Member Article

Ossett law student turned beauty entrepreneur expands hair extensions startup

Ossett entrepreneur Cheryl Cutts is bringing ‘high quality’ hair extensions to West Yorkshire after finding a gap in the market, and is expanding on the back of her success.

32-year old Cheryl Cutts started doing hair extensions while studying law at university and travelled to clients to carry out the work.

She found a growing demand, qualified in the specialism and decided there was a business opportunity to offer the services full-time and from her own shop.

She worked with the West Yorkshire Enterprise Agency after being placed onto the New Enterprise Allowance, which gives financial support and advice to those out of work to turn their business dreams into reality.

With mentoring and support, Cheryl produced a business plan which has now led to her launching her shop on Station Road in Ossett town centre.

Cheryl said: “It has been a challenging process going from having the idea about turning my passion into a business, setting up and operating, but I think if you enjoy what you’re doing it automatically becomes easier.

“I found it exciting to look into suppliers and find premises for my shop because it was something I was really interested in, but it’s also been a really worrying and nervous time because starting a business is something I’ve never done and taking those first steps was difficult.

“Working with the West Yorkshire Enterprise Agency has given me the confidence and support I needed to succeed. You get access to people who are knowledgeable and can answer your questions that come up almost every day to help guide you through the process. They have been invaluable.”

“We are now taking on an apprentice who will learn about the business and improve the services we can offer to clients.

“I’m also always thinking about how to grow and expand, possibly including developing a hair colouring room in the basement of the shop. I’m excited about the future.”

Brij Chaggar, business startup advisor at the West Yorkshire Enterprise Agency said: “I knew from our first meeting that Cheryl had a desire and will to start her own business and make it a success.

“Her business plan was a joy to read as it covered all aspects of running a business, from business plannin to marketing and selling, research, pricing and strategy. Cheryl has all the skills and talents to develop and grow the business in time”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Clare Burnett .