CE: Hello Natasha, when did you start hair styling?

NW: In 2000, when I was 19 years old. My interest in hair styling came from my mother who used to own a salon. I would watch her and try to re-create what she was doing. She slowly taught me the basics and when I left college I went straight into becoming a Hairdressing Junior.

CE: What is the best thing about being a hair stylist?

NW: The creativity. Being able to change a person’s look by simply changing the hairstyle.

CE: What does 2010 look like for you?

NW: Busy! I am embarking on setting up my own hair salon. I will be taking part in Hair shows and Exhibitions to build a larger clientele.

CE: Who are you Hair inspirations or where do you get ideas from?

NW: I often gather my inspirations from travelling. I do not follow other stylists work, however, I like Nicky Clarke, Errol Douglas and Charlotte Mensah, as they always remain innovative in their hairstyling. Idea’s can come from anywhere, including my dreams. I’m always sketching and planning new styles to keep my clients a few steps ahead. I sometimes change my client’s hairstyles as often as every six weeks.

CE: What products can you not work without?

NW: I work with Keracare; I use the whole range of products including the aftercare Silk N seal. I use Avlon and Clynol for my Chemical and colour treatments as I find they give the best results.

CE: Are GHD’s really the best hair straighteners?

NW: In my opinion, no. I have travelled and have noticed that other brands are just as good. At present I am using an American brand called Genie’s which have the same features as GHD’s in relation to heat temperatures and design. Nicky Clarke’s also do a great job and are sold at a fraction of the price!

CE: Explain the word ‘FOR’ that comes after your name

NW: It stands for all the different services that I combine and offer my clients at present, which will become more efficient in the salon. Natasha Walker FOR Hairdressing, Body, Mobility and Photography.

CE: Where do you see yourself in the next 5 years?

NW: Running my own business, becoming a fully fledged Hairdressing Teacher so I can pass on my expertise to the next generation.

CE: What is the one piece of advice you would give to any of our readers starting out?

NW: Invest in the consultation process. Take into consideration what your client is looking for. Take note of critical influencing factors; Face Shape, Hair Texture and Density and say clearly what you can achieve to counteract miscommunication problems and unhappy clientele.

Interview By Clare Eluka - Beauty Writer for A-SHU.CO.UK.