TGt Meets ... Gemma Wood

We've been chatting to Gemma Wood, Owner of Gem's Beauty, about all things business and Swindon.

What inspired you to set up your business in Swindon?  
The Gem’s Beauty Salon is now located at 39b Havelock Street, above C&D recruitment.
It was an easy decision to set things up here. I was born in Swindon at Princess Margaret's Hospital where my mother worked as a wonderful nurse, and I was brought up in Wroughton as a child. As I got older I moved to the big grown up world of Swindon town centre, which for me was a big step.

Several years on and I now own a home in Old Town with my wonderful partner and forever friend. Swindon has always been the place I call home, and it holds my heart. I have the most amazing friends, family and clients here so that’s why I couldn’t think of anywhere else to play home to my business.

Describe your business in 3 words…
Loyal, Fun and Classic.

What advice would you give anyone looking to do the same?
In the words of NIKE … “Just do it” – let it be noted that I don’t exactly apply this to exercise, just running a business ha!

What do you think attracts business people to Swindon?
It’s a lovely place to me, you’re spoiled for choice in regards to the business community, and the different locations. The amazing hustle and bustle of a growing town, as well as the many places to unwind and enjoy yourself. There’s a great business scene, as well of plenty of foodie joints, and cocktail bars to enjoy with colleagues, and friends.

I’ve personally found that the business people of Swindon are so loyal and kind, we all understand and help one another.

How do you like to spend your time off?
I'm a very lucky girl and really value my friends and my loving family. When I am off (which is hardly ever if you know me) I spend my time creating memories, enjoying life and planning for the future. I have always liked to live each moment to the fullest.

What have been your key challenges and how have you overcome them?
I spent nearly 10 years in an amazing place working as a beauty therapist with a very hard working and loyal team around me, I found this very hard to leave to explore my own adventure. The support I received from my family, friends, clients and old team was unbelievable. Going it alone was as you’d expect scary and exciting all in one. Making that decision took some time.

I have no words of wisdom but what I do know is that if you treat people the way you want to be treated then you will go very far! Everything works out in the end and I believe if you are positive and think that the glass is always half full you will conquer and fulfil your dreams no matter how hard it may be.

Your 2pm meeting has been cancelled, meaning you now have a two-hour lunch break. What do you do?
First of all this is crazy!!!!!!!!!!! Who on earth really gets a 2 hour break?
Honestly, this is going to sound a bit crazy but, I clean!!!

I'm no cleaning goddess but I do love having the weight off my shoulders knowing everything is perfectly tidy and beautiful. I guess the beautician in me applies that kind of care and precision to my work space.

I love spending time thinking of new offers and promotions for my clients. At the moment, I spend my spare minutes getting to grips with Social Media where I can share the Gem's Beauty Love.

Describe Swindon in three words...
Exciting, Approachable, Buzzing.

What has been your biggest achievement to date?
Being a frightened 30 year young girl (don’t miss the young part) creating a beautiful salon that I am proud of and being brave enough to take on the challenge. I’ve recently taken on my first employee, the lovely Lauren Bright, and that in itself a huge and exciting change.  

What are your plans for the future?
To keep pushing myself to deliver a service that my clients love, and be the best I can be. I want to offer as much as I can to the highest standard. I hope to grow and expand, offering Swindon the best salon that I can. I also want to lead my team professionally into the future for many years to come, and ensure that they love the place they work as much as I do.