Beauty
#WomeninWellness: Leigh Dole, Founder & Director of BLOW BAR CO Australia
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Great hair/makeup is more than the sum of its parts. “All of the key milestones of a woman’s life start with hair, makeup, and champagne,” says Leigh Dole, founder of BLOW BAR CO in Australia. “I wanted to create a space that recognised and celebrated these special moments.”
But the secret to BLOW BAR’s success is layering on that luxurious feel—think bubbly wine and cheese plates—while building a wellness brand where every woman feels welcome. Here’s what Leigh has to say about it.
What inspired you to start BLOW BAR CO?
BLOW BAR CO is Australia’s original blow dry bar—where hospitality meets fashion. No cuts or colours, we’re all about hair styling and makeup in a chic New York bar (yes, you can enjoy a glass of bubbles or cheese plate while getting your hair and makeup done!)
The concept came about as at the time, over seven years ago, I was a little lost in life. I was going in and out of the industry (I’d been in beauty and fashion since the ripe age of 13!) I was trialling new things, and various setbacks and challenges in varying industries brought me back to my two true passions—fashion/beauty and hospitality.
All of the key milestones of a woman’s life start with hair, makeup, and champagne, and I wanted to create a space that recognised and celebrated these special moments under one roof. This, coupled with my desire to help women look good and feel good, led to the launch of BLOW BAR CO.
With venues now open in Bronte, Balmain, and Coogee (and others to open shortly!), BLOW BAR CO is more than a salon, it’s a female sanctuary for women; it’s a home away from home for women to have fun and feel beautiful, confident, and empowered.
How has BLOW BAR CO shaped what beauty and wellness look like in Australia?
BLOW BAR CO is the home of affordable beauty. We want beauty to be accessible, and most importantly, we want Australian women to look and feel beautiful, ALWAYS.
What would you tell someone that has never had a blowout before? What can they expect?
They can expect to be blown away...!
Our team of experienced hairstylists and makeup artists will complete a personalised one-on-one consultation with our clients to ensure we're creating the look they are wanting. Or if you’re looking for some inspiration along the away, our creative team can, of course, assist.
What’s next for you and Blow Bar Co?
Behind the scenes, you’ll find me rocking high vis! We’re currently working around the clock as we’re finalising an exciting new store launch in Sydney.
And later this year, we’re expanding outside NSW as we’re heading south and entering the Victorian market (and QLD & SA won’t be far behind!)
You run your company, are the director and spokesperson. How do you have time to practice self-care and wellness yourself? What’s your go-to wellness routine?
Self-care is incredibly important to me. I’m up at 4 am each morning—it’s my hour of power to complete emails, emails, and more emails with no distractions!
From 5-6 am I (brisk!) walk the pooch straight to coffee shop—it’s the one-hour no phone rule! It’s so important to have this time each morning where I can establish what I need to focus on in the day whilst enjoying some time to myself!
After many years in the industry, I’ve learned that if you don’t make time (and that means putting it in the diary!), then it just won’t happen! So always make sure you’re accountable for putting it in your daily schedule!
What does wellness personally mean to you? What advice would you give readers to start on their own wellness journeys?
To me, it means looking and feeling good!
Wellness comes from within, and the important first step is to help yourself—make sure you have time to reflect and manifest on the things you have achieved and what you want to achieve, ensuring positive reinforcement to yourself and your outlook on life.
Wanna try it for yourself? Book a blowout or makeover now!
