Graeme

Position: STYLIST

Graeme, our esteemed stylist at The Players Lounge, brings a sense of stability and calm to the bustling salon environment. His journey into hairdressing is as unique as his creative spirit, which has been expressed through various outlets like music, art, and dance. Initially, Graeme’s foray into styling began in with his love of punk rock, where he experimented with cutting and dyeing friends’ hair. It wasn’t until he was 30, during a visit to a barber, that he became fascinated with the skill and precision of professional hair cutting.

Motivated by the birth of his daughter and the encouragement of his fiance, Graeme decided to pursue his interest in hairdressing professionally. After training at the Sid Sottung Academy, he joined The Players Lounge, where he has since become a foundational member of our team. Graeme is not just about providing excellent haircuts; he values the personal connections made with clients, cherishing the stories shared and the common ground discovered during appointments. He aims to ensure that every client leaves not only with a great haircut but also with a memorable and enjoyable experience.

As a devoted father, Graeme’s dedication extends beyond the salon, embodying the balance between professional passion and family life. His steady presence is appreciated by both clients and colleagues, making him a valued team member.

Graeme is available to his clients on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, ready to offer not just a haircut, but a moment of calm and connection in their busy lives.

Graeme

STYLIST

Mark

Position: Senior Stylist

With decades of experience in some of Edinburghs most prestigious salons, Mark has established himself as an expert in all areas of hairdressing. Mark is a colour expert and experienced in modern perming and this versatility makes him a perfect choice for those seeking a new look. What truly distinguishes Mark, however, is his warm, approachable nature and the genuine connections he builds. Friendly, attentive, and cheerful, Mark is dedicated to making you feel confident and look your best. Whether you’re after a classic cut, a daring new color, or a modern perm, Mark is the stylist for you. Beyond hairdressing, Mark has a passion for art, antiques and a love of dogs.

Mark

Senior Stylist

Lindsay

Position: SENIOR STYLIST

Lindsay’s journey in hairdressing has been one of passion, creativity, and dedication, marking her as a cornerstone of The Players Lounge as a Senior Stylist. From her early days, Lindsay was driven by a desire to channel her creativity into a fulfilling career. This quest led her to an inspirational work experience at Cheynes in Edinburgh during her school years, where her love for hairdressing blossomed. Embracing the opportunity to train there, Lindsay embarked on a professional path that has been as rewarding as it has been diverse.

Throughout her career, Lindsay has not only honed her skills in various prestigious salons, including time in Manchester where she discovered a talent for men’s hair, but she has also a true believer that hairdressing is about the experience as much as it is about the craft. For Lindsay, ensuring each client leaves feeling happy and confident is paramount.

Now, with 11 years at The Players Lounge and 27 years in the industry, Lindsay’s enthusiasm remains as strong as ever. Known for her kindness, humor, and the amazing baked goods she often brings to the salon, Lindsay adds a unique warmth to the team’s dynamic. Her commitment and passion for her work are evident in every cut and conversation, making her not just a stylist, but a cherished member of the salon family.

Lindsay is available to her clients and team on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, continuing to spread joy and style with every appointment.

Lindsay

SENIOR STYLIST

Lynn

Position: SENIOR STYLIST

Lynn, with her 11 years at The Players Lounge, has flourished into a Senior Stylist whose empathy and warmth make her a pillar of trust and comfort for her clients. Her journey into hairdressing began unexpectedly at the age of 15 with a part-time job at a local salon. Initially unsure about her path, Lynn quickly found her calling amidst the lively atmosphere of the salon, the diversity of clients, and the camaraderie of the team. Her career, now spanning 36 years, is a testament to the love and dedication she holds for her craft.

Lynn’s ability to listen and genuinely connect with her clients sets her apart. She is not just a stylist but a trained holistic therapist and a confidant and friend to many who visit The Players Lounge, offering a safe space for them to open up and share their stories. This unique bond Lynn forms with her clients is built on trust and kindness, allowing her to not only enhance their outward appearance but also touch their lives more deeply.

Outside of the salon, Lynn is passionate about maintaining her fitness, an enthusiasm that adds to her dynamic personality and dedication to wellbeing. As a valued team member, her positivity, fun nature, and commitment to personal and professional growth contribute significantly to the salon’s warm and inclusive environment.

Lynn’s presence at the salon on Wednesdays and Saturdays is a highlight for many, as she continues to inspire confidence and joy in both her clients and colleagues.

Lynn

SENIOR STYLIST

Jen

Position: ARTISTIC DIRECTOR

Jen’s role as Artistic Director at The Players Lounge is a testament to her evolution within the world of hairdressing and her passion for creativity. Growing up in Italy, amidst a family steeped in hospitality, Jen’s early fascination with hairdressing was seen as a mere hobby. Despite the expectations set upon her, she found herself at odds with a future in catering, leading her to pursue her true calling. Her determination saw her mastering the craft of hairdressing, a journey that eventually took her from the shores of Italy to the bustling streets of London with Toni and Guy.

Jen’s career in hairdressing has been nothing short of a global adventure, providing her with the opportunity to cross paths with remarkable individuals and cultures. It’s this exposure that has honed her skills not just as a stylist but as an artist. Now, as the Artistic Director, Jen is the driving force behind the salon’s training programs and photoshoots, showcasing the creative visions that set The Players Lounge apart. Her love for the artistry of hair cutting and styling is paralleled by her commitment to innovation and education within the salon.

Beyond her professional life, Jen embodies a lifestyle that complements her creative spirit. A devoted yoga practitioner, she finds balance and inspiration through her commitment to holistic living. This dedication to wellness extends to her being a vegan, reflecting her compassionate and mindful approach to life. Jen’s chilled vibe is a breath of fresh air within the dynamic atmosphere of The Players Lounge, often serving as the calm in the creative storm. Her holistic lifestyle not only enriches her personal well-being but also influences her artistic direction, infusing her work with a sense of harmony and mindfulness that is both rare and invigorating.

Jen’s work schedule mirrors her dedication to her craft and her team, being present from Wednesday to Saturday, ensuring that each day is an opportunity to inspire, create, and transform.

Jen

ARTISTIC DIRECTOR

Carla

Position: SALON MANAGER & SENIOR STYLIST

Carla’s journey into the world of hairdressing began with a fascination for transformation. From the tender age of 15, she was the adventurous type, constantly experimenting with her hair, embracing different colours, styles, and even daring to try the occasional perm. Her inspiration came from the TV show “The Salon,” which confirmed her aspiration to be part of the dynamic hair industry. While she briefly explored a day job at the airport, it quickly became clear that her true passion lay in hairdressing, leading her to embark on her professional journey.

Carla’s career took off when she joined a renowned Edinburgh salon, a foundational experience that honed her skills and deepened her love for the craft. Seven years ago, she brought her talents to The Players Lounge, where she discovered a strong connection with a creative and welcoming team. Carla thrives on the personal interaction with clients, enjoying the stories they share and the new things she learns from them daily. For her, the salon is more than just a workplace; it’s a place of endless variety and personal connection.

As a manager at The Players Lounge, Carla shines as a beacon of support and leadership. Her transition from an enthusiastic stylist to a guiding force for her team reflects her commitment to fostering a culture of growth and mutual support. Carla uses her journey and experiences to mentor her colleagues, inspiring both respect and affection from her team.

Beyond the salon, Carla has embraced a lifestyle of travel and fitness, finding joy in exploring new destinations and staying active through running.

Carla loves her job and she enjoys the opportunity to empower her clients, helping them look and feel their best. To Carla, there’s nothing more rewarding than the ability to boost someone’s self-confidence and witness their transformation.

Carla is dedicated to her craft and clients, working from Wednesday to Saturday each week, ensuring each day is filled with creativity, inspiration, and the chance to make a difference in someone’s life.

Carla

SALON MANAGER & SENIOR STYLIST

Chloe

Position: SALON RECEPTIONIST

Chloe, our exceptional receptionist and the vibrant front of house presence at The Players Lounge, is the organisational heartbeat of our salon. Hailing from Aberdeen, her journey took her from studying in her hometown to diving into the fashion industry in London at 18. Her adventurous spirit was evident from her first days in the city, marking her transition with a bold change in hairstyle that showcased her expressive nature. Chloe’s love for personal expression through fashion and hair has remained a constant, guiding her path to Edinburgh in 2009 and eventually leading her to our doors.

At The Players Lounge, Chloe has found her niche, combining her passion for connecting with people with her remarkable organisational skills. She ensures that every client’s visit is not just an appointment but a relaxing and enjoyable experience. With over 25 years in customer-facing roles, Chloe believes there’s something truly special about the atmosphere at The Players Lounge. It’s a place where the buzz of activity never translates to stress, thanks to the friendly and welcoming environment she helps cultivate.

Beyond her role in managing the salon’s day-to-day operations, Chloe has become the linchpin of our social scene, masterfully organizing team activities that enhance our bond and make The Players Lounge not just a workplace, but a community. Her energy, dedication, and flair for coordination make her an indispensable part of our team, ensuring that every day is as smooth as it is enjoyable.

Chloe

SALON RECEPTIONIST

Suzie

Position: Salon Owner

At 16 I told my parents I wanted to leave school to do hairdressing. I was quite academic and my parents were not happy with me leaving school and so encourged me to continue with my studies and go to university. I did a business studies degree, tried various office jobs (which I hated!) and was even a wedding planner for a while but I never stopped wanting to work in the hair industry. After the birth of my two children I took the leap to train and have never looked back! The business studies didn’t do any harm either as 15 years ago I was able to fulfill my dream of having my own salon and The Players Lounge was born. I love working as part of a team, looking out for each other and watching the team blossom and grow. At the end of 2021, I took the decision to no longer be on the salon floor cutting hair to spend more time on my product business @mooandyoo but I am still very involved in the salon, training and helping the team reach their best potential.

Suzie

Salon Owner