A FAMILY AFFAIR

There are many business’ in the hair industry that have a history, that can date back to past generations, and it is with pride that we carry on that legacy, while also breathing new life into a trend-based reality that moves with the times. Some of us continue to work with family members which can be rewarding and challenging but, in the end, can bring success and fulfillment to you and those you love. We asked a few well known ‘families’ to give us their thoughts.

Benni Tognini, Hair stylist and educator

“My wife, Tracey and I always knew our boys would be involved in the industry – although it took some time to get them in the doors to start. As a parent, it’s so nice to share something you’ve worked so hard for with your kids. It’s your heart and your own blood, and they’ve seen and been around so much of it growing up – travelling with us and experiencing so many of the highs like the events and awards. The transition of ownership was in the back of our minds for some time and about eight years ago I fought through pancreatic cancer, which is probably the really big reason Julian and Kristian have stepped up…And I love where we are now. We truly are a big family – with each other, the staff and our clients, and it’s what sets us apart from many other salons. Although Julian and I can clash because we’re both strong-minded – I love that Julian is someone who prefers to build success off his own back rather than off mine and do it his way. Tracey and I are happy to share all our knowledge, but the boys will take it and make it even better, and we’re so proud to watch this – and still be part of the action”.

Kristian Tognini, GM and co-owner, Tognini’s and Hey Hair

“Both Jules and I never planned on working for Tognini’s. Growing up, it was always Dad and Mum’s business - Benni and Tracey Tognini. While we admired everything they’d achieved, Jules and I had our own separate interests and hair wasn’t on the agenda. It was only after Mum and Dad decided on a three-month holiday overseas in our mid 20s where they gave Jules and I an offer to manage Tognini’s and we jumped straight in the deep end, and looked back. One of the best parts of working with your family is being around them every day. We’re all as equally passionate about the business, our clients and our industry as each other. We each have our own roles – which is why it works so well. With Jules leading the reins in hairstyling and more in the public eye, I love getting stuck into all the behind-the-scenes work – like HR, marketing, business systems and growth – a lot of what mum did (and still helps with) - and how we can work smarter, while still have a blast. When Dad and Mum handed over the reins to Jules and I in October last year, we knew how lucky we were to have their full support. We were conscious of the potential challenges of succession planning on families and businesses – so we were very lucky it’s gone so brilliantly. While we don’t always agree on everything – we leave everything at the table and have deep love, trust and respect for each other. I think it’s easier to speak your truth with family and we are so passionate about making sure the wider Tognini’s reputation remains among the top in Australia.”

Jules Tognini, Co-owner Togninis and Hey Hair, hair stylist and educator

“Growing up in a creative household, travelling a lot with Dad was pretty great as a youngster. I remember being backstage at a fashion show with Dad as this iconic figure in the industry – and realising just how cool he was! While I started out in fashion, I’m still so grateful I took on the apprenticeship at 23 with Dad and here 13 years later. All four of us are best mates. Benni and I do push each other, being so different in the way we do hair, but I think that’s important. He’s always taught me to think creatively and turned me into the hairdresser I am today. Dad’s role in education within hairdressing has been huge - making sure that he’s passing on the knowledge. He’s the person who has made sure that I was held accountable for what I do and have said, and how we approach things. Dad was always a little afraid of being average and I think that’s been passed down to me. Today, Kristian and I now manage the business and it’s pretty cool. It’s something we’ve been talking about as a family for years and now it’s happened, this transition period has been incredible. Kristian runs the business from the back end and does a very similar job to what my mother does – they have the brains. Dad and I are more in the public eye. Even though Kristian and I have taken over the reins, Mum and Dad are still our number one workers. It’s really nice for them to hand it over and let us run it the way we want it.”

Kellie Woodhead, Art Director/Event Manager Mocha

“My Mum used to read me stories from Pooh Bear when I was little. There is a line that has always stuck with me, “We didn’t realise we were making memories; we just knew we were having fun!” Fast forward 30 years, life together, my mum and my #bosslady, what a crazy, beautiful journey we’ve had, full of so many amazing memories. We complement each other in business, because we see things from different perspectives! I’m not ashamed to admit that our best ideas come from brainstorming over wine, throwing ideas at each other and growing them into something great. (Although not every wine induced idea makes it to fruition haha!) My advice, when working with family, is to appreciate every idea, small or large, but to also find your unique individual self. That’s what makes us work as a dynamic duo, every idea is valid, and we have a whole lot of fun while doing it!”

Linda Woodhead – Owner and founder, Mocha

“I honestly can’t think of anything more rewarding than watching my adult children come into their own and be happy successful individuals. Kellie has worked with me since she left school over 14 years ago and I have had the privilege of watching her learn and grown into an integral part of the business, with a mind and a passion that is most certainly an asset to me and my business. She now looks after all creative direction of the business in terms of art, graphic design, branding and event management. I’m so very proud of her. We have never really had to learn how not to be mother and daughter when it comes to work as we have a mutual respect and love that is unconditional. And we both love wine! She is the voice in my head and literally in my office, that says the things that need to be said, all of which is always valid. While we may not always agree on everything, we can look at things differently and together come up with the best plan – that’s the beauty of family. We have been able to fall into a great work/ life balance, knowing when to work hard , but also knowing when to leave work at work! Also being involved, more in a mentorship role, is my twin son’s business too, clearly shows that for me,… it’s all about Family. Family comes first. We all share each other’s success, and help when things are tough, but when you all have one goal, however you get there, it’s more fun to do it together …and then we celebrate… with high fives, family cuddles, good food and wine!”

Emiliano Vitale, Owner E-Salon

“There is a special kind of magic working with family, in particular the many shared experiences that you get to enjoy together. Our family has travelled the world, presenting shows and seminars, a particular highlight was travelling to London presenting our first Alternative Hair Show at the Royal Albert Hall. That show was rather special, however the entire experience was the realisation of a lifetime commitment to hairdressing and sharing it with your parents, cousins and wife was a special bond that fills your heart and soul. Working with family also has its challenges. The most important thing to remember is maintaining a level of respect & love toward your family. It’s so easy to take them for granted, or to take your frustrations out on who you love most, this is where we must always remind ourselves that our family MUST always come first. When all is said and done, business, clients, team members, colleagues and industry events come and go, however our family will always be there, ready and willing to love and accept us, warts and all.”