The life of the british hairdresser of the year - sally brooks

Since winning HJ’s British Hairdresser of the Year, Sally Brooks has been as busy as ever! From judging international awards, being interviewed by magazines from around the world and spending time in endless meetings, she has kept a diary exclusively for HJ... After one of our busiest Decembers, January started with a bang, judging the Norwegian Awards. It was a 4am start to fly over to Oslo but it was worth it. I met some lovely people and it’s always great to see what work other countries are producing. It was cold in the UK but it was on another level in Oslo – the snow was up to my knees! We’ve been looking for a new colour director – and after several interviews Issie Churcher accepted the position and starts with us soon. She’s won numerous awards and has worked in the salon as well as a session stylist so she will be a great influence on the team. It’s good to have a change. Along with the other winners of the British Hairdressing Awards, we headed to The Ivy for a special winners lunch. Of course the food was amazing but it was a lovely afternoon with like-minded people where we got to talk about the event and the industry. We’ve been working closely with our PR agency on our strategy for the coming year. It’s important that it isn’t all about me or Jamie as we have a great team with some real expertise and knowledge and it’s great for them to get an opportunity to appear in magazines and on websites. When they are asked for a quote it really gets them thinking about their subject, what they do and how they can improve. I’ve also been working on a new mentoring programme which I feel passionate about – so watch this space! Two of the art team – Grace Dalgleish and Marlon Hawkins – are presenting at HJ Live London and presented their ideas to the team. They talked through their concept and ideas for their presentation. I’m out of the country which is a shame as I would love to see their show as it sounds different and innovative. At last I have a free Sunday – these don’t come very often and when they do they are incredibly precious. I love nothing more than spending downtime with friends and I love visiting the flower markets with Jamie and his children. It’s one of my favourite places as it’s so full of colour and life. January is the month we hold our team appraisals; set individual goals and discover what our team members want for the next 12 months. It can be very emotional but it’s important to make the changes and listen to your team. January is the month we hold our team appraisals; set individual goals and discover what our team members want for the next 12 months. It can be very emotional but it’s important to make the changes and listen to your team. Another judging session, this time for the Australian Hair Fashion Awards at the stunning Library in Battersea. It’s owned by Anthony Mascolo and is treasure trove of hair memorabilia and inspiration. There were some amazing judges this year and it was nice to catch up with everyone. The standard of work coming out of Australia is absolutely stunning and I came away excited and inspired by what I saw. I look forward to seeing who the winners are as it wasn’t an easy decision. Last Saturday of January and we have no juniors – everyone has the flu! All the stylists are fully booked and the hot water is being temperamental. I am working on an exciting project and met with a videographer today on creative ideas. All will be revealed but I know the industry will be supportive. The day didn’t stop once the clients went home – I had another catch up with Marlon on a show he is working on. I’m hoping next week the days have 48-hours in them as 24-hours just isn’t enough! Find out more about the Brooks & Brooks team at brooksandbrooks.co.uk and on Instagram: @brookshair