
Welcome back to our 'Salon Design Of The Month' series, where we chat with salon owners from all around the country to learn about their entrepreneurial journeys and take a peek inside their salon premises.
Here at Salons Direct, we're particularly passionate about celebrating the beauty, hair, nails, and barbering industries and the talented people who drive them forward.
In this series, we're spotlighting salon owners and their unique experiences. From local spots to bustling city favourites, we'll explore the diverse world of salons and the individuals shaping them.
Get ready to be inspired by real-life salon stories...
This month, we caught up with the Cream Hair & Beauty Lounge team based in Pontypool, South Wales.
How did your salon begin?
Cream first started in 2006 with just two stylists. I outgrew the old salon and have now expanded to include beauty and become Cream Hair & Beauty Lounge.
The building we have occupied is an old department store in Pontypool, built in 1706, with so much history. I love hearing all the stories from our clients about coming there as kids; it brings back great memories for them.
How did you decide upon the design of your salon?
I searched so many looks on Instagram and Pinterest and kept so many looks in a folder, but I knew the acoustic panelling was something we wanted, and the lotus chairs were a great look together.
Our ceiling had an industrial feel, so we wanted to keep the rest bright and airy with a soft, sophisticated look, giving our clients a welcoming home feeling. We added a coffee station for clients to help themselves to. It's a big hit!
What are some of your favourite products and tools to use in your salon?
We are a L'oreal salon and love Beauty Works hairdryers and straighteners. Our styling product is TIGI Bedhead, which we have used for 25 years and still love. My favourites are their Manipulator and Superstar.
How do you stand out from your competitors?
When I opened the salon, I wanted the salon to feel professional but also to let the clients feel comfortable and welcome; a lot of our clients commented on how they loved being in my salon and could just sit and chat all day.
This is something I have always wanted to create; I also understand for many, it can be hard to juggle life, family, work and getting hair appointments, so we offer three late evenings and will be introducing Sunday appointments for those with busy schedules.
What do you think makes a successful salon?
How do you keep up to date with the latest industry trends?
Training, Instagram, TikTok and L'oreal access. Always understand no matter how long you've been hairdressing, there will always be new things to learn, so keep training and watching.
What advice can you give to others wanting to open a salon?
Always stay grounded never take anything for granted, and most importantly, be organised.
What can we expect from your salon business in 2024 and beyond?
Get the look with Salons Direct!
If you feel inspired by the Cream Hair & Beauty salon interior, you can also achieve the look with Lotus furniture, which is available exclusively at Salons Direct!
Lotus Murray Caramel Backwash Unit
Lotus Murray Caramel Styling Chair
Design your own salon with the help of Salons Direct
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