TWO Border College hairdressing graduates have shown they’re a cut above the rest by opening a new salon in Galashiels.

Stacey Lumsden, 32, who completed her level 3 Hairdressing qualification at Borders College in June, has opened Vanity Lounge salon on Market Street in Galashiels with colleague Tracey Mcallan.

Tracey, who completed her own hairdressing qualifications at Borders College in Hawick, provided Stacey with a work placement at Enhance during her time at college.

Through going on to work together at Enhance, where Stacey rented a chair, the pair realised that with Tracey’s experience and Stacey’s organisational skills, they could potentially set up their own business venture – and so Vanity Lounge was born.

Based in the heart of Galashiels town centre, Vanity Lounge offers hair and make-up services.

Ashley Tait, also a former Borders College Hairdressing student, has recently joined the team, and Alana Grant of ‘On Pointe Beauty’ will be offering beauty treatments from within the salon.

Stacey has also just begun studying towards her Higher National Certificate (HNC) in Hairdressing which includes units in bridal and fashion hair and make-up. Upon completion of her HNC, Stacey intends to complement the salon’s services with complete wedding packages.

Hairdressing Lecturer Dianne Kiore said: “Stacey was an excellent student who came straight in at level 2.

“She went through a very difficult time as her mum suddenly passed away, but she remained focused on her course and was selected to go to Sweden with another student.

“Her client care was excellent and she received the Megan Stewart Excellent Customer Care award.”

Stacey, who has plans to build a chain of salons with Tracey, has loved her time at College: “I had a really good relationship with my lecturers because I wanted to learn. If it hadn’t been for them, I wouldn’t have been able to take the leap of faith and open the business.”