Bristol’s Robin James is one of four Robin James Aveda salons in the South West. Its founder Robin Hague, chats to Bristol24/7 about starting the salons 25 years ago and becoming one of the first salons to use natural and holistic products

SPONSORED FEATURE

What’s the ethos behind your salons?
I was brought up in a customer service environment. My parents had a small hotel. When I planned my first salon I put customer service at the top of the list of what must set us apart from every other salon. That hasn’t changed.

The story began 25 years ago, how did it start?
Through sheer frustration, blissful ignorance and more than just a sprinkling of luck. I was working as a stylist for a good salon, I was not yet 21 and my boss who I had worked for since starting my apprenticeship was expanding and opening another salon. I expressed an interest in managing it for him. He laughed at me, saying I was too young and didn’t have the experience. So I left and opened my own. The lucky bit was that my brother was training to be an accountant and I had a bank manager who backed me. Tim, my brother and I, put a business plan to the bank and they lent me the money. Yes that’s right, a bank that lent money. Unusual concept these days!

When did you become an Aveda salon and what does it mean to you to work with Aveda products?
A little over 10 years ago we diversified into spa to complement our already established hair business. Aveda’s product complemented what I wanted to achieve in the spa. It’s natural and holistic. A decade ago everyone thought I was joining the tree huggers. Now the green, natural and organic credentials are mainstream.

How do you hope your clients feel when they are in your salon? 
I hope our guests feel like they have put life on hold for a while and they can relax, unwind and enjoy what we have to offer.

And what do you offer at the salon? Hair/body treatments? Do you have a signature treatment?
We have some amazing hair and spa treatments. One of them that brings the spa into the salon is the botanical hair spa. It’s like a facial for your hair. It will give you luminous, healthy looking hair. How? By tapping the wisdom of Ayurveda (the ancient healing art of India), combining the power of touch with aroma-therapeutic essential oils to create a healthy scalp-the foundation for beautiful hair. Breakthrough plant micro technology penetrates strands for intense moisture or repair with customised treatments to meet your personal needs – restoring balance to the ecosystem of your scalp and hair. Your hair will look healthier and shinier and feel soft and silky. I guarantee it will bring out the full beauty of your hair.

How do you hope people will feel when they leave salon? 
Rewarded and beautiful.

What’s the future for Robin James Salon?
Exciting. 2015 is going to be a great year. My goal is to raise the standard still further. More education for my wonderful staff and even better service for our guests.

Robin James Salon is situated in House of Fraser, Cabot’s Circus
www.robin-james.co.uk