SimplyPayMe has gone on a search for some of the most interesting and inspirational merchants and business owners using our service to take customer credit and debit card payments around the UK. This week we’ve had the pleasure of speaking to Carol Doherty, the sole proprietor of Red Barn Training. Carol has a solid 30 years of experience in making people all over the country feel beautiful through her hair and artwork expertise. Perhaps it’s even more noteworthy to mention she’s spent 12 of those years teaching others, sharing her expertise with the world, which is what eventually sparked the idea and commitment to found Red Barn Training.
We’ve spoken with Carol, whose one year anniversary with SimplyPayMe is coming up in November, about her business and how SimplyPayMe App has been part of making her life easier with fully booked schedules.
Could you just tell me a bit about yourself and what you do?
“Absolutely! I’d spent most of my life in the beauty industry, with a great part of that spent educating and teaching others different skills; anything from manicures and pedicures to full make-up and massage therapy! It’s something I’ve always been passionate about and as I’ve grown to learn all the ins and outs of the industry, I love being able to share this with others. I hold courses for seasoned professionals just as much as I educate young, up and coming talents.”
When did you start Red Barn Training?
“We launched in November 2012.”
Was it difficult to establish a name for yourself?
“Of course, like any small business owner will know, starting is one thing, but becoming self-sustainable is no joke. I’ve always managed to make a living, but it took a good couple of years until my name and brand started really getting out there.”
How did you manage to achieve growth and how are you managing it now?
“It’s a mix of blood, sweat, tears and plenty of patience! In the past year business has really picked up to the point where there just aren’t enough hours in the day. It’s great, but at the same time a lot to manage.”
So what you’re saying is that since you joined SimplyPayMe App business has picked up?
“…”
Don’t worry, I’m just joking! However, has SimplyPayMe been able to help you manage and sustain your growth?
“Most definitely! SimplyPayMe is super flexible, and I’m able to take card payments from customers anywhere at any time as long as there’s an internet connection. It’s excellent when I’m out on the road and travelling to sites for courses as I’m in a new place every time and I don’t end up having to remember unnecessary card readers or other things, I just need my phone and that’s it!”
Great stuff, so to wrap up, is there anything else you’d like to tell our readers?
“Just that I’ve had a great experience so far and you guys (SimplyPayMe) seem to really care and work for your merchants, rather than for a large company looking to make a pound everywhere they can.”
In Summary
We highly appreciate Carol taking the time to talk to us, and if you’re a beauty professional looking to enhance your knowledge and expertise, or someone who’s dabbling and looking for a way to become a proper beauty professional, you can always reach out to Carol and Red Barn Training and she’ll be there to help you get started.
You can get in touch with her the Red Barn website to book courses and treatments.
Check out our next SimplyPayMe users, Adil and Anna from Little Kickers Chiswick! Their inspiring story will surely bring a smile to anyone’s face.
