As the new owner of Coonabarabran’s long-established Strand Arcade salon, hairdresser Annie Lee is excited to put her skills to work. And just like Elle Woods from the film, Legally Blonde, Annie is also smart, stylish and savvy, with a flair for good hair. The Coonabarabran Times caught up with Annie to find out more...

Tell us a little about about yourself?

I’m Annie Lee, also known as Annie Williams. I grew up here in Coonabarabran and have always been passionate about hairdressing. I was lucky enough to complete my trade in Dubbo, working alongside a lovely team, and have been hairdressing now for 10 years.

I started “Legally Blonde” in 2015 when I returned home, working in a small, home-based salon. Since then, my family has grown from two to six. I have been on maternity leave for the past three years, my husband and I have four beautiful children. If I’m not hairdressing, you’ll find me at home, keeping busy with them.

What prompted you to purchase the Klipperz salon?

It has always been on my mind for my long- term goal, I was just not sure how I’d manage it along with my family. But the day Coona went out of lockdown, I went to cut my brother’s hair and something just clicked in my head! And I couldn’t help but message Trine straight away to see if the salon was still available. My gut instinct was pushing me to it. It was a great opportunity, I didn’t want to miss out of it.

How does it feel to be walking in the footsteps of Katrina Wark (Klipperz) and Betty Olsen (CLippers)?

I was lucky enough to have worked for Katrina after school and on weekends. This was my very first job and it’s a dream to own this salon. I feel very honored to follow in their footsteps. It feels so right. I’ll forever be grateful I had this opportunity.

What services and products will you be using in the salon?

In the salon, I offer ladies’ and men’s cuts, hair treatments, styling and blow waves and a huge variety of colouring techniques - keeping up with the fashion to meet everyone’s needs.

I also stock Eleven Australia hair products. They have amazing products to meet everyone’s needs. With sulphate free, gluten free, vegan options, animal cruelty free and loads more! Not to mention the smell of the fresh fruits is incredible,

With a backlog of DIY COVID-19 lockdown haircuts, what is your advice to clients and customers trying to book into the salon? 

There is definitely no judgement here, I know I’m guilty of cutting my own hair. I’d highly recommend booking in weeks or months in advance and than rebook. That way, you’re more guaranteed an appointment. I am offering a waiting list system in place at the moment for whenever a cancellation may occur.

You are a mum of four, embarking on this new salon. How do you stay organised?

If you know me well, you know I’m not the most organised person out there! I am grateful to have a great support behind me. I’d be lost without my parents and husband. It’s not just me going to work and going home, I have a huge team behind me making it work, so I can work providing these services for the community.

Any future plans for the business?

As my children get older and start school I plan to grow the business - opening more days and offering more services to the beautiful town!