Duck & Dry’s worldwide domination!”

@duckanddry

Extends the life of blow-outs & updos

Instantly adds volume, texture and hold

Absorbs Oils Vegan and cruelty free

Staffing & Recruitment

Now Hiring!

One of the most important components in your salon operation success is a high performing team. This ensures business success, brand reputation, repeat clients and sales growth. Louise Guilfoyle, founder of Skin Deep Careers, shares her essentials for hiring a thriving team in 2024.

Be Proactive

Don’t put off hiring until you have a vacant position. All year long, you should meet and interview elite talent. Every four to six months, I advise scheduling time to go over your talent pool, so if someone should abruptly depart, you don’t have a difficult time filling their shoes. Not only does the cost of a vacant position and hours required for hiring affect sales, but it also affects the workload and morale of current staff.

Define What Makes Your Business Unique

Prior to hiring, spend some time defining what makes your business unique from the competitors. Comparing your salon, products and services to big, international companies or neighbourhood salons is one way to do this. Include these in your social media posts, job postings and interview language when you have at least ten reasons.

Create a Memorable Recruitment Experience

If you’re looking to convert top tier talent to accept your job offer over another, creating an engaging candidate experience is essential. A poor candidate experience can cause job seekers to drop out of the process. This includes providing a clear job advertisement and job description, responding to applications, preparing for each interview and treating each candidate as an individual, making them feel respected and valued with active listening. It also entails giving unsuccessful candidates constructive criticism and individualised comments.

Training

Choosing an under-skilled individual with future potential and investing in them will not only guarantee that they have the training and experience they need for their career, but it will also increase retention and loyalty. Technical know-how, business acumen and salon management may fall under this category. Start early to ensure that you’re prepared for any event involving recruitment.

Benefits

When recruiting, it’s important to offer benefits to attract great talent and retain existing staff for motivation and recognition. Offering perks will ensure your team feels valued. It could also be the reason a candidate will take your role over another competitor’s role. These can include free treatments, friends and family discounts, training and development, health insurance, birthday leave, gym membership, team building activities, or attending industry awards. Happier employees will stay longer in your business.

Louise Guilfoyle is a talent acquisition and employer branding specialist with over 20 years’ international experience in beauty, medical, wellness and retail.

She is the Founder of Skin Deep Careers, working with professionals, managers and organisations on education, training, recruitment and consulting.

For more information: louise@skindeepcareers.com, @skindeepcareers and www.skindeepcareers.com

The Root of Success

Post-pandemic, the UK beauty industry has faced serious labour shortages, considerably impacting salons’ economic growth. As such, it’s crucial to get recruitment right to attract and retain elite talent, and we hear from Townhouse and Bloom Salons to understand how they overcame the recruitment hurdle.

Juanita Huber-Millet, Founder and Creative Director at Townhouse

With nail technicians working independently within a salon, is there still an emphasis on teamwork? If so, what qualities would you look for when hiring?

Absolutely! While our nail artists work independently when executing treatments, they work as part of a team in every other aspect of their role. We also offer simultaneous mani-pedi treatments, so there are many instances where two nail artists will work together. One of our three company values is all about hiring nice, friendly people, so when hiring, we look for candidates who are kind, take initiative and are keen to support others.

How do you integrate new technicians into an established team to foster a positive working environment?

Every team member that joins our Townhouse salons goes through our full

training programme. This is essential to ensure a full understanding of the brand across all locations. This also helps build team camaraderie, along with a monthly social budget for salon managers to treat their team.

How have you tried to navigate the post-pandemic staffing crisis in the industry?

We’re currently working on establishing college partnerships so we can offer new graduates the opportunity to join our team. We also actively use social media to highlight vacancies. We find candidates now showcase their portfolio of work across social media, so it made sense for us to leverage that to attract talent.

What’s

your recruitment process?

Our salon recruitment team screens all applications, starting with examining each candidate’s experience and

portfolio of work and, once selected, progressing with a telephone interview. Following this, we organise a skills assessment and invite the candidate to one of our salons. At this point, we look at how they interact with us, their model and the tools, as well as assess their technical ability. Directly after their skills assessment, they also have a face-toface interview where we ask situational questions.

What would you advise other salon owners looking to build an effective salon team?

It starts with great leadership; having someone in place who cares about their team and respects the industry. At Townhouse, part of our mission is to revolutionise the industry for the amazing people that work in it. We’re very proud of our skills-based career pathway, as it helps us retain our talent, as team members always know there’s room to progress at Townhouse.

Sheona Will, Founder and Owner of Bloom Salons

What stylist qualities do you look for when hiring?

Like most of our guests, we look first for warmth, authenticity and connection. It’s the first impression that really matters to us all when we meet someone. Thereafter, it’s about ability in terms of technical and guest service. Is a potential team member open to learning and growth?

How

do you keep staff motivated?

At Bloom, we do believe that certain incentives will spur things on. That said, however, we leverage three key pillars to engage and motivate our team: inspiring through education and creativity, personal growth for our team, and maintaining salon standards.

We aim for clarity, fairness and transparency with bonuses that track the guest experience overall. Maintaining salon standards is a key motivational tool; no one wants to work somewhere where the guest experience is compromised, either by the salon space or standards from the support team.

What

do

you implement to encourage staff retention?

Communication systems are key. Some of the most impactful systems we have implemented have been yearly one-toones, pay-day celebrations and Bloom Pro Team Instagram, to name a few. Also, focusing on new guest recruitment will always increase staff retention, especially if you are training a young team.

What’s

your recruitment process?

A constant one! We’re always recruiting using a cross-section of outlets, social media, websites, and contacts with industry and educational establishments; sharing our focus on education, learning journeys, and milestone achievements; using our most established team to mentor and train; and relying on our product brand, Keune, to help us build both our profile and salon success.

Working with a forward-focused brand that has deeply rooted foundations in education and creativity is super important to attract amazing team members.

What would you advise other salon owners looking to build an effective salon team?

At Bloom, we feel very much that we are still a work in progress! I recall listening to a podcast, which really helped me understand that to build an effective salon team, you have to constantly remind yourself that it’s not ‘if’ team members leave you, it’s ‘when’. What systems do you have in place that are bringing new energy in? Are you constantly improving your in-salon systems? We ask ourselves this all the time; there is still much to do at Bloom.

5 Minutes With…

Mandy McMullen, the Head of Curriculum and Development at Kleek Apprenticeships, the UK’s leading Hair and Beauty Apprenticeship Training Provider, discussing the importance of supporting apprentices in salons.

How can salons support apprentices to achieve their full potential?

There are several important ways salons can help their apprentices make the most of their training for future success. Firstly, creating a nurturing environment is essential. Salons can foster a supportive and inclusive atmosphere where apprentices feel valued and motivated to learn. This means cultivating a welcoming workspace where everyone is treated with respect and dignity. Apprentices should feel comfortable asking questions, seeking advice and sharing their ideas without fear of judgment. Celebrating their contributions and milestones can significantly boost their morale and motivation.

Comprehensive training is also crucial. Salons should offer a structured training programme through an accredited apprenticeship training provider that covers both theoretical and practical aspects of hairstyling. This includes fundamental principles and techniques, along with hands-on sessions where apprentices can apply what they’ve learnt. Allowing apprentices to assist with real clients under supervision is vital for them to gain practical experience and build confidence.

So, working with an outstanding training provider is a must, how can salon staff support this?

Salons should assign mentors to support the development of apprentices. By having senior stylists as mentors, and working alongside experienced educators from the training provider, apprentices can gain practical knowledge and insights into the profession that go beyond formal training. Mentors can share their

personal experiences, tips and best practices, and, through one-on-one guidance, help apprentices develop their technical skills and artistic flair.

Mentorship can play a crucial role, but how can employers keep apprentices engaged?

Setting clear goals and expectations can help. When apprentices know what’s required of them, they can focus their efforts more effectively. Salons should provide regular performance reviews to track progress, offer constructive feedback and identify areas for improvement. These reviews offer opportunities to set new goals, ensuring continuous growth. Recognising and rewarding accomplishments, no matter how small, can inspire apprentices to strive for excellence.

Is there any other advice you would give to salon owners after their apprentices qualify?

Absolutely! Encouraging continuous learning is crucial, even after apprentices qualify. Supporting an apprentice through both Level 2 and Level 3 qualifications should be encouraged. The added knowledge and skills gained at the advanced level are so valuable and help build a more confident and creative professional.

A culture of lifelong learning will keep staff engaged and motivated. This can be achieved by offering advanced training opportunities, including specialised courses, certification programmes and workshops. By investing in their professional development, salons can empower their apprentices to reach their full potential and stay ahead in our competitive industry.

Styled by the Kleek - Apprentices’ Work

The Dream Team

Staff recruitment and retention is one of the most pressing issues in the industry today, from the aftermath of the pandemic, to staff leaving employment and opting to work for themselves. In light of this, we gain invaluable insights from industry experts, helping salons navigate these uncertain times.

Asalon can only be as strong as the team that holds it up. Making your salon recognisable for all of the right reasons requires staff that are offered a professional, rewarding and growth-centred environment in which to flourish. Although the future of staffing and recruitment in the industry may seem uncertain, we share how to recruit and maintain your dream team!

The aftermath of the pandemic has surely had significant consequences for the industry, leading to labour shortages. The emergence of flexible, remote working combined with the disruption of training pathways and professionals changing careers completely has led to some salons facing a labour squeeze.

Darren Fowler, Owner of Fowler35 London for L’Oreal Professionnel, recalled, “I’ve observed first-hand the wide-reaching effects of the postpandemic staffing shortage. This issue is not unique to our industry, but is seen across various sectors. The pandemic has prompted a significant shift in employee expectations, geographic mobility and consumer behaviour, all of which have impacted the traditional workforce dynamics.”

The impacts of staffing post-pandemic have surely been challenging, but Louise Guilfyole, Founder of Skin Deep Careers, highlighted, “I’m confident we’re seeing recruitment slowly shift in a positive direction to pre-pandemic.” To overcome these obstacles in the industry, Louise shared her expert advice and said, “When building your talent pool, being proactive is even more critical. Stay in touch with top talent and network in the industry; also consider working with well-connected recruiters to assist you in building your name.”

With recruitment in the salon environment in stark contrast to the one

By aligning the training of staff and clients, we have cultivated a robust and synergistic community that thrives on mutual success.

it was pre-pandemic, salon recruitment must adapt accordingly. Louise noted, “I think clinics and salons have to be more flexible with what they offer to widen their pool; also, hiring new graduates and upskilling talent with skill shortages makes the industry a very exciting place!”

Although the labour squeeze appears to have resulted from the pandemic, this certainly wasn’t the only cause, with a multitude of factors causing said shortages. Leya Bushell, Founder of The Salon Finders, discussed, “There are many contributing factors causing staffing shortages, from people wanting to work from home, transitioning to rent a chair salons, the rising cost of apprentices, and even leaving the EU, resulting in fewer hairdressers available.”

New EU regulation rules make it harder for EU nationals to retain a visa for hairdressing and beauty roles due to not meeting the salary thresholds, adding a further hurdle to the recruitment drive in the industry.

With the changes in the industry, recruitment should continue to adapt to the needs of the market and workforce, which leads us to look at specific recruitment processes during the staffing shortage. Darren shared, “In response to the staffing shortage, we revamped our recruitment process. We developed a programme called “360 Recruitment”, which aims to educate salon managers on effective recruitment and training methods for both new team members and clients.

“This holistic approach has been instrumental in our success. By aligning

When building your talent pool, being proactive is even more critical.

the training of staff and clients, we have cultivated a robust and synergistic community that thrives on mutual success. This programme has proven to be 100% successful, fostering a new generation of team members and clients who are deeply invested in our business.”

While having an effective recruitment process is essential to attract the best in the business, it’s also important to look internally and see what opportunities you can provide for progression through training. Continuous education not only enables your salon to keep up with the latest trends and ensures clients receive the most up-to-date services, but also positions you as an attractive employer for employees looking to join the industry.

This idea is furthered by Sean Hanna, Salon Owner and Founder of Sean Hanna Consultancy, as he shared, “Over the past couple of years, the majority of our new stylists have come from an internal promotion, people we have trained ourselves to come onto the salon floor. We put a lot of work into internal and external training for our team, meaning our apprentices are salon-ready

and part of our team as soon as they qualify, and stylists have a clear pathway of career progression.

“The past six months have seen a significant increase in both stylist and apprentice applicants, with many expressing the desire to move away from freelancing or rent-a-chair models and benefit from the security and social interaction of being part of a strong team.”

Leya supported Sean as she suggested, “Invest in training from within to get the apprentice to become a solid junior stylist; train your junior stylist to become a more advanced stylist. Don’t stop recruiting. Even if you think you have a good team and a full salon this week, that might not be the same next week.”

As challenging as it currently is to find suitable salon staff, a further issue within the industry is staff retention, and the last thing you want as a salon owner is staff jumping ship! By prioritising staff retention, this saves you from continually onboarding new staff hires. Alongside this, retaining staff helps foster a welcoming, friendly salon environment, with regular clients ensuring repeat business.

There is no better way to understand why you may be struggling with retention than by speaking to your current team members. Louise encouraged, “Talk to your existing team and find out what they enjoy at work and where they struggle. Get to know your team well, and create a safe space for them to communicate. If you don’t understand why your staff are leaving, you can’t fix the problem! I’d recommend weekly or fortnightly oneto-ones in relaxed settings, with checkin questions, feedback on both sides, objectives and follow-ups.”

Claire Charlotte, Founder of the Wellness Agency, noted, “Staff retention is one of the biggest challenges in the industry. When salons invest in recruiting the right employees, who have not only the right skills or experience, but also the right personality and behaviour to fit their salon, that is when they start to see a difference in retention.

“When you have a new recruit, a quality induction process is instrumental to the candidate’s outlook on their new role. We have seen that 76% of our placements who left within the first two weeks were due to going straight into

Taking the time to integrate a new recruit goes a long way in helping them to understand and align with your company’s values and culture.

treatment and had little to no quality onboarding and team integration. Taking the time to integrate a new recruit goes a long way in helping them understand and align with your company’s values and culture.”

Continuing with the idea of employees aligning with a business’ ethos, Noel Halligan, Co-Founder of NOCO Hair, Bristol, encouraged the importance of employing people who resonate with your business. Noel suggested, “Look at the type of content you’re putting out; if you’re posting memes and videos, you’re going to attract people who like memes. If you put out serious content that focuses on quality care and expertise, you’re going to attract people like that.

“So, if you tell your story about how you’ve gotten into the industry yourself, why you’re there, and how you’ve

managed to help other people get from A to B, you’re more likely to attract people who can relate to your story and your salon.”

While the salon industry is certainly different from the way it was prepandemic, it’s far from doom and gloom! The industry post-pandemic presents both challenges and opportunities and, as the industry changes, recruitment techniques cannot remain stagnant. Looking internally, ensure you’re providing training and growth opportunities for all staff, and keep a constant eye on recruitment, even if you’re not currently hiring. By staying adaptive, fostering a positive work environment and seeking professional guidance, you can turn these challenges into a foundation for future growth and success.

Education Station

Have you considered how employment contracts can benefit beauty practitioners, salon owners, barbers, and stylists within the hair, beauty, and aesthetics industry? The NHBF emphasises the significance of having clear and comprehensive employment contracts to establish a strong foundation for professional relationships.

Why Do ContractsEmployment Matter?

Employment contracts are essential as they outline the rights and responsibilities of both employers and employees. For salon, clinic, and barbershop owners, these contracts provide legal protection, promote clarity and consistency in daily operations, and enhance the business’s reputation. For staff, the contracts offer security, outline expectations, and safeguard their rights as employees.

Benefits for Employers:

Legal Protection: Employment contracts define terms of employment, including job roles, remuneration, and termination procedures, protecting businesses from disputes and legal challenges.

Clarity and Consistency: By outlining expectations and policies, contracts promote clarity and consistency, reducing misunderstandings, and enhancing productivity.

Retention and Reputation: Offering formal employment agreements demonstrates professionalism and commitment to staff welfare, potentially enhancing retention rates and strengthening the business’s reputation.

Benefits for Employees:

Security: Employment contracts provide job security by specifying terms of employment, working hours, remuneration, and benefits, offering peace of mind to employees.

Clear Expectations: By clearly outlining job responsibilities, performance metrics, and disciplinary procedures, contracts ensure that employees understand what is expected of them, fostering a positive work environment.

Legal Safeguards: Contracts protect employees’ rights by establishing

procedures for dispute resolution, ensuring fair treatment, and safeguarding against unfair dismissal or exploitation.

NHBF: Your Partner in Success

For salon owners, beauty practitioners, barbers, and stylists seeking professionally drafted, legally approved employment contracts tailored to the hair, beauty, barbering, and aesthetics industry, look no further than the National Hair & Beauty Federation (NHBF). As the leading trade association for the hair and beauty sector, NHBF offers its Members access to a comprehensive range of resources, including ready-to-use employment contracts designed to meet industryspecific needs.

Why Join NHBF?

Expertise and Guidance: The National Hair and Beauty Federation provides expert guidance on employment law, regulatory compliance, and business

management, empowering members to navigate the complexities of the industry with confidence.

Exclusive Resources: NHBF Members gain access to a wealth of exclusive resources, including template contracts, legal updates, and business support tools, saving time and money on legal fees and administrative tasks.

Other amazing benefits

include:

• 24/7 legal and commercial helplines

• Discounted tailored business insurance

• Guides and fact sheets

• 10% discount off the PPL part of your music license

• Campaigning for better business policies with the government

• Employment contracts and templates

• *New* Business in a Box

To find out more, visit www.nhbf.co.uk or call us on 01234 831965 to speak to our friendly and knowledgeable membership team.

Flourish with Fresha

With a reputation for trendy cuts and friendly staff, Shag! is one of Notting Hill’s go-to salons for a cut and colour. We hear from the founders, April Taylor and Joe Sirry, on their overnight success and how Fresha has transformed their business.

What makes Shag! different?

After 10 years working at hair salons, April and Joe decided to create the change they wanted to see in the industry: they gave their staff the tools and freedom to do their best work, while supporting their wellbeing and career growth. After posting a teaser video on social media showcasing the Shag! salon space, they gained 40,000 followers and got fully booked up four months in advance.

“We wanted to build a team where staff are treated just as well as clients, with flexible hours and plenty of opportunities to grow their personal brand,” said Joe.

“We’re here to give every client the five-star treatment they deserve.”

Shag!’s clients enjoy more time in the chair than most salons, because ‘great hair takes time’. “The idea is for every client to feel comfortable and looked after, not rushed or forgotten,”

The pair knew that to balance their outstanding client care and staff

management with efficient day-to-day operations, they’d need a world-class online booking platform.

Making every day a streamlined success

Fresha gives Shag! the tools to control their schedule and get the most value from each day. Everything is streamlined: clients can instantly book, and stylists can arrange their time, easily making adjustments when needed.

With Fresha’s smart scheduling helping to guarantee back-to-back appointments, every day is as smooth and profitable as possible. April shared, “Our stylists are in total control of their day, which keeps them motivated and lets them focus on their craft. Gaps between appointments aren’t a problem for us anymore.”

Plus, they use Fresha’s consultation forms to gather key information about new clients. “The consultation forms tell us everything we need to know about clients, and help us stick to industry regulations,” April told us. “Getting their

details and managing patch tests takes zero effort.”

The future is bright for Shag!

Fresha will play a central role in their plans to come. April noted, “We’ve already seen how easy it is to set up multiple venues in the platform, and Fresha will help us stay transparent and connected with our stylists. I’d recommend Fresha to anyone running a salon — it’s the best booking platform to help you hit your growth goals.”

About Fresha

Fresha is the world’s #1 beauty and wellness marketplace powered by all-in-one free business software with integrated payments. With over 100,000 partner venues in more than 120 countries, Fresha simplifies business operations and enhances customer experiences. To learn more, visit fresha. com, download Fresha on the App Store and Google Play, or follow Fresha on Instagram and Facebook.

Money Matters

As a Bookkeeper, Sue Reeve’s worked with many salon owners and understands the unique financial challenges often faced and shares some insights on how to manage your finances more effectively.

Where can salon owners save money that they may not already be aware of?

Salon owners often overlook areas where they can save money. Reviewing utility bills and negotiating better rates or switching providers can lead to significant savings. Implementing strict inventory management practices to reduce over-ordering and wastage of products is another area. Additionally, reconsider staffing schedules to ensure the salon is not overstaffed during slower periods and use part-time or flexible staff to manage costs.

How can businesses who do their own bookkeeping improve their long-term finances?

When business owners take charge of their bookkeeping, they gain a deeper understanding of their financial health, leading to better cash flow management, immediate recognition of financial issues and informed decision-making. Being directly involved in finances helps spot trends and patterns that could indicate areas for cost savings or potential investment. Over time, this knowledge can lead to more strategic planning, better budgeting, and improved financial stability, ultimately contributing to the long-term success of your salon.

The importance of exploring multiple suppliers to save money

Exploring multiple suppliers is crucial for salon owners looking to save money. By not limiting your salon to a single supplier, comparing prices, negotiating better deals, and ensuring the best value for money is possible. Different suppliers may offer varying discounts, bulk purchase benefits, or loyalty rewards. Additionally, having multiple suppliers reduces dependency on one source.

Advice for salon owners currently outsourcing their accounts

If you’re currently paying someone else to manage your accounts, it’s essential to regularly review their work to ensure accuracy and compliance. While outsourcing can save time and provide professional expertise, ensure you’re not overpaying for these services. Explore hybrid models where basic bookkeeping tasks are handled in-house and only outsource more complex accounting needs. My biggest worry about fully outsourcing is that it’s

very easy as a business owner to miss overspending and where savings can be made, whereas the basic inputting, with the right guidance gives you visibility on exactly where the money in their business is being spent.

How I can help salon owners

As a bookkeeper with experience in the salon industry, I can help streamline financial processes, ensuring accuracy and efficiency. The goal is to alleviate the financial management burden through my membership, The Business Finance Academy. To find out more about how you can Retain More of Your Earningsas a Salon Owner, please download my free guide, by visiting this link below:

https://linktr.ee/SueReeve_Windmill

Sue Reeve

Step Into The Spotlight

This month, we sat down with Brayden Beavis, owner of Your Salon Support and delve into how the brand is pioneering digital transformations for small salon and beauty business owners by providing them with tech solutions and AI tools that streamline operations and help business thrive!

Tell us a bit about Your Salon Support and what you’re all about?

We’re all about making salon businesses industry famous through digital marketing. Salon businesses are run by very busy people that don’t have time to learn how to build a high performing website, or run a Meta ad campaign to

the same level of a team that does it for a living. Salons should be able to use these tools to grow their business without having to add another thing to their never ending to-do list.

You

say that SEO and marketing are the next big thing. Why are they so important?

SEO and marketing are vital because they increase professional visibility and attract clients. Everyone is fighting for attention on socials, and aren’t aware of the fact it is only part of your online presence. SEO is another part and it’s the next big thing in hairdressing. SEO is like when people search for “blonde hair” on Google, ideally, your business would appear on page 1. The more searches you appear in, the more you reinforce yourself as someone brands should invest in.

The term marketing kind of encapsulates it all, and also advertising. Not boosting - there is a difference. When we run ads that are always on it ensures people are getting eyes on your brand all the time, and engaging with it for as little as £10 a day. It’s fundamentally about creating as many

ways possible that people can engage with your brand, to convert as a client or use as a basis to get investment and scale your business.

What services do you offer to help businesses grow?

Ultimately our goal is to make salon businesses industry famous. We’ve generated over 100K in investment for our clients from partnerships, and a lot of different strategies go into that.

I want you to think of a salon right now - the talk about the town salon that everyone goes to. Got it? Great! Now, that level of fame doesn’t happen by accident. It’s planned and reinforced through many factors, and digital marketing is a big one. This is what we do.

How can our readers work with you?

Start off with our complimentary ‘Google My Business’ review. Everything starts with agoogle search, it’s the foundation on which your house is built - if that is not performing at 100% the house will shake.

Head to www.yoursalonsupport.com to find out more!

Sustainability Solutions

Welcome to our regular feature with Green Salon Collective, your monthly column providing you with an abundance of knowledge to make your salon more sustainable. This month, Green Libertine Claire Higgs, owner of Nylon Hair Artists, shares her water-saving tips for salons.

When running a salon, water use is unavoidable, and research conducted by the Environmental Protection Agency shared that the average salon can use up to 1,136 litres of water per day. This figure truly highlights the need for and importance of water conservation in a salon environment.

Top 5 water-saving tips!

Ditch the Disposables

Swap out single-use plastic drink bottles with either refillable water bottles or a refillable water jug containing charcoal water filters, which purify the water for

The Environmental Protection Agency shared that the average salon can use up to 1,136 litres of water per day.

those who just don’t like the taste of tap water.

Control the Flow

To reduce the flow of water to the taps in the salon, you will need to have isolating valves on each tap, which can then be adjusted. i.e., half open, would reduce your water consumption by a whopping 50%! We also use Eco Heads on the salon basins. These water-efficient showerheads are designed to reduce water usage while maintaining strong water pressure, conserving water without compromising on rinsing.

Reduce Usage

Using a leave-in conditioner saves water by eliminating the need for rinsing; this reduces energy consumption, too! Additionally, it will help maintain the client’s hair health longer between washes, further reducing water usage.

By explaining this added benefit to the client, you will help them appreciate your dedication to sustainability and hair health simultaneously.

Clean Consciously

By using a steam mop to clean the salon floor, this eliminates water waste by utilising minimal water to generate effective cleaning and sanitising power. This requires far less water compared to traditional techniques, but it ensures your salon remains spotlessly clean!

Educate your Team

Educate staff on water conservation practices. People think that we have an infinite amount of water, but we really don’t, so research and teach your team the facts and discuss the ways you’re going to reduce water consumption as a salon. It’s a team effort, so ensure everyone is working towards your goals!

Claire Higgs

Behind the Scenes

The team attended a multitude of launches and events throughout the month in the world of hair and beauty, and we’re here to give you the latest!

HairCon

REHAB. Masterclass & Pop Up

A delightful morning spent with the REHAB. Team consisted of a masterclass with celebrity hair stylist Sami Knight, sharing his top tips for red carpet ready hair without heat and personalised hair prescriptions, ahead of their first ever London pop-up! After seeing the products on the shelves and being demoed, it was time to understand them fully with the help of Sami Knight, using the REHAB. Heatless curler to create effortless, damage-less curls! The finished look was demonstrated on none other than the ‘tap-to-tidy’ star Stacey Solomon, using the REHAB. Dose 1.0 hair capsules. Personal product standouts had to be the dissolvable shampoo and conditioner sheets; does it get much more sustainable and convenient?

In June, the team headed up to Victoria Warehouse Manchester to attend the inaugural HairCon event. It was great to attend such a revolutionary event for the professional hair and barbering industry, with a weekend jam-packed with entertainment, education and inspiration. The live stages provided an abundance of opportunities to watch live talent, with our personal highlights being the Robert Eaton v Ashleigh Hodges Fellowship Presidential Showdown, ending hair loss taboos with Josh Lamonaca and a Diva professional commercial artistry showcase with Michael Grey, Alan Bjornson and Emma Dixon.

Centred Hair Loss Panel with Kieran & Laura Tudor

We joined CENTRED co-founders, Kieran and Laura Tudor, for an insightful panel discussion with the incredibly knowledgeable @wholistichealth_bylara discussing the relationship between nutrition and hair health. The conversation focused on the need for a holistic approach to haircare, reducing cortisol levels throughout different aspects of life, as well as consuming a diet containing healthy fats to protect and maintain hair health.

We learnt that CENTRED emerged as a result of Laura’s personal hair loss story combined with Kieran’s extensive hairdressing experience, resulting in a range of haircare products that truly deliver. The CENTRED haircare range promotes the importance of healthy hair from the inside out. We loved expanding our hair-loss knowledge and learning how to share this with clients.

Schwarzkopf Pro Press Lunch with Nick Irwin

A wonderful afternoon was spent with Schwarzkopf’s Global Ambassador, Nick Irwin, as we chatted all things session label and LFW at Duck and Waffle. The conversation was centred around where Nick draws his inspiration from for his LFW looks, focusing on embracing and understanding culture, and the role of education in session styling. Nick’s excitement for the younger generation of stylists is palpable, evident through his passion for creating solutions and opportunities for those looking to join the session world!

HairCon Makes Its Mark!

HairCon promised to ignite the industry and it did not disappoint! Over 4,000 visitors immersed themselves in stunning shows, in-depth business, social media and creative workshops, on stand demos and immersive experiences all under the roof of the iconic O2 Victoria Warehouse, Manchester.

On the Main Stage highlights included a monumental show from the Trevor Sorbie Creative Team, which saw Trevor Sorbie MBE himself creating stunning styles on stage for the first time in seven years. Saco’s Richard Ashforth and X-presion’s Jorge Cáncer tore up the stage with the first Noise show in the UK outside of London; Jack & The Wolfe blew the crowd away with A Modern Fairytale sponsored by Yuv®; Stacey Wright reminded the audience about just why HairCon was in Manchester with a homage to her home city, 24HR ART’EH PEOPLE, sponsored by Wahl. James Earnshaw and Grace Dalgleish wowed the crowd with colour shows and the Fellowship Project teams reassured everyone that the future of creative UK hairdressing is in phenomenal hands.

Trailblazing Caryn Franklin MBE hosted the HairCon Style Challenges, sponsored by the Fellowship for British Hairdressing, giving a hair-focused modern twist to

this TV classic with favourite artists going head to head.

All the heroes attended, includingErrol Douglas MBE, Nicky Clarke OBE,

Andrew Barton, Billi Currie, Desmond Murray, Jacqui McIntosh, Ashleigh Hodges, Sally Brooks and Mark Hayes, leading an unbelievable Sassoon show

to celebrate their 70th anniversary.

The barbers were out in force with Josh Lamonaca and Sean Moore celebrating 10 years of Menspire; Alan Beak hosted the Main Stage as well as creating cool cuts. Dean Gleeson and Cal Newsome enjoyed a Style Challenge duel whilst Rob Wood created amazing transformations with Novo Cobelo.

Richie Finney, Johnny BaBa, James Parr, Jay Foster, JJ Savani, Lucy Muyanga and the legend that is Simon Shaw hosted, shared business insights and technical skills with our inspired and engaged visitors.

HairCon became the home of celebrating UK creative artistry and businesses with partners bringing their annual Awards to the show, from the Great Lengths GLammies to the UK debut Iconic.24 from Vagaro.

The Fellowship for British Hairdressing provided a non-stop programme of creative skills and business insight, whilst other Headline Sponsors; EVO Media Group, Diva Pro Styling, Vagaro, Dense, Great Lengths, yuv® and Design Essentials – all enjoyed packed stands thanks to interactive experiences and friendly welcoming creative teams.

Plus, charities welcomed to the festival included the Little Princess Trust and Haircuts for Homeless.

HairCon show director, Jane Galpin shared, “We have been overwhelmed by the fantastic feedback from our amazing artists, brand partners and the visitors. Our social engagement is blowing up with fabulous, positive comments and we’ve had re-bookings and new bookings for next year already. Having Trevor on stage and moving the Fellowship for British Hairdressing’s Presidents Night out of London for the first time, were both true moments in time which none of us will forget. A huge big thank you to everyone who made our first, of many, HairCon such a successful and pioneering festival.”

HairCon extended their thanks to the Collaborator Sponsors: Blonde Solutions, K18, Innersense Beauty, Keratin Complex, Tondeo, Olivia Garden, Procare, Salons Direct, Leaf Scissors, Olaplex, Scrummi, Zen Hair Extensions, Calligraphy Cut, Comfortel, Novo Cabelo, Ergo UK, Glowwa, and Phorest.

And to Media Partners: BarberEVO; Creative Head; Concept; Good Salon Guide; The Salon Magazine, National Hair & Beauty Federation; How To Cut It; SalonEVO, Salon Business, Hair & Barber Council, British Hair Consortium and British Beauty Council.

HairCon will be back in June 2025, so keep your eyes peeled!

Unlock your Potential

With a shift in beauty training in recent years from traditional college settings to the modernised commercial world, we hear from Amy Mawdsley, CEO of Lash Club Liverpool, on the importance of smaller training and masterclasses.

Originally, when completing my training to become a lash artist, I was one of fifteen students in the class. I left feeling deflated, unconfident, and with no further support. I actually questioned how I was even considered qualified when the tutor spent no more than 2 minutes assessing my work. I was just a number to them, and my future meant nothing.

From the get-go, I knew there had to be a better option for beginners entering the beauty industry, and this is what sparked my passion for offering small group training and masterclasses to beginners as well as students who have qualified with similar companies who need a more hands-on, personalised, and supportive approach.

After years of growing my clientele, I started investing in my own education in the form of online and in-person masterclasses, not just regarding lashes and brows but around social media and business as well. Once I was confident I had the skills and ability, I invested in

my own teacher training, building my manuals, creating the perfect beginner kit, and constantly investing in my skills to guarantee my students an instant advance in the beauty industry that they won’t get when training with the big names.

I think the most important thing we can offer as education providers in the beauty industry is a tailored approach to education, particularly in gaining an understanding of individual learning styles and addressing gaps in learning. A particularly useful tool is having multiple lesson plans available to enable us to adapt training to the individual accordingly. This is impossible with larger class sizes, hence why I prefer smaller group sessions with a maximum of 3 students.

As for us educators, it is vital that we keep our training and skills up to

date. It is not just about mastering techniques but also keeping up with industry trends, figuring out what works well and will stick around or what is just a passing phase, as well as having extensive product knowledge. We can do this by completing online courses, attending masterclasses, and asking your manufacturers questions.

At Lash Club, all courses are taught by myself, Amy! After building a lash brand over the past 9 years and still treating 30+ clients per week alongside educating, I’m constantly furthering my own education to provide clients and students with an exceptional standard of education. All of our beginner courses are accredited and insurable in our training academy, and our masterclasses can be booked on a 1:1 or group basis.

@lashclubliverpool

Welcome to Lash Club Salon & Training Academy

We specialise in Lash Extensions, Lash Lifts & Brow Laminations as well as being an ABT Accredited Training Academy. We also offer Masterclasses with a completely tailored approach.

Train with us on one of our small group Lash / Brow training courses. All courses include a high quality training kit, manual and exclusive discount codes.

What’s included?

• 24/7 access • Full training manual • Video demonstrations • Live model case studies

• Anatomy, physiology & health and safety

• ABT Accredited & Insurable

• Contraindications & troubleshooting

• Business & Social media support • Ongoing guidance

The Scales of Success

As a back bar management software created by a salon owner, for salon owners, SalonScale understand the importance of salon profitability and aim to create an ecosystem of profitable salons worldwide using innovative tools and technology to promote transparency and financial literacy.

How is Salon Scale designed with salon owners and managers in mind?

SalonScale was designed by salon owners, stylists, and managers to meet industry needs. Our product includes a mobile app and a web dashboard. The app is user-friendly for stylists, empowering them to understand salon costs, improve consultation confidence and enhance client communication.

Transparency builds trust between stylists and salon owners, clarifying compensation and reducing misunderstandings that lead to stylist turnover. SalonScale ensures compensation is based on services eliminating anxiety-driven commission conversations.

For salon owners, SalonScale acts as an operating system, providing

transparency, ease and peace of mind. The Business Center dashboard offers powerful analytics and insights into product usage and client records, ensuring consistency even with staffing changes. Digital inventory management prevents random ordering, reducing costs and maximising profitability.

SalonScale provides exact information to understand what makes a profit and what loses money. Real-time inventory and ordering information streamline managers’ tasks, making guest checkouts more efficient.

How does Salon Scale help salons become profitable?

To maximise your profits you need to control your expenses and you need to increase your revenues. SalonScale supports both.

Traditionally, salons set a fixed price per service or use “a la carte” pricing, which leads to a mystery in your costs. SalonScale provides exact cost data, so you can ensure you’re covering your costs. To increase the revenue, we need to look into our pricing structure.

Adding a margin or a mark-up to your product is a great strategy because we need to remember that each tube used, must now be replenished before it can be profited on. The average salon’s profit margin sits between 4% and 8%...this is razor thin, and there is no room for error. Insufficient profit margins can erode your earnings.

To address this, we recommend a 100% mark-up on your products. This strategy boosts revenue, covers fixed and variable costs (like foils and gloves), and supports a replenishment model. Passing the SalonScalecalculated costs onto the consumer the end of a service further increases revenue.

Often tines when salons are looking to increase revenue, the first thing they do is increase their prices. While it is important to keep up with inflation, we still haven’t fixed our core issue. When we increase the service price, there is still commissionable earnings on that. For every pound of product used over the allotment, we’re going to pay commissions on it. It’s a dangerous place to get into, and a big reason why salons are not turning a profit.

calculator, provides real-time session cost data at every appointment. This gives you the information of exactly what it’s costing your business based on each customer, stylist, day, week, month, and year. Our cost calculator is paired with the web dashboard, the Business Center. Our dashboard tools allow you to get reports, insights, inventory, and orders.

How

can Salon Scale help to enhance the customer experience?

Inventory management is another way SalonScale helps salons become more profitable. Did you know that salons have anywhere from £1,500 to £10,000 worth of colour locked up on their shelves? By keeping an eye on your stock alerts, you’ll be able to control your expenses and run a much more efficient back bar.

How does Salon Scale provide salon owners and managers with the tools needed to grow their business?

SalonScale offers tools that weigh, charge, track, order, stock, and profit from back bar products, salons to grow efficiently. Our core product, the cost

SalonScale is more than hair colour management it’s a complete back bar management system. Our innovative technology guarantees to amplify salon profitability.

With sustainability at the forefront of business decisions in 2024, how does Salon Scale demonstrate environmental responsibility?

SalonScale promotes cost management, minimising unnecessary purchases, and preventing overstocking, reducing waste. Our reweigh tool refines formulas to avoid leftover product, contributing to environmental sustainability.

SalonScale boosts confidence in communicating service costs, ensuring clients pay only for what is used. This builds trust and enhances the customer experience, especially when managing budgets. Digital client records ensure consistent service, encouraging repeat business.

How

can our readers work with Salon Scale?

We offer a free trial to our cost calculator. This is where you can explore what costs are being covered and what is coming in and out of your business. This is the best place to start. Sign up at www. salonscale.com, or book a call with one of our SalonScale experts.

Join over 4,000 salons and 8,000 stylists in the #SalonScaleMovement, making salon ownership the dream you imagined.

New Salon System Underlash

Salon System, announces the exciting launch of its newest addition to the lash range: Salon System Underlash. This innovative product line features two stunning styles, Classic Volume and Wispy Volume. Underlashes can create a more balanced and dramatic eye look, complementing the appearance of the upper lashes and making the eyes appear larger and more expressive. www.salonsystem.com

For Ultimate Salon Value, Choose HIVE®

HIVE® of Beauty’s range of waxes provide beauty professionals with outstanding depilatory results and incredible salon value, even more so when in a 3 for 2 pack!

Such a significant saving in the busy summer months can make a massive difference to the profitability of a beauty businesses, whether a busy salon or mobile therapist.

Super Charge Your Professional CACI Treatments

Introducing the new professional-only Super Charge Energisers, sachets of dissolvable powder, specifically formulated to enhance microcurrent treatments and improve microcurrent conductivity.

With Conductivity Boosters - Dip Conductivity Boosters into the dissolved Super Charge Energiser solution for a few seconds to enhance microcurrent treatment. Re-dip the Conductivity Boosters into the solution regularly throughout the treatment, approximately every two to three moves.

With Electro Gloves - Dissolve one sachet into a bowl of water. Dip Electro Gloves fingertips in the solution to enhance microcurrent treatment.

For topical skin application only. Do not drink or ingest. www.cacibeauty.com/super-charge-energisers/

Designed with Curls, Coils, and Waves in Mind

HIVE® 3 FOR 2 Wax Value Packs are available in the following varieties:

Warm ‘Honey’ Wax, Creme Wax, Tea Tree Creme Wax, Sensitive Creme Wax and Lavender Crème Wax (425g) www.hiveofbeauty.com

Crazy Color Reveals New Professional Product Line

Crazy Color Rapid Toners offer an unmatched blend of speed, pigment and ease of use, making them an essential addition to every professional colourist’s toolkit. Designed to deliver beautiful results in record time, these toners are easy to blend and mix so that you can create endless results with up to 9 uses from just one tube. Rapid Toners are formulated to create tonal results on blonde shades in just 5 minutes while moisturising and maintaining the health of your clients hair: ready to revolutionise the hair colouring experience for stylists and colourists worldwide. pro.crazycolor.com

The new Curl Defence Spray from Bouclème helps protect strands against damage caused by heat tools, UV rays, pollution, humidity, and brushing. Water-based and non-greasy, the spray has been carefully formulated with 99% naturally derived, vegan ingredients, making it not only perfect for curls, but kind for the planet too. Whilst protecting the hair against environmental aggressors, the antioxidant rich formula simultaneously works to support hair health, as it boosts elasticity and shields against protein loss from heat tools.

www.boucleme.co.uk/products/curl-defence-spray

The Fellowship Roundup

After a whirlwind month for the Fellowship, from Projects team days, live stages at HAIRCON and President’s Night, tune into our latest regular feature to find out more.

Projects Round Up

June was one of the busiest months in the Fellowship Projects calendar – and it’s only set to get busier! The Projects took over the Fellowship Stage at HAIRCON, as they share insight into their journeys so far, whilst sharing their knowledge on the latest trends, techniques, and education.

Project Sassoon spent their day at the House of Sassoon in London with Project Leader, Pink Grubb, focusing on preparing for their 2-day photoshoot in July. The team have now settled on a theme for the photoshoot – with Mondrian, Keith Haring, and Blitz Kids being the main points of inspiration. Pink Grubb demonstrated how to transfer inspiration into colour techniques, showcasing how inspiration images and technical colouring are connecting.

Project Colour spent their day with London Sassoon Academy Director with Senior Colour Director Caroline Spencer. Caroline champions for colour sustainability – meaning any technique, application and colour choice should

consider and reflect the individual wearer.

Project X travelled to the Billi Currie salon in London, to spend the day with Debbie Gee, who art directs photo shoots & teaches presentation skills. Debbie gave the team insight into presentation skills and confidence planning, which gave the team some great pointers for HAIRCON.

Project X spent their day with Award Winning Hairdresser, Junior Green, who presented a Masterclass on silk wrapping afro-textured hair. The day took place at Mash Creative Studios in London, where Junior provided a demo in the morning and the afternoon was reserved for the team to work on their models.

Fellowship Announce New Executive Board for 2024

The Fellowship for British Hairdressing is unveiling the next phase of the iconic institution, welcoming the youngest ever President, Ashleigh Hodges, and introducing the new Executive Board for 2024.

Under the guidance of CEO, Barry Stephens and President, Rob Eaton, the past two years have seen incredible growth for the Fellowship, celebrating their highest membership to date, opening three Centres of Excellence, and continuing to provide the industry with educational opportunities for their members in the shape of Hair & Vision

and the digital knowledge platform.

“The unveiling of our new Executive Board is also about acknowledging the hard work and dedication of the outgoing Executive Board – who have celebrated our heritage and driven the Fellowship forward over the past two years. The new board will follow in their footsteps, continuing the great work they have instigated, alongside introducing new initiatives”, Ashleigh said.

“The Executive Board want to encourage the growth of those who are new to the industry and those who have worked in the industry for many years. The Fellowship will be collaborating and bringing the industry together from all over the UK – with a focus on inspiring, educating, and encouraging salon stylists, salon owners, freelance stylists, and barbers”, Ashleigh continued.

“At this moment in time, the Fellowship has a range of exceptional projects and initiatives. Our goal is to evaluate how we can elevate our current projects, continuing to make them even more special. We want to energise the next generation of hairdressers and barbers, and make them recognise what an inclusive, diverse, and exciting industry they are coming into”, Ashleigh said.

President’s Night

President’s Night is one of the most highly anticipated nights in the hairdressing industry’s calendar, as the industry comes together to celebrate the dedication and accomplishments of its members.

This year, the industry assembled in

spectacular conditions, with President’s Night taking place straight after HAIRCON at the O2 Victoria Warehouse in Manchester on Monday the 24th of June 2024.

The industry came together to celebrate the tenure of 2022 – 2024 President, Robert Eaton. The event also served as an occasion to hand the chain to new President, Ashleigh Hodges –the Fellowship’s youngest ever female President.

The night began with a welcome speech from outgoing President, Robert Eaton, who thanked attendees for joining him for such a special occasion. Robert reflected on his presidency, highlighting what his role as President has meant to him and what himself and the Executive Board have accomplished over the past 2 years.

Throughout the day the F.A.M.E Team

were busy collating an outstanding show dedicated to the ICONS, celebrating those who have inspired the future generation of British hairdressing. The ICONS included Trevor Sorbie MBE, Errol Douglas MBE, Keith Harris, Andrew Collinge, Mark Hayes, Beverly C MBE, Lisa Shepherd, Zoe Irwin, and Nicky Clarke OBE.

The show, which was proudly supported by TONDEO, gave the F.A.M.E. Team the opportunity to express their creativity, creating 9 looks, under the guidance of their mentor, Sally Brooks. Each of the 9 looks were inspired by one of the ICON’s favourite looks from their careers.

The Fellowship Executive Board is

made up of:

• Barry Stephens, CEO

• Ashleigh Hodges, President

• Michelle Griffin, Vice President

• Simon Shaw, Head of Education

• Jackie Holian, Head of Strategic Partnerships

• Karolina Saunders, Head of Session

• Lisa Farrall, Head of Creative Direction

• Sally Brooks, Head of New Talent

• Junior Green, Head of Textured Hair Innovation

• Colin McAndrew, Fellowship Ambassador for Scotland

• Andrew Barton, Fellowship Ambassador for England

Creating a Safe Haven

As part of our inclusivity feature, we share four standout salons doing their utmost to create a safe and welcoming space for all.

Stā Studios

Inclusivity and accessibility should be a given in the salon industry today. Owner Samantha Cusick shared, “Every time I’ve opened a new location, I always look to improve accessibility, ensuring that our salons are spaces where everyone feels comfortable and respected.”

At Stā Studios, accessibility factors have been implemented from the initial designs to ensure it’s a salon accessible to all. The layout includes wide, clear pathways, spacious treatment areas, and a DDA-compliant bathroom, making it easy for clients using wheelchairs or mobility aids to navigate. The reception and styling stations are also designed to be accessible, ensuring that everyone can comfortably enjoy Stā’s services.

One of the standout features is the private studio, which provides discreet and comfortable environments for clients who need extra privacy. The space is perfect for clients who wear hijabs or other religious coverings, as well as those with sensory sensitivities who benefit from a quieter, more controlled setting. Making salons inclusive and accessible is not just the right thing to do; it’s essential for the growth and success of our industry. Samantha highlighted, “We’re proud to lead by example, and demonstrate how inclusivity and accessibility can be seamlessly integrated into every aspect of salon design and operation.”

@sta_studios

Fruittii London

The owner of Fruittii London, Tutti, had a vision: to create an inclusive, inspiring haven into which people of any gender, sexuality, race, age or class could walk and feel empowered to request and receive the look or style of their dreams. Fruittii is a one-of-a-kind, zero-judgement, LGBTQIA+ salon in which everyone is equal, pricing is fair and non-discriminatory, and no style is too outrageous or ambitious.

Fruittii London’s core ethos has always been inclusivity and accessibility. ‘Pay Wat U Can Afford’ days ensure that no one is priced out of self-care. The ethos at Fruittii London is that everyone should have access to self-care, and gender-neutral pricing enables the salon to operate beyond the binary.

@fruittii.london

Boombae

Boombae Hair Salon and Skin Clinic is a brand new 4000-square-foot salon in Cabra, Dublin, that opened its doors in April this year. Not only is the salon super quirky and stylish, but it is also designed to be completely accessible for wheelchair users, with all doors being DAC-compliant. Handrails sit on the two stairs to the backwash basins, and the salon has a bespoke wheelchair-designed ramp available for clients that require it. Hearing loops are also on reception for anyone hard of hearing and, for clients with sight issues, the whole unit, including signage, is completely contrast-compliant, right down to every light switch and plug socket, with black and white contrast fittings. The reception desk has been bespoke built over 2 levels, with one side being wheelchair user height. But it doesn’t stop there! Even the staffroom and kitchen are completely DAC-compliant; the sink area is able to have a wheelchair underneath it. The salon is on the ground floor within the Hamilton Gardens complex and is LGBTQ+ owned by two wives, Carley and Ciara Jones. Carley shared, “ANYONE is welcomed into our salon and skin clinic. We are extremely proud to have created a unit that suits everyone. You shouldn’t be restricted, no matter what your disability or differences, when you want to pamper yourself. We cater for all ages, all genders and all disabilities, and everyone is welcomed with open arms.”

@boombaeuk

The Hair Salon

Embarking on a journey to create not just a hair salon, but a sanctuary, the Hair Salon was born; a place where tranquillity meets inclusivity. The salon’s design reflects this ethos. The reception area, situated at the front of the shop, provides a natural shield, offering privacy to those inside. The windows, adorned with the salon’s name and details, ensure that guests aren’t on display, mitigating the intimidating experience of walking into a space lined with mirrors and filled with curious eyes.

In Brighton, a city celebrated for its cultural and religious diversity, the demand for such safe spaces is significant. Creating this private space has enabled the salon to build profound connections with clients.

Accessibility is another cornerstone of the salon. Despite being housed in an older building, the space is wheelchair-friendly. Chairs can be easily rearranged to accommodate wheelchairs and, with a little assistance, clients can access the backwash area.

The Hair Salon’s commitment to inclusivity and accessibility has resonated deeply within the community, attracting a diverse clientele and fostering a sense of belonging. In a place like Brighton, where diversity is celebrated, offering a sanctuary for all is not just a business strategy—it’s a reflection of the salon’s values and a dedication to making everyone feel at home.

@the.hairsalon

The Beauty of Diversity

With upwards of 16 million Brits living with disabilities, it’s imperative that your services and facilities are accessible to everyone. Seema Flower, founder and managing director of Blind Ambition, shares her top five tips for an inclusive salon environment.

Ensure Your Services Are Accessible to All Members of Society

It’s a legal requirement under the Equality Act 2010 to make services accessible to all members of society with reasonable adjustments. Ensure the entire customer experience is inclusive, from booking appointments to providing services, selling products, accepting payments and gathering feedback. Staff should receive training to accommodate customers with additional needs. Often, simple changes can make a massive difference.

Premises Should Be Accessible for All

Consider physical accessibility: plan wheelchair access and access to disabled toilets; perhaps quiet rooms or quieter times of day for those with autism; and private spaces for religious needs. Pay attention to the salon environment, including acoustics, lighting, and décor, to enhance the comfort of all customers.

Staff Training

Comprehensive training on disability awareness, unconscious bias and reasonable adjustments will help your teams better understand disabled customers and appreciate the challenges they have overcome simply to attend a hair appointment. As a disabled-led organisation, Blind Ambition are committed to giving business and organisations the insight, knowledge and confidence to better serve disabled people as customers, employees and service users.

Think Outside the Box

Engage with customers to understand their additional requirements, such as needing assistance from the bus stop, preferring quieter times, or desiring a relaxed atmosphere with lower lighting and reduced music volume. Adapt services to cater to sensory or processing conditions to enhance the salon experience for these clients.

Make Time

Consider hosting open evenings for product testing and home care for disabled customers. Allowing customers to smell, touch and feel products helps them make informed choices, especially important for those with visual impairments or other sensory needs.

As the founder and managing director of Blind Ambition, Seema has dedicated over 30 years to advancing diversity and inclusion across various sectors. Seema’s journey began with her ColorNation chain of salons, where she gained deep insights into the salon industry, managing and growing the business for 13 years. This experience has given Seema a unique perspective on the operational and customer service challenges and opportunities within the beauty sector.

For salons looking for a more detailed free disability and inclusion guide, please visit blindambition.co.uk/salonmagazine/ alternatively to find our more please call 0203 886 2020 or head online to www.blindambition.co.uk. @blindambitionuk

Care for All

While visiting the salon is an enjoyable experience for most, it can also be a daunting and uncomfortable experience for some. As such, businesses have a responsibility to ensure their products, services, and facilities are accessible to all customers and employees, regardless of abilities, religion, or gender.

Being an inclusive salon entails not just welcoming a diverse range of clients through your doors but also providing them with appropriate services that make them feel valued, included, and cared for. Inclusivity isn’t merely a buzzword, and with a society that is more aware of inclusivity than ever before, we discuss how salons can create an accessible culture for all with the help of industry experts.

Inclusivity comes in a multitude of forms, such as being able to serve customers with particular hair types,pecific disabilities or eliminating any allusions to a particular gender within your salon’s branding and marketing. While we acknowledge that a salon cannot cater to every client, being more inclusive, accessible and making changes where you can will make a considerable difference.

To foster an inclusive, welcoming environment, salons must first understand what inclusivity means to them and their business. Keri Blue, Founder of Affirmation UK, shared, “Salon inclusivity means to include every single person, regardless of their religion, disability, or gender, and make sure that you’re judging your business from somebody else’s point of view.

“What I always say is to consider the person in your salon as a human first and ensure you have the right skills for anyone’s needs. So, yes, inclusivity is important, but I don’t think complete inclusivity is ever possible, but the fact that you’ve tried is definitely achievable.”

Delving further into inclusivity from a disability perspective, Seema Flower, Founder of Blind Ambition, shared, “Salon inclusivity means creating an environment where everyone, especially those with disabilities, feel welcome, respected, and catered to. It involves

Use inclusive language, have gender-neutral pricing, and offer services that cater to all gender expressions.

understanding and addressing the diverse needs of clients, ensuring that everyone, regardless of their physical, sensory, or cognitive abilities, can fully enjoy their salon experience. Inclusivity in a salon is about more than just accessibility; it’s about fostering an atmosphere where every client feels valued and not marginalised.”

As a salon owner, it’s your responsibility to ensure, where possible, that your salon is an accessible haven for all clients. Brian Leo McCallum, Owner of Roar Hair and Beauty Salons, explained, “A good place to start is ensuring there are no barriers when it comes to a disabled guest visiting your salon and accessibility to your premises is as effortless as possible. Disability-friendly hair washing stations, toilets and ramps, or spacious entryways into the salon are all areas to consider when it comes to your salon design.”

Understandably, it isn’t always feasible to re-model the salon, but where possible, owners should endeavour to introduce modifications that don’t have to be costly to create a more inclusive environment.

When considering inclusivity from a gender point of view, there are an abundance of easy-to-implement changes that will foster a welcoming atmosphere without costing your salon a penny! Brian shared, “At ROAR, we have a genderless pricing structure, meaning our service prices are based on the stylist’s experience, education, and the techniques used, not the sex of our guests. When it comes to gender, it’s also so important that your team uses the correct terminology for guests. We never like to make assumptions and instead like to ask our guests their preferred pronouns to ensure we do not misgender or offend any of our guests.” Making these subtle changes is an easy but sure-fire way to improve your inclusivity and enhance the client experience.

Seema suggested further ways to make salons a welcoming space for all genders, as she explained, “Use inclusive language, have gender-neutral pricing, and offer services that cater to all gender expressions. Training staff on gender diversity and the importance of respecting clients’ preferred pronouns can also enhance inclusivity.”

Of course, clients are the ones that

To be able to adapt to the needs of neurodiverse clients, it’s a good idea to adjust the lighting where possible and offer fragrance-free products.

impact your bottom line, but looking and fostering a welcoming environment within your team is equally as important, as Marko Kovijanic, Salon General Manager at Aveda Lifestyle Salon & Spa Covent Garden, highlighted, “Inclusivity is not just for our guests but, how we accommodate diversity and inclusion within our team is just as important. We make sure that every voice on our team is heard and celebrated.”

It is estimated that 13 million people in the UK are neurodiverse and, as such, may find salon environments overwhelming. For the majority, the salon experience is a relaxing, but when you think of the continuous noise, the array of fumes, and the constant hustle and bustle, it certainly isn’t the case for everyone. Adapting to the needs of neurodiverse clients doesn’t have to be at a great expense, but it will considerably improve the experience for all. Fostering this inclusiveness

requires a thorough understanding and appreciation of the specific needs and preferences of each client.

Keri recommended, “Check out some neurodiverse-friendly ideas like mirrorless and silent services or have a look at fidget toys available for appointments. Ensure that staff have a general level of consideration for other people and their needs. Ask on the booking form if the client is neurodiverse and if there’s anything that can be done to make their appointment more comfortable.”

A similar idea was suggested by Brian, as he noted, “To be able to adapt to the needs of neurodiverse clients, it’s a good idea to adjust the lighting where possible and offer fragrance-free products. Offering a quieter area of the salon is also a nice idea, away from the hustle and bustle of the main salon area, whereby you will not hear as much noise or music.”

While creating a welcoming

environment for all is ethically essential, inclusivity in salons runs deeper than a moral obligation. Clients are more likely to be drawn to your salon if they feel that your business accurately represents them and respects their range of needs. It is said that respect and inclusiveness will lead to a stronger reputation in the industry, positive word-of-mouth, and repeat business.

Laura Leigh Kerr, Academy Director at Rainbow Room International, admitted, “Unfortunately, not all salons cater to the diverse needs of their clients; therefore, by doing so, your salon can stand out from its competitors and gain new, loyal clients.

“To be able to reach all clients and share with them how inclusive you are, marketing effectively is essential. Using your social media as a second salon window is an incredibly beneficial way to promote the specialists in your salon and attract new clientele. Many clients look to social media and online when they are trying to find their next salon, so it’s important that you use these platforms to communicate how your salon is inclusive to avoid them looking elsewhere.”

Marko continued this idea as he drew upon inclusivity improving client satisfaction and explained, “Salon inclusivity is about offering exceptional guest care extending to everyone regardless of faith, ethnicity, gender, or disability. By extending consideration to the inclusivity of our salon, it raises our overall standard of guest experience.”

As the industry continues to change, investing in training programmes that promote cultural sensitivity and awareness can help foster an inclusive salon environment. Marko believes that educating your teams about the diversity and importance of acceptance is of paramount importance and said, “Invest in training programs that promote cultural sensitivity and awareness. Educate your staff about different hair types and textures to ensure they can cater to a diverse clientele effectively. Additionally, offer workshops on inclusion and disability awareness to foster a more inclusive environment. We offer unconscious bias training sessions to all new starts and an annual recap to existing employees.”

Seema echoed Marko’s opinion as she added, “Regular training helps

By extending consideration to the inclusivity of our salon, it raises our overall standard of guest experience.

maintain a high standard of service, prevents unconscious bias, and equips staff with the skills to handle a variety of client needs compassionately and professionally.”

When it comes to inclusivity within salons, it may not be possible for every salon to provide complete inclusivity due to structural or financial restrictions. Despite this, as long as you endeavour to take responsibility, continuously learn, keep an open mind, and give clients the respect they deserve, your clients will appreciate your conscious efforts to foster a welcoming environment.

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Smooth Operator

UK manufactured beauty wax brand Harley Wax strives to provide high-quality products to ensure salons are giving the best treatments possible. In light of this, we hear from Rebecca Hunter, owner of Inner Zen Salon, about her experience with Harley Wax as she discusses making the switch and why it’s the perfect wax to train students with.

What makes Harley Wax different from your previous wax?

I decided to opt for Harley Wax, mainly for their hot wax. The thickness of the wax means it can be layered, providing a strip that won’t snap when pulled off the skin, which avoids any uncomfortable picking and removes the chance of bruising. The previous wax used has been very stringy, causing the wax to snap off and not perform adequately.

What are the main benefits your salon has found from using Harley Wax?

The main benefits of using Harley wax in my salon are repeat custom, with clients always happy with the results, saying there is no sticky residue, and being painfree after leaving the salon. I feel that I am the wax therapist I am today because of Harley, and with my skills and product combined, I feel that this has increased new clients through word of mouth and retained old clients due to the quality service provided.

What are the main differences your clients have noticed since using Harley Wax?

The main difference for my clients has been that their wax is a lot less painful, and the redness reduces significantly quicker than with other waxes. When using Harley Wax, the hair grows back slower and finer, in turn saving the client’s money by extending the time between treatments.

What was the deciding factor in adding it to your training?

I believe that Harley wax is the best

waxing product available, aiding therapists in delivering the best possible waxing experience. In light of this, I wanted to pass on my skills and knowledge to other therapists in the industry using a brand I trust to deliver excellent results. I feel most confident training new therapists with Harley Wax.

How can our readers work with Harley Wax?

All qualified estheticians are able to claim their free samples via our website, www.harleywaxing.co.uk, or ring one of our team members on 0845 612 1944 to find out more!

Berry Good Skincare

Born into a love of the environment, mother nature’s gifts and working with what nature produces to create incredible, conscious beauty products, we hear from KELSEY as they discuss their skincare harnessing the power of the raspberry plant featured at Beauty Edit Mayfair.

Please introduce us to Beauty Edit Mayfair and what it strives to achieve.

Beauty Edit Mayfair is the brainchild of Sherrille Riley, a renowned beauty expert with a career spanning two decades in the professional beauty industry. The stunning store provides a curated selection of clean, effective, and sustainably sourced products that not only enhance one’s natural beauty but also prioritise the well-being of both individuals and the environment.

Please discuss the partnership between KELSEY and Beauty Edit Mayfair.

Our sustainability credentials are just as important to us as a brand as the efficacy of the products, and to be able to showcase this in such beautiful surroundings is a real privilege. When we were asked to launch our treatment protocol in the facial suite, we were thrilled. Working with Vaishali, our facialist, and Sherrille, we tweaked our Radiance Reset Signature Facial to include some bespoke elements, especially for Beauty Edit Mayfair’s clients. It’s a pleasure to be able to

showcase our clean beauty skincare range and provide luxury and efficacious treatments to Mayfair’s customers.

What are the typical results from a KELSEY facial?

Apart from a relaxed and happy customer, the typical results from a KELSEY facial are very glowy, hydrated, and nourished skin with a healthylooking barrier. The facial begins with a double cleanse using KELSEY Luminous Glow cleanser, removing make-up and toxins from the skin and prepping the customer for their treatment experience. Continuing through the range, the customer experiences each of the products and their properties, delivering

maximum hydration to the skin while addressing signs of daily fatigue and stress.

What do clients think about the use of raspberries in skincare?

The really interesting part of the story is not just the upcycling of the raspberries from the farm but also the science behind the activation process of the seed oil. I love explaining about EZ Rubus ID®, the enzymatically activated raspberry seed oil, which is included in the KELSEY range. It’s a unique innovation in skincare, mimicking the natural enzymatic function of the raspberry plant, reducing the oil’s molecular size to enable the transportation of vital nourishment to the skin, activating the oil to elevate bioavailability, and boosting absorption to intensify results. Customers are really intrigued by this and love the amalgamation of both nature and science.

For more information, please visit www.beautyeditmayfair.com/pages/ book-kelsey-facials @kelsey_skin

Aesthetics

Artemis

T: 0207 157 9758

E: support@artemisdistribution. com

W: uk.artemis.co @uk.artemis artemisdistribution

Zemits UK LTD

T: 020 4532 5922

W: www.zemits.co.uk

Beauty Products & Training

Furniture

Haircare

Nouveau Beauty

T: 01977 655 090

E: info@nouveaubeauty.com

W: www.nouveaubeauty.com

Hair Products

Soapbox PR

Unit 18, Hillgate Place, 18-20 Balham Hill, London SW12 9ER. T: 020 3133 3013

Hair Tools

Insurance

REM

T: 01282 619977

E: sales@rem.co.uk

W: www.rem.co.uk

Innersense Beauty

T: +020 3048 4452

E: euorders@innersensebeauty. com

W: www.innersenseorganic beauty.co.uk @innersenseorganicbeauty Innersense Organic Beauty

Olaplex

E: uksupport@olaplex.com

W: uk.olaplex.com @olaplex @olaplex @olaplex

Hair Extensions

Cliphair

T: 03450 211 311

E: trade@cliphair.co.uk

W: www.cliphair.co.uk @cliphairlimited @cliphair.limited @cliphairextensions @cliphairlimited

Denman Professional Tools

Denman International

Clandeboye Road, Bangor, County Down, BT20 3JH

E: customer.services@ denmanbrush.com

W: denmanbrush.com @denmanpro

Morgan Richardson Ltd

T: 0800 731 2940

E: quotes@morganrichardson. co.uk

W: www.morganrichardson.co.uk/ salon-insurance

Lash & Brow Growth Serums

Avante Cosmetics

1 Short Hill, Harrow on the Hill, HA1 3BF

T: 07949 508 885

E: info@avantecosmetics.co.uk

W: www.avantecosmetics.co.uk @avantecosmetics @avantecosmetics @avantecosmetics

Natural Products

Inika Organic

T: +44 (0) 203 713 0149

E: simone@inikaorganic.com

W: uk.inikaorganic.com @inikaorganic @inikaorganic @inikatv

Nails & Beauty Products

Hive of Beauty Ltd

1 Queens Grove Studios, London NW8 6EP

T: 0845 450 4802

E: sales@hiveofbeauty.co.uk

W: www.hiveofbeauty.com @HiveWax @hiveofbeauty

Natural Skincare

Lisa Kon

E: hello@lisakon.co.uk W: www.lisakon.co.uk W: www.lisakontraining academy.co.uk

AEOS

Aura-Soma Products Ltd, South Road, Tetford, LN9 6QB

W: www.aeos.net @aeosskincare activeenergisedorganicskincare

The BeMine Company Limited

Stoneyford, Clifton, Oxon, OX15 0PE

W: www.bemineco.com @bemineuk @bemineuk

Payment Systems

Salon Furniture

EVO Payments UK

T: 01218279100

E: salesenquiry@evopayments.com

W: www.evopayments.co.uk

Skincare

Styler

E: support@styler.digital

Salon Software

Albert Ewan Design

T: 016 70 73 89 79

E: studio@albertewandesign.com

W: www.albertewandesign.com

Concept Salon Design

Unit 11 & 12, Brookfield Business Park. Brookfield Drive, Aintree

Liverpool, L9 7AS

T: 0151 523 0132

E: sales@salonfurniture.co.uk

W: www.salonfurniture.co.uk

Waxing

Salon Tracker Ltd

Unit 5a South Park Way

41 Business Park, Wakefield

WF2 0XJ

T: 0113 350 8230

E: info@salontracker.co.uk

W: www.salontracker.co.uk

W: styler.digital +44 7305214688 @styler.uk styler.uk @styler.uk

Timely

T: 020 3808 0465

E: sales@gettimely.com

W: www.gettimely.com @timely @liketimely

IMAGE Skincare UK

Ventre House, Parklands, Railton Road, Guildford, Surrey, GU2 9JX

T: 0345 504 0461

W: www.imageskincare.co.uk @imageskincareuk

Karin Herzog

T: 07443 744847

E: hello@karinherzog.co.uk

W: www.karinherzog.co.uk @karinherzog.uk KarinHerzogUnitedKingdom

Luna Microcare

Building 3, Chiswick Business Park, 566 Chiswick High Road, W4 5YA T: 0208 899 7478 W: www.lunamicrocare.com @lunamicrocareofficial

Miin Cosmetics

T: +34 931 026 228 T: +34 650 911 170 E: sales@miin-cosmetics.com W: www.miin-cosmetics.co.uk

Harley Waxing

T UK: 0845 612 1944

T International: +44(0)1984 623 209

E: orders@harleywaxing.co.uk

W: www.harleywaxing.co.uk @harleywaxuk harleywaxuk @HarleyWax harleywax