A spotlight on our courtyard business – New Aura.

Hair salon owner and hair specialist, Emily Hartwell moved to Claydon Courtyard in 2021. I caught up with Emily to find out a little bit more about her business.

HOW DID NEW AURA START?   

Prior to setting up New Aura I worked in a hospital, so I was by no means a hairdresser.

However, I realised through talking to my patients, that there was a gap in the market for quality hair extensions. I would frequently speak with patients who were experiencing hair loss as a result of alopecia, trichotillomania (a disorder characterised by compulsive hair pulling), post-chemotherapy hair loss, and other conditions.

I launched “New Aura” in 2006 and started with three employees.  At this point I wasn’t a qualified hairdresser, so I soon enrolled in a hairdresser course at West Herts college.

We were in a busy town centre and the business really grew.  However, after 14 years I decided that the time had come to re-locate as I wanted to work nearer to home. It was during lockdown that I discovered Claydon Courtyard, there was an empty unit available which was perfect, so it soon became home to my business!

YOU SPECIALISE IN HAIR PIECES & EXTENSIONS, TELL ME ABOUT THIS SIDE OF THE BUSINESS.

We specialise in hair extensions and hair pieces for clients with fine hair, and hair pieces for clients suffering from hair loss.

We use hair integration method which can disguise all types of hair loss problems. It’s a bespoke service for which the type and colour of hair is individually selected and woven.  Natural hair is carefully sourced to match the client’s own colour and texture. This is then woven onto a fine open mesh which enables even larger areas to be covered. The hair piece is then linked with a weaving technique to the existing hair.

WHAT’S THE PROCESS OF CREATING A BESPOKE HAIR PIECE

We always start with a consultation so that we can talk about the client’s hair type and style choices, including whether they want straight, curly, wavy, or coloured hair.

After that, we take all the dimensions required so we can make a template. Using this template, we make a net which is crocheted, and this serves as the foundation for the hairpiece. Hair is then hand-stitched onto the crocheted net, we use real hair to create a smooth, realistic appearance.  As the process is done by hand it can take around two months to complete.

We use an integration system to fit the hairpiece, which means that we attach the hairpiece to existing hair using a weaving process.

With care this hair integration system can last up to a year and can be washed, styled, and treated the same way as you would do with natural locks. However, we do recommend regular appointments in order that we can make any adjustments if necessary.

All hair loss, no matter how extreme, takes an emotional toll, especially when it alters your appearance. It can be an emotional journey for our clients. It’s a unique job, you’re not just selling an off the shelf product to the client, you’re on a journey with them, from the initial consultation to any subsequent appointments.

WHAT OTHER SERVICES DO YOU OFFER?

I also do standard haircuts and hair braids in addition to extensions and hair pieces.  We also offer FABRIQ keratin straightening treatments.  These are popular with clients who have curly hair. It’s a nourishing treatment which not only strengthens the hair but also eliminates frizz and repairs damage.

New Aura is open by appointment. Visit their website for more information.

www.new-aura.co.uk