My Account
Ever since she was a little girl, 21-year-old Bonnie Underwood has wanted to be a hairdresser.
She finished school in Year 12 to attend the Premier Hairdressing Academy where she undertook a three-year diploma.
In April, Bonnie took over the ownership of Hair Designers in Orewa.
“My long term goal was to start my own business but I thought it would be years down the track,” she says.
“I started work with former Hair Designers owner Maria Blunden for the final year of my diploma just over two years ago and I never left.”
Bonnie has been learning all aspects of hairdressing and feels confident about becoming a business owner.
“When Maria offered it to me I was nervous at first because I guess I’m still pretty young. But it has been my dream for so long and I have a lot of support from my family, friends and the girls in the salon.
“I just knew I had to take the opportunity.”
Bonnie hasn’t rushed to make any big changes, although long-term clients have appreciated the new colours and décor.
“The girls in the salon have more than 20 years experience so they have been helping me get up to speed and I have a lot of support from my parents, especially my Dad who is an accountant.”
The salon now has a computer booking system and more environmentally friendly options.
“We have recyclable tinfoil instead of the standard one that goes to landfill and clients love our DeLorenzo range which is plant-based and not tested on animals.”
Bonnie says she also hopes to involve the salon in more events especially charity events.
“I think it is important in a small community to help where you can and we are all getting ready to help hospice in the upcoming months.”
Salon staff are also gearing up for ball season.
“We are lucky in our salon as we have a make-up artist, as well as a photographer, so the girls can come in and get all made up in one place.”
