The Bathgate beauty salon that started life as a bar
By Jess Watts | 31 August 2025 | Feature, Salon & Spas
Katie McBride started her career in the beauty industry in 2011, studying Beauty Therapy at West Lothian College. She went on to complete courses with CND™ and Calgel, with additional qualifications in eyebrow and lash lifting treatments.
In 2014, Katie’s dreams of owning a salon were fulfilled when her parents created The Beauty Barn in their back garden. “It was originally my Dad’s bar… sorry Dad,” Katie says with a smile. “He quickly turned it into my salon after I finished my training, which I’ll forever be thankful for.”
The Beauty Barn is now a three-room salon, with a beige and black colour palette and wooden accents. Katie comments: “I wanted to create a cosy but also modern feel. My aim is to offer a positive, calming and wholesome experience to all my clients.”
The feeling of safety permeates the space and Katie’s aim ‘for clients to always leave feeling happy, beautiful and well cared for’ is a priority.
The Beauty Barn welcomes clients who enjoy self-care and relaxation. Katie is the sole technician at the salon, cultivating great relationships with each client, most of whom are regulars.
Alongside beauty treatments such as brow shaping, The Beauty Barn offers natural nail treatments, with gel polish and BIAB™ (Builder In A Bottle™) from The GelBottle Inc offering clients ‘great, long-lasting results’.
“I absolutely love everything about my salon,” Katie says. “Nothing makes me happier than a busy day seeing my amazing clients in my gorgeous space.”
Looking to the future, Katie is hoping to continue with her current clientele, whilst reaching out to other nails techs and beauty therapists ‘to offer advice and knowledge on all things business’. She is also hoping to work with brands, so watch this space!
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