A Pembrokeshire hair salon praised as ‘the hub of the community’ is celebrating 60 years in business.
Glasses of Prosecco were raised at Kathy’s Hair Studio in Clunderwen on Saturday, September 7, with around 80 customers not only drinking a toast to the business but to its founder, Kathy Phillips.
Sadly Kathy died in February, a day before her 79th birthday, after a sudden short illness.
“Mam had been so looking forward to the celebrations, so we decided to go ahead as it’s what she would have wanted,” said her daughter, Gail Morris, 57, who is about to mark her own 40 years as a hairdresser at Kathy’s.
Customers from all over Pembrokeshire and into Carmarthenshire have been visiting Kathy’s Hair Studio since it first opened its doors in 1964.
Some families can proudly say that four generations have had their crowning glory enhanced by Kathy and her friendly staff.
One long-standing customer, Babs Meredith, said: “Kathy’s isn’t just a hair salon, it’s the hub of the community/
“They’ve got clients of all ages, but they make a special fuss of anyone who is elderly or infirm, even arranging free transport for them.
“The customer service really is second to none.”
Although Kathy had officially retired, she was never far from the salon doors as she lived in the adjoining house.
“Mam was still very active and would often pop in to help out and chat with people, because our clients are not just clients, they’re friends,” added Gail. “But one thing she would not stand for is gossiping – news is one thing, but gossip was a big ‘no no’.”
Afternoon tea was served with the Prosecco at the Saturday celebration and Gail – who is assisted in the salon by her sister-in-law, Wendy Smith – said: “It was a great afternoon.”
The salon began its life in Station Road, Clunderwen in 1964, moving the following year to Masons Row and then setting up at Central, across the road, in 1972.
The property is now up for sale, but Gail is planning to continue providing the friendly service of Kathy’s Hair Studio from a garden studio close by.
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