Independents’ Day - No22 Hair Boutique, Honiton

No22. Ref mhr 40-17TI 2880. Picture: Terry Ife (Image: Archant)

Please introduce yourself…

My name is Tasha Browning. I worked here for three years and bought it off the old owner in April. Since then, we have revamped the place and taken on two new stylists. We’ve also have a beautician here. I was born and bred in Honiton, and went to E-hair Academy, based in Torquay and Exeter to learn my trade.

What made you decide to set up shop as an independent trader in Honiton?

No22. Ref mhr 40-17TI 2872. Picture: Terry Ife (Image: Archant)

I relished a new challenge and thought if I could take the business on, it would be a job forever. I have been self-employed for four years and like doing my own stuff. When the opportunity arose, I was very excited and thought it would be a whole new adventure. Also, people around the town know me so it was not like I was taking on a business where the community had to get to know me.

How do you see your business faring over the next five years?

Getting busier hopefully! I hope to extend the shop. I want to put an extension on the back so we can offer more beauty services. This would make the business more profitable while operating all under one roof. We also host ‘Princess Parties’ for young children, aged five to ten, who want to be pampered like their parents, and I am looking to roll out more of them.

No22. Ref mhr 40-17TI 2870. Picture: Terry Ife (Image: Archant)

What one piece of advice would you give to anybody considering setting up a local independent shop?

I think I have got an amazing family and they have helped me out a lot. As long as you have good friends and family around you, you’re set. Follow your dreams and keep on top of the book work! I was told once ‘never let the book work pile up’ and I never have.

No22. Ref mhr 40-17TI 2859. Picture: Terry Ife (Image: Archant)