In the vibrant world of skincare and beauty, few stories are as inspiring as that of passionate salon owners dedicated to enhancing skin health. In a recent interview, we delved into the journey of a local entrepreneurs and sister duo Katie & Amanda from Ella Baché Pacific Fair, talking love for the skin, and the rewards of turning a passion into a career.
Here’s a closer look.
The Roots of a Passion
From a young age, Katie and Amanda were captivated by the art of skincare and makeup.
“We instinctively recognised the importance of caring for our skin,” they shared.
This early fascination laid the foundation for a career devoted to understanding and promoting skin health. And,whilst their own skin journeyshave been fortunate—rarely facing issues themselves—it was witnessing friends struggle that ignited the desire to help others find solutions.
“It’s incredibly rewarding to see friends bring their children in for skincare and facials” reflects Amanda, highlighting the legacy in building a love for skincare.
A Leap of Faith into the Beauty Industry
Initially on a path toward a law and business degree, Katie felt a compelling pull toward the beauty industry. After completing her studies, she began her journey at Ella Baché Pacific Fair, where she quickly progressed from a role in the salon-to-salon Manager. When the opportunity arose to purchase the salon with her sister Amanda, she seized it without hesitation.
The Allure of Ella Baché
What drew the sisters to Ella Baché was the brand’s rich heritage and commitment to quality skincare. The focus on luxury professional treatments and effective skincare products resonated with their philosophy.
“The emphasis on education and empowerment for our therapists felt like a welcoming environment where we could grow, " Katie & Amanda explained, appreciating the community aspect of the franchise.
Navigating the Challenges of Ownership
Transitioning to salon ownership was not without its fears. The focus was to maintain the high standards and relationships that have been built with loyal clientele, whilst managing the complexities of salon ownership.
However, with the support of Ella Baché and the sister’s familiarity with the salon's operations, they smoothly navigated this new chapter.
“It was a blend of excitement and a sense of responsibility,” they said.
A Supportive Network
The relationship with Ella Baché's head office has been a cornerstone of success. With access to invaluable resources, training, and a supportive community of fellow franchisees, Katie and Amanda feel empowered to stay updated on the latest treatments and products.
“I cherish my friendships with many salon owners in our network,” says Amanda, emphasizing the collaborative spirit.
The Lifestyle of a Salon Owner
Owning an Ella Baché salon has afforded a fulfilling lifestyle that balances work and family, both noting “the freedom to create a flexible schedule that accommodates ourfamilies’ commitments is incredibly important to us.”
Words of Wisdom
For those considering starting their own salon business, the sister duo offers valuable advice:
“Building a strong team is paramount. Surround yourself with talented individuals who share your vision and creating strong customer relationships is paramount, whilst always remaining adaptable in an ever evolving, exciting industry.”
Looking Ahead
As Ella Baché Pacific Fair approaches its 20th anniversary this December, exciting surprises are in store. With a commitment to evolve and thrive, the future looks bright for Katie, Amanda and their team of expert Skin Therapists.