A day-off in the life of salon owners

In a work schedule that doesn’t allow for much free time, those precious moments are golden. We wanted to find out how salon owners and stylists spend their spare time, recharge for the next working day and find time for what’s important to them.  A peek behind the curtain, this is a day-off in the life of a few of our industry experts… Jim Shaw, owner of TONI&GUY Billericay and multi-award-winning men’s hairdresser said: “One of my favourite things to do is travel. When I’m not in the salon ensuring the smooth running of it and working on my clients, working backstage at events, or working on campaigns with TONI&GUY, I love to take some time away and visit new countries. Finding new paradises with beautiful beaches, eating delicious food and exploring new cultures helps me to recharge. I have recently visited Tulum in Mexico and Capri in Italy, which were both incredible. I also regularly go to Marrakesh in Morrocco, it’s one of my favourite places. I really enjoy going to the markets/bazaars, also called Souks, and strolling around the city seeing the incredible buildings and architecture it has, which can be really inspiring towards my creative work.” "Away from the Andrew Smith Salons and my role as a Global Ambassador for z.one concepts my favourite thing to do is fish!” Andrew Smith, owner of Andrew Smith Salons, told us. “The salon is very fast-paced and fishing allows me to take some time away, slow down, unplug and spend time in the outdoors. Although it does require some patience, I love the buzz you get from catching a fish – it really does go to show that persistence, perseverance and dedication are key! Much like it is when it comes to being successful in the hair industry. I recently have been visiting Chesil and the last time I was there I managed an 11 codling at 55cm!” For Simon Hill, owner of SESH Hairdressing, biking is his favourite way to spend his free time. “Life as a salon owner is hectic. It’s always full-on managing the team, the salon and the clients. Whilst I love it and my business is my ultimate passion, I find I need a balance and a release to relax and reset. To head out into the open air and push yourself to achieve whatever goal you have set out for yourself is an incredible feeling. I have completed long stretch cycles to raise money for charities close to my heart before and I have enjoyed a simple cycle on a Sunday afternoon, too. A hobby should make you feel great and provide a source of release to relieve any stresses in your life, that’s exactly what biking is for me.” “Being a business owner, life can run away with itself and time goes by so quickly. It’s important to take time out and enjoy life, spending time with friends and family and embracing new surroundings,” Safy Burton, owner of Safy B Salon, said. “One of my favourite things to do is to simply spend time with my gorgeous pup – Loki. We welcomed Loki when he was just a puppy and loved to explore new places and go on long walks. He is very much a part of our salon team, but having a purpose to get out of the busy environment and enjoy the outdoors is so vital.” Curating a work-life balance is important in any industry, but as a salon owner or stylist, your schedule can look totally different from one week to the next. Scheduling in your spare time and utilising it in a personal way that helps you to recharge is so important. Here's how to avoid burnout as a hairdresser this Christmas.