TWO hairdressers from one Loddon salon are bound for a tilt at international stardom.
Ergo and Mane owner Amanda Gath and stylist Chanara Schneider have been named among 10 finalists in the Natulique Global Colour Innovation Awards.
“We were working last Tuesday night when Chanara received an email and then two minutes later one came for me ... now we’re both off to London,” said Amanda.
Less than 12 months since opening her Bridgewater salon, Amanda said: “We’re just blown away that two people from the one salon have made the top 10 in a global competition entered by stylists from around the world.”
Amanda and Chanara will head to the final in London on May 18.
“Everything has happened so quickly. Luckily, our passports were still valid so it was just a matter of quickly booking flights.
“We’ve already launched a crowdfunding appeal for people wanting to help us get to London for the final.”
The Danish-based Natulique creates organic beauty and hair products.
Amanda has previously contributed to the company’s product development.
Assessing the fire-inspired entries of Amanda and Chanara and the eight other finalists will be Amber Lopez, a leader of America’s natural hairdressing movement and pioneer in eco-friendly and health-conscious hair care practices, and The Netherland’s Sissi Ploegmakers who has been part of the hair and makeup team at Amsterdam Fashion Week working with leading fashion brands including Claes Iversen  and Tommy Hilfiger.
Ergo and Mane opened its doors last July. “We blend 21 years of industry-leading expertise with innovative techniques to bring out the best in hair and we use only the finest organic products, ensuring that your hair remains healthy and vibrant,” Amanda said.
“Chanara is one of our original staff members since we opened in the rejuvenated former general store and newsagents. She’s sharing in the wonderful journey we’re all having.
“I was so pleased for her when the notification came about Chanara being a global finalist.
“But to have two of 10 finalists from Bridgewater shows what is being done in our town and that Bridgewater’s up there with the great cities of the world when it comes to hair styling.
“The trip to London for the final will be an amazing experience,” Amanda said.