ELEVEN Australia Collective – Meet Zoey Weston

Heyyy! I’m Zoey, I’m a self-employed hairstylist based in the lovely town of Ilkeston, Derbyshire, where I rent a chair at the fabulous Salon B.

I’ve been in the hair industry since I was just 14 (I know, wild!), that’s 19 years of cutting, colouring, learning, and loving every second. And truthfully? I’ve never felt more passionate about what I do than I do right now.

Creativity has always been my thing. I actually studied BTEC Art at GCSE and bagged four A*s, not to brag, but I was totally torn between going into fashion design or hair. In the end, I chose hair… and I’ve honestly never looked back.

My Vibe? Lived-In, Effortless, Beautiful

If I had to describe my specialty, it would definitely be balayage and lived-in colour. I love creating soft, seamless tones that bring out the best in my clients’ natural hair. It’s about enhancing what’s already there and making people feel amazing with a low-maintenance, high-impact finish. Nothing gives me more satisfaction than seeing a client leave my chair glowing with confidence.

(And no, that doesn’t sound daft it’s the truth 😉)

Hair Goals? Chris Appleton, Obviously

If I could swap places with any famous hairdresser, it would 100% be Chris Appleton. Not only is his work jaw-droppingly beautiful, but can you imagine the stories he hears hanging out with the Kardashians every day?! I’d be living for the gossip.

And if I could invent something for the industry? A silent but super-powerful hairdryer. You know the kind, one that lets you actually hear your client without just smiling and nodding like you understood every word. Game. Changer.

This Month in the ELEVEN Collective: Inspiration from Paul Dennison

This month, our Collective session was with the incredible Paul Dennison, and it was such an inspiring day. Paul shared his journey, how he carved out his career, and how he stays ahead by spotting and translating trends.

He also did a live freehand balayage demo, which couldn’t have been more perfect for me. I’ll admit, freehand hasn’t always been my go-to technique, but since that session, I’ve honestly fallen in love with it. His approach opened up a whole new way of thinking, and I’ve already started bringing it into the salon with my own twist.

That’s what I love about being part of the ELEVEN Collective, the sessions challenge you, inspire you, and push you to grow beyond your usual go-to methods.

Next up we’ve got a session with Melvin, focused on styling and I cannot wait. I already know it’s going to be another one that leaves me buzzing with ideas.

Final Thoughts

Being part of the ELEVEN Collective this year has been such a brilliant experience. It’s given me the chance to connect with so many talented stylists, expand my skills, and fall even more in love with what I do.

Thanks for following along on this journey and if you’re thinking about applying next year… do it. You won’t regret it!

Big love,

Zoey x