Home   News   Article

Inverness BID Small Business Focus Q&A: Salon celebrates sisterhood and style





Rachael Andrew, owner of Rumours Salon & Boutique, Inverness. Picture: Callum Mackay.
Rachael Andrew, owner of Rumours Salon & Boutique, Inverness. Picture: Callum Mackay.

Small Business Focus Q&A in association with Inverness BID

Q How would you describe your business to a stranger?

A Rumours salon is a one-stop shop; we cover a wide range of beauty and hair services including bridal packages, hair extensions, semi permanent make-up, aesthetics and piercing. We are a team of 11 with decades of experience between us. Our team are constantly educating themselves on new trends to evolve with the times. We really are just a bunch of friends who get to make other women feel beautiful everyday.

Q What inspired you to start the business?

A I was inspired to open my salon with a vision of creating more than just a place for beauty treatments. I wanted to build a sisterhood, a true community where people feel safe, welcome and cared for the moment they walk through the door. I wanted my clients to feel a genuine sense of belonging, like they were coming to see their pals, knowing they’re stepping into an environment where they can relax and be themselves. Equally important was building a team that thrives together, feeding off each other’s creativity, passion and energy. I imagined a space where both clients and the team feel empowered, supported and part of something bigger – a collective that celebrates connection, beauty, and growth.

Rumours is a welcoming safe space where clients can enjoy a sense of sisterhood as well as their beauty treatments! Picture: Callum Mackay
Rumours is a welcoming safe space where clients can enjoy a sense of sisterhood as well as their beauty treatments! Picture: Callum Mackay

Q How has your business developed?

A Since opening, my business has grown tremendously, evolving from a small team with a few services to a thriving salon with 11 talented staff members. We’ve expanded our offerings to include a wide variety of services, from hair treatments and advanced skincare to nails and much more. This growth has come from our commitment to providing exceptional customer service and creating a supportive environment within our team. Each member brings their own area of expertise and passion. Our journey has been one of continuous learning and development, and we’re proud of the vibrant, skilled team we’ve become.

Q What are your plans to develop your business in the future?

A We’ll be investing in ongoing education and training, ensuring we stay up-to-date with the latest techniques, products and styles. Additionally, I aim to create more opportunities for engagement with clients through more events within the salon.

Q What lessons have you learnt from your time in business?

A Through running my salon, I’ve learned invaluable lessons about resilience and adaptability. The beauty industry is always evolving, and it’s crucial to stay flexible and open to change. Whether it’s adapting to new trends, introducing fresh services, or navigating unexpected challenges, I’ve seen how important it is to evolve with the times. I’ve learned that success comes from not only offering quality services but also understanding the needs of clients and the team. Building a strong, supportive community within the salon has been key to weathering any storm. I really couldn't have done any of this without the support of my incredible team and our loyal clients. I'm so thankful for them everyday.

Rumours Salon & Boutique, Union Street, Inverness. Picture: Callum Mackay
Rumours Salon & Boutique, Union Street, Inverness. Picture: Callum Mackay

Q What do you love about working in Inverness city centre?

A I love the sense of community within Inverness city centre. Walking into work in the morning and seeing the regular faces getting coffee and checking in on how your week is going. It's so nice to see businesses supporting each other.

Q Can you tell us something interesting about yourself?

A I'm a proud dog mum to two beautiful babies; my pug Murphy and my Pomeranian Gina. Some days if you're lucky on a visit to Rumours you may get snuggles from the pair of them!


Do you want to respond to this article? If so, click here to submit your thoughts and they may be published in print.



This site uses cookies. By continuing to browse the site you are agreeing to our use of cookies - Learn More