Beautician defies odds and opens inclusive salon following Start Up Loan boost
A £15,000 boost helped Sara Razzaq found her dream salon, after building a decade of industry experience.
Sara began working as a beautician at age 15, specialising in eyebrow treatments. She initially worked as a mobile technician alongside her college work and other part time jobs, before going on to work in two of her friends’ salons.
After a decade of working in the industry, Sara decided it was the right time to scale up and start her own business, so she set up Nova Salon. The salon offers a full range of treatments including hair colouring, brow lamination, and a full range of bespoke facials.
Growing up in a family that faced financial hardship, and inspired by her mother’s strong work ethic, Sara was determined to defy the odds and grow Nova Salon into a successful business that fostered inclusivity in the local community.
As a British-Asian woman, Sara knows how it can be to feel out of place and how salons can be intimidating spaces. Because of this, Nova Salon has a strong focus on being welcoming so all its clients feel comfortable.
"Growing up, I watched my mum work incredibly hard to support us, and this has instilled a strong work ethic in me," she says. "I am proud of what Nova Salon has achieved already through our hard work. We have six talented beauticians on board and are already receiving glowing feedback from the local community."
To secure the funding needed to bring her vision to life, Sara was introduced to BEF by the Economic Growth Team at Hartlepool Borough Council, with the Start Up Loan being used to renovate the salon.
Sara’s focus on inclusivity has been reflected in how she decorated the salon, making it as accessible as possible. The salon’s decoration includes calming colours, accessibility features and the thoughtful placement of furniture.
Claire Constable, Associate Investment Manager at BEF says, "As Nova Salon continues to flourish, it stands as a beacon of what can be achieved with a blend of passion, perseverance, and financial support.
As the regional Business Support Partner for Start-Up Loans in the North East, BEF is ready to champion the region’s visionaries with the funding and support they need to begin, expand, and flourish.”
Since opening, Nova Salon has created six jobs, providing employment to residents in the local area, and is looking to hire an apprentice within the next year. To further promote inclusivity at the salon, Sara also plans to offer free beauty treatments for clients who otherwise wouldn’t be able to afford them.
