Tilly Barnett and Eve Saggu partnered up to open their new salon No.13 The Beauty Avenue in Sydney’s Potts Point. Professional Beauty stopped by the serene urban salon to talk to the professional pair about the importance of starting with a good working relationship, the patience it takes to start your own business and the power of compromise.
You have both worked together for years, what made you decide to go out on your own?
“Having worked together for the last 7 years at Fifty Four Park St, we knew we worked so well together and were both ready for a new challenge,” says Tilly Barnett, co-founder of No.13 The Beauty Avenue. “Having our own salon was something we’ve both always wanted to do and it was the right time in our lives.”
What have been the challenges of starting up a new business?
“There were a few challenges,” says Eve Saggu, co-founder of No.13 The Beauty Avenue. “Getting council approval was very stressful, collecting all the documents required to submit application. We had a change of mind with our original business name and decided to change it at the very last minute. We only had 4 weeks to set up the salon and had a few problems along the way with the fit out, having to make quick decisions to rectify some problems and a lot of back and forth with the tradesmen. Let’s just say we were both relieved and happy when the salon was up and running.”
What has been the highlight so far of opening No 13 The Beauty Avenue?
“The biggest highlight was the day we walked into the space,” says Barnett. “It had taken so long, almost a year, we nearly took a break from searching but finally, we found it! It was perfect!”
“Another highlight would definitely be doing this with someone you’ve worked with and completely trust,” says Saggu. “We have the same work ethic, which makes it easier and we both have different strengths that has helped us throughout this journey.”
Has there been any low points?
“We can’t specifically say there has been a low point,” says Saggu. “The biggest challenge was trying to keep within budget and not overspend when we were setting up the salon. We couldn’t agree on a few things but we got through it in the end and learnt to compromise.”
Your salon is divine, how did you come up with the décor?
“Our very talented friend Carly walked into the space and was, like, “yep ok we’re going to do this and that, get rid of this, change that”,” says Saggu. “We wanted a luxury, calm and moody, relaxing feel when a client walks in and she has definitely nailed the brief!”
What products do you use in your salon? And how did you decide on them?
“We use Elizabeth Arden PRO and HydroPeptide for our facial treatments because we love the products!” says Barnett. “We’ve worked with both ranges previously and personally use them ourselves; both give amazing results. We also use St Tropez for our spray tan – again we have worked with the brand for years and can’t look pass its perfect colour.”
“We use OPI and Faby for our manis and pedis,” says Saggu. “We wanted to have a point of difference with FABY being the big 5 free but found that a lot of clients still wanted OPI with its classic well-known colours, so we now have both available. We also have Xtreme lashes for eyelash extensions, the glue is a hypoallergenic medical grade eyelash extension adhesive so it’s very safe to use and also suitable for sensitive eyes.”
What do you offer your clients in terms of treatments?
“We offer clients a luxury environment where you can indulge in decadent, high-end treatments or the simple pleasures of your essential beauty needs,” says Barnett.
“Our treatments include facials, Omnilux light therapy, eyelash extensions, nails, spray tanning and massage,” continues Saggu. “We wanted to be somewhere that clients could get everything done at the one place. We also focus on looking after clients together; for example [one of us does] the nails while [the other performs] a facial. For time poor clients they can be in and out and still have all their treatments done.”
What are you finding clients are asking you for most?
“At the moment, it’s eyelash extensions, nails and a lot of Omnilux!” says Barnett.
What do you think is the secret to running a successful salon business?
“Both being beauty therapists and having worked in the industry for many years is a huge plus,” says Barnett. “We have an idea of what may or may not work, standard of what’s expected from clients etcetera. It’s really important to have the knowledge and being hands on within the business.”
“Setting high standards, using products and performing treatments you truly believe in and loving what you do,” continues Saggu.
What are your 3 top tips for beauty professionals thinking of going into their own business?
“The first tip would be to gather as much information, advice and tips as you can from people in the industry or that have experience with small business,” says Barnett. “There is no such thing as too much information, it all helps, but make decisions that you feel are right for you.”
“Our second tip would be to never doubt yourself,” says Saggu. “Make a decision and stick with it, you’ll learn from your mistakes and if it’s right – your winning!”
“And our third tip is that a business takes time to grow,” continues Barnett. “Be patient and try not to stress (as hard as that may be!)”