SALON IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Simply Gorgeous Beauty, Allestree, Derby

By Kat Hill | 31 May 2017 | Feature, Salon & Spas

Simply Gorgeous Beauty

With its cool New York loft inspired décor, Derby-based Simply Gorgeous Beauty was founded by Melanie Lewendon.

“The salon opened in 2011 after I had qualified at college,” reveals Melanie. “I worked in a room at the back of a cafe for one year, then renovated a second room in the second year. Now, I have the entire building and as a result have a nine-roomed salon and a fully operating training academy.

With her team of nine, Simply Gorgeous Beauty offers a wide range of treatments; from facials, massage and body treatments, to IPL hair removal, waxing and lashes. “We are best known for our nail art and nail services,” smiles Melanie. “However, as a whole, all of our treatments are very popular

“For out nail treatments, we use CND SHELLAC™, Lecenté, along CJP, Halo and Gel II. For our manicures and pedicures, we use a range of Cuccio products. We tend to try various brands so we have a huge range to offer all our clients.”

Deciding a redecoration was needed recently, Melanie wanted a completely different style to her salon. “Since opening, we were always floral and chintz in our décor,” Melanie remembers. “One day I was sitting at my desk when I released we needed to become more modern and cutting edge. I also wanted to attract new clients into the salon. I decided to completely change everything and head down a very urban New York loft feel.

“Using warm colours to relax and warm the space, I also incorporating chalk boards which I designed myself. I also love brick effect and wanted to include this as much as possible. We also have lots of wood and copper throughout. The team wasn’t too sure when I first showed them my plan, but now it’s done they are very proud and love it!

“I think decor is an integral part of the salon. It creates an initial feeling and an ambiance; it sets the tone for our client’s entire appointment. It gives the staff pride in their space and they love showing it off to their clients which, in turn, enhances their treatments. I firmly believe the staff, building and the website and all social media platforms are a clear window to what they should expect when entering our salon, first impressions do count. Attention to detail speaks volumes and strongly follows every step in our customer process.”

This attention to detail has been rewarded with the salon receiving a variety of accolades. “I was BABTAC nail technician of the year 2016 and the salon was runner up in the large salon category too. We were the English Hair and Beauty Awards Salon of the Year in 2014 and been finalists in many other awards.”

Keen to share her passion of the industry the salon also caters to students. “The upper floor of the salon sees the Simply Gorgeous Academy of Nails and Beauty,” enthuses Melanie. When asked what makes her salon unique, Melanie asked those on the receiving end. “This is a question I always find hard to answer,” she says. “The usual answers are ‘friendly, professional, etc’. We threw it over to our clients and they said, passion.

“Every one of us is insanely passionate about what we do and it comes over in our work. We will never settle and will always go beyond 100% to ensure every clients visit is a memorable one. Down to small details and remembering the last conversation we had with them and knowing exactly where they like to sit or how they take their drink. Combining knowledge and skill with love and care. Understanding exactly what our clients want from the salon and every treatment is planned and executed to the last minor detail. That’s what makes us different. Above all, most importantly, remain true to ourselves, our personalities and character.”

www.simplygorgeousbeauty.co.uk