Marie  is undoubtedly one of Melbourne’s most in-demand and highly regarded hair stylists and colourists. 

She is the go-to gal for local and international celebrities, bloggers and influencers when they’re in Melbourne and is always on location for weddings, photo-shoots and major events.  

UvaSalon in Melbourne, which she owns, has just been named Australian Salon Of The Year 2018 (an incredible achievement), and Marie is an ambassador for GHD and Amazing Hair! 

We were so excited that Marie took some time out of her super busy schedule to chat with us about her journey in the industry. 

Thank you for taking the time to chat with us, Marie! Tell us, what inspired you initially to become a hairdresser and pursue it as your career? 

I’ve loved hair since I was a kid! I used to cut and style my Barbie’s hair! 

How did you start your career and get into the industry? 

Tell us about your journey in the hair world.

I was initially studying at university to be a teacher. I deferred the course to go overseas and when I returned, I decided it was time to start my career in hairdressing. I began my career with an apprenticeship at a small salon located in Parkville, in Melbourne called Hair Distinction. 

At what point did you realise or decide that you wanted to make the leap from hairdresser and hairstylist, to salon owner too? How did you make your dream become a reality?

I worked for a long time in the industry before prior to opening my own salon. I gained loads of experience and had a large following before I opened UvaSalon in Prahran. It was time for me to start my own dream. I have business partners who also supported me in establishing UvaSalon. 

What is the best part about your job? 

I love what I do - I believe if you don’t have a passion for hairdressing you just can’t do it!

What’s been your career highlight in hairdressing?

Honestly there's been lots! Competing in International TrendVision, opening my dream salon, seeing my team succeed and winning 2018 Australian Salon Of The Year - the most prestigious hairdressing award. And of course, meeting some amazing celebrity clients! 

You’re the go to hairstylist in Melbourne for celebrities, events, shoots and weddings! How do you manage to fit it all in as well as managing the salon and looking after your clients at UvaSalon? 

It’s hard, but I have an AMAZING team that support me to do what I do, and I have a leadership team that supports and looks after the salon while I’m away. 

Which parts of your job do you find the hardest / most challenging? 

I think managing my large team - sometimes it can get challenging to keep everyone happy. 

Any tips for managing / maintaining a work / life balance?

You need to make sure you book holidays, learn to delegate and switch off when you don’t work - I love cooking that helps me to relax- my clients actually love my cooking posts!! 

What is the best piece of advice you have received during your journey in hairdressing?

I’ve had lots, I have been mentored by lots of people - you never stop learning. 

But, trust in yourself is one of the best! 

What’s the greatest thing you’ve learned during your career?

To believe in yourself, and if you want to get somewhere you need to put in the hard work. In a man’s world, sometimes it’s hard for women to be at the top, but you need to be strong. 

How do you think you’ve evolved as a hairdresser over the years? What would you tell your younger self now?

I have learnt a lot about myself, you never ever stop learning either. If you think you know it, all you will never grow. 

How do you feel social media changed the game of hairdressing and has it helped your business to grow? 

Absolutely, before it was word of mouth, magazines... you had to wait months for your work to be published. 

Now, everyone can get their work and achievements out there on social media. One click and thousands of people see your work. It has definitely helped me! 

As a hairdresser, what are your top tips for making the most out of Instagram? What advice would you give to others who want to share their work and promote their business?

Put your BEST work out there. Use it as a tool to showcase your work. It’s a portfolio.

What’s the most common hair request you get from your clients at UvaSalon?

The signature UVA WAVES & UVA PONY. 

You are often on location, styling for weddings and events. What styles are the most in demand right now?

For weddings - definitely hair down and waved predominately.  

For me it all depends on client, what they are wearing what their face shape is etc. I never am stuck on trends. 

What is the most common hair struggle your clients come to you with? 

Clients with fine hair - want big hair. This is the reason why we have partnered with Amazing Hairand make custom hair extensions for clients. 

What do you think is the biggest mistake clients are making with their hair and haircare routine?

Definitely not using correct haircare products for their hair type! 

What do you think the biggest misconception is that people have about hairdressers?

That it’s an average job, that gets you nowhere. 

I have traveled the world, been profiled and meet amazing people everyday being hairdresser. 

What is your number 1 hair hack?

Use dry shampoo directly after a fresh blow-wave for body and longevity. 

Your go-to drug store / supermarket hair products (if any) for girls on a budget?

Kloraine Dry Shampoo! The original and the best- ask Bec Judd! 

Which hair trend are you loving right now? 

I’m not into trends but I always love when bangs come back in. 

Which hair trend do you wish would disappear & never make a comeback? 

Drastic balayage- I’m soooooo over it! 

What advice do you have for anyone wanting to up their hair game and improve the health and look of their locks?

See a professional!

What would we find you doing, when you’re not working? 

COOKING! I love it!! I even started an Instagram page dedicated to my cooking, check out @cucinauva!

What’s next for UvaSalon in 2018 and beyond?!

We just won the title of AUSTRALIAN SALON OF THE YEAR - so it’s going to be a big year!!!