The first rule for managing your own website is “You must keep it relevant, keep it up to date” yes, I can concur that is an absolute fail on my part, considering I last updated my case studies during covid and the website as a whole in 2020!!!
I have not however been sat on my hands, or twiddling my thumbs since 2020 (nearly 4 years) I have in fact been spinning plates in my master plan to join a circus someday.
Ok, so that is not strictly true, I would be absolutly rubbish in a circus, I’m way too clumsy, but I have been spinning plates.
2020 for me, like most was the most surreal experience. In the January I was filled with hope, ambition and drive to turn around the failing salon I had just used all of my savings to purchase. It was so exciting. I had been a customer of this Salon/Tanning Studio since my late teens and always had in the back of my mind, that, if, by some miracle, I was able to get my hands on it I could make this a success.
When the opportunity arose I jumped at it, I got it for a reasonable price that I was sure it was the perfect investment.
It all started to go a little awry in the February, my father passed away – on the most part unexpectedly, and there was this whirling media around Covid 19. Like most I didn’t think too much of it. Much like the slogan says “keep Calm and Carry On”. So I did,I pushed forward where I could with the Salon knowing in my heart of hearts a lockdown was coming, but just plough through everything will be fine.
It wasn’t.
As standard I didn’t get many before pictures – the old imposter syndrome was very much present but these pictures were not far where I started from. But the biggest challenge was this, a room, previously used for sunbeds, although for 5 years prior it was just a place to store the rubbish they didn’t have the means to dispose of.
So you may ask what have you been up to since – It is 2024!
Well I have had multiple contracts across lots of different areas. Software Implementation, Care Home Improvements, and even a stint with the Government at DCMS but my spare time has largely been taken up with management and marketing of the salon.
For those who know me, know I am determined, I will not be beaten easily and a global pandemic is just a little blip, the situation around the salon has been challenging but as far as hobbies go, its a pretty cool one to have.
For the last 2+ years I have been enjoying a role designing and implementing a new housing software solution at Great Yarmouth Borough Council, and despite it being on the furthest part of the UK east of Bristol I have worked with some amazing inspirational people I will never forget and will hope to visit regularly (only during spring and summer though, its way to cold for me in autumn and winter).
You see, that’s the very best thing about being a freelancer, you get to meet lots of people who you wouldn’t normally cross paths with and that is why I will continue to do what I do. Owning 360 enables me to support this little known local salon that employs multiple local ladies, provides a great service to men and women and is a safe haven for those who may feel self conscious but want to try something new. Yes, we have a way to go before we make a profit but I am proud of my team and the commitment they show, to not just our customers but also the local community.
Today as I write this Beauty Within, a small salon on Regent Street, in the little known town of Kingswood, Bristol is now award winning, and considered highly recommended by the booking platform that can claim 100,000’s of beauty and wellbeing businesses across the UK.
Yes, the hair studio is the very same room that was filled with rubbish. To know more visit http://beautywithinbs15.salon
360serviceimprovements.com 