In an exclusive conversation with Vidhi Arya from Professional Beauty India, Vaishakhi Haria, Director at Splash Salons, shines a light on her journey in the hairstyling industry and the various roles she has taken up over the years.
Starting her hairdressing career at the early age of 17, Vaishakhi Haria wears many hats. Being a hairstylist, entrepreneur, and educator, Vaishakhi Haria has been a part of this industry for nearly two decades. Splash Salon unveiled its third branch in Juhu, Maharashtra, adding another momentous milestone to her journey.
1. Could you share your journey in the hair industry? What inspired you to become a hairstylist and eventually an entrepreneur?
From a young age, I was drawn to the world of hairdressing. My passion began early, leading me to enrol in a hairdressing academy right after junior college. I balanced a demanding schedule, attending college in the mornings and dedicating my afternoons and evenings to mastering hairstyling.
At 19, I launched my first salon while simultaneously completing my higher education. The biggest challenge was overcoming the age gap between myself and my more experienced colleagues. It was difficult to assert my vision and gain respect, but my determination and persistence helped me carve out my path and successfully bring my vision to life.
2. Where do you draw inspiration for your hairstyles, and how do you stay innovative in such a competitive industry?
I absolutely love travelling the globe to find inspiration for my craft! Each year, I set off on an exciting adventure to a new country, diving deep into its vibrant culture and enrolling in local academies to refine my skills. The variety of styles and techniques in hairdressing from around the world is truly mind-blowing. Every experience is like a treasure chest of knowledge waiting to be uncovered. It’s not just about expanding my expertise, it’s about fueling my passion for this art form.
3. Please tell us about your new salon. What was your vision behind this one and what makes it special?
Splash Salon has recently unveiled its new branch in Juhu, Mumbai, elevating the salon experience to new heights in one of the city’s most stylish neighbourhoods. With a modern aesthetic that beautifully marries comfort, the salon provides a serene yet chic atmosphere for all its guests.
Thoughtfully designed spaces invite creativity and relaxation, featuring co-working areas, cosy reading nooks, and a delightful mini café. It’s more than just a destination for hair services; it’s a haven for relaxation and revitalising the spirit. The ambience is crafted to be both inviting and inspiring. It transforms every visit into a luxurious retreat from the everyday hustle and bustle. This new location represents a high-end salon experience. It goes beyond the ordinary to create a space that is more than just a regular salon, it’s a lovely place that makes self-care feel like an art.
4. With two successful salons and a third recent one, what challenges have you faced in expanding your business, and how do you overcome them?
The biggest challenge is setting up systems and making our services more efficient. In our artistic industry, we often struggle to balance creative freedom with the need to deliver results. To maintain high quality, we aim to give our team enough room for creativity while also meeting the brand’s quality standards.
5. As an educator, how do you balance your time between managing salons, styling clients, and mentoring the next generation of hairstylists?
I absolutely love working on the salon floor. I make sure I spend time doing hairdressing on the salon floor. With regard to education, I maintain a schedule of training and seminars months in advance. This is so I can give my best in that segment too. Being an entrepreneur, educator and hairstylist working on the floor is not easy. The key here is to maintain discipline and be well-planned.
6. What is your approach to building a successful salon brand, and what advice would Vaishakhi Haria give to aspiring salon owners?
A salon to me is a very personal space for a client. A client walks into the salon with a lot of expectations. As a salon, we have a major role to play in a client’s physical appearance. I believe it is important to be genuine, honest, and have some integrity. I truly believe in quality. Trust me – Quality is remembered long after price is forgotten.
7. What are your future plans for the Salon and your role as an educator? How do you see yourself contributing to the industry in the next five years?
After completing over 17 years in the industry, I have come a long way, made mistakes, fallen, got back up. There have been tough days and there have been great days. In the near future, I have plans to expand my salon business and I personally will take up education for budding hairstylists. That would be my way of showing gratitude for all the love and support I have received from my hairdressing community.
