A career in hairdressing has turned into a thriving business journey for husband-and-wife duo Laura and Wes, whose two Just Cuts salons in regional New South Wales have been named among the top four internationally at the 2024 Just Cuts Owners of the Year Awards.
Their story is a testament to what’s possible with passion, community spirit, and the right support.
Laura, a professional stylist with over two decades of experience, spent four years as a Team Leader before stepping into Salon ownership. In 2019, the couple took ownership of Just Cuts Grafton, followed by Just Cuts Armidale in 2021. Today, both Salons are thriving hubs of local connection and customer care.
“Becoming a franchise owner was a natural step,” says Laura. “I already knew the systems and how the brand worked, and the support from the Just Cuts Academy made it seamless.”
Local clients embrace the convenience and value of Just Cuts’ no-appointment, fixed-price style cuts.
“We love seeing locals take advantage of the flexibility,” adds Laura. “Families, seniors, busy professionals - our Salons are built around making haircare accessible and affordable.”
With a “people over profit” mindset, Laura and Wes credit their success to building strong relationships with their teams, clients, and community. Both Salons regularly support local sporting teams, schools, and charity events across the Grafton and Armidale regions.
“Our focus has always been people,” adds Wes. “We invest in our stylists, we give back to our community, and that’s what’s helped us build loyalty and long-term success.”
While franchise ownership has brought financial freedom and greater flexibility, the couple acknowledges that success comes from hard work and hands-on involvement.
“There are times when we’re on the floor, sweeping hair or helping at the front desk,” says Wes. “That’s the beauty of the Just Cuts model you’re never far from the heart of your business.”
With plans underway to refresh and renovate both Salons, and an eye on potential future expansion, the future looks bright for the duo and the communities they operate in. To learn more about Just Cuts visit justcuts.com
For media attendance and enquiries, please contact Sari-Elle Kraemer at skraemer@alphaconsulting.global or 0407 284 457