Review by Nicola Moyne
SUMMER is finally here, so it’s time to start thinking about the colour of you hair. Traditionally we all want to go lighter during sunnier climes, and I’m no different, which is why I headed to Essensuals Hairdressing Salon – a diffusion group of Toni & Guy – in Billericay High Street.
A smart, chic, and award-winning salon headed up by Jim Shaw (British Men’s Hairdresser of the Year 2007) Essensuals is known for its professional, cutting-edge expertise and I was hoping to take advantage of the team’s knowledge and get a gorgeous colour for the season.
First I was introduced to Leanne Harris – my colourist for the day. Having worked on numerous shoots and with the likes of Girls Aloud and Charlotte Church, Leanne is one of the leading colourists in the UK and I immediately felt safe in her hands.
After a consultation, Leanne suggested I go for a cleaner blonde with lots of fine highlights – exactly what I wanted!
Before she got to work though, Jim, my stylist for the appointment, came over to discuss my cut. After going through some options we decided on a simple trim (I’m still trying to grow out my layers) and I was handed back to Leanne for my colour to begin.
Unlike a lot of colour appointments the time flew by, thanks largely to Leanne’s speed and likeability. Friendly and thorough she soon had me ready for washing, and I was treated to a gorgeous Indian head massage in a high-tech chair. In fact if you’ve got any aches and pains in your back, I suggest you get your moneys worth and book an appointment at Essensuals – their massage chairs are amazing and will leave you feeling thoroughly relaxed!
Next was the cut and Jim got straight to work. As an award-winning hairdresser and manager of the salon, Jim has built up an incredible reputation around the UK and is in high demand on shoots and the celebrity circuit. Each year he takes a team down to the V Festival in Chelmsford to style the stars and I certainly got a bit of the star treatment while I was in the salon!
I left feeling glossy and ready for summer; my new highlights gleaming in the sun. Overall I couldn’t fault the service and I’ll certainly be returning for some more star treatment in the near future.
For further details about the salon, situated at 65 High Street, Billericay visit www.essensuals.com. To book an appointment, or speak to a member of staff, call the salon on 01277 634 000.