SJ’s recent media interview
What is the essence of Blow Dry Express?
We want to revolutionise the way women style their hair. Blow Dry Express blowdry bar-bies are providing standout styles without the cost or time commitment.
What is your background?
I have been in the hairdressing industry for 10 years, running everything from salons to shows and shoots. Two years ago, I decided to make my dreams of owning a salon a reality. It all started with a pop-up salon in Spitalfields Market last Christmas. This experience led to demand for more pop-ups across London, which eventually helped me set up Blow Dry Express in the heart of Spitalfields, earlier this year.
What is your objective?
My aim is to reinvent the magic I felt when going to the hairdressers for the first time. We provide a wash and style at the speed of light and for an affordable £25. We understand the time constraints of most Londoners, and the salon provides a fast service while also giving a moment of calm during an otherwise busy day. So whether you only have 15 minutes for a dry style or 45 minutes for longer styles, the Edwardian-themed salon has it covered.
Why did you choose Spitalfields?
I am originally a country girl from the Welsh borders but my home is in the East End and I just love it. You will often see me cycling early in the morning from Brick Lane to Blow Dry Express. I wanted to be able to offer a service to local residents, people who work nearby and tourists. I learnt a lot from the pop-ups last Christmas and was able to hone the styles and the service we can offer. After looking for what seemed like a very long time, I was lucky enough to find the perfect spot here in the City and right next to Spitalfields.
What’s the atmosphere like at your salon?
I want to stay true to the Spitalfields vibe so we have an Edwardian look – black and white with big ornate mirrors. This is the style that we will continue to use in future salons.
Who have been some of your standout customers?
What I love is that we have no typical customers. We attract visitors and tourists who do not have much time but want to look great fast. We attract Brick Lane babes, City chicks, Hackney hunnies, and Local lovelies, who may have a regular hairdresser but come to us for a quick style in between appointments We are in an area which is still very male dominated, but we are starting to break the mould. We welcome everyone through our doors.
Apart from hair, what else are you passionate about?
I am passionate about so many things in life but right now Blow Dry Express is where all my focus is. I do take out time each week to practice yoga as I credit it with changing my outlook on life.
Describe your typical day.
My alarm goes off at 5am and I wake up excited for another day, meeting new customers and loyal clients. I check my emails and social media for trending topics and jump on my bike. Firstly I go to get a coffee at the best place in town – Brick Lane Coffee. I get to the salon at 6am and that is when my day really begins. I get my guilty pleasure playlist ready for the day ahead. I won’t reveal its contents, as you will have to come in and listen.