Spalding salon is awarded prestigious award

Staff at a hair salon and spa are celebrating after winning an award.

Strands of Spalding owner Sharon Tear was overjoyed her business was one of only three to scoop the award from American cosmetics company Aveda recognising its dedicated links to the brand which span more than 20 years.

Sharon, who launched the Clover Way salon on December 9, 1996, said the accolade came as a complete surprise. It was presented to her at the Aveda Autumn Equinox, held at Amber Lakes, Heathrow, last month.

“Aveda congress events are held every year, but usually take place in America, where the company is based in Minneapolis. This is the first time I’ve known it to be in the UK, so when we saw the event was taking place in London we thought it was probably a once in a lifetime opportunity to attend,” said Sharon.

“We had a great day, watching a catwalk show and behind the scenes demonstrations, as well as networking with other salon owners and staff from all over the world.

“The awards were handed out at the end, and we had no idea Strands would receive one, even though we’ve been with Aveda since I opened almost 28 years ago.

“It was a complete surprise, and something I thought would only be awarded to the big London salons. We were overjoyed Strands was recognised. The whole day was fantastic.”

During the event salon owners and staff were treated to breakfast, gift bags, a special catwalk show, lunch, demonstrations by leading stylists including Antoinette Beenders and specially themed cocktails at the after party.

Sharon and her team also met Aveda royalty including global president Shane Wolf, senior vice president Amanda Le Roux and the company’s director for UK and Ireland Laura Maxwell.