I’M A SERIAL SALON SMART-ER! #SalonSmart19
We can tell you why we think attending Salon Smart is a good move for your business but there’s nothing quite like an endorsement from a fellow salon owner to really understand the difference it can make. We sat down with serial Salon Smart-er Pauline Howe, owner of award-winning salon group Strands Hairdressing, to hear why she returns year-on-year…
You’re a Salon Smart regular, why do you attend?
There are just so many reasons to go to Salon Smart. There’s such a great mix of speakers covering a wide variety of topics. Some speakers are relatively new to the industry and at the beginning of their journey, and some are well-known and much-loved industry leaders. We learn and take back something from each speaker. I love the enthusiasm of the up-and-coming salon owners and the experience of the established.
What do you take back to your salon from the event?
Salon Smart has really helped my business. Over the two-day event, I write tons of notes because Salon Smart provides an endless supply of interesting new ideas that I learn from, even after 35 years in the industry. I also find it really helpful that you supply us with speaker notes to take away.
Another big part of Salon Smart is the networking. I really enjoy meeting like-minded people and sharing our experiences. It’s reassuring to know we are all facing the same ups and downs.
You often bring your managers along, why is that?
We always take our managers with us and it’s great to see them so enthusiastic and embrace what they have learned. Last year we all came back with similar ideas and an insight into how the industry and the high street are changing, so we updated our website, changed the front of the salon, got plants, updated our refreshments menu and made a brochure to attract new apprentices. All small changes, but every little helps.
You’re a serial Salon Smart-er, what keeps you returning?
We come back each year because there really is nothing else like Salon Smart. We do a lot of training and events with our product supplier and of course they are all fabulous, but it is great to see things from a different perspective, and the team at Creative HEAD are a driving force for our industry and every year the event is relevant, innovative and inspiring.
Why would you encourage people to attend?
I would encourage all salon owners and managers to go to Salon Smart – it’s not expensive so is accessible to all, the event is structured really well, and it’s all on-site in a lovely hotel that’s really easy to get to. Trust me, it’s the best investment you can make for your salon.
Get the full Salon Smart experience with a Weekend Pass (£295 plus VAT), which includes overnight accommodation, breakfast AND a three-course dinner with wine. A Monday Pass (£100 plus VAT) is for the Monday business programme only.
Salon Smart takes place Sunday 24 and Monday 25 March 2019 at the four-star Park Plaza London Riverbank hotel