Jess from Supersalon

Tell us a little about yourself and how Supersalon came to be.
I’ve been hairdressing for 18 years. I started out in big salons, then found my feet in a smaller, boutique environment that offered a more personal experience and less distractions. After the pandemic, I began working for myself and loved the quiet, one-on-one time with clients.  I love doing the hair and the craft, but I think it's the human connection part of the job that I love most.

After four years of freelancing , I realised I was ready to be part of a team again. That’s when Supersalon was born. I’m a cutting specialist, and our first team member  Dylan, who’s just joined, is a colourist. Eventually, I’d love to bring one more person on board.

How did Supersalon get its name?

Years ago, my nail tech friends and I dreamed of opening a combined salon that we affectionately called "The Super Salon." While that particular dream didn't come to fruition, the name stuck with me. I like to think we are "super" not because of our size or ego, but because of our values, skills, and the positive way people feel when they are in our space and after they leave.

What made you choose this commercial space at Nightingale Wurru wurru biik?
I’d been keeping an eye on commercial spaces for a while, but nothing felt quite right. When I came across this one, I already knew about Nightingale and its commitment to community and sustainability, it just clicked. I had previously been working in a salon that was tucked away which was peaceful, but I love the connection here to the outside world. The light, the architecture, the connection to the street and the residents upstairs all felt perfect.

How have you found the Nightingale community so far?
It’s been wonderful. Even in my first week, a few residents popped in just to say hi and welcome me. A few more have booked in appointments in the coming weeks. Everyone’s been so warm and curious about the space. It feels really good to be part of something that’s bigger than just a business. 

I knew that coming here, the people, the residents would be really lovely, but I actually didn't realise how much of a strong community is going on and that’s really lovely to see and be a part of.

Tell us a little bit about the fit-out:
The design is by We Are Humble, with HY Builders bringing it to life. The same architects worked with Osoi to create their cafe space. They were absolute angels throughout the process, so calm and organised.

My favourite features are the curtains and the tiles. The curtains are actually repurposed from the old SUKU showroom on Gertrude Street. They were moving, and they generously offered them to us because we admired them so much. It felt serendipitous, and very on-brand for our sustainability goals.

Speaking of sustainability, what’s important to you on that front?
It’s a big part of how we work. We contribute $3 from every appointment to Sustainable Salons, who divert 95% of salon waste from landfill. Even the hair we sweep up gets repurposed to help clean up oil spills in the ocean, which is amazing. I’ve also been working with Davines products for over ten years. They’re one of the few beauty brands that really do what they say in terms of environmentalism and product effectivness.

What’s your favourite moment in the day here?
I love opening up in the morning, drawing the curtains, setting up the space, seeing the light come in. And in the afternoons, when the sun filters through and people are walking home from the train, there’s a lovely energy on the street. It’s peaceful but connected.

Do you have any plans for what’s next?
Right now I’m just focused on settling in and finding our rhythm. But eventually, I’d love to take on an apprentice. There’s a shortage in the industry since so many hairdressers went freelance after the pandemic, and I miss mentoring. It feels important to give back to the industry.

Favourite local spot in the neighbourhood so far?
I’m still exploring, but I love Season Chicken Service. I’ve been there a lot.  I’m also a regular at Osoi, their matcha with strawberry is delicious.

And finally, congratulations! How are you feeling after opening?
Thank you! We’ve just hit our fourth week and I finally feel settled. The first couple of weeks were a whirlwind, without much time to rest, but it’s been so rewarding. We’re hosting a little launch gathering soon. It feels good to take a moment and celebrate.