Young hairdresser opens dream salon

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At just 23 years old, Bella Pearson-Lucas is making a name for herself in the hairdressing industry with the opening of her own salon, Bella Eve Hair & Beauty, at Redcliffe.

Bella’s journey to hairdressing has not been in a straight line. Initially, she was drawn to the beauty industry and enrolled at the Australian Trade College North Brisbane (ATCNB).

During her time at the college, she discovered her true passion for hairdressing with the help of an inspiring teacher.

“I originally studied beauty because that’s what I was interested in, but I fell in love with hairdressing because of the teacher I had. She was kind and inspiring,” Bella recalls.

ATCNB’s inclusive and adult-oriented approach appealed to Bella who had previously attended a traditional high school, which she felt wasn’t the right fit.

“ATCNB treated us like adults, which helped me feel more prepared for the real world. I made a lot of friends and found what I truly loved doing,” she explains.

The school’s environment, combined with hands-on training and the opportunity to explore different trades, allowed her to build her confidence and readiness to start her own business.

ATCNB is not your typical school. As part of MRAEL and the IntoWork Group, ATCNB is a purpose-built, co-educational Year 11 and 12 independent trade training centre.

It offers a structured and well-supported curriculum focused on trades and business, leading to strong Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE) attainment and employment pathways.

After graduating in 2020, Bella began her apprenticeship at a large chain hair salon.

“I always knew I wanted to do my own thing,” she recalls.

“I envisioned running a business from home, but when we found this storefront in Redcliffe, it felt like the perfect opportunity.”

Bella and her mother, who manages the business, seized the chance, and Bella Eve Hair & Beauty was born.

Focus on clients

One of the key aspects that sets Bella’s salon apart is her client-centric approach.

“The experience of meeting new people and finding my own way of running things so I can care more about the clients is what I love,” Bella says.

“In other salons, it can get so busy that a few clients get put on the back burner, but I can spend quality time with each client, which helps build a strong rapport.”

Starting a business has not been without its challenges.

“It’s tough at the beginning, and it takes a lot of emotional and physical effort. It’s very demanding,” Bella says.

She faced hurdles such as attracting clients and managing difficult customers, but her determination and resilience has seen her through.

Bella values the support of her family, especially her mum, who helps manage and run the business.

“She loves coming in and helping out. I enjoy teaching her how to wash hair, give head massages, and she handles the tidying, cleaning and even bakes fresh biscuits each week,” she says.

Bella is passionate about education and training, and plans to give back to youngsters wanting to make their way in the industry.

“I really want to take on apprentices and offer work experience. I love training people and passing on my knowledge,” she says.

Her goal is to provide a local, supportive environment for aspiring hairdressers, potentially including students from ATCNB.

Success story

ATCNB Principal Brett Kavanagh says Bella’s success is an example of the effectiveness of the College’s approach.

“At ATCNB, we believe that education should do more than prepare students for exams. It should connect them to real opportunities, real purpose, and real futures. Our mission is ‘Education with Real Purpose’, he says.

“We’re proud to see students like Bella achieve their dreams and make a meaningful contribution to her community.”

Bella’s advice to current ATCNB students is to be prepared for the demands of starting a business but to persevere.

“I would listen a little more and take the business certification courses seriously, because they will help a lot,” she says.

The courses not only equipped her with practical skills, such as using Excel and writing business plans, but also provided a solid foundation for her entrepreneurial drive.

“This is my first time doing anything like this, and I’m a bit nervous, but very grateful. ATCNB helped me choose my path, and I can’t thank them enough,” she says.

Bella Eve Hair & Beauty is at 107 Anzac Ave, Redcliffe.

Find out more, visit tradecollege.com.au