The Kerryman (South Kerry Edition)
Celebrating first year in business
FOR Tralee based Award Winning stylist Emma Quirke, 2017 has been a year to remember as she celebrates the first anniversary of her new business ‘Emma Quirke Hair’ at Maine Street, Tralee.
Emma and her team of stylists offer all services from Colours, Cuts, Blowdries, Great Lengths Hair Extensions and Bridal Parties, while the ‘Lisse Design Keratin Therapy 12 week BlowDry’ is hugely popular service with the clients. The salon uses a modern, high quality range of Alfaparf Milano including their Semi Di Lino and Precious Nature range which clients love, and when combined with the salon’s work ethic, the result is a steady customer base in Emma’s first year.
“I’m very pleased with my first year as often you go into business adventures with some trepidation. In hindsight, it was a good idea to open just a few weeks before Christmas as this helped the salon get a good footing which we have managed to maintain and increase in the centre of Tralee town,” Emma said.
As a qualified colour technician with a Masters Degree in colour and chemicals, Emma uses this knowledge as a key advantage when offering clients her expansive range of colours which she is able to provide.
“My training allows me to work with a client’s colour preference and work out exactly what they want which is important but also looking after the client’s condition of their hair. We also ensure our products are of a high quality standard as we always want the best for our clients and making sure they have that ‘feel good’ factor as they leave the salon.”
Emma is assisted by fellow stylist Maíre Sheehan and junior stylist Rebecca Bentley who together help create a friendly and welcoming salon. Catherine Quirke (Emma’s mom) works in reception and helps in the day-to-day running of the salon and is someone Emma describes as the ‘backbone’ of her business. Emma’s father, Murty - who is often hidden behind the scenes is also there to lend a hand and ensure the salon and premises is up to standard.
In March 2017 – after just five months in business – Emma received her first accolade as part of the Connect Kerry Hair & Beauty Awards which was the first time Tralee had staged the awards. Emma is immensely proud of having won the Judges’ Choice Award for ‘The One to Watch in Hair’ in association with Spin South-West Radio.
“I was extremely honoured to receive the award especially as I was only in business a few months. For me the award is a reflection of the hard work and innovative service we provide here at Emma Quirke Hair - something that’s very much reciprocated by our loyal customers. We’re delighted with the client base built-up in the past year and we look forward to meeting and welcoming many new customers in the future.”
Lastly, Emma wishes to thank all her existing customers for their continued support within the salon as it is very much appreciated. She also thanks her neighbouring businesses on Maine Street for their warm welcome and support over the past year.