Hi, I’m Char, and I set up The Vanity Box in 2011 at the age of 20. Prior to that I’d worked as a junior, and then stylist, at Just Ian in Whitnash from the age of 13. Hair and business were both passions of mine, so I did my hairdressing qualifications at Warwickshire College alongside also doing my a-levels in business, art, photography and maths! Staying in education that little bit longer was the BEST thing I could have done....we should all make the most of being a young, partying student right?
I originally launched my business ‘The Vanity Box’ as a home hair salon in March 2011. We converted the garage at my mums house into a small professional salon with its own entrance, and PINK floor!! Luckily, and with some hard work and long hours, my business grew and grew and I have now got the most incredible clientele of beautiful, fun and loyal ladies, gents and children that have all become part of The Vanity Box Community. The salon worked great and allowed me to build my business without high costs and overheads, continue my training and education and also build my confidence.
When initially setting up The Vanity Box I still lived at home but moved out in 2013. Working from Mums was still like working from home (your mums house is always still your home isn’t it!?) but I got to shut the door on work and keep it a little separate from my home life. But the dream had always been to have a ‘proper’ salon!
And what a time for that opportunity to come up! In May 2020, whilst not working due to the covid19 pandemic my dream salon became available. Although it seemed like the craziest thing to do when not earning and, like many others, having the stress and worry of how the pandemic would affect the industry, I felt like there was something fabulous about rising out of lockdown like a phoenix and making that long hustled for leap! This salon had always been my dream salon, bigger than my last but small enough to still feel personal. And it was next door to my local pub!
The salon gave me the opportunity to employ staff and expand the business to a new level. Having staff gave me the opportunity to step back slightly from 'salon life' and spend some time out to complete my ASP colour masters in Southhampton. One of the best educational experiences I have had, boosting my passion for hair and education!
In 2023, after working solo again, and after lots of thought, planning and research, The Vanity Box is making an exciting move to my home! I am lucky enough to be in a position to develop and evolve my business to suit all aspects of my life whilst also continuing to offer the best service possible to clients.
TVB 3.0 is the best version yet...providing an exclusive space for you to relax and unwind amongst my lovely garden. With a one to one appointment system and a luxurious new high end product range you'll leave feeling relaxed, refreshed and full of sparkle!
I have loved welcoming all clients old and new into the The Vanity Box community over the last 12 plus years and I cannot wait to enjoy many more years doing so!
Much Love
Char
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