The first winner of Channel 4’s The Big Blow Out shares her experience on the show and the creativity it sparked within her.
Never ever did I think that… I would actually get onto the show to take part. I applied because I thought it sounded like fun and would be a chance to explore a different avenue of the industry [styling hair].
My clients were amazing… I was having to cancel them week by week as I stayed on in the competition – I didn’t want to be presumptuous and cancel everyone in one go! They were so supportive of me.
The experience unleashed… a creative side that I didn’t realise I had. And to be mentored by Sam McKnight and Lisa Pharrell was so special. Their critiques – the good, the bad and the ugly – were invaluable. They really helped me grow and progress throughout the competition.
My favourite look I created was… my ‘Ram’ – I live on a working farm, and when I’m not hairdressing I’m lambing, so it was really important to show first-hand my inspiration for that hair style.
I’ve learnt how resilient I am… I’ve realised that for years, because I mostly do colour, I have slotted myself into a little box of ‘I’m a colourist’. It wasn’t until this competition and pushing myself out of ‘just being a colourist’ that I realised I’m other things too. It has been a big realisation that you can be passionate about one aspect but dabble in others as well.
I wholeheartedly recommend that others take part in these competitions and apply. It pushes you out of your comfort zone and gets the creative juices flowing. You also meet some incredible people and do some incredible things.
I started out my career studying art... then I wanted to be a tattooist. But because that industry was difficult to get into at the time, I thought I needed to do something that was creative and fun, and my mum suggested hairdressing. I never looked back.
I love the creative freedom of what I do... I love that no day is the same. It’s just magic to make people feel great about themselves all the time. Becoming a salon owner was also the best decision I’ve ever made.
2023 is about continuing my work... with Redken, Manic Panic and Olaplex. And then seeing what the universe aligns for me – I’m going to go with it and keep my choices open!
ALL ABOUT VICKI
Owns: The Grove Studio in Wadebridge, Cornwall
Speciality: Colour
Follow: @vikiscissorhands