Customer of the Week: Lola Fortune

Mollie began hairdressing at 15. Admittedly a ‘rebellious teen’, she left school and moved out of home to live with her older brother in a new city.

“With no real idea on what I wanted to do, my brother suggested trying hairdressing and enrolled me into Servilles academy.”

After 12 years in the industry, including experience managing and training staff, Mollie was ready for a new challenge. She had a deep desire to create something of her own, something that reflected her ideologies and tastes.

Lola Fortune is a shift from the traditional ‘busy production line’ salon. It’s an intimate space, free of harsh lighting and blaring music.

Mollie does all her colour work at a large table covered in plants, fresh flowers and herbal tea. This gives clients multiple options. They can gaze out of the enormous window and watch the hustle and bustle of vibrant Brunswick. Those pressed for time can open their laptop on the desk and work. Or one can simply flick through one of the many magazines, instead of having to sit in front of a mirror for hours.

“People relax in different ways, so we wanted to cater to that.”

Mollie has a strong passion for health and wellness and wanted to couple that with her love for hair.

“We try to run the salon as sustainably as we can by composting, using recyclable foil, natural cleaning products, and being mindful of minimising waste wherever possible.”

The salon uses Mr Smith hair products which are made in Melbourne with organic pure essential oils and Australian botanicals. All their products are PETA certified vegan, and Sulfate/Paraben/Silicone free. Mollie also offers ammonia free options.

It was also important to Mollie that she use her skills, time and space to give back to the community in some way. As a result, Mollie has teamed up with Women’s Information, Support and Housing in the North (WISHIN) which is a support service in North Melbourne for women who have experienced or are at risk of homelessness, trauma and family violence.

“I look after one woman each week by giving them a free wash, cut and blowdry.”

Opening her own business has been a way for Mollie to express herself. She’s able to implement her ideas without running them past anyone, create a space she loves working in, and do things in a way that fulfils her.

“It gives me immense satisfaction to see my dreams becoming a reality.”

Although early days, Mollie attributes her success to strong customer service and authenticity. Mollie works hard to find meaningful connections with every one of her clients.

A part of this is making sure that she spends the time having a thorough consultation with clients so that she can be sure they’re are on the same page. From here, she will send a follow-up message to each new client to see how they’re going with their hair.

“I like to keep it professional but also have a bit of fun and treat my clients as I would my close friends.”

Online booking has freed up Mollie from her administrative tasks. She doesn’t have to leave her client’s side to answer the phone and spends less time going through her voicemails and emails. Timely’s point of sale and reporting functions means she can spend less fussing over her bookkeeping.

“With Timely, I can dedicate my time to creating great hair and building wonderful relationships with my clients.”

Seeking a healthy and balanced lifestyle has been paramount for Mollie. Although running a business is hugely time-consuming, Mollie makes sure she has time to connect with nature, catch up with friends, cook beautiful food, and spend quality time with her partner.

For many, walking into a salon can feel intimidating. At Lola Fortune, this is not the case. Mollie’s goal is to create an environment where all clients feel safe and welcome.

Lola Fortune is a space for everyone, and we can’t wait to watch this business flourish!