All By MYSELF

Joanna Sterkowicz speaks to Rolanda Lubbe about the business dynamics of being an independent hairstylist who rents space in a beauty salon

ROLANDA LUBBE

Hair by Rolanda was launched in response to the post Covid environment, when the hair industry was in fight or flight mode. Explains owner Rolanda Lubbe: “We weren't sure if, or for how long, we would be able to trade again once the Government lifted the Covid restrictions. That was when the idea of being an independent hairstylist started germinating in my head. It was a completely new concept for me but definitely something to explore. I decided to rent a space to work in as this seemed to be the best option.

“For me personally, I wanted to be more exclusive in the services I offered to clientele, so breaking away from a full blown salon with a lot of stylists was the best choice. We live in a time where self-care is important, so the advantage for me was that I could be independent and have control over what I do. I am a bit of a perfectionist so I like to be organised and for all things to run smoothly and be done in a certain way. The rental space option offered exactly that. I am in charge of my own work schedule, appointments, stock ordering and all the logistics of running a small business.”

Rolanda rents her space inclusive of two work stations on the same premises at So Pure Beauty & Aesthetics in Dan Pienaar, Bloemfontein.

“We have a great business relationship as clients are referred by the salon to me, as well as mine to them. A great bonus with that is that clientele can have multiple services done while visiting the salon and it's definitely more convenient. Services may be limited according to what our schedules allow, but it can most definitely be done if arranged or requested in advance.”

I am working without an assistant by choice, so I need to have a well-planned schedule to make sure every day runs accurately and on time. It also means that I am limited to the amount of clients and hair services done per day.

Challenges

The biggest challenge for Rolanda as an independent hairstylist is to find a good balance between work and personal time, as well as accommodating clientele in the best way possible with it being only her.

“I am working without an assistant by choice, so I need to have a well-planned schedule to make sure every day runs accurately and on time. It also means that I am limited to the amount of clients and hair services done per day. This may not be ideal or could even be confusing to some, but I believe in quality of service over quantity of clients. I really have the best, loyal clients who respect me and how I choose to work.

“It may sound like a bit of a cliché, but I'm so fortunate enough to say that my job is my passion – Ireally love what I do so it doesn't feel like work at all. The best part for me is to see the happiness and confidence of a client after their hair is done – it’s as if they glow from the inside and this radiates outwards.”

True colours

Rolanda’s absolute favourite hair service is colour, something she specialises in. “It truly leaves me in my own world of creativeness where I get to create 'art' by transforming each client’s current hair colour into their dream hair or,close to it. I customise each client’s colour to suit their needs, goals and maintenance schedule. A consultation is booked before an appointment so we can discuss their ‘hair inspiration’ or goals, what the process entails, and what the maintenance thereafter will be. It is a new concept to some but I personally feel it is best to start a hair journey with all the information in my hands.”

Currently, the most requested colour service at Hair by Rolanda is the Dimensional and Lived-In Balayage look, which is less maintenance in the long run. She says: “Clients are definitely looking to get a hair colour that provides change but that won't require the typical monthly maintenance.

“Because my colour services are customised to each client’s goal, I use a combination of techniques to create the best possible colour and blend possible. My current favourite colour technique is a Colour Melt, which is done after the pre-lightening process. The blend of tones seen with the ‘after’ photos is very satisfying.”

Side hustle

Rolanda has launched her own Hair Scrunchie range to offer an extension of her business to clients, or anyone else interested in these products. “I wish I could say that I make the scrunchies by hand but I support another small business – they are in fact the handiwork of Mné, a young and talented girl with ambitions.

“My Hair Scrunchies have become so popular, especially with hair accessories making a comeback as it is definitely is a way for someone to express themselves and add something new to an outfit. I bring out a collection of new colours or designs monthly and it is extremely exciting! The sales of the Hair Scrunchies are separate from my business retail and revenue is invested back into getting new stock on a monthly basis,” she explains.

Journey into hair

After completing her Diploma in Cosmetology at Centurion Academy in Klerksdorp in 2011, Rolanda did her apprenticeship in Centurion in 2012 under ‘an amazing hairstylist called Simoné Windisch’, who was her mentor.

In 2013 she moved back to Klerksdorp and continued her hair career, first at Salon Beautify and two years later at Exotic Hair and Beauty. In 2018 Rolanda and her husband moved to Bloemfontein where she joined Hairitage Salon.

“I've met some absolutely talented women in our industry! The experience working alongside each hairstylist has been incredible and shaped me into the person I am today, in my personal and business life. I believe that one meets people for a reason and it adds to your life in a positive way.

Because my colour services are customised to each client’s goal, I use a combination of techniques to create the best possible colour and blend possible. My current favourite colour technique is a Colour Melt.

“Today I am at a point in my 'business' life where I am content and happy to be where I am. Being an independent hairstylist is tough but it has taught me so much about myself, what I am capable of, how to manage time efficiently and to create a relaxing experience for clients. Having my own little space gives me so much joy and peace,” concludes Rolanda.