About Heather

This article was published in "Woman in Business", A Special Advertising Feature, Kingston Whig Standard, Saturday, November 11, 2000.

Heather Emslie-Smith wasn't looking to become an entrepreneur. A hair designer with over 18 years of experience and a solid client base. Heather found herself taking over Hairstream when the previous owner decided to sell the salon. Although she never imagined herself as an owner, Heather has been pleasantly surprised to discover that, with the help of her supportive and enthusiastic staff, she's a natural businesswoman.

Heather took over the salon in March of this year, and since then, has worked to provide both her stylists and their clients with a high level of service. She and her staff determined their priorities for service, and confirmed a general design to offer the best in style and service for healthy, exciting hair, as well as a full range of esthetics, including pedicures, manicures and facials. The salon has six stylists in March and has already expanded to ten stylists and two estheticians.

"There are many hairstyles and trends available, but nothing beats a look that is healthy and easy to care for", says Heather. She notes that many of today's popular styles centre around a carefree look. "Not many people have the time or energy for a style that takes lots of time to maintain", she says. "They want a cut that looks fabulous with a minimal amount of care."

Heather says that many clients come to her with photos of actors and models, looking for a particular cut. "We often get asked to provide cuts or colours from popular shows," she says, "but we always try to add a personal touch." Although she is experienced at cutting hair in any style, Heather enjoys the opportunity to design an individual look for clients.

Along with great service, Heather and her designers also decided to spend more time and energy supporting the community. "We all feel that it's important to contribute something to our community, and decided to support a number of organizations," she says. In February, the salon sold hearts for the Heart and Stroke Foundation, and in April they supported the cancer society through the sale of daffodils. This summer, they entered a dragon boat team in the races for Hospice Kingston, and will be involved in Clothes for Kids during the Christmas season.

Heather notes that her success has been largedly in part due to a talented and supportive staff and their many clients. "I'm very lucky to have great people to work with, and a wonderful client base," she says. "It's an excellent way to start out in business, and a solid foundation for the future."