CreativeDirector

“Hairdressing, like many professions, requires a combination of technical skill and natural ability - throw in a good helping of creative flair and you turn a hairdresser into a creative stylist,” explains Sara Mason, newly appointed Creative Director at Bellissimo. “I love working with my clients and seeing them leave the Salon looking younger, happier and more positive than when they came in. But every now and then I get a chance to train a young stylist who I instinctively know is a creative genius and watching these young people develop their talent and grow in confidence is such a thrill.”

Having coached Galway hairdresser Natalie O’Connell in the build up to the Wella Professionals Trend Vision Awards in London, where Natalie won a gold medal in the Young Talent category last week, Sara is full of enthusiasm for her new role. “I love the way Bellissimo is so progressive yet so relaxed. The management understand that there are some stylists who are technically excellent but do not want the limelight and pressure of National and International Competitions: these stylist still get all the training to
continuously update their skills and keep them at the top of their profession.”

Sara recently relocated with her partner, a Galway native, and their young daughter to take up the mantle of Creative Director for Bellissimo Galway and Limerick. Sara’s CV puts her among the top stylists in the country. Having won Irish Hairdresser of the Year in 2008 she wants to share her talent and has taken on the challenge of coaching, training and mentoring the Bellissimo team to enhance their technical ability and encourage more creativity. Between Galway and Limerick, Bellissimo employs 45 senior stylists, add to this the 55 trainees in the renowned ‘Bellissimo Academy’ in Limerick and you can see why Bellissimo repeatedly wins awards. Sara has also been invited to sit on the panel of the Wella Professionals Style Council, creative team - a coveted honour within the profession.

“Of course not all our customers want to experiment with their style or their colour but for those who do we have a team of specialists - who are experts in short hair, exuberant up-styles and colour techniques. Bellissimo guarantees a consistently high service using excellent cutting techniques and the very best colouring products. Our stylists are trained to listen carefully to each individual and give the client the style that they want. Thats why our customers are so loyal and are with us for over 15 years.”