Airdrie & Coatbridge Advertiser
Salon owner Gemma is a cut above the rest
‘Best in town’gong
A Coatbridge entrepreneur is celebrating after her salon was named the town’s best business at a recent awards ceremony.
Gemma Hay took over Vanity Hair less than a year ago after working in the salon since she was a teenager.
But the 30-year-old has already tasted success after her salon was recognised at Lanarkshire’s retail business awards earlier this month.
The Chapelhall resident is now hoping Vanity Hair will be crowned number one in the country at Scotland’s business awards in June.
A thrilled Gemma told the Advertiser: “I really didn’t expect this at all.
“I couldn’t believe it when it was announced and I feel quite emotional about it.
“Being a hairdresser is the only job I’ve ever had and it was my dream to own my own salon.
“To win Coatbridge’s best business less than a year after buying Vanity means my team and I must be doing something right.
“I turned 30 a few days before the ceremony as well so it was a nice birthday present too.”
The salon was nominated for the competition’s shortlist by satisfied customers.
Then secret shoppers and an interview with judges led to Vanity emerging victorious.
Gemma continued: “I don’t want to set my sights too high for the finals but you never know. To make it to this stage is something I’m really proud of.”
Gemma has a team of three colleagues: Gina Sloan, DonnaMarie Dunlop and make-up artist Alexandra Cojocariu.
She added: “We have a really friendly environment and the girls get on so well so it’s a nice place to be.
“Things are going well for us and we all hope that continues.”