For Gems Hair Studio at Burnside, the COVID lockdown presented an opportunity to refresh, redesign and, to an extent, future-proof the salon.  They were determined to create something good out of the hard times.

“Our newly refurbished salon has been designed for our client’s safety and comfort, and to provide a space of luxury high end service for our growing community,” said owner Catherine Trolley. “We are fortunate that our space is large enough to maintain a 1.5m distance between stations and we’ve opened up dedicated beauty and nail rooms.” 

New services coming to the salon mid October include lash extensions, brow lamination, and acrylic and gel nails. 

“We continue to offer all facial waxing and tinting and spray tans in our private beauty room. We have upgraded our pedicure spa chair as well, which provides amazing massage and a hygienic relaxing pedicure.”

 Catherine has been in the hairdressing industry for over 34 years and now employs seven staff.

“Throughout 2020 we’ve had access to brilliant digital education via our colour and product supplier Keune Haircosmetics, who have recognised Gems as a Platinum Salon,” Catherine said. 

“This has given our team a specialised knowledge of the products we use, the current on trend techniques, and overall industry knowledge. 

“The training we have received is Melbourne and Sydney-based and we see absolutely no reason why Nambour should not have this range of high-end, luxury beauty services available in the one convenient space.”

The secret to Gems longevity undoubtedly lies in the relationship Catherine and her team have built with their loyal clients. 

“At the start of lockdown we offered home delivery of products to our regular clients,” Catherine said. “I suspect that many of them didn’t really need to be topped up at that point, but they continued to buy products and book and pay for treatments for when we could open again. 

“It was actually very emotionally overwhelming that they came out in force to support us through such a difficult and stressful time. So we have reopened, determined to pamper them in our lovely light, bright and welcoming salon.”

• Gems Hair Studio 87-91 Coes Creek Road, Nambour. Phone 5476 1188.