From Salon Floor to Product Shelf: My Journey into Business Ownership

By Gayle Wetzel Fitzgerald

Article originally published in The Lunch Mag, Issue 6, June 2025

After 40 years behind the chair in this incredible industry, I’ve seen it all – the trends, the transformations, the triumphs, and the challenges. I’ve worked with thousands of clients, helped them feel confident, and built a career rooted in trust and creativity. But nothing has pushed me to grow quite like the leap I took 18 months ago into salon ownership – an exciting, daunting, and incredibly rewarding experience that changed the trajectory of my professional life.

Like many who take the plunge into business, I was driven by more than just a passion for hair. I had a vision. And true to my nature, I wasn’t content with simply running a successful salon. I wanted to offer more, do more and build something that extended far beyond the salon chair. That drive led me to diversify my business and launch my own retail line: TS Hair and Beauty Co.

Interestingly, my role as President of the Redcliffe Tigers, a local community AFL football club, played a big part in this evolution. Leading a grassroots sports organisation taught me invaluable lessons in resilience, people management, strategic thinking, and backing myself -skills that have been absolutely transferable to running a business. Supporting players and families, juggling priorities and navigating tough decisions gave me the confidence and clarity to chase a dream I’d held for years.

The idea to create my own product line didn’t happen overnight. It stemmed from both frustration and inspiration. As a stylist and salon owner, I was continually let down by many retail products – formulas that didn’t meet my standards, ingredients that didn’t align with my values, and brands that didn’t feel authentic. I wanted something better. I wanted to offer my clients a range that was high-performing, clean, ethical, and proudly Australian-made.

So TS Hair and Beauty Co. was born. From the outset, I immersed myself in every step of the journey. I conceptualised the brand, researched the market and connected with manufacturers who shared my vision. It was essential that the products were effective, cruelty-free, certified organic and made locally. I wasn’t interested in shortcuts… I wanted to create something that truly stood for what I believed in.

Finding the right manufacturing partner was a game-changer. I teamed up with an Australian-owned company that shared my passion for clean beauty and ethical production. Together, we developed a range that reflects everything I’ve ever wanted to see on a salon shelf: nourishing, honest, results-driven hair care my clients can rely on.

We began with the essentials: a hydrating shampoo and conditioner, a restorative hair mask, a leave-in repair spray that’s quickly become a favourite, an argan oil treatment and a lightweight split-end serum. Each product was crafted with care and purpose, designed to treat hair gently while delivering salon-quality results.

The feedback has been incredible! Clients love the effectiveness of the products and the story behind them. They’re excited to support a local, salon-created brand, and they trust that when I recommend something, it’s because I truly believe in it. That trust is something I’ve worked hard to earn and it means everything to me.

Of course, launching a product line while running a busy salon hasn’t been without its challenges. Time management, logistics, learning the ropes of product development, packaging, compliance – it’s been a steep learning curve. But every hurdle has helped me grow, not just as a business owner, but as a leader and mentor.

And the journey is far from over-as I continue collaborating with my manufacturer to expand the range and bring new, innovative products to life.

To fellow salon owners – or anyone dreaming of launching something of their own – my advice is this: Trust your experience, back your values, and don’t underestimate the lessons you’ve learned in other areas of life. Whether it’s running a community club, raising a family, or simply listening to clients day after day, those experiences shape you. They prepare you for what’s next.

Diversifying my business has reignited my love for this industry. It’s given me new purpose, fresh energy, and a deeper way to connect with my clients. It’s no longer just about great service during an appointment. It’s about empowering people to care for their hair every day, with products they can feel proud to use.

If the last 18 months have taught me anything, it’s this: Sometimes the most rewarding path is the one you create for yourself.

About the Author

Gayle Wetzel is a passionate business owner, community leader, and volunteer. As owner of The Studio Hair and Tanning, she has built a thriving business and launched her retail brand in 2024. Gayle’s dedication extends to her community, with years of service as P&C President, Treasurer, and now and in her fifth year as President of the Redcliffe Tigers, fostering growth and community spirit. Her dedication inspires others, showcasing the power of giving back and creating opportunities for all.

Gayle’s article: From Salon Floor to Product Shelf was originally printed in Issue 6 of The Lunch Mag.