Freddie marks 25 years in business
ASTYLIST whose career journey took him from working in a grocers to being nominated in the hairdressing ‘Oscars’ has celebrated 25 years in his salon.
Established in 1992, Freddie’s of Bank Street, Rawtenstall has established a prized reputation, with a list of achievements – from award wins and press to seminars and TV show work.
Staff, who between them have accrued an impressive 125 years experience, popped champagne to celebrate the milestone with staff and clients old and new over the November 3-5 weekend.
However, owner Freddie Cunliffe revealed he did not intend to start out as a hairstylist, but fell into the job through a chance encounter at the age of 16.
He said: “I was working at the local fruit and veg shop. I was so hopeless that my boss took me over the road to the local salon and asked if they could do anything with me.
“The rest, as they say, is history!”
He became an apprentice in Rawtenstall, and then went to Manchester for more experience, where he gained the first of seven nominations for the British Hairdressing Awards, dubbed the ‘Oscars’ of the industry.
In the early 90s, Freddie returned to his home town to open his own salon and its work has since featured in publications such as Harper’s, GQ and Cosmopolitan.
Freddie says the diversity of the work and clients means he is still in love with hairdressing.
He said: “I love how nothing is ever the same.
“Whether that’s trends, technology or products, things in this industry are always evolving and pushing boundaries.
“It’s like being under pressure, on stage in front of an audience every day, and that’s why I love it.
“When I first started out in this industry, I wish I’d known this role wasn’t just about being a hairdresser. I’m a marriage guidance counsellor, a therapist!”
He added that keeping his team inspired and motivated has also helped the salon thrive over the years, and it now boasts two members of the Schwarzkopf Professional Young Artistic Team.
He said: “The secret to having a happy, loyal team is to put them first.
“One thing I’ve learnt is that a happy team equals a happy boss.
“Between us, we have 125 years of experience – I’m proud of what each of them bring to the salon and we couldn’t have made it this far without them.”