Business: Mali Hair Spa
Director: Martha Kourtidou
Category: Hair and beauty
Location: Melbourne
Background: Whilst at university studying a psychology degree, Martha realised there and then that she wanted to combine her education with her creative flair and people skills. She left university for a career in hairdressing and hasn’t looked back. She gave up the books and opted a career in hair. When she had the skills down pat, she approached her hairdresser Lisa Christofakakis, a year ago with a proposal, to join forces and open a hairdressing salon. A year later, she has a booming business, with six staff, large clientele and is the senior hairstylist and director of Mali Hair Spa. “I loved the people interaction, and using my creative side that hairdressing brings but also combining psychology into what I do.”
Secrets to Mali Hair Spa’s success: “Being really honest and giving the best customer experience,” says Martha of what makes Mali Hair Spa tick. “In terms of your cash flow being very cautious is important, obviously there will be risks along the way but making sure you have a good accountant by your side, someone that will be able to guide you towards the right path,” she says are key ingredients to running a successful small business. Also surrounding you with a good network of people to enable you to make wise business decisions doesn’t hurt.
Tips to get a good haircut: “Education is the most vital part of giving your client the best service,” says Martha. She encourages all her staff to do short courses in hairdressing and colour, enter competitions. “I find competitions spark up motivation in my staff,” she says. “Things like that keep you up-to-date, in check and keep you clients excited as well.” She says all that knowledge gained is then distributed amongst all employees so they are constantly talking about the current trends and tips in the industry.
Mali’s services: “We are definitely colour experts; we’re renowned for our colours,” says Martha. As the senior stylist, Martha can guide you through what hairstyle would suit you, not just with your features but incorporates your personality and lifestyle into your hair. They have blow-wave specials for new clients at $29, and there’s a men’s cutter too.
The name Mali: “Mali derived from the Greek word mali, but it is also the first two letters of mine (Martha) and my business partner’s name (Lisa),” says Martha with a glimmer in her voice stating it was almost meant to be.
Contact details: Mali Hair Spa Address: 3 / 424 Church Street, Richmond Phone: (03) 9428 8823 Website: malihairspa.com.au/