A HAIR stylist is “excited and nervous” about her solo salon venture but says the pandemic has taught her “life is too short not to take the leap”.
Twenty-five years after starting training as a hairdresser, Deborah Louise Andrews is looking forward to opening the doors to her very own salon, Hair @ Deborah Louise, in Barnard Castle, this week.
Ms Andrews said: “I always wanted to have my own shop, like most hairdressers.
“When this one came up it was an opportunity that I couldn’t miss.
She added: “I did my apprenticeship at Kenneally’s in town and I’ve worked there ever since. The pandemic gave me time to realise that life is too short, so I just took the leap.”
Before Covid-19, the premises in Star Yard had been a successful barber’s shop run by Karen Bainbridge. Since getting the keys, Ms Andrews, with help from mum and dad, Maureen and Shaun, has transformed the interior, creating bespoke wall units for the disposable towels, vanity shelves and decorating.
Ms Andrews added: “My dad has worked his socks off with my mum. I got the keys in early March and it’s been all systems go.
“I have taken a few provisional bookings, but it has been hard as I have not seen people in person but have spoken to a few of my clients, some of which I’ve had for 20 years.”
The salon will be unisex, offering a range of hair treatments.
Ms Andrews said: “I’m very excited and nervous at the same time. It’s a big step for me. I have gone from having a weekly wage, and I’m a single mum, to being my own boss, but we have to take a chance in life.
“I was really happy at Kenneally’s but when the salon came up it was too much of an opportunity.”
For more information or to book, contact Ms Andrews on 01833 637980.
