Claire Watson, 34, and Louise Walker, 33, have been working together for nine years.
They have both wanted to work in hairdressing since they left school. Last September their hair spa, White Jasmine, opened up on Thistle Street, in Aberdeen.
Have you always wanted to work in the beauty industry?
L: From when I did work experience in a salon while I was still at school.
C: I have always wanted to be a hairdresser and used to do my friends’ hair when I was little. I used to make them sit and have their hair braided.
What training have you gone through to get to this point in your careers?
C: I started working in a salon when I left school. I’ve done various colour and cutting training courses through the years to keep up with the latest trends.
L: We both have three hairdressing SVQs and A1 trainers’ certificates too.
What hair treatment do you love doing?
C: I love all services, but I especially love the keratin treatment which makes your hair smooth, and Louise loves colouring. The keratin treatment is a non-chemical smoothing system and helps smooth and tame frizzy, unruly and curly hair to make it more manageable to work with.
Have you ever had your own business before?
C: No, but it is great having the flexibility as we both have young children. I’m really lucky as I have great family support and couldn’t do what I’m doing without them.
L: My little boy is in nursery so I work nursery hours and have help from my family too.
How would you describe your personal style?
C: We both like the latest fashions and to keep up with the top trends for work. Out of work it is comfy casual because of our young families.
What would you like customers to experience when they come to you?
C: We like our clients to feel welcomed and relaxed when arriving and leaving the salon. It has more of a spa feel than the hustle and bustle of a bigger salon.
What would your advice be for someone thinking of changing their hair colour or style?
C: Book a consultation before any appointments so that we can discuss in depth what is best, and get skin tests done for colour if required.
Who is your style inspiration?
C: Alexa Chung and Victoria Beckham.
L: Gwen Stefani.
TOP TIPS TO HEALTHY, LUSCIOUS HAIR
1. Use good salon products, such as Kerastase.
2. Regular appointments at a salon.
3. Get regular conditioning treatments.
4. Don’t over-style at home.