Meet Saks Artist, Jess
Saks Artist Jess at our Barnard Castle salon rocks, but you know that already! Get the lowdown on breathwork backstage, that thing about the Saks fam, twinning with tattoos, Nana’s advice and more.
JESS! What’s the most rewarding part of educating as a Saks Artist? Finding out at the end of a session that our stylists have learnt something and will remember “Jess showed me that” when they’re working it up for clients in the salon.
Backstage is high-pressure – what’s your trick when the energy is intense? Stay focused on what you’re doing, but don’t miss the buzz. Take it all in. It’s an amazing feeling!
How do you balance representing Saks Artists with salon life? I LOVE talking about the involvement I have in my role! Being able to tell my clients about what I get up to as a Saks Artist – they love to hear all about it.
Can you remember your first backstage gig for Saks? Clothes Show Live! What an amazing experience, I did it two years running and would love to do it again.
What’s something social media doesn’t show about backstage or education work? It’s full on and can be scary. which it is, but once you’re in it, it’s loads of fun!
For someone wanting to go backstage, what should they focus on building, e.g. skill, speed, mindset, organisation? ALL the skills. With the timing, backstage is intense, so just breathe and stay focused.
Anything about Saks that people might not realise, but really sets it apart? Family. You not only have your salon team, but the whole company has your back!
Share that one thing that you love in salon. My clientele! People who’ve chosen me over the years now feel like close friends of mine.
Anything about working closely with our leadership team Luke Pluckrose and Clare Murphy that’s seen you right? Yes. Doing hair is a meaningful and valuable job, but it’s only hair, so don’t overthink or overcomplicate things. And that if you work hard, you get amazing opportunities.
What’s a fave thing to do outside the salon? Recently bought a house, so all things interior design.
Dream travel destination if you could go tomorrow? Sri Lanka or India.
A fun fact about you? I have a matching tattoo of a lighthouse with my brother, signifying protection and guidance from danger.
How do you unwind after a busy day? Play Animal Crossing on my Nintendo Switch while getting stuck into a good box set.
Who or what inspires you most in any aspect of life and why? My Nana, who winds me up sometimes for fun but always sees the best in everything and everyone.
Go-to playlist at work? Mumford and Sons and a similar vibe.
What’s your go-to comfort food or ritual after a long day? Steak sarnie with caramelised onions on toasted ciabatta.
If you could swap lives with anyone for a day, who would it be and why? Someone who rides and cares for horses for a living.