Happy homecoming on Victoria: Surreal

August 16, 2021August 24, 2021 by Metropol No Comments

Life doesn’t get any better for a business owner than having a front window on Victoria Street, a location many aspire to.

Michelle Marsh, a salon owner and operator for 23 years, is living that dream, for a second time.

Formerly located at 60 Victoria Street, her salon Surreal reopened on July 6 at 66 Victoria Street. “It feels like a homecoming. As soon as I arrived here, I had that feeling of excitement again – all the things I had missed working in a proper salon.”

The 2011 earthquakes required the salon to move to a renovated-for-purpose villa in Westminster Street. Clients loved it, but Michelle and the team found it a limiting workspace.

The new salon, designed by Krush Architecture Ltd, exudes calm and serenity, something Michelle was focused on from the beginning. “People’s lives are so busy now; it’s nice to have an oasis – a place to enjoy time out.”

Sustainability and supporting local are fully embraced here, with all waste disposed of responsibly and all beverages locally sourced. “We are proud to be a member of Sustainable Salons,” Michelle says.

Another major point of difference is the salon now has a liquor licence. “To offer that extra touch of pampering to clients is paramount. Bring on the cocktails.”
Michelle never forgets that without her clients none of this would have been possible, “Their loyalty and support never wavers.”

The same goes for her 15 work colleagues. “They are exceptional. The salon has a loyal, stable workforce and an amazing environment.”

A firm believer in apprenticeships, the salon is an industry leader, offering flexible working conditions, excellent remuneration, and a super-fun but professional environment; great incentives for any hairdresser looking for a fantastic place to work.