Recently, I had a thought-provoking conversation with the, wonderful Ruth Lomax, owner of the Little Pink Salon, in Tunbridge, Wells, Kent.

She has made her salon a haven for everyone. Join us as she talks about her journey into the beauty industry.

  

1. How did you get started in the beauty?

After being made redundant twice in my early 20s’ I, was given the opportunity, to do a short course on an introduction to beauty. Six weeks later, I was hooked. Afterward, I completed my NVQ levels 2 & 3, and numerous other treatments followed by brand training over the years. 

Like most people, redundancy is all too familiar it is amazing that you were able to redirect and find yourself within the beauty industry it shows great tenacity. Especially to have a great reputation at the Little Pink Salon so early on.

2. Much like Lydia Jordane, you seem to love all things pink, tell us what this represents, to you.

I don’t think anyone can be sad when surrounded by pink. When I was younger, I rejected the femininity of pink, but now it brings so much joy to myself and my clients. 

I had the same issue when I was younger with gender associations, I think we are moving slowly away from that. 

                   

3. I can see your business has focused on Tonbridge/Tunbridge Wells charities and I would love to hear more about what the charity does.

I think having Pride events, especially in small towns, is important. 

Showing, the next generation's representation and educating older generations on acceptance. So, supporting the LGBTQIA+ charities in my local area starts conversations and raises awareness to grow support. They also have a directory of LGBTQIA+-owned and friendly businesses, so people in the community have a resource of places they know are safe spaces for them. (I would encourage readers to donate to their local pride charities, or find out if they can support or sponsor local LGBTQIA+ events) 

I wasn't aware this directory existed so that is great, to know for other businesses.   

For anyone interested, in donating either visit The Little Pink Salon for treatment. Or use the links below: 

https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/tunbridge-wells-pride-2024

https://shorturl.at/69bOd

The Directory is also linked for you: 

https://www.everywhereisqueer.com

LGBTQIA+ clients can find your salon and know it is a safe space for them.   

 

4.You mentioned you try to ensure inclusivity in every treatment, so the prices are fixed despite gender, do you find this makes people feel welcome and accepted?

I don’t believe you should have to pay more for something because of your gender, sex, or identity. It may be a small gesture, but a step in the right direction for equality for all. It also eliminates people who don’t identify as either male or female or maybe on a journey of transitioning to have to define themselves in the male/female binary. 

I think it is worthwhile to give the client the feeling of inclusivity even though you may have some differences in the amount of product required per person. 

  

5. What else do you do to try and encourage inclusivity in your salon?

As well as gender-neutral toilets, I have included an option for people to state their preferred pronouns on their client record cards. I also have that I am openly LGBTQIA+ friendly on my Google listing and Instagram.  

I imagine it must be quite scary if you don’t know how you will be welcomed. Especially if it is something you have only just acknowledged or you are new to the community. 

6. Do you find that people are more open to coming to your salon when they see that you welcome the LGBTQIA+ community, do you get any feedback that this encouraged them to book in?

By being open about being an LGBTQIA+ salon, I’m making a safe space for myself to be my genuine self, as well as any potential clients. Even if I’ve made only one client feel they are accepted and welcome in my salon by them knowing it is a safe space for them it would be worth it.  

7.  I am sure people get stuck in trying to be politically correct and it can be confusing trying to make sure you say the right thing and do the right thing. What advice would you give to other salons to be more inclusive?

Most things are, incredibly simple, like asking people for pronouns on client cards. Even what you post on social media, try avoiding terms like “girlies” or “gents” but “lovely clients” or “wonderful people”. Register your business with directories like 

Small gestures may seem irrelevant to people outside the community, but they go a long way. 

I couldn't agree more, hopefully your example will help some other business owners open themselves up to a wider community.