A Wiltshire hairdresser is expanding her business after celebrating a “dream” first year running her own salon.

Paige-Louise Tadhunter opened Hair By Paige Louise on Station Hill in Chippenham last year, and celebrated the first anniversary of the salon this February.

The 23-year-old has been cutting and styling hair since she was just 14 and previously worked at the now closed Christopher James Hair Dressing salon, in Emery Gate Shopping Centre, for two years.

She decided to go it alone and open her own salon last year when a venue became available on Station Hill.

Ms Tadhunter told this paper the early popularity of the business had been overwhelming.

She said: “It’s been amazing, the whole year has gone so quickly but it’s been the best year, it’s overwhelming.

“Business is absolutely amazing, and I’m inundated with messages, I love it so much and it’s everything I ever dreamt of.

“It’s so good and is honestly everything I ever wished for, people like the fact that it’s a quiet and relaxing space.”

The salon is now expanding, thanks to its early success, and Ms Tadhunter is looking for a self-employed nail technician to join the team.

They will join three stylists, and another technician specialising in eyelashes, currently working at the venue.

Ms Tadhunter added: “A lot of clients have asked for that, so I just feel like it’s the right time.”

She believes the popularity of the business is thanks to her flexible working hours, with some appointments continuing until as late as 10pm.

“I don’t rush my work, however long it takes is when I finish”, she said.

“I think that’s what a lot of clients like, I look at my work, I’m honest, and I’m a perfectionist.

“Not a lot of salons open that late so it’s definitely more convenient for people and works really nicely.”

The Wiltshire Gazette and Herald: Hair By Paige-LouiseHair By Paige-Louise (Image: Newsquest)

Last year Ms Tadhunter revealed her motivation for becoming a hairdresser had come from bullying she suffered while at school.

She added: “I was bullied horrifically in school and life has been quite difficult for me but by bullying me they made me into the person I am today.

“I have been hairdressing for eight years now. I enjoy making people feel more confident about themselves and seeing a positive change.

“Having your own business and shop at 22 is something to be proud of.”