As the festive period looms, for many, thoughts turn to nails, lashes and tan. How are beauty businesses affected the seasonal rush?
For Chelsea Beaumont, a 20-year-old beautician from Pontypool, the festive period brings a “massive” increase in customers wanting beauty services.
“It’s absolute madness,” said Chelsea. “Some days, I can start at 8am and not finish until 10pm.”
Chelsea established Make-Up by Chelsea Beaumont in 2017. In the two years since, her business has grown from strength to strength.
The self-taught make-up artist now rents premises in Cwmbran and has expanded the range of services she offers. This is due in part to the increase in business generated by the run-up to Christmas and New Year.
Chelsea said, “The festive period honestly helps so much. When I’m working more, I’m able to advertise more. This is obviously brilliant for the business short-term for the reputation I get by working hard, and long-term as customers return throughout the year.”
In the UK, the beauty industry employs over a million people. By 2022, it’s expected that the health and beauty industry will be worth £26.7bn, a rise of £9.7bn from current figures.
Christmas only adds to those numbers. Parties with friends and colleagues mean many want to look glamorous for their celebrations.
Chelsea credits letting her hair down as a way to keep sane during this busy time.
“Sometimes, the work can be physically draining,” she said. “Running your own business is very difficult and I’ve been doing this since I was 18. It’s hard to switch off when you’re worrying if you have replied to messages, or if you’ve booked people in at the wrong times.”
However, Chelsea is quick to reiterate her love for her customers, regardless of the festive hustle. “I wouldn’t change anything. I love making people feel good. It’s very rewarding and makes it all worth it.”
