60 SECONDS WITH LOUISE POWER “Hair by That Irish Girl”

Iwas raised in a small village called Galbally, Co. Limerick by Mam & Dad. I went to school in the town of Hospital before embarking on my Hairdressing career with Bellissimo Hair salon in Limerick. I decided to take the plunge and emigrate, initially to Calgary, followed by a second move to Kelowna in BC. There are just my two brothers and I: Jason who works in Northern Trust in Limerick and Nathan who has now joined me in Canada and is working at Big White Ski resort.

Q 1: How does your typical day begin?

I tend to be an early riser and I like to enjoy time walking Bailey, my golden retriever, in the morning. She has lots of energy so we also spend the spring and summer biking. The morning walks also allow me time to enjoy and appreciate my surroundings as well as mentally plan my day.

Q2: What do you love most about your job?

From an early age, I have always loved hairdressing and transforming how people look. Seeing a client smile at the end of a hairstyling session is what makes the job worthwhile. I also love to chat and learn about what is going on in my clients’ lives.

Q3: What inspired you to start “Hair By That Irish Girl” I had the opportunity to work in a cruelty-free hair salon whose structure was chair rental. I was ready to be challenged and build a new clientele in a new town.

Q 4: What do you do to relax? As Kelowna is an outdoorsy city, I love to be outside in my spare time and frequent visits to Big White Ski Resort are a must for Skiing, snowboarding and Apres Ski with my friends. I also love joining in with my girlfriends to discover the latest wines in season along the many wine routes in Kelowna. Other outdoorsy sports include a lot of walking and paddle boarding with my doggo.

Q5: Where do you work?

I work in the heart of Kelowna in a cruelty-free salon called Burke Hair Lounge. I have three amazing colleagues that I can now call my close friends. We are a dog-friendly salon, so I can bring my doggo to work, which benefits her and my clients.

Q 6: Favourite Staycation destination in BC?

My friends and I take an annual camping trip to a small town called Kaslo in BC. We camp right on the lake and immerse ourselves in the relaxing scenery and switch off from our busy lives.

Q 7: Favourite Business motto?

“It’s nice to be important but it’s more important to be nice.

Q 8: Advice for young business entrepreneurs starting out in Canada.

Firstly, believe in yourself, believe in your ability and grab opportunities.

Q 9: What do you love most about Canada?

My favourite thing about Canada is the minimal rain and that there is always an activity to do from Summer to Winter. I especially love all the wineries in Kelowna too.