In Vogue Skin & Beauty in Blackrock, Co Dublin is celebrating 30 years in business in October with plans to mark the milestone throughout the month.
The salon, which is located on Main Street in the village, is owned by Tara McConnell, who trained with the Bronwyn Conroy Beauty School, before going on to work at the Shelbourne Hotel and on various cruise liners, including a stint as salon and spa manager on the QE2. She then returned home to open her own business.
“In Vogue Skin & Beauty was born in the heart of Blackrock when I opened our doors 30 years ago on one floor, with just myself, my wonderful mother managing reception and my best friend helping out on Saturdays,” she says.
“Today, it is is home to 14 talented team members and spans three floors. Over the years, we’ve built an incredible community as we’re now seeing three generations of clients walk through our doors. From weddings and new babies to career milestones and retirements, we’ve been honoured to be part of their special moments.”
Changing industry
According to McConnell, the beauty industry has transformed beyond recognition in the last three decades. “When we first opened, clients mainly sought relaxing, pampering treatments. Today, the demand has shifted toward results-driven services that fit into busy lifestyles. It’s not unusual now to see three therapists working on one client simultaneously – one doing a pedicure, another a manicure and the third applying lashes. Everyone seems to be rushing, and the industry has adapted to that pace.
“Technology has also revolutionised the way we work. When we started, we didn’t even have a computer in the salon. I still remember the excitement of getting our first cordless phone – we were one of the first businesses on the street to have one. Mobile phones weren’t even on the radar back then, and now everything runs on computerised systems. From ordering products online from your sofa to booking an appointment with just a tap on your phone, the convenience is something we never imagined at the beginning.
“Social media has become essential too. Once unheard of, it’s now a vital tool for marketing, connecting with clients and gaining reviews. Alongside this, there’s been a real shift towards sustainability, with more clients seeking cruelty-free and eco-friendly products.”
Like fashion, the beauty industry is constantly evolving, believes McConnell. “Trends come and go, often returning in a reinvented form with better techniques, ingredients and results. It’s been fascinating to witness and be part of this continuous cycle of change. But we will always want our clients to feel and look their best – that is timeless.”
Challenging times
In Vogue Skin & Beauty has survived two recessions and a pandemic, so while the current business climate can be hard to navigate at times, McConnell believes the beauty industry is dynamic, and the key to success lies in adaptability.
“You need to embrace new techniques, technologies and treatment advancements,” she stresses. “These allow us to deliver more personalised treatments and better results. It is important to continue to meet and exceed clients’ expectations as their needs and preferences evolve so quickly, and staff training is the key to this.”
And never drop your standards, she adds. “Balancing rising costs with fair pricing for clients is always a challenge, but maintaining a five-star salon experience is non-negotiable. Quality, consistency and exceptional service are always necessary.”
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