15/05/2026
Beautiful Betty was born from the idea that ‘this girl can’… it’s a humble story to say the least, my journey to get here wasn’t easy.
(A story for another day).
Life has plans for us and how we adapt to those precursors is what defines us. Do we accept what’s thrown our way or do we make it work for us? In my case, adapting was the only option.
I’ve been a beauty therapist for 28 years and my dream to run my own business wasn’t realised until just over 11 years ago. It’s never too late!
It started small… very small! It was just me in a one up, one down, working 6-7 days a week, often 10 hours per day and during busy periods, 12-14 hours. It became too much and so after an offer to rent the amazing building which you all know today, I decided to expand.
The plan? Just one more therapist to take some of the strain. Along came the amazing Emma. My first employee. Emma came on board and was thrown into the deep end. My plan didn’t work, Emma couldn’t keep up with the demand that followed once BB grew into bigger premises.
So we grew further, by this time Holly who had only meant to be a temporary part time receptionist was starting a beauty apprenticeship with us and Rebecca had joined us, having spent her work experience with me when I worked as a solo therapist at the Old Stables. I felt like we had the team then Covid came 7 months after opening, I’m not sure how we’re still her after that but we did survive and I’m so grateful to the team for sticking that one out!
My reception team were amazing too. Cathy and Adelle kept the shop busy and the diary full, carefully navigating the obstacles we faced as a business during that dreadful time!
Sophie came along and after completing her work experience hours with us, she asked if we’d take her on as a second year apprentice, Sophie was always honest about her desire to work for herself and as a result, we could navigate the next stage of BB’s growth taking on Jess and Ellie as our next generation of beauty therapists.
Since then, Cathy left to pursue her previous experience in healthcare and Holly finally found a career in her first love and passion for Digital Marketing. We miss them but equally, we knew we wouldn’t have them forever and wish them the very best in their careers.
My niece Ellie helped out on reception for a short while before Chloe joined us almost a year ago. Chloe has grown enormously within our team, she started college in September and will complete her training with us as a second year beauty apprentice.
Our newest team members, Kara-Amber (Saturday assistant) and Summer (receptionist and salon assistant) have settled well and bring a fresh energy to our team.
Beautiful Betty keeps growing but not necessarily in size, but in personal and professional growth. We are forever training and learning. We’re passionate and committed to you and our love of Beautiful Betty.
11 years have passed and it feels like yesterday since I took the leap. I never take for granted the path I took to get here, the journey has been thwarted at times and there’s been moments when it’s felt too much. But my team and our clients have made it feel worth it.
Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your support, past and present.
Here’s to the future,
Haley 🫶🏻
