A HAIR and beauty salon is celebrating its first birthday by growing its team with the creation of three new jobs.
Shine, at Preston Farm, has taken on two apprentices and a new full time stylist after hitting its 12-month growth target during a successful first year.
Owner Jacqui Elliott, who has more than 30 years’ experience in the industry, said: "We're thrilled with the way our first year has gone. Some people saw opening a hair and beauty salon on a business park as something of a leap of faith, but I think we've exceeded a lot of expectations.
"We've gained new clients on our doorstep, as well as many who travel from Ingleby Barwick, Yarm and Stockton and loyal clients who come from further afield. They like the fact that we're easily accessible off the A66 and there's plenty of free parking outside. Being away from a high street also helps us create a calmer atmosphere."
Jacqui, a colour specialist and experienced trainer, added: "I'd hoped we'd be able to appoint a new stylist a year on from opening, so I’m delighted that we’re on plan. I'm also keen to raise standards in our profession and give young people the opportunity of high quality training so they can get their career off to a good start.
"Jane, Amy and Steph, who’ve just joined us, are great additions and we're going into our second year with a really strong team."
Stylist Jane Rogers, 20, of Acklam, was keen to join a high-end salon.
"I was at a point where I was ready to join a top salon, where I could work my way up and have the chance of career development. Everyone at Shine is so welcoming and friendly so now I'm trying to build up my client base," said Jane.
Steph Bloom, 20, of Ingleby Barwick, is due to qualify at level two in November and is supporting her previous training at college with learning new techniques at Shine, led by Jacqui.
"I'm seeing a lot of creative skills here that I've never come across before so I'm learning a lot of new things," she added.
Amy Bowen, 19, of Stockton, has started a two-year apprenticeship after opting for a career in hairdressing instead of A levels.
"I want to be hands on in a salon, rather than in a college environment. Shine is the first place where I've really enjoyed coming to work.”