Claire Sawford – Director / Salon Owner
I have over 30 years experience in the industry and started on the ground as an
apprentice. Then whilst travelling took my scissors with me and styled Hong Kong,
Asia and India. On return to the UK, I trained with award winning celebrity
hairdresser Lee Stafford and Vidal Sassoon’s world class hairdresser and Creative
Director, Stacey Broughton. I’ve become part of the L’Oreal Professionel Team,
participating in the ‘Creative Colour And Advanced Cutting Revolution’ training
course with the inspirational Carolyn Newman; Charles Worthington’s Colour
Director and a previous L’Oreal Ambassador. Followed by the Toni and Guy
Academy in London and regular sessions with L’Oreal Professionel education
team.
I went on to manage the salon in Brampton (Cambs), where I continued to evolve in
my profession, achieved Assessor Status and now own – Utopia Hair Bar. I work
with with the local colleges to help other bright new stylists shine like the very hair
they nurture! Year on year, Utopia Hair Bar has won many awards and accolades!
I have a passion for creativity and provide my clients with a unique Utopia
experience. Passing down that knowledge and supporting the aspirations and
education of my team is key, as is having a long standing relationship with all of my
clients and making your hair look it’s best for any occasion!
Sarah Knight – Artistic Manager
I joined and trained with New Image in 2008. I was privileged to be part of the very exciting transition from New Image to Utopia Hair Bar.
My work ethic is ‘The only way to do great work is to love what you do and do what you love!’ – I am in love with my craft and so always keep up-to-date with the latest techniques with L’Oreal Professionnel Academy! The reward of seeing my client smile, knowing I’ve made you feel good about yourself, is something I strive for with every client, every day. After all, life isn’t perfect but your hair can be!
I enjoy styling both men and women’s hair. My particular favourite is creating an image change incorporating both cut and colour. I like to bring celebrity inspired styles into the salon, creating a wearable and maintainable style for my clients. I’m a naturally creative person and have training in media/theatrical hair & make up.
Alongside hair services I also have training as a Nail Technician and in HD brows.
I’m excited to continue my career and development alongside Claire with Utopia Hair Bar and the team I feel very fortunate to work with.
Sadie Higgs - Creative Senior Stylist
I have 20 years of salon experience and originally trained at John Oliver in Cambridge. I returned to hairdressing from a short family orientated break and I feel privileged to be part of team Utopia Hair Bar! I’ve refreshed and improved my qualification level to NVQ3 in the profession I love, winning the final creative competition with ‘Advanced Hair Up Innovation’. I have a passion for bespoke colouring, strive to offer an excellent client service and hope to pursue the Assessor Qualification in due course at Utopia Hair Bar. I also look forward to a new and exciting career path as a make-up artist as part of our Bridal & Prom service!
Laura Simpson - Senior Stylist
I enjoy exploring my artistic flair through hair design as a qualified NVQ level 3 hair
stylist. I strive to create the perfect hair styles for both men and women and colour
your hair to compliment your skin tone, personality and needs. There’s nothing I
enjoy more than giving clients the unique Utopia Hair Bar experience, so you leave
with your new found confidence. I am passionate about Balayage and enjoy the
creativity of colouring. I am a bleach expert and love transformations. I am
committed to furthering my education and experience within the industry and feel
privileged to be part of the Utopia Hair Bar Team.
Robyn Adams - Junior Stylist
I joined Utopia Hair Bar in 2021 and with a lot of help from my lovely team I have recently received my qualification! I have really enjoyed my time learning and I plan to continue my education all throughout my career as the industry is always changing and to me, that is what makes it so exciting! I am especially interested in expanding my knowledge in colouring and hair extensions. I get a lot of satisfaction knowing that I can help to boost a person’s confidence and help them to express their personality with a great style and colour!
