Pazzazz offers clients a first-class, safe and clean environment in which to get all dolled up. - Photos by Ian Allen/Staff Photographer

In December last year, Nicola Roberts opened a first-class salon called Pazzazz Barber Hair and Nail Salon, located at the Auto Vision and Accessories Complex, 8 Hillview Avenue, St Andrew.

The new place can be described as a one-stop beauty centre. Roberts said she wanted to create an environment where both women and men could get everything, from spa treatments to hair and nails, done with quality service. She also caters to children.

The young mother of a three-year-old daughter and administrator in the surveying industry, turned businesswoman, has her hands full, but said she would have it no other way. Though she studied business administration at Tallahassee Community College in Florida, and tourism and travel at University of Cambridge, Massachusetts, she has a passion for cosmetology and fashion. She told Flair that her love for cosmetology began when she was just a girl.

"I practically grew up in a salon because my mother, Violet Roberts, has been a cosmetologist for more than 20 years, and I love anything to do with beauty, fashion and taking care of yourself," she said.

Back to school

Nicola Roberts, owner of Pazzazz, styles friend Sue Gayle's hair.

Despite her love for the craft, she is hoping to become even more qualified. She boasts that she is very skilled at the craft and also has an interest in quality surveying and will be pursuing that career path in the future.

When asked about opening a new business during this economic crisis, she said when she started the effects of the current crisis were not as evident. Recession or not, she said, "People always want to look good". Plus, when people are depressed they tend to pamper themselves. This is why she believes that the crisis has not affected the cosmetology industry as much.

On the other hand, the business has its challenges.

"The major challenge I find so far is that it is hard to find individuals who are willing to take their skills to the highest level."

Challenges aside, it can be a profitable business once you provide good service, and quality service in a salon fully equipped with the latest fixtures and a safe environment for clients is what Roberts said Pazzazz has to offer. She also notes that her staff are professionals and clients will get first-class service at a reasonable cost.

Some of the services offered at Pazzazz include waxing, facials, relaxing, all chemical treatments, lace weaving, manicure, pedicure and more.

Pazzazz Barber Hair and Nail Salon is located upstairs the Auto Vision and Accessories Complex, 8 Hillview Avenue, Kingston. Tele: 920-7839.