Tag Archive: Holy Corner

1. Reducing Our Environmental Footprint: Scrummi Towels

   9th September 2019 11:54 am Leave a Comment

   

   At Charlie Miller, we strive to do right by our clients, and that includes protecting the environment at the same time. In all 5 salons, we use Scrummi towels – the ultimate sustainable solution to cotton towels.

   How has Scrummi helped reduce our environmental footprint?

   Since 2011 we have made a dramatic difference. Here’s what we’ve achieved so far:

   • We’ve reduced 500 plus tonnes of CO2
   • We’ve saved 8.3 million litres of chemically contaminated water

   What are Scrummi towels?

   Scrummi is a single-use, 100% biodegradable vegan towel that is made from soft and natural wood fibres from sustainable forestry programs. This means it not only protects our environment, but it’s also free of germs and fresh every time!

   How do they differ from cotton towels?

   No matter how hard you wash a cotton towel (and no matter how much energy you use) germs will remain. They’re invisible to the naked eye, but trust us when we say that lots of fungal and bacterial pathogens are waiting, just below the over-washed scratchy surface, ready to be unleashed onto the next client. But not at Charlie Miller! Scrummi towels are 100% germ and scratch-free. We don’t blame you if you never want to go near a cotton towel again…

   

   How does this help?

   Typical salon towels use literally thousands of kw/h of electricity to wash them after each use. This process equals lots of CO2 which adds to the impact of global warming…but wait, there’s more. An average washing machine load of synthetic towels equals 700,000 micro-plastics and harmful detergents and toxins which have a devastating impact on our oceans.

   Check out the Scrummi timeline:

   

   Scrummi = Happy Customers + Happy Environment

   To find out more about the Scrummi towels we use in our salons click here. Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter to keep up with all things hair!

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2. Awards 2018

   13th March 2019 4:46 pm Leave a Comment

   The glamour of Charlie Miller graced Edinburgh this week at our annual Achievement Awards ceremony.

   This year, the 19th Charlie Miller Awards, were held at the Kimpton Hotel on Charlotte Square where guests enjoyed delicious food and excellent hospitality. Attending the event with 100+ staff and management were our founders Charlie & Janet Miller along with guests from Kérastase, L’Oréal and We Are Hair & Beauty.

   In addition to the celebrations, the night was all about having fun! Games such as Play Your Cards Right and Hit or Miss were woven throughout the ceremony and played by all attendees. Staff also participated in tombola comprising of wonderful gifts from local Edinburgh businesses such as:

   The Balmoral, Fox & Co, Di Maggio, Chamomile Sanctuary, Glam Candy, Hard Rock Cafe, PAINT Hair & Nails, Honeycomb & Co., Lauren Gollan Makeup,  Radisson Collection, Paper Tiger, Mimi’s Bakehouse, Ocean Terminal, One Spa, Kimpton Hotel, Scran & Scallie, Pickering’s Gin, The Glasshouse, Wildflowers, Fazenda, Gusto and All About Eve.

   Compered by radio presenter and event host, Grant Stott, the evening culminated in high excitement and rapturous applause on the announcement and presentation of 24 Charlie Miller Achievement Awards.

   The  ACHIEVEMENT AWARD WINNERS are:

   Rosslyn Orr, Outstanding Hairdresser of the Year

   Rebecca Fairclough, Trainee of the Year Stafford Street

   Ria Taylor, Trainee of the Year South St Andrew Street

   Demi Colligan, Trainee of the Year Frederick Street

   Megan MacColl, Trainee of the Year Ocean Terminal

   Ellie Gilhooley, Trainee of the Year Holy Corner

   Rachel Grayson, 3rd Year Trainee of the Year

   Ria Taylor, Trainee Competition Winner Group B

   Demi Colligan, Trainee Competition Winner Group A

   Natalie Cole, Retail Salesperson of the Year

   Denise Brown, Receptionist of the Year

   Natalie Cole, Treatment Salesperson of the Year

   80+Club Winners (Client Retention) : Corry Riley, Elle Craik, Karen Kennedy, Leigh Forrest, Lorraine McDiarmid, Rosy Kenny, Karyn Holloway, Laura Wyles, Michelle Baigan, Nicola McGuire, Richard Beggs,  Rosslyn Orr, Hayley Dallas, Hannah Lennon, Lynsey Wilson, Natalie Cole, Karen Jones, Tammy Neillings, Amber Swift, Lisa Allen, Steven Suckling & Lauren Tait 

   Yvonne Blyth, Janet Miller Award

   Joanna Drummond, Graduate Stylist of the Year

   Carla McGuire, Salon Stylist of the Year

   Philip Michie, Senior Stylist of the Year

   Nicola McGuire, Head Stylist of the Year

   Karen Kennedy, Senior Head Stylist of the Year

   Neil Purves, Men’s Stylist of the Year

   Philip Michie, Salon Technician of the Year

   Hayley Dallas, Senior Technician of the Year

   Rosslyn Orr, Head Technician of the Year

   Well done to our wonderful team!

   Keep up to date with all thing Charlie Miller by following our Salon and Haircare Instagram.

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3. Breaking down Balayage

   31st January 2019 1:16 pm Leave a Comment

   Originating in Paris in the 70s, Balayage is a trend that grew ever more popular in the 2010s and is here to stay. It’s the perfect mix of having a WOW hair colour whilst ensuring your style looks effortless.

   Holy Corner’s queen of balayage, Head Stylist and Senior Technician Carla addresses frequently asked questions and common misconceptions about this sought after colouring technique.

   Why do you think balayage is so popular? 

   Balayage is the most asked about style, personally I think it’s because you can achieve so many different tones and add extra impact to your hair style. It’s also all over Instagram!

   I also think regrowth is a main factor; clients often believe that because part of the look is a soft root, it means less maintenance – this is not the case!

   How often do you recommend maintenance? 

   Like all colouring services I’d say 8/10 weeks is perfect to keep the blonde fresh.

   Everyone stretches maintenance as they think it doesn’t matter but, on certain styles, brassy tones will occur and some balayage techniques require a toner in between. Being aware of this extra commitment is a must.

   What is the difference in techniques between highlights and balayage? 

   Highlights, balayage and baby lights (delicate highlights created using a fine colour technique to achieve subtle dimensions to your hair. An up and coming trend!) are often mixed up.

   The most stand-out difference with balayage compared to the other techniques is the seamless blend from root to tip!

   Balayage is very bespoke to each client’s preference and is all down to how much shadow or depth of root they want! Consultation is key to see if it’s the right technique for you.

   How long does your hair have to be? 

   No set lengths as such, certain styled bobs to long hair are where you see the main techniques best. Clients often find their inspiration from Instagram and Pinterest.

   How important do you think bespoke colour placement is?

   Placement is key! Fine placement always wins for a softer more natural effect, dreamy for face framing!!

   Bespoke colour services, including balayage, will require a consultation first so pop in and check it out with any one of our experienced and skilled stylists. To book all other services, you can simply book online here or call your preferred salon.

   Please also note that all colour services require a colour allergy test 48 hours prior to your first colour appointment with us.

   Keep up to date with all things Charlie Miller, and follow us on our social channels, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Tiktok.

    

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4. Charlie Miller Haircare

   17th December 2018 3:09 pm Leave a Comment

   Charlie Miller Haircare was launched at the end of 2018. A year in the making, this fabulous range embodies the luxury feel of the Charlie Miller experience.

   

   Sulphate and paraben-free the shampoos are specifically formulated with Jasmine Extract, Organic Calendula Flower Extract and Organic Sage Oil to help lock in moisture, soothe a dry and flaking scalp and encourage new hair growth, whilst promoting healthy hair.

   Launching with 3 shampoos and 2 conditioners (Volume Shampoo and Conditioner, Hydrate Shampoo and Conditioner and Silver Shampoo) the range also reveals a refreshing floral fragrance with clean top notes of green tea, orange and lemon combined with soft jasmine, rose and lily, gentle herbs, musk and oakmoss.

   The journey is a dream come true for Joint Managing Directors and brothers, Jason and Joshua Miller and Jason’s wife and Director, India Miller. “We are truly excited to be launching our haircare range. Having worked in the industry and in haircare for more than 35 years we knew what we wanted to create. We are absolutely delighted with the integrity and results of these products. Watch this space; there’s more to come!”

   Jasmine Extract:

   • Jasmine oil contains moisturising properties to prevent hair breakage and can lock in moisture, hydrate dry hair, and tame frizz.
   • The oil is light and able to penetrate the hair shaft and cuticle to deeply conditions. It also maintains your natural moisture and elasticity.
   • A natural antiseptic, it purifies the scalp of bacteria and build-up.
   • The natural healing properties found in jasmine oil work to eliminate and reduce the possibility of infections and scalp conditions such as dandruff. Additionally, it can soothe your scalp.

   Organic Calendula Flower Extract:

   • Is an anti-inflammatory and antiviral type of plant, of which the most commonly known plant is the marigold.
   • The oil can soothe the scalp and reduce the appearance of dandruff.
   • Regular application of calendula extract hydrates the scalp and soothes dry, flaky skin.
   • Calendula oil regenerates the follicles in your hair, increasing hair growth and providing a luscious head of hair.

   Organic Sage Oil:

   • The name Sage comes from the Latin word ‘salvare’ meaning to save or heal.
   • It is rich in Calcium and Vitamin A, Vitamin C and B-Vitamins. It protects your skin against the assault of free radicals and aids in daily cell regeneration.
   • Sage contains beta-sitosterol, a 5-alpha reductase compound, found to be effective in treating male pattern baldness.
   • It is particularly effective in encouraging new hair growth and can also help reduce dandruff and prevent clogged hair follicles too.

   Available online here, or in all 4 salons! Pop in today to discuss the right shampoo and conditioner for your hair type.

    

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5. Graduation 2018

   10th December 2018 10:00 am Leave a Comment

   Our fabulous Charlie Miller stylists graduate in style and celebrate their hard work and achievements!

    

   Charlie Miller staff from across the salons were invited to an evening of recognition to celebrate and applaud team members who had graduated from trainee to stylist.

   A company first, the inaugural graduation ceremony was held at the King Khalid Auditorium in Edinburgh’s Surgeon’s Hall where all 5 salons came together along with invited guests to share in individual successes.

   Proud family members and salon teams added to the atmosphere in the room as each Graduate Stylist was met with a huge round of cheer and applause when called upon to collect their certificate from their salon manager!

   Before achieving Graduate Stylist status, trainees must complete and pass the highly-regarded 3-year Charlie Miller Training Programme in cutting and styling, colour and customer service. We believe this is something worth celebrating!

   “Our graduation evening had an amazing family feel with an exciting buzz” commented, Jason Miller, Joint Managing Director. “It was lovely to see how people have grown and developed in their craft and as individuals.  The graduation night provided a real sense of achievement for those stylists involved and we hope this will inspire others to have belief in what they can achieve. Hopefully we have created a further hunger for development and learning. There is excitement now and for others in the future”.

   

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6. Hair Biz Australia Shares Our Story

   22nd November 2018 4:59 pm Leave a Comment

   A new photographic collection by Natalie Cole and Jason Miller recently sparked international attention.  Kym Krey, Editor of Hair Biz Magazine, Australia published this international feature on the company’s 50+ years. It makes for some amazing reading:

   

   

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7. Bespoke Styling: Why it Matters!

   18th October 2018 11:15 am Leave a Comment

   In 2007, during a conversation whilst styling the wig of his first young cancer patient, Charlie Miller became aware about the difficulties, when losing their hair to cancer, that young people had in getting a wig that was right for them.

   “Our hair says so much about us: who we are and how we feel about ourselves. Losing it is hard to deal with as we feel some of our own identity is lost too. We want to look and feel the same. We don’t want to seem different from the rest of the crowd”.

   That one conversation led to the launch in 2008 of a successful wig project called ‘Hair 4 U’ and a collaboration with the Teenage Cancer Trust (TCT), the long-term aim of which is to ensure that every young person with cancer aged 13-24 is given a real hair wig funded by the TCT that is then cut and styled free of charge in a participating salon in their area.

   Wig styling requires a high level of experience and is entrusted to our more senior stylists. The most important aspect of the process is to cut and colour the wig so that it looks like the client’s own hair. It is therefore styled exactly how he or she wants it to be.

   This week our talented Senior Head Stylist, Steven Suckling and Salon Technician, Carla McGuire worked their magic on a real hair wig for one of their TCT clients. In keeping with the current trends, the wig was coloured a beautiful pastel pink shade.

   After the colouring process by Carla, Steven styled the wig to suit the client’s unique look and personality.

   The result? Beautiful, glossy, multi-tonal hair!

   Have a look at our video to see the transformation for yourself!

   For more information about the Teenage Cancer Trust visit www.teenagecancertrust.org.

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8. Client Stories: Alex Rogers and Emily Keen

   10th September 2018 7:00 am Leave a Comment

   Emily has been looking after Alex’s hair for around 3 years and despite moving to the west he still comes back for that regular haircut. Read on and discover Emily’s secret!

   Meet Alex and Emily

   Alex about Emily:

   ‘My favourite thing about having my hair done by Emily is walking out of the door feeling like a new man (and the mid-wash head massage is a pleasure). Emily always knows how to tailor my haircut with her expertise, judgement and imagination. She is a confident and imaginative professional.  Creating a look that fits my personal style is no problem for her. I think of David Beckham as my own personal style icon but also everybody else’s.

   New experiences and challenges inspire me and Emily manages to create a look that’s just right to take on anything!‘

   Emily on her secret for success

   Emily says;  ‘Alex is such a full of life character that I always look forward to him coming in. He has such a genuine personality which makes him a very easy person to get along with and lovely to chat to. He’s always got great stories about his travels and everywhere he has been. I have been cutting his hair for graduation and family photos and before many of his trips. Because of his adventurous spirit, he’s very open to change with his hair and is always looking for suggestions on what I think would work best with his hair. He is quite laid back and most of the time lets me do what I think is best. Cutting Alex’s hair is always refreshing.’

   Appointments with Emily can be booked at the click of button with our online app and you can view our price list here. We look forward to welcoming you to the salon soon.

   Keep up to date with all Charlie Miller news, events, offers and stories by joining us on Instagram, twitter and Facebook. Our hashtag is #cmhairdressing.

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9. Client Stories: Shona Bathgate & Miriam Begg

   11th April 2018 12:17 pm Leave a Comment

   CLIENT STORIES

   A little bit of tranquillity in a busy day, client Shona Bathgate describes her regular salon visits. Shona’s relationship with Miriam Begg has been a success so far, but what else bonds the two?

   Shona says, “I discovered the salon as it’s close to my place of work and Miriam has been cutting my hair for a long time now. She is beautifully stylish, fun and friendly and understands what works for me. Over the years she and my colourist Tammy, have saved me from some of my more questionable hair requests. I compete in long distance triathlons so my hair has to be practical and a bit edgy.”

   Miriam says, “Shona became a client at least 10 years ago when another stylist was off sick and that day we chatted about different style options. I convinced her to go short and she’s been short ever since. I’m more likely to do her hair for a triathlon or the Ironman competitions as that takes up a big part of her life but she still likes to look good while doing this. She has a great spirit and loves to experiment with undercuts and different hair colours. As a professional mum of two who works full time she would give anyone in their 20’s or 30’s a run for their money. Shona is very inspiring and in fact she made me believe in myself to run the Edinburgh marathon. Most of our chat is about running and a love of food and wine. She is inspirational, fearless and fashionable!”

   Appointments with Miriam or any of our talented stylists across Charlie Miller’s five Edinburgh salons, can be booked online here.

   Keep up to date with all news, events, offers and stories by joining us on Instagram, Twitter or Facebook.

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10. Exploring Creativity and Artistic Talent

    9th October 2017 2:41 pm Leave a Comment

    Exploring Creative Talent

    Our artistic team recently set up a ‘think tank’ to nurture young apprentices. This should encourage them to branch out and explore their creativity in avant-garde challenges. Showcasing new ideas, each salon worked as a team to reach a common goal. It was an event to celebrate hard work, creative thought and team energy in an evening of artistic imagination.

    Artistic Director Jason Miller said,
    “Education is at the heart of everything we do. We have an ongoing commitment to the development of our young people. This avant-garde night created such a fabulous buzz in  all the salons. The Team and all other staff were very impressed with the standard presented and I congratulate all our young trainees for their achievements.”

    

     

    Join us on Instagram, twitter and Facebook if you’d like to keep up to date with all our news and stories.

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11. HRH The Princess Royal

    13th April 2017 10:56 am Leave a Comment

    We were delighted and honoured to welcome HRH The Princess Royal on a visit to our salon and Training Academy at Holy Corner where she unveiled a plaque to commemorate our 50 years in business. The Princess Royal spent an hour meeting with Directors, Managers, Assistant Managers and over 40 other team members. These were from across the salons as well as a number of our longest-serving clients.

    During a reception HRH learned about our work with the ‘Hair 4 U’ project and Teenage Cancer Trust (TCT). She met with patients and nurses involved. She also met our 6 ‘Trainees of the Year’. These are hairdresser from our successful apprenticeship programme. They were able to demonstrate some of their cutting, colouring and styling skills.

    HRH finished her visit with a charitable donation to her Charities Trust along with a posy of flowers.

    Thanks also to STV News reporter Susan Ripoll and cameraman Colin for their coverage of the visit on STV News at Six.

    Photography by Phillip Dickson

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12. Shining a spotlight on our Apprentices for #ScotAppWeek17

    10th March 2017 2:14 pm Leave a Comment

    Scottish Apprenticeship Week ends today 10th March 2017 and we want to shine the spotlight on our wonderful trainees as we highlight some of their reasons for choosing their apprenticeship journey. We asked a few of them what 3 words best describe the experience of being a Trainee Stylist and why someone should choose hairdressing as a career and here’s what they said:

    In business for over 50 years literally hundreds of young apprentices have started their careers with us, sharpening their scissors and mastering their craft en route to a rewarding career. There are many attractive benefits a hairdressing career can bring: expert training in the craft and in personal growth; ongoing developments to keep a young person inspired and ahead of the game, competing in awards, climbing the ladder to manage a salon or join the Creative Team, plus a consistent and competitive salary.

    Variety is guaranteed as each client has their own story and every day a hairdresser has the opportunity to make their client feel and look fabulous. From welcoming clients to the salon for their ‘first day at school’ haircut to the potential of travelling the world for fashion shoots or catwalk and professional hair shows. Relationships are at the heart of everything we do and investing in the professional and personal growth our young apprentices is a commitment we take very seriously. Alongside the company’s regular in-depth salon expert training programme in cutting and colouring techniques, advances and new products, the  trainees are also enlisted on SVQ Hairdressing Levels 2 & 3 which is managed by ACT (Ambition Centre for Training) and offers accredited and structured theoretical education.

    Throughout the year trainees growth and achievements are recognised and our Trainee Competitions are an opportunity for them to show off their creativity and skills and wow our judges to win cool prizes. In addition, our individual salon Trainee of the Year Awards are run annually and are presented at our Achievement Awards night.

    If you’re interested in a career with us simply request an application form via info@charliemiller.com. Find out more about life at Charlie Miller by following us on Instagram, twitter and Facebook #cmhairdressing

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13. Going Lala over Cinematic Style

    25th January 2017 4:46 pm Leave a Comment

    Fashionistas and lovers of classic style will be in their element this January as the cinema spotlight shines on old Hollywood glamour. From La La Land – a visual feast of vibrant colour, romance and ultra shiny locks (and 14 Oscar nominations) – to style icon Jackie O and a bygone era of demure Chanel suits, pillar-box hats and stunning structured hair, they are a journey into bygone eras.

    Jackie Kennedy Onassis’ legendary black bob is as infamous as her husband and her beautiful designer wardrobe. The bouffant 60’s style was admired and replicated by women around the world. Will it make a comeback in 2017?

    Actress Emily Stone sports a tousled long bob ( a ‘lob’) in her role as Mia in La La Land. An autumnal shade of glossy red compliments her fair complexion and creates a striking look.

    Sleek 40s updo’s, tousled waves and gorgeous hair accessories (a key trend for 2017) all feature in this movie and we won’t be surprised if the clothes, and hair, transfer from the big screen to real life in the months ahead.

    Rumour has it that Emma Stone, whose natural locks are blonde, dyed her hair a vibrant red after a director suggested it would give her an ‘edge’. True or false we’ll never know but if you’re considering a change of style, or colour, our talented team of skilled colourists and stylists are here to listen to your needs, offer advice and ensure you leave the salon confident and happy with your new look.

    Pop in to any Charlie Miller salon for a free consultation. You’ll find our price list here and if you book between the 1st and 28th of February you’ll receive 40% off colour and enjoy the benefits of shiny, healthy hair with SMARTBOND.

     

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14. Edinburgh’s Guide to Proposals with Rox & Charlie Miller

    18th January 2017 11:37 am Leave a Comment

    

    Edinburgh Proposals

    Proposals can be difficult, if you’d like to find somewhere special to ‘pop the question’ in Edinburgh we have just the guide!  ROX – Diamonds & Thrills’ Edinburgh Guide to Proposals is a map for jus where to go when you want to ask the big question. To top it all off it also has a guide on how  then look & feel fantastic on your wedding day. We’ve teamed up with ROX the award-winning George Street jeweller. The guide guide highlights some of Edinburgh’s finespropost locations to help you, your bride and your bridal party from proposal day right through to your wedding day.

    Enjoy your special day from start to finish with our experienced stylists, who will provide you with the highest standards of care and attention. Many of our award-winning stylists specialise in bridal hair where the constant focus is looking after you. During your trial and wedding day appointments the Charlie Miller team will cater to your every need with a caring heart whilst creating the perfect style for your big day. From cutting, colouring and highlighting to intricate put-ups, your priorities are ours as we create the image you desire, either in salon or at your preferred location.

    

    Find out more by visiting your nearest Charlie Miller salon, talk to our talented team and experience the difference for yourself.

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