Up Close with Johnathan
In conversation with our Redcar salon owner, Johnathan, right here. Get the lowdown on proudly representing as a Saks Artist, how hairdressing practice makes perfect, grey blending galore, Adele and more.
As a Saks Artist, what’s the most rewarding part of educating? Seeing the passion in people when learning. Getting excited about learning new techniques and being proud of new skills. I think learning reignites our love for hairdressing and our industry.
Backstage is fast and high-pressure – what’s your trick when the energy is intense?
I thrive off pressure. Pile ten jobs on me, that’s fine, pile on ten more, and watch me fly!
How do you balance representing Saks Artists with salon life? I love being able to have the different aspects in my career – salon owner and educator – it keeps it all interesting. A LOT of work, but I wouldn’t do it if I didn’t love it.
One colour trend clients are asking for and how are you teaching it? Grey blending. It is taking over the industry. My column in the salon is full of grey blending. I’m teaching it via in-person courses, online videos, and no gatekeeping on my own socials.
For someone wanting to go backstage, what should they focus on building, e.g. skill, speed, mindset, organisation? Get yourself out there, volunteer, watch, learn, work on your skill set. I couldn’t braid for the first five years of my career, so I took a doll’s head home every night until I could do up to ten-strand plaits.
Share that one thing that you love in salon. I love being best friends with 76-year-old Joan whose hair I have done for 20 years. I love welcoming a new nephew because one of my colleagues has had a child, I love planning weddings with clients. I love that Saks has a total family vibe.
Anything about working closely with our creative leadership Luke Pluckrose and Clare Murphy that’s seen you right? They keep it cool, amazing at what they do, but they are never arrogant. And they keep it simple. They always enhance my skills like a colleague.
What’s a fave thing to do outside the salon? I love hiking and being out in nature.
Dream travel destination if you could go tomorrow? I’d be climbing Machu Picchu.
A fun fact about you that people may not know? Three degrees! Currently studying for my L’Oréal Colour Specialist degree, which is the third degree I’ve completed after law and education. And I will always choose hairdressing!
How do you unwind after a busy day in salon? A cuddle with my kids and fiancé on the sofa with a movie.
Who or what inspires you most in any aspect of life and why? My family, making them proud, will always inspire me to do more.
Go-to playlist to add the vibe at work? Don’t. Always Adele … even in the gym 🤣
One little thing that always makes your day just better? My kids’ smiles when they see me picking them up from school.
What’s your go-to comfort food or ritual after a long day? Pizza from my fave takeaway.
If you could swap lives with anyone for a day, who would it be and why? Prince William. Imagine being royal for the day. What’s that all about?