Award Winners: Community Award
How I Made It As A Hairdresser, Ellie Smith
Ellie Smith, the dedicated owner of Ella Bella Bows Hairdressing, has been honoured with the Inspiration Award at our 2024 Professional Hair & Beauty Awards. Starting her journey at the young age of 15, Ellie now brings 12 years of hairstyling and makeup expertise to her clients in Essex, UK. Every day, she welcomes clients with a warm smile, transforming their hair and earning glowing reviews.
We are excited to delve into her remarkable story to inspire those at the beginning of their hairdressing careers and those eager to learn about the industry's highs and lows. From her essential must-have products to the pivotal moments that shaped her path, we’ve gathered Ellie’s insights to guide you on your journey.
Join us as we explore the steps Ellie took to achieve her success, providing you with the knowledge and confidence to forge your path in the world of hairdressing. Let’s dive in and discover the secrets to her success.
What made you want to pursue hairdressing?
"When I was 15, I got a Saturday job in a small local salon. Since then I fell in love with the industry. I could really channel my creative side. I also love the thought of making people feel good and when your hair looks good you feel amazing. I always saw hair as a fashion accessory. Hair is the crown you never take off."
What routes of education did you take?
"I got an apprenticeship when I was 16 at Lee Stafford Hair and Beauty. I went to college one day a week and was in the salon the rest. I also got to do master classes with Lee Stafford himself. I strive for perfection so I make sure I put myself on different courses throughout the year. I am always learning."
What has been the most challenging part of your career so far?
"Suffering from anxiety from a young age, I really struggled with interacting with clients during their appointment. This affected so many jobs I had in my early career. I loved doing hair but really struggled with the social side. I knew if I wanted to stay in the industry I needed to do something about my anxiety. I started living a healthier lifestyle and putting myself out there to find common ground with my clients."
What are your best tips to get recognised by potential new clients?
"Take lots of pictures of your work and post on your social media pages. Recommend a friend and loyalty card schemes are always good. Customer reviews are also a great way to encourage new customers. If you can, use your website and social media channels to advertise any offers and attract new clients."
What is the best and worst part of your job?
"Best part of being a hair stylist is getting to express your creativity through different people’s hair and making them feel beautiful at the same time. The worst part I would say is how physically demanding it is. It’s definitely not for the weak!"
Where do you see yourself and your business in the next 5 years?
"In the next 5 years I would like to have expanded my business. I’d love to have my own salon and be in the process of having my own brand."
If you could go back in time, is there anything you would do differently?
"The only thing I would do differently is ask every stylist I have ever worked with more questions to gain all the knowledge I possibly can."
Have you ever had a client receive unexpected results?
"Thankfully I haven’t had any massive disasters. I do believe the customer is always right so I will
always do my best to cater to everyone’s needs and keep every customer happy."
Do you have favourite hairstylist or someone who has been an inspiration to you?
"Lee Stafford is one of my inspirations and Sophia Hilton.
Sophia’s creative colouring and advice she shares on her social media really inspires me to learn more and do better."
What products could you never do your job without?
Hair colour
"I couldn’t live without my toners. I love a toner." Check out our popular hair toners here.
Hair care
"Definitely Wella Professionals Ultimate Repair Miracle Rescue and Redken Extreme Anti Snap Treatment."
Styling Products
"Redken Quick Blowout Accelerated Blowdry Spray and Moroccanoil Frizz Shield Spray."
Styling Tools
"I couldn’t live without my Diva Pro hairdryer and straighteners. Check out Diva Professional Styling products here."
Hair accessories & tools
"A medium round brush is a must for me and Bobby pins."
Check out our popular brushes here and pins here.
Ellie's Must Have items
If you could only wear your hair in one particular style for the rest of your life, what would it be?
"I would have long hair and a nice creamy blonde colour. It would be styled in a bouncy blowdry.
Imagine washing your hair, letting it dry and it looks like you’ve had a bouncy blowdry. That’s the dream. Everyone knows a bouncy blow is my absolute favourite."
Inspirational quote from Ellie:
“Hair is the crown you never take off”.
Follow Ellie (@ellabellabowshairdressing) to keep up to date with her business and her incredible work.
Are you up to date with the other Winners? Find all the winning products from the 2024 awards.