Helena Annandale is a passionate entrepreneur with a heart for skincare and a vision for empowering others through beauty. With a wealth of experience in the beauty industry and a deep-rooted commitment to excellence, Helena's journey as a salon owner and Ella Baché franchisee is nothing short of inspiring. Read on, as she shares her personal experiences, insights, and lessons learned on the path to success in the ever-evolving world of beauty and skincare.
Where does your love for skincare and beauty stem from?
For me, it's a blend of personal curiosity, experiences, and a desire to help others feel their best, inside and out. As a teenager in the United Kingdom, I found myself fascinated by skincare routines and makeup experimentation. Despite occasional blemishes, I maintained good skin health, sparking a profound interest in assisting others facing skin challenges. This aspiration led me to pursue a career in the beauty industry.
What prompted you to establish your own salon, particularly as an Ella Baché franchisee?
After years of experience in various salons, all affiliated with the esteemed Ella Baché brand, I felt a calling to establish my own salon. The dream of owning an Ella Baché franchise salon began to take shape, fueled by a desire for professional growth and alignment with family-oriented values.
What attracted you to Ella Baché's franchise offering?
Deeper Connection: The opportunity to deepen my connection with Ella Bache's respected, family-operated brand resonated with me. The Australian ownership and family values mirrored my own beliefs.
Robust Support: Ella Bache's unwavering support for franchisees, from day-to-day operations to long-term goal achievement, spoke volumes. The brands’ commitment to aiding franchisees is exceptional and crucial for success.
Balanced Life: Pursuing an Ella Baché franchise meant not only fulfilling career ambitions but also attaining a harmonious balance between professional and personal life. This alignment with my family-oriented values was essential.
What challenges did you face in opening your business?
Committing to opening my business came with fears, particularly regarding financial instability. However, with careful planning, trusting my instincts, careful selection of partners, and support from Ella Baché, the process of setting up my salon was not as daunting as I had initially feared.
How has your journey as a salon owner been since opening your establishments?
My salons, Warnbro Skin & Body Clinic and Ella Baché Secret Harbour, stand as testaments to years of dedication and innovation within the beauty industry. While Warnbro boasts multiple awards for excellence, Ella Baché Secret Harbour promises a fresh and innovative approach to beauty and skincare. My ongoing relationship with Ella Baché's head office and network is marked by strong support, collaboration, and shared values. Their assistance has been invaluable in maintaining brand standards and achieving success.
Tell us what you have achieved since opening your salon?
Since opening my own salon, I have achieved remarkable personal growth and forged strong connections within my local community. I have been able to balance a successful career while continuing to fulfill my desire to ensure family connection is not compromised. Additionally, my salon's success has provided me with financial stability, allowing me to be comfortable and secure in my financial well-being. Overall, my journey as a salon owner has been marked by both personal fulfilment and financial prosperity.
Share with us the lifestyle owning your own Ella Baché salon has afforded you?
Owning my own Ella Baché salon has enriched my lifestyle in several significant ways. Firstly, it has granted me the flexibility to prioritise work-life balance. I can readily attend my children's school events and efficiently manage their care during school holidays, fostering a deeper connection with my family. And secondly, I have been lucky enough to support the Cherish Foundation and raise money to fund clinical research for women with gynecological cancer, by experiencing a number of different adventures including walking the Larapinta trail in Alice Springs and climbing Mount Kilimanjaro. Incredible experiences and ones that I believe I am afforded due to owning my own businesses but also being part of the Ella Baché network who also have a strong relationship with Cherish.
What advice would you give to someone who is looking to start their own salon business?
- Embrace Flexibility: Understand that not everything will go according to plan. Be adaptable and open to change, when necessary, as the business landscape can be unpredictable.
- Hard Work Pays Off: Building a successful salon takes dedication and hard work. Be prepared to put in the effort required to make your business thrive. Success often comes to those who persevere.
- Seek Guidance: Don't hesitate to ask for help or advice from experienced salon owners, mentors, or industry experts. Their insights can be invaluable in navigating challenges and making informed decisions.
- Passion Matters: Ensure that you are truly passionate about the beauty industry and the services your salon will offer. Your passion will drive your commitment and enthusiasm, which can be infectious to both your staff and clients.
Interested in getting more information about Ella Baché franchising. Enquire now.