Star quality: Pet dog boosts business for Hampstead salon

Thursday, 4th April 2013

Gary Ingham Lifestyle Spa and Salon in Hampstead has many high profile clients walking through its doors.

Its A-list clientele includes the likes of Liam Gallagher, Nicole Appleton and West Ham's Rob Green.

The salon, which was launched in April last year, has experienced remarkable fortune. So, what is the secret to such business success in a short space of time?

Business partners Sean Spence and Gary Ingham have credited their miniature schnauzer Holly for the booming trade over the influence of their celebrity customers.

Mr Spence said: "I swear, more people know [the dog] than they do me or Gary. She's in the salon for four to five days a week. We're a dog-friendly salon, we always would be, but it's brilliant in Hampstead."

He added that the idea for the salon was triggered by "a bit of a mid-life crisis" with the two giving up comfortable jobs to pursue their dream.