Salon in the Spotlight: The Beauty Studio, Wiltshire
By Carter Rogers | 25 May 2023 | Feature, Salon & Spas
Driven by her passion and dedication to the industry, nail technician and beauty educator, Claire Elaine Thomson, shares her love for learning and reveals the message behind her hummingbird branding.
With 23 years of experience, Claire started her nail journey in 1998 when she decided it was time to do something that would bring her joy. Enrolling into an NVQ2 course part-time, Claire completed her training in 1999, entering the industry officially in 2000 as an account manager for Nails Inc before becoming its business development manager.
Claire has continued to further her knowledge and training across the beauty space, mastering a range of beauty services, and has passed on this knowledge through her teaching with Cuccio, Training Solutions, Bio Sculpture, Elim and Lucy Pastorelli, as well as through her accredited courses with The Beauty Guild.
Prior to opening her salon in 2019, Claire worked on a mobile basis, tending to regular clients while also teaching for Training Solutions across the UK. “After years of travelling to teach and being mobile, lockdown hit and it gave me time to reflect. I used the lockdown to get everything in order for my salon at my leisure, allowing me to create the perfect space for my clients and students.
Offering a range of nail treatments including manicures, Elim pedicures, acrylic extensions, full coverage tips, hard gel and infill services, Claire uses products from Bio Sculpture and Cuccio for her services. She also offers a range of beauty treatments, such as spray tans, massages, facials, waxing, make-up, and a host of lash and brow services.
“Starting the salon was probably the easiest decision I had to make, I now have the best of both worlds and it all happens in my garden.”
Offering a range of nail treatments including manicures, Elim pedicures, acrylic extensions, full coverage tips, hard gel and infill services alongside a range of beauty treatments, such as spray tans, massages, facials, waxing, make-up and a host of lash and brow services, Claire notes that she doesn’t have a favourite service to perform.”I genuinely love all aspects of the beauty industry; my favourite being to learn and teach.”
In the salon, she uses Bio Sculpture and Cuccio for her nail services, opting for products from Lashbase, Salon System and Temple Spa Products for beauty treatments.
“My clients are more like my friends now,” Claire smiles. “Some have been coming to The Beauty Studio for over 10 years and are all regulars. Each treatment and visit varies, but nails are often most popular, with an add-on beauty service.
“They also like to have evening appointments as I tend to one client in the evening, so they know they can add another treatment if they fancy it.”
Claire believes her dedication to learning and her wealth of industry experience makes her salon unique. “”I genuinely love all aspects of the beauty industry; my favourite being to learn and teach. I’m still learning something new constantly and always adding to my portfolio – my clients love being practised on and used as models for my students,” she laughs. “You can also come and complete a course to start your career in the beauty industry and be accredited with The Beauty Guild.
“I’m always here at the end of my phone after clients and students leave, I’ve supported my students and clients throughout my career and I love it every day.
“I’m definitely that saying, if you love what you do, you’ll never work a day in your life.”
With a decor theme of grey, navy, green and mustard, Claire wanted to express herself through her decor and create a space that has a clinical yet warm feel. She’s endeavoured to keep the space clutter-free, using drawers as storage to keep her salon organised and tidy, making use of the space available. “Every area is set out for its purpose and it works really well for me,” she shares.
Completing her branding with a hummingbird logo, Claire remembers seeing one on her honeymoon. “It was the most magical feeling ever,” she remembers. “The hummingbird represents infinity, continuity and eternity, reminding us to stay still and live in the present, and stop dwelling on the past and needlessly dreaming about the future.”
“My favourite part of my setup is that it has years of me and my skills all under one roof. It’s cosy and brings so much joy and knowledge to everyone that comes to visit,” Claire smiles. “I love that it’s functional. Over the years, I have learnt a lot, and The Beauty Studio is somewhere that can be adapted for each individual that visits it.
“Having my own home salon has made having three beauty jobs so flexible. Previous brands I have taught know that if they need me, they can reach out, and I will be there to support and help where I can. I’m responsible for my own corner, and I have met and worked with some amazing people over the years. I’m very lucky.”