On Monday 26th September, Daisy Bell was live from the salon for the BBC Radio Northampton Breakfast Show, interviewing John & Shirley along with members of the Team and also some very longstanding clients. As we are celebrating our centenary year, we talked about different aspects of the salon and what makes us special. We were all quite nervous, as no one ever wants to embarrass themselves on radio! Daisy put us at ease, and it was quite a fun morning!
John and Shirley talked about the history of the salon and the previous Newman generations and how his grandad Ted came to open the salon in Rothwell. Did you know John began working in the family business at the age of 19 and only planned to "help out for 6 months"?
Left: John Newman, Daisy Bell & Shirley Newman, Right: Shirley Newman, Daisy Bell interviews John Newman.
Daisy interviewed Lily and Natalie about their experiences working in the salon. Lily explained about her Colour Specialist role, and the course she had to partake to gain her degree. There are only around 2000 Colour Specialists within the UK, so this is a very prestigious role. Natalie told Daisy the story of how her Gramp was worried about her when she came for her interview, take a listen to find out why and to also hear about Natalie's mystery celebrity client!
Natalie Harvey, Lily Glover & Daisy Bell
Next, it was Daisy's turn in the spotlight. Steph challenged Daisy to a quiz with all the questions relating to hair, see how many answers you can get right! Daisy then had to create a plait in 60 seconds whilst also making sure she had 'the hairdressing chat'. She didn't do too bad actually! Steph also talked about being part of someone's big day, with regards to her role in salon as a Bridal Specialist.
"They have all exclusive use of the first floor salon as well, it's just really nice to be a part of their day."
Stephanie Andrews & Daisy Bell taking part in the challenge
We were grateful to be supported by some very loyal clients to talk about why they love coming to our salon, and the generations of their families that still come, ranging from their 93 year old mother to their 7 year old granddaughter.
"I love coming. When I come for that hour, two hours, to me that's my time out. The girls are so lovely, anybody could come... and their welcomed."
Brian Wilmer, Linda Wilmer, Daisy Bell, Chris Andrews, Jacqueline Mariani
Thank you so much to BBC Radio Northampton, Tom Percival, Daisy Bell and our wonderful clients Brian, Linda, Chris & Jacqueline. It was a great morning to let everyone know about our fantastic salon and the amazing achievement of 100 years in business.
1:24:10 - Owners John & Shirley Newman
1:53:50 - Colour Specialist Lily & Creative Stylist/Makeup Artist Natalie
2:23:45 - Creative Stylist & Bridal Specialist Steph
2:53:54 - Clients Brian Wilmer, Linda Wilmer & Chris Andrews