I’m Fine, Thank You!- Hair Salon run by Titi

Let me take you on a journey of how my career in the hairdressing industry began and how it has shaped me into the person I am today.

It all started back in 2006 when I embarked on a beginners’ hairdressing course in Sliema, Malta. Little did I know that this would be the spark that ignited my true calling. I followed it up with an advanced hairdressing course at a shop called Profile’Hair shop. I was just 18 years old at the time and had originally dreamt of becoming a lawyer. However, my heart led me to the world of hair, and I fell head over heels in love with it. It has been an impressive and transformative journey that I am still on to this day.

After obtaining my qualifications, I began my career as a junior hairstylist at Tony & Guy Hilton St Julian’s. Working there for almost two years allowed me to gain valuable experience and learn from seasoned professionals. However, I felt the need to explore different facets of the field, so I joined a local hair salon called Thomas Hair Studio in San Gwann. It was a bustling and delightful environment, with numerous models and esteemed clientele. The salon owner, who was well-versed in colour techniques, often travelled abroad to enhance their technical skills. This opportunity provided me with a solid foundation and what I call “high-end training.”

As my journey progressed, I realized the importance of acquiring additional qualifications. I enrolled at the International School of Hairdressing in Santa Venera and pursued a diploma in City & Guilds in Hairdressing. After graduating in 2011, I sought diverse experiences and worked in several salons, ranging from high-end establishments to local village studios. My goal was to absorb as much as possible from the industry, combining various influences to develop my own unique style and approach.

Inspired by my journey in the beauty industry, I decided to delve into the world of fashion and photographic makeup. I studied for a CIBTAC qualification at the International School of Beauty Therapy in Santa Venera. These additional skills allowed me to expand my horizons and offer a comprehensive range of services to my clients.

Eventually, the time came for the first significant step in my career. I joined forces with two friends, a hairstylist and a beauty therapist, and together we opened a salon in Sliema. For almost eight years, this venture provided me with personal, professional, and spiritual growth. The connections I made during this period are still present in my life today, and they have had an essential influence on both myself and them. It was an incredible experience that gave me the confidence, tools, and skills to take my career to the next level.

During those years, I embarked on a journey of continuous learning and improvement. I attended various educational events in Italy, including Milan, Varese, and Rome, as well as in Bulgaria. These experiences enriched my knowledge and enhanced my expertise in the field. However, like many others, my path was altered by the arrival of the COVID-19 pandemic. It raised profound questions and prompted a search for new possibilities.

I remembered something from my early schooling days – with my diploma, I could work as a hairstylist on a cruise liner. Although it wasn’t feasible at the time due to my young son, who has since turned 19, I decided to pursue that dream. I applied for jobs on cruise ships, but unfortunately, many of them have a ‘no tattoos’ policy, which I have. Nonetheless, this process opened my eyes to new opportunities, and I started sending my CV for hairstyling positions abroad. In 2022, I had numerous interviews, but it was Norway that captured my heart. Within a month, I prepared myself and embarked on a transformative experience, working in a hair salon there. It was a unique journey, unlike any other I had experienced, and it sparked a new vision within me.

This experience led me to start something entirely my own, with a fresh perspective and a redefined version of myself. It was inspired by all the past and present experiences, and I am incredibly grateful to everyone who contributed to the idea. Now, back in Malta, I have opened a small unisex hair salon named “I’m Fine, Thank You!” located in Qawra.

My vision for the salon is to create a safe and private space where individuals can feel appreciated, valued, and receive individualized attention. Unlike traditional salons with long queues and chaos, I aim to provide personalized and specific services, beginning with a detailed consultation and appointments tailored to each person’s needs. The feedback from my clients has been incredible, with many expressing a sense of tranquillity upon entering our premises. To further enhance the well-being of my guests, I have also pursued Reiki courses, a Japanese hands-on healing technique. It not only helps me but also brings a sense of rejuvenation to those who visit the salon.

My passion for hairdressing has been the driving force that has kept me going all these years. The industry itself is incredibly exciting, and I have gathered international experience that allows me to incorporate my personal vision and style. I strive to deliver services in a unique manner, where individuals can find a different level of connection, service, and value.

Looking ahead, my future plans involve collaborating with like-minded professionals who share a commitment to the well-being of society. I hope to work alongside aromatherapists, Reiki practitioners, and life coaches, utilizing the spacious environment I have created. There is always room for more contributions to the overall well-being of humankind.

I am grateful for every twist and turn that has shaped my journey thus far. It has been a remarkable adventure filled with growth, challenges, and the discovery of my true passion. I invite you to join me at “I’m Fine, Thank You!” and experience a unique approach to hairdressing that goes beyond just aesthetics. Together, we can create a space of transformation, empowerment, and holistic well-being.