salon spy
“We go out of our way to make sure that everyone from all walks of life are treated safely, professionally and warmly. Therefore our team is paramount – each member plays an important role in the success of the business.”
What is important to you when choosing a product range?
“Quality, quality, quality! Even the best treatments done with poor products will reduce the client experience.
“As a business, we are always trying out different products and we are unafraid to try something completely new to the market in our search for excellence – after all we might find something fabulous that hasn’t yet received the recognition within the industry that it might deserve.
“Another key aspect is whether we actually like and respect the people behind the brand – take Cuccio for example, they always go out of their way to make an effort with us and often treat us like we are a much bigger company than we are. This makes us feel important to them and gives us the incentive to help promote and grow their brand amongst our clientele.”
Do you have any plans for future expansion of the business?
“We have discussed the idea of opening a training academy / finishing school for newly qualified therapists looking to gain some on-the-job training to help build their confidence and make them ready to work elsewhere with little or no supervision needed.
“Other expansion opportunities may come in the form of developing the business as a franchise, as we’ve already been approached by a potential investor who is keen to roll out our business model across the country.”
As a salon owner, what would you say have been your key achievements?
“To succeed and grow beyond all expectations without having had any previous experience of working in the industry and during a recession.”
We’ve alreadymentioned the news itemthat inspired you to switch careers, but who would you say has been your biggest inspiration in the beauty industry?
“There are so many stories out there of people who have come from nowhere and created something amazing that we all take for granted every day; but if I had to name just one person it would have to be Noella Gabriel who designs all of the Elemis treatments and products, as she is clearly a talented and inspirational woman.”
What is the best piece of advice you have been given for running a successful salon, or being a successful therapist?
“It’s simple really – you are a professional, be proud of that, learn your craft well and keep on learning!
“Also, try to treat every client like you would your mum with respect and put a little ‘love’ into your treatments – after all clients can tell when you mean it.”
treatment review:
Lucy began my Holistic Detox Pedicure by establishing which of Cuccio’s various scents I would most like to experience, so I opted for the energising and balancing combination of Tuscan Citrus and Herb.
salon spy
First she soaked my feet with Cuccio’s DetoxSoak™to help distress, refresh and relax me prior to my nails being filed and my cuticles being trimmed and neatened.
Then, the Tuscan Citrus and Herb scrub was applied to help slough away dead skin and prepare my feet for the relaxing reflexology massage that was to follow.
During the reflex pressure massage, Lucy noted that there was a little bit of tension in my shoulder, which was from an old whiplash injury that is exacerbated when I have to sit in the car or at my desk for long periods of time. Using selected reflexology points on my feet she was able to release this tension to allow me to focus on the treatment before me.
Once the massage had been completed, it was time to choose a gel polish for my toes – I was looking for something to see me through the Christmas period so I chose a festive glittery green and accessorised it with a sprig of holly nail art on both of my big toes.
One week later my nails were still going strong and looked as beautiful as the day I stepped out of the salon – which for somebody who is not all that keen on feet in general is something I never thought I would say!
Image © Kelly Jo Photography Image © Kelly Jo Photography
The salon’sManicure&Pedicure stations.
One of the treatment rooms.
GUILD NEWS 81
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