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The Last Word on… Launching Your Own Hair Brand

The Last Word on… Launching Your Own Hair Brand

Nov 14, 2024 | CONVERSATIONS, CONVERSATIONS HEADER, EXPLORE, HOME EXPLORE

The Last Word on… Launching Your Own Hair Brand

What does it take to build a haircare brand? Salon owners and stylists share how they transformed their passion into products...

by CAITLYN | EXPLORE

Image credit:  Ian Schneider from Unsplash 

It may sound like total vanity – to launch your own hair brand and see your name on a bottle! – but for many salon owners, the idea comes from a desire to offer something they couldn’t find in the existing market. Katy Grimshaw, founder of Spectrum One salon and its namesake hair extensions, recalls how her frustrations as a freelancer led her to take the plunge. “The quality of other brands wasn’t great, and I wanted to build something reliable that other hairdressers could trust,” she says.  

Similarly, Deborah Maguire and Katie Hemming, co-founders of hair supplement brand Seed & Soul and LoveHair Salon, were driven by their expertise in hair health and their understanding of clients’ needs. “We knew that we could offer something truly beneficial, especially for women dealing with hair loss, and that pushed us to create something with real value,” shares Deborah. 

Stylist Kieran Tudor, co-founder of CENTRED, was inspired to create his brand after helping his wife and co-founder, Laura, recover from hair loss. “There wasn’t a natural solution that encapsulated both internal wellbeing and hair care, so we created the products we wished existed.” 

Phil Smith, founder of Phil Smith Hair and Smith England salon, found his inspiration to create a brand from seeing others succeed in the industry. “I met Umberto Giannini on holiday in 1997, and when I saw his success, I thought ‘Why not me?’. That started the journey of creating my own range.” 

Transitioning from an idea to a full-fledged brand needs more than just passion – it requires a deep understanding of your craft, something all these founders gained through their work behind the chair. Salon owner Paul Bryan, founder of haircare line StaticJam, emphasises how years of salon experience informed his product development. “Every day in the salon gave me new insights into what clients really need,” he argues, citing clients coming in with hair that lacked strength, moisture, or both. For Katy Grimshaw, being a stylist helped her refine her hair extensions. “My time in the salon taught me exactly what hairstylists like me wanted from a product. It made all the difference in shaping Spectrum One extensions.” 

But expertise alone doesn’t make the process easy. Once a brand is launched, the real work begins – managing the daily operations of both a salon and a product line. Phil Smith knows this challenge well. “Running two businesses at once is hard, there’s no way around it. You have to constantly juggle responsibilities.”  

“I couldn’t balance it all without the help of my team,” agrees Katy. “Running the salon and the brand simultaneously requires a lot of support.”  

For any stylist or salon owner considering their own product line, the advice from these founders is clear: start with a solid foundation and stay true to your vision. “It’s all about finding your niche and sticking with it,” Kieran Tudor advises. “Focusing on what you do best is crucial for success.” 

Paul Bryan emphasises the importance of a strong unique selling point. “If you want to stand out, you need to solve a problem and build your brand around that solution.” 

Authenticity is key, adds Deborah and Katie. “Be genuine and believe in what you’re creating. That’s how you build something that resonates with both clients and stylists.” 

Finally, it can be a risk – it’s an expensive undertaking – so consider help. “You need to have financial backing. Find an investor early on so you can focus on building the brand without worrying about cash flow,” adds Phil.  

 

Katy Grimshaw, founder of Spectrum One Salon and Extensions

Paul Bryan, founder StaticJam and Paul Bryan Salon

Phil Smith, founder of Phil Smith Hair and Smith England salon

Deborah Maguire and Katie Hemming, co-founders of hair supplement brand Seed & Soul and LoveHair Salon

Kieran Tudor and Laura Tudor founders of CENTRED

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Owning My Brand: How Jodie Breeds Learned to Handle Her Own PR 

Owning My Brand: How Jodie Breeds Learned to Handle Her Own PR 

Nov 13, 2024 | CONNECT, FREELANCE, HOME CONNECT

Owning My Brand: How Jodie Breeds Learned to Handle Her Own PR 

Why managing her own public relations has been empowering, cost-effective and essential for growing business

by CAITLYN | CONNECT

“From apprentice to salon owner, it’s been a whirlwind journey carving out my place in the hairdressing world. I started at TONI&GUY, working my way up through the ranks before opening my first salon at just 22. With a passion for colour and extensions, I quickly made a name for myself, winning awards and eventually becoming an educator for a leading extension brand. 

“When I started my family, I realised I needed more flexibility, so I moved into freelance work for a few years. It gave me the balance I needed between my career and motherhood. Recently, I took a big step and opened Haus of Finesse in the heart of Houghton le Spring. It’s not just a salon; it’s a co-working space with room for six freelancers in hair, beauty and education – a supportive environment where others can also grow their businesses. 

 

“With this new venture, I knew it was time to bring PR back into focus, both for my personal profile and for the salon brand. Social media is crowded, and I wanted to create a different angle to stand out and attract more opportunities. To do that, I decided to handle my own PR instead of hiring an agency. Cost was a big factor – I need to keep control of all my expenses. As an educator, I’m always eager to learn new skills, and PR has been no exception. I joined Hype Membership, which is a platform designed to empower freelance hairdressers by providing them with the tools and knowledge to manage their own public relations. Founded by Emma Seldon, who has over 20 years of experience in hair industry marketing, the membership offers a range of resources, including training modules, templates, and access to a supportive community. Learning the ins and outs of PR has been fascinating, and being able to apply it myself has felt incredibly empowering. 

“One of the best parts of learning to do my own PR is the flexibility it offers. I can put my little girl to bed and then get to work in the evening. The membership platform I use has an online hub that’s easy to navigate, with modules broken down so I can go at my own pace. The support and encouragement from Emma, along with the resources on the platform, help me stay on top of every PR opportunity without feeling pressured by tight deadlines. 

“Putting myself out there hasn’t always been easy. There’s always that self-doubt—wondering if I’m good enough or if I’m worthy of being featured. I’ve found that it’s really about pushing myself forward, hoping someone sees the hard work and dedication I put into everything I do. The community I’ve found in Hype Membership has been invaluable. Knowing I’m not doing this alone makes all the difference. 

“Connecting with other like-minded professionals through the membership has truly been a game-changer. We share tips, celebrate PR wins, and show that as freelancers, we don’t have to face these challenges by ourselves. Taking control of my own PR has been a journey, but it’s one that’s helped me grow my business and build my confidence in ways I never expected.” 

 

Haus of Finesse, Houghton le Spring, County Durham.

Hype Membership: Supporting hairdressers to do their own PR

Membership will open again in January.   Join the waiting list here: https://hypemembership.co.uk

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How To Combat Rising Costs Following National Budget Cuts

How To Combat Rising Costs Following National Budget Cuts

Nov 6, 2024 | HOME INFORM, INDUSTRY NEWS, INFORM, INFORM HEADER

How To Combat Rising Costs Following National Budget Cuts

With years of industry insight, Edward James shares strategies to help salons adapt and thrive amid economic changes

by CAITLYN | INFORM

In response to the recent national budget changes, Edward James has openly voiced his frustrations over what he sees as damaging policies for the hairdressing industry. For salon owners like himself, these changes—including the reduction of business rates relief from 75 per cent to 40 per cent and the increase in National Insurance—pose serious challenges. He explains: “The reduced business rates relief, coupled with increased National Insurance, disproportionately impacts our industry – one that relies heavily on staffing and operates in a service-based economy.” 

As a highly respected figure in the hairdressing industry with over 25 years of experience, Edward James has built a name for himself not only as a top stylist but as a champion of sustainable and client-centred salon practices. Known for his luxury Edward James Salon & Spa locations across South London, Edward has won numerous awards, garnered a loyal clientele, and fostered an elite team that embodies his values of quality and community. 

Edward is well-positioned to critique these policies, having grown his business from a one-person operation to an award-winning network of salons employing over 100 people. He has dedicated his career to creating not only beautiful spaces but also stable employment for his team and a haven for clients. His insights into the impact of budget cuts extend beyond personal grievance; they reflect a deep understanding of the broader economic and community repercussions. “These aren’t just numbers – they’re people’s livelihoods, career opportunities, and local jobs that contribute to the economy,” he says. 

“”With high streets increasingly dominated by service-oriented businesses like salons, Edward believes the budget’s approach is out of touch with modern economic realities. Salons face substantial overheads, with 60 per cent of their operating costs typically going toward staffing, an unavoidable expense in a hands-on, client-focused industry. As Edward points out: “Salons require a significant workforce to provide personal services, meaning we’re facing substantial overheads on staffing alone.” 

Reflecting on his personal sacrifices, Edward shares: “I’ve dedicated 14 years of relentless work to this business, which challenges Keir Starmer’s perception of what a ‘working person’ entails. Business owners frequently work harder than anyone within the company, carrying significant responsibility. During the pandemic, our salons were forced to close for a total of 245 days, resulting in considerable team losses. Selling my home was essential to keep the business afloat, prevent closures, and avoid redundancies. My belief in our team’s resilience drove this decision, as I trusted we’d recover.”

 

 

Edward emphasises his ongoing commitment to reinvest in his business, manage debt carefully and develop career paths for his employees. “Our growth strategy – from a single salon to four locations – allows us to create more support roles, expand educational offerings and provide a better work-life balance, such as alternate weekends off and four-day work weeks,” he explains.

The new budget, he warns, could undermine such resilience, potentially forcing salons like his to cut jobs, reduce hours or even close locations. “With the reduction in business rates relief, I now face difficult choices: cutting jobs, reducing hours, and potentially closing one of our salons in Southwest London,” he notes, highlighting the tough decisions facing many in the industry. 

“We are considering relocating one of our salons to a destination with reduced rent and rates, as well as exploring mobile services and self-employment options. However, I’m deeply committed to maintaining a cohesive team atmosphere, which I believe is lost with a fully self-employed model.”

Edward urges the government to reconsider these budget changes, warning of the ripple effects that could stifle a vital sector of local economies. “A thriving hairdressing sector is essential to maintaining vibrant high streets and providing stable employment, especially in times of economic change,” he says. 

“We are exploring every option to uphold the high standards that define our brand. If our current structure becomes unsustainable, we may need to adjust hours, impacting client flexibility as well as our team’s,” he adds, acknowledging the difficult balance between meeting client expectations and maintaining quality.

 

Edward says, “Collective advocacy is crucial. Salons often get grouped with the broader ‘beauty sector,’ which is experiencing growth. Unfortunately, this masks the challenges salons face. Retail beauty operates with a smaller workforce, so employment taxes have less impact, and many products are sold online, avoiding the substantial burden of business rates. Hair salons, however, remain high-cost, high-commitment ventures that require fairer treatment to survive.”

In the meantime, he has stepped up to support other salon owners facing similar financial strains, offering his advice and strategies to help them remain resilient. His key recommendations include: 

  • Review Costs Regularly: Take a thorough look at monthly expenses to identify any non-essential costs that can be cut. Negotiate with suppliers to lower costs wherever possible, and reassess each expense line item. 
  • Optimise Operating Hours: Analyse customer traffic data to focus on high-demand periods. Consider reducing hours on quieter days to save on both energy and labour costs. 
  • Streamline Staff Schedules: Use scheduling software or data analysis to align staff levels with client demand, maximising productivity and avoiding unnecessary labour costs. 
  • Consider Self-Employment Models: If suitable for your salon, explore moving stylists to a self-employed model. This approach can relieve some of the tax burden associated with National Insurance increases, while also providing stylists with greater flexibility. 
  • Join Support Organisations: Connect with industry groups such as the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) and the Salon Employers Association (SEA). These groups provide valuable resources, a supportive community, and a collective voice for advocating industry-friendly policies. 

Edward’s advice offers a lifeline for salon owners determined to face these turbulent times with resilience and adaptability. For an industry that’s always been about creativity, connection and making clients feel extraordinary, these changes hit close to the bone. But with leaders like Edward, the hairdressing community is reminded of the power of unity and shared solutions. Together, with a focus on smarter strategies and mutual support, the industry can stand strong, protecting not just jobs but the heartbeat of the high street. 

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“The Experience Starts At The Door” — Kitch Brings 1950s Kitchen Comfort To Islington

“The Experience Starts At The Door” — Kitch Brings 1950s Kitchen Comfort To Islington

Oct 31, 2024 | CREATIVE PROJECTS, CREATIVE PROJECTS HEADER, EXPLORE, HOME EXPLORE

CATEGORIES > EXPLORE > CREATIVE PROJECTS

"The Experience Starts At The Door” — Kitch Brings 1950s Kitchen Comfort To Islington

Celebrating individuality, nostalgia and unbeatable client experience, Kitch is a pastel-hued, kitchen-inspired salon offering a welcoming space for all. 

By Maddi | CREATIVE PROJECTS 

At Kitch in Angel, Islington, owners Luca Jones and Scott Humphreys are reinventing the salon experience, one pastel corner at a time. Their 1950s kitchen-themed space is anything but traditional, blending a sense of nostalgia with modern inclusivity. Designed as a vibrant yet familiar kitchen, Kitch offers everything from salon services to barbering, in an inclusive and gender-neutral setting. Kitch welcomes everyone to enjoy a unique salon experience that feels like getting your hair done at home with friends. 

Following their recent win for Most Wanted Best Client Experience, the team has been busy enhancing their signature space. This includes expanding the retro theme upstairs while introducing functional updates for an even smoother client journey. And while the decor is as pastel and charming as ever, it’s the updated backwash area that’s turning heads. The newly added basins sit next to the colour zone for seamless toning, and the installation of a new boiler ensures consistent water pressure across multiple stations. The bright pink cabinet housing the boiler ties functionality with the salon’s aesthetic, allowing clients to enjoy a faster, more efficient rinse without sacrificing the beloved Kitch vibe. 

“The experience starts at the door,” says Scott. “As soon as you walk into reception, we want it to be relaxed and easy – not too formal or stuffy. Having the dog by the door also helps ease everyone in. It’s an open, friendly environment.” This approach is what sets Kitch apart from traditional salons, making it feel more like a community hub where clients can truly be themselves. 

Central to the Kitch experience is its commitment to inclusivity, particularly for LGBTQIA+ clients. “We wanted to create a safe space for everyone,” says Luca. “Here, you can come in, be yourself, wear what you want, and say what you want. It’s a nice, fun place to be, and everyone seems super relaxed.” This openness and inclusivity foster a sense of connection among clients and staff alike, and the layout even encourages conversation between clients. “It feels like you’re part of a whole group. No one’s left out, no matter their age,” Luca adds. 

The recently expanded salon upstairs builds on Kitch’s charm, offering even more practical functionality while keeping its signature aesthetic intact. “Being able to use the backwash area properly is worth a billion dollars!” the founders joke.  

Kitch also brings a unique approach to customer service, emphasising listening and collaboration. “An important point is listening to what your client wants,” says Scott. “A lot of hairdressers go on a tangent and do what they want, but it’s important to tweak it your way while listening to the client’s wishes.” This dedication to understanding clients’ needs reflects the founders’ vision for a salon where everyone’s individuality is celebrated. 

Inspired by his upbringing, Scott explains, “My mum was a hairdresser, so there was always someone in the kitchen getting their hair done. It was usually a really fun time, especially after COVID. The kitchen was always a relaxed place, and that’s what we wanted here at Kitch – a space where people chat, laugh, and feel comfortable.” 

With a nostalgic design, high standards, and an inclusive atmosphere, Kitch in Angel is more than a salon; it’s a space where everyone can feel at home while getting top-notch service. 

 

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Want To Work At London Fashion Week? Karoliina Saunders Has The Answer

Want To Work At London Fashion Week? Karoliina Saunders Has The Answer

Oct 25, 2024 | HOME INFORM, INDUSTRY NEWS, INFORM, INFORM HEADER

Want To Work At London Fashion Week? Karoliina Saunders Has The Answer

The celebrated stylist launches an exclusive education series, offering the opportunity of backstage access to London Fashion Week 2025. 

by CAITLYN | INDUSTRY NEWS

Celebrated stylist Karoliina Saunders, renowned for her work as a session stylist and salon owner, has joined R+Co UKI as their new guest artist. Bringing her expertise to the forefront, Saunders will be leading an exclusive education series called ‘Salon to Front Cover,’ designed to train stylists in the world of high-fashion hair.

With extensive experience in the fashion and hair industry, Karoliina has worked with some of the most notable names in hairdressing, including Guido and Eugene Souleiman. As the Head of Session at the Fellowship for British Hairdressing, she has cultivated a reputation for creativity and leadership in both salon and session styling. 

The ‘Salon to Front Cover’ series is designed to give stylists critical skills in transitioning from salon work to high-fashion editorial and runway styling. The series is divided into two courses: 

  • Essentials – Focuses on backstage etiquette, kit essentials, and key techniques. 
  • Enhance – Emphasizes creativity, advanced techniques, and the latest trends from fashion weeks. 

Stylists who complete the courses will have the chance to audition for a coveted spot to work backstage with Karoliina at London Fashion Week 2025, offering real-world experience in high-paced fashion environments. 

“I am thrilled to join R+Co as a guest artist,” says Karoliina. “This is a brand that aligns with my passion for creativity and innovation, and I’m excited to share my knowledge with the R+Co community.” 

With Karoliina Saunders leading the ‘Salon to Front Cover’ series, R+Co is set to offer one-of-a-kind education and career-shaping opportunities to stylists ready to step into the fashion world.  

Find out more here.

 

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