Former Darlington College student Amy Dollimore has got off to a flying start after taking over the beauty therapy concession at Shine hair and beauty salon in Northallerton.
The 24-year-old, who is a huge fan of McLaren driver Lando Norris and rugby union, attended Darlington College after leaving Bedale High School.
Over the next three years, she secured her Level 2 and 3 diplomas in beauty therapy, nail technology, non-surgical treatments and massage, all of which she is now using in her new business.
“I absolutely loved Darlington College from the minute I went to an open evening,” said Amy, who attends as many Grand Prix races as she can.
“I loved the salon they have in the college and learning the theory. The tutors were great and I learned such a lot from them. Next year I’d like to take on a college apprentice to give them a chance.”
After completing her qualifications she worked in a pub before buying her own equipment to treat family and friends.
She then secured a job in the Shine salon where she was asked to take over the beauty side of the business.
“I was a bit hesitant at first as I knew it was a big decision,” she said. “But it is going really well and I am really glad I have done it. I’m very busy doing wedding and holiday preparation treatments and sometimes work six days a week.
“I’m a people person and love hearing about clients’ lives. One of my client’s sons works in F1 so it is great to hear how he’s getting on. I’m in my element listening.”
As well as having a strong female following Amy also has a surprising number of male customers. “They feel comfortable coming in for anything from spray tans to massages and eyebrow waxing, which is great as my aim is to make the salon as welcoming to everyone as I can,” she said.
Darlington College’s marketing and engagement manager Claire Hankey said: “We are so pleased that Amy decided to take a leap to start her own business and is doing so well.
“She is a fine example of the rewards that can be achieved from hard work and dedication to your studies and work.”
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