Adventures of a Marketing TRAILBLAZER

Sustainable salon owner, award winner, innovative marketer – Cally Borg’s insights are industry-wide and forwardthinking, plus she’s flying the flag for home salons

What was your journey into the industry?

I started as an assistant at John Carne, Wimbledon, before moving to TONI&GUY and Charles Worthington. After suffering from an injury, I decided to venture into the freelance world and, within a year, I was working as a session stylist for magazines, television and events.

What does marketing mean to you?

Marketing myself has drawn in the right opportunities like a magnet, resulting in rapid growth in my business, even during the pandemic. I believe opportunities are everywhere, you just have to be open minded and willing.

How are you championing sustainability in your business, Cally Borg Hairdressing?

We recycle paper, plastic, chemicals, foil and hair, and we use eco-friendly towels (Scrummi) and brushes. All of my colour range is natural, organic and vegan, with packaging that is made from recycled material. My styling ranges are also fully sustainable, natural and organic and I have chosen brands that support small salons.

Who is inspiring you at the moment?

I am always inspired by Dom Lehane, who interviews a host of different hair stylists. I also love what Rae Palmer is doing for the industry with ‘WELOVE’, a community of hair stylists that share the passion of sustainability and holistic hairdressing. I am proud to be an art director for the WELOVE Art team, after Rae spotted me on social media.

What’s next for you and your career?

As well as continuing as a commercial session stylist for photoshoots and events, my key goal is to change the stigma for home salons. I have created a six-figure business from mine and see it as a lucrative opportunity, so I want to share my knowledge by mentoring other stylists to do the same. I have also been given the position of the UK ambassador for TUFT Professional, using my social media marketing to launch the brand in the UK by educating consumers and salon owners.

2012
Became Amanda Holden’s personal hairstylist for three years

2016
Worked backstage at London Fashion Week

2018
Launched her own salon, doubling clientele within a year through social media

2020
Won Surrey Hair Stylist of the year, leading to her joining the WELOVE artistic team