Meet Saks Artist, Claire
Our Chester salon director Claire spills the tea on rocking salon life, teaching as a Saks Artist, the morning cuppa, being a footy mum and sing-alongs with Bey.
What’s the most rewarding part of educating as a Saks Artist? Seeing confidence grow, watching individuals flourish and achieve their personal goals in such an exciting industry.
How do you balance representing Saks Artists with salon life? I work part-time in the salon, so I can stay involved with the other Saks Artists. This year has been super exciting, building a course with L’Oréal Professionnel, tailored to Saks and our customers.
What’s one colour trend clients are asking for, and how are you teaching it? Grey blending/French blending. We’re running sessions at Saks Hub, and it’s exciting to be sharing our knowledge!
What’s something social media doesn’t show about backstage or education work? The preparation of the content for education. It takes a team of people to ensure the smooth running of the day.
I pride myself on the level of knowledge I have to share, and I adapt my delivery skills depending on the delegates. To deliver education involves a lot of training personally before having the skill set to share it – not just technical knowledge but quick thinking, problem solving, staying focused, keeping people engaged…
Anything about Saks that people might not realise, but really sets it apart? The family vibe. I’ve been with Saks for 18 years, and it still doesn’t really feel like a job. The opportunities keep on coming! On career progression, special thanks to my salon owner Nicola for always supporting my career growth with amazing opportunities such as delving into education, management qualifications, British Hairdressing Business Awards, and L’Oréal Colour Trophy. I have flexi hours to suit my family’s needs… the list goes on. There is never an end to the pathway at Saks and in our salon in Chester, and this is why customers keep coming back.
You love what you do – share that one thing that you love in salon. Education – watching my learners start out as I did. Finishing their apprenticeships and watching their columns grow. Seeing their reviews and their work on social media and the confidence they gain.
What’s a fave thing to do outside the salon? Spend time with my family. Watch my two children play football. I’m that footy mum and wouldn’t change it for the world.
Dream travel destination if you could go tomorrow? Florida, I’ve been, but want to take my own children – Disneyland Paris was so magical for them.
How do you unwind after a busy day in salon / educating or backstage? A sing-along to Beyonce in my car on the way home, and then to my children’s hobbies, haha.
Go-to playlist, song, or artist to add the vibe at work? Anything Beyonce (never missed a tour) or Harry Styles.
One little thing that always makes your day just better? My morning cuppa and the sun shining.
What’s your go-to comfort food or ritual after a long day? What don’t I eat! I am a big foodie. If there’s food involved, count me in.
If you could swap lives with anyone for a day, who would it be and why? Obviously, Bey.