Owners of new Matlock hair salon delighted to see customers return after launch cut short by lockdown

A couple who opened a boutique hair salon in Matlock three weeks before the last national lockdown say they are thrilled to see already-loyal customers flocking back this month.
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Ashley Orwin, 33, and Jamie Hadleigh, 30, decided to open Aspire Creative on Matlock Green in a fit of inspiration last autumn.

Ashley, who manages front-of-house operations, said: “We had the idea in October and by November 1 we had the keys and started the refit.

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“We didn’t realise how well received we would be, but we were fully booked for three weeks in December, and now we are booked up well into May. It’s been lovely to see so many of those first clients coming back after lockdown.”

Aspire Creative has taken over premises previously used by another hair businessAspire Creative has taken over premises previously used by another hair business
Aspire Creative has taken over premises previously used by another hair business

He added: “It was disheartening to shut in December but we kept looking forwards. We wanted to create something really spectacular amid all the dismay.”

The salon caters to both men and women, offering a full rang of cut and colouring services as well as hair extensions and non-surgical hair replacement.

Creative director Jamie previously sold up his successful salon in Cheshire to relocate and has also previously freelance for celebrity clients and fashion shows.

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The salon is more of a homecoming and a new start for Ashley, who left rural Derbyshire at 15 to train at ballet school in London.

Co-owners of the Aspire Creative hair salon Jamie Hadleigh, left, and Ashley Orwin.Co-owners of the Aspire Creative hair salon Jamie Hadleigh, left, and Ashley Orwin.
Co-owners of the Aspire Creative hair salon Jamie Hadleigh, left, and Ashley Orwin.

He forged an international dance career on stage and screen before deciding to pursue his love of travel as a fist class cabin steward with British Airways – but the pandemic prompted another rethink.

Ashley said: “I always wanted to come back to the countryside and we suddenly realised we weren’t tied to anything. It’s the first time we’ve worked together and been wonderful.

“We did most of the refit ourselves, and I think people like coming in to the homely environment we’ve created. They can forget about everything outside and enjoy being pampered.”

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The salon currently employs one other stylist, Lilly Slater, and is looking to expand its team. Anyone interested should call the salon on 01629 818322.

The business is looking to recruit a new stylist.The business is looking to recruit a new stylist.
The business is looking to recruit a new stylist.

Usual opening hours will be Tuesday and Wednesday, 10am to 6pm, Thursday and Friday until 8pm, and Saturday, 9am to 5pm.

For bookings or more details, call the number above or visit aspirecreativehair.co.uk.

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