Lou Lou Chats with Simon Daniel, Salon Director at Belle Toujours

As you will know, I was extremely impressed with my haircut and biolsculpture gel manicure at the Belle Toujours salon in Cardiff, so I couldn't resist taking the opportunity to quiz Salon Director, Simon Daniel, to find out a bit more about the salon.

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Describe 'Belle Toujours' in three words.

Beautiful, warm & luxurious

Please tell us more about yourself.

I’ve been hairdressing around 15 years, I’m passionate about the industry and love making clients feel good!

Image: Wales Online

How would you describe your personal style?

Clean, classic, with a twist.

Why did you decide to open 'Belle Toujours'?

There was a gap in the market for a salon within Cardiff that offered all areas of hair and beauty, that maintained high standards at affordable price.

What has been the highlight since opening the salon?

All of the support from local media, existing clients and Pontcanna residents.

Is there a typical 'Belle Toujours' customer?

We have a varied clientele, all of which expect and receive high standards from warm and friendly staff.

What are the most popular treatments at 'Belle Toujours'?

Elemis treatments in their entirety, nails are massive and the hair speaks for itself.

Looking back at starting the business, is there anything that you would have done differently?

Employed more barbers, as its crazy busy in the male grooming salon.

What advice would you give to people who are looking to open their own business?

Think, plan and do your research

What is in the pipeline for 'Belle Toujours' in 2013?

Wait and see!

What motivates you?

Seeing people happy and educated

Top tip?

Enjoy life to the full as everyone deserves too. Look good!

Gel BioSculpture Manicure at Belle Toujours

Here is my Gel BioSculpture manicure that I had at the Belle Toujours Beauty Forum last week. There were lots of colours to choose from, but I opted for a classic pillar box red as I thought that it was best to choose a classic colour given that this manicure lasts for 3 weeks.

Pillarbox Red

I forgot to take a photo on the night, so the one above is after a week! As I have never had a longer-term manicure, it was quite strange to have totally chip-free colour on my nails after a week.

 

The nail salon is tucked away behind the hair salon, but is still really spacious and feels like part of the salon with its monochrome decor.

  

I have been really impressed with this manicure and think that it would be the perfect solution for occasions when you don't want to risk chipped nails, e.g. at a wedding, or for when you don't want the hassle of having to re-apply nail polish, e.g. on holiday.

Belle Toujours are currently offering 25% off Gel BioSculpture Manicures between Monday and Thursday, so you can try the manicure for £30.00.