🌟 Celebrating 25 Years of James Grant at Saks Aberdeen 🌟

25 years. Thousands of clients. Countless transformations. And more memories than we could ever fit into one blog!

 

From day one James has helped shape Saks Aberdeen, its standards, its culture, and the reputation we are so proud of today. He was part of the original founding team when Saks first opened its doors in Aberdeen in October 2001. Working alongside owners Philip and Audrey, he has trained and managed the teams and helped grow the business to what it is today.

“James has been the backbone of Saks since the beginning, and we couldn’t have done it without him. Throughout 25 years, we have grown and continued our great relationship, which has greatly contributed to the success of the salons.” Philip

He has been there for all the ups and downs – from numerous award wins, salon openings and expansions, and unforgettable team trips, to some of the more challenging moments, including COVID, a fire, and a flood!

Growing with Our Clients

Hairdressing is about far more than just cutting hair; it is about connection. Over the last 25 years, James has built deep, long-standing relationships with clients who have been with him since 2001, and some even from before that! His talent, skill, and passion are some of the reasons why James’s loyal clients keep coming back, but they also come for the friendly face, chat, and care. James has been there for his clients through marriages, children, family milestones, life changes, and there will be many more to come!

“I’ve been going to Saks for over 24 years now, and people ask why I keep going back. It’s an easy answer – James. James is the best in the business, and if you want a great experience, then book with him! Thank you, James, for your support over the years, for your skill with your scissors, and for being a great friend.” Paula

“James first cut my hair when I was pregnant with my son, who’s now 32! James is amazing, and I’m never disappointed with my hair. I feel like I’m meeting a friend when I come to get my hair done.” June

Nurturing the Next Generation

Beyond creating beautiful hair, James’s other passion lies in training and education. He has mentored and educated every Saks Aberdeen apprentice and stylist, launching countless successful hairdressing careers. His commitment and attention to detail are key to his teaching, and his enthusiasm and passion never wavers.

He loves continuing his own education by learning new skills and techniques. He is always excited to have Saks, L’Oreal, and external educators in the salon, and truly believes that you can learn something from everyone.

Award-Winning Impact & Truly Improving Lives.

Under James’ direction, Saks Aberdeen has been recognised throughout their 25 years and have been major winners at the national Saks Awards. James was recognised in 2025, when he received the prestigious Special Recognition Award.

The award was in recognition of his work with Novo Cabelo hair systems and The Katie Piper Foundation. They approached James to do the highly specialised work required for burns survivors and their bespoke needs.

Expanding on those skills, James has recently worked with a 6 year old boy, Clark, who has alopecia. James worked with Clark, giving up his own time to work when the salon was quieter and to ensure he had the time needed to tailor the system to perfectly suit Clark’s needs. Clark’s mum, Mario, said

“James is just the best! We will be forever grateful to James for everything he has done to help Clark get his confidence back! No words will ever be enough to show how truly grateful we are! Clark is so lucky to have met such an amazing man!”

Life outside the salon

James manages fully booked columns and likes to keep very busy outside the salon too! He has three amazing dogs, Charlie, Dexter and Nelson, and travels the country participating in gundog training and competitions with them. Lots of them with great success 😊 James and his husband Craig, who he met in the salon, love travelling and most recently have been taking in the sights of beautiful parts of Scotland. Food is a passion; he loves fine dining, is a fantastic baker, and to compensate for all that food, is now, for the first time in 25 years is now a keen gym-goer! And we think he has never looked better!

James represents the very best of Saks – incredible talent, dedication and a true passion for his clients. Saks Aberdeen wouldn’t be the same without him, and 25 years is a huge achievement. Thank you, James! ❤️🌟🥂