Holly’s career kickstarted big time when she became an assistant at ARKIVE by Adam Reed, a salon that’s beloved by beauty editors and actresses alike. Now qualified, she’s a junior stylist at Cobella and grabbing new opportunities with open arms!

How did you get into hairdressing? 
I started as a Saturday girl in my local salon after I left school at age 16. I really enjoyed it and ended up working there full time, but when I moved to ARKIVE by Adam Reed, the training was on another level. I would definitely recommend going for interviews at salons in your local area  to find the one that suits you best. It took me a while to find somewhere that really felt like home for me.

How was training?
An apprenticeship is tough but very much worth it! Some days it can be hard to see a light at the end of the tunnel, but in hairdressing practice really does make perfect. And I’m honestly doing things now that I could never have dreamed of doing a few years ago. I’m so glad I stuck it out because everything has paid off and I couldn’t be more grateful.

What do you love most about your job – and what are the not-so-good bits?
I love doing different things every day and meeting new people. The downside is the long days – they can be really tiring!

Any advice for someone thinking about hairdressing as a career?
Your first day going to work and speaking to strangers, washing their hair for the first time – it’s scary. But being out of my comfort zone and trying new things has helped me mature and grow in confidence. Having someone sit in front of you and show you a picture on Instagram of someone’s hair that they love, and then three hours later they leave with that same hair… it’s such an amazing skill to have. Not only can you do great hair but you’re confident and happy and people come to you to feel confident and happy, too! What more could you want?

 @hairbyhols_