THE owner of Saltcoats' newest salon has explained the inspirational story behind the venture.

In recent months, Kirsten Harkins opened up Forever 52 on Green Street.

The premises is the 25-year-old's first solo venture, but has been the culmination of a decade-long journey within the industry.

Kirsten first began working in salons aged 14, before carrying on her career by completing a hairdressing course at college just a couple of years later.

After becoming qualified, she worked in a salon in Irvine, before realising she had more to offer by working for herself.

The Saltcoats women decided to become self employed, initially renting a chair in another Irvine salon.

Kirsten added: "After being at this salon for round about a year and having a small child travelling to Irvine back and fourth everyday was starting to take its toll.

"I decided to head back over to Saltcoats and start working self employed in my friend Toni’s salon (Hollywood Glamour) and this was the last salon I worked in before opening up on my own.

"Whilst working in Hollywood Glamour my clientele just grew, then I knew I was ready to open up on my own and that’s when I opened up Forever 52 - and I wouldn’t have been able to do it without my sister Megan constantly pushing me to do so."

And the salon has even more importance to Kirsten and her family, with the name inspired by a late loved one who they lost earlier this year.

(Image: Submitted)

She continued: "The inspiration for Forever 52 came from the most important person in my life, my mum.

"I sadly lost my mum in February and I wasn't able to open up on my own when she was alive from the hospital trips and stress that it brought me.

"My mum was 52 when she passed and when the opportunity arose for me to open my own salon I instantly knew that this was my time."

And having got operations underway, Kirsten has grand plans in store for all those who come through the door.

She added: "I have so much in store planned for my salon but for now I just want it to be a safe place to welcome old and new clients and enjoy a pamper.

"I’ve only been open a short while and each week just keeps on getting better. We are a one stop shop that offers a variety of treatments from hair, nails, eyelashes, eyebrows to waxing, make up, skin care and a wide variety of massage.

"Every single person who walks through my door leaves satisfied and that all I could ask for. I’m so proud of my girls and to make it even more special the girls who work under my roof are my best friends.

"This dream wouldn’t be possible if it wasn’t for my family and it’s something so close to me."