Thursday, November 13, 2008
Colin Bond is a Sydney hair stylist who brings the salon to you. Here he talks garden haircuts, competitive pricing, and this-season's hair trends.
What are the benefits of home hairdressing?
Too many. You will never be late for an appointment, never have to park your car, catch a bus, train, taxi or try and find a nanny for the children. You only have to leave your house if the sun is shining and you fancy a haircut in the garden. You can work around the house or at your business while the colour takes, or just sit back and enjoy a glass of wine provided by me.
You were with Toni & Guy, what made you go out on your own?
I spent six or so years as one of their prestige educators, conducting cutting seminars in their academy and travelling around Australia with their product company, Tigi. I achieved all my goals and it was time to leave and set up my own business.
What kind of people use home hairdressing?
My daytime appointments are primarily mothers with new babies who do not want that 'mumsy' look. Evening appointments are mostly professionals who find it hard to fit their life into a salon environment. Weekends are a mixture.
How booked up are you?
I started this business 10 months ago and I've had 400 clients go through my books already. My goal is 500 by Christmas and 1000 this time next year. My evening appointments, 5pm to 8pm, are usually gone — you need to book three weeks in advance, or I might get a cancellation. My daytime appointments are more open. I try to work around people and will always fit you in somewhere, even if it means a Sunday roast at your place!
Is the price competitive?
Very. My cuts start at $50 for men and $60 for women.
Could this be the end of the salon as we know it?
People still love the salon experience and sometimes people don't like change. My business isn't for everyone and that's life. I offer something different, a whole new experience of having your hair personalised at home.
Your top three hair trends?
1. Sun-kissed blondes and warm oak browns, as though the sun has lightened the hair a few shades without the orange or yellow tone.
2. Weightless bobs with seamless layers.
3. Double-base-line fringes with outgrown lengths to give a raw feel.
