Q&A From Passion to Purpose: A Conversation with Jadey Drury With nearly two decades in the hairstyling industry, JDH has transformed her love for creativity and connection into a thriving business that empowers women to feel like the best version of themselves, whether in the salon or on their wedding day. In this heartfelt Q&A, Jadey shares her journey from studying law to styling bridal shoots, the inspiration behind her work, her passion for community, and how she balances business with motherhood. Get to know the woman behind the chair, her advice, her heart, and what’s next for JDH! QUESTIONS - BRENDA DONALDSON ANSWERS - JADEY DRURY
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Can you share your journey into the hairstyling industry? Almost 20 years ago, I had just left school. I was studying Business and Law, but I recognised quickly that I needed to be using the creative parts of my brain. The following year, I started studying Hairdressing. I think the people around me might have been disappointed with my choices, but my heart was telling me that I needed a break from a typical learning environment, and I stand by the fact it was one of the best decisions I have ever made. It’s allowed me to travel the world, see some of the most amazing places and connect with many incredible people. It’s allowed me flexibility whilst having my family, having my own business, and being my own boss. What inspired you to specialise in weddings and special events? I just loved magazines as a child, and I still do now; I wanted to make people look like that as part of my job every day! I did some in-salon training in the UK, and then I threw myself in at the deep end; the more education I invested in, the more I loved that world. When I started to travel, I saw so much connection in weddings and special events, and I was eager to take the leap. When we settled in NZ, I was invited to be the stylist for a couple of bridal shoots, and all of a sudden, people were asking me to do their weddings after seeing the photos; it was a natural progression in my career, whilst weddings can be quite high-pressure environments, I genuinely love the whole service from start to finish, quite often the brides we meet become regular clients and it’s a real privilege to be part of someone’s special day.