We chat with SIOBAN GUILFOYLE from popular top-to-toe beauty spot Glow Spa & Salon in Hong Kong, about a big birthday celebration for the business.
Twenty years is an amazing achievement – congratulations! Tell us a bit about the evolution of Glow Spa since you joined.
When I took the helm in 2015, we were a close-knit team of just five, operating out of a modest 600 square feet on Queen’s Road Central. I’m proud to say that three members of that team are still with us today.
From the very beginning, I recognised the incredible potential for Glow to evolve into the salon I envisioned – one that was not only about executing a service but also about creating a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere, something I felt was sorely lacking in the Hong Kong landscape. While there were numerous beauty spas and glamorous salons in Hong Kong boasting exceptional treatments, I often found myself feeling out of place and uninvited.
As a busy mother of three navigating the challenges and competitiveness of Hong Kong, I often felt I was a frumpy, frazzled mess. I yearned for a salon experience where I could genuinely relax, be warmly welcomed, and have engaged conversations with top-notch stylists and therapists. My goal was to create a space where, regardless of wallet size, waist size or heel height, everyone felt welcomed, listened to, engaged with and well cared for.
What did the salon look like back then, and how has it changed since?
When I took over Glow, we were in a small space in Parker House on Queen’s Road. The salon had a stellar reputation, thanks largely to the previous owner, Ceri, a truly gifted beauty therapist with a devoted clientele. However, it was clear that Glow needed a revitalisation. Ceri had decided to focus on her family back in the UK, and the salon required a significant financial investment to reignite its potential. It was time for it to be guided by someone dedicated to working on the business rather than just in it.
At that time, Glow was a beauty spa with three compact treatment rooms and a modest hair salon featuring only four chairs. The space felt tired, the décor was dated, and the equipment needed an upgrade. Fortunately, we had a tremendous asset: a vibrant, knowledgeable and eager team ready to learn and grow. Coupled with our prime location right in the heart of Central and the unwavering support of our wonderful clients, I knew we had all the ingredients necessary to transform Glow into the thriving salon it was meant to be.
What have been some other key milestones or changes over the years?
We’ve experienced some remarkable growth and transformation in the past decade. Starting in Parker House, we expanded our floor space and completed three significant renovations, each one a stepping stone in our journey.
In 2019, we made a bold decision to invest several million dollars and took the leap to move into our stunning 4,400-square-foot location at the corner of Wyndham and Wellington Street in Silver Fortune Plaza. This was a pivotal moment for us, transforming Glow into the vibrant and welcoming salon it is today.
Throughout these changes, we’ve introduced an abundance of new services and treatments, including new keratin smoothing treatments, micro-needling, hair and scalp treatments, hair extensions, laser hair removal, micro-blading and sunless tanning. We’ve also introduced a number of highly regarded treatment ranges for both the Salon and the Spa.
With the appointment of our general manager in late 2024, we are excited to be in the process of opening a cosmetology and service management training academy in 2025. We’ve already run our first classes in June. Every step we take strengthens our commitment to providing exceptional experiences for our clients and fostering a fantastic team culture. I’m incredibly proud of how far we’ve come!
What about the biggest challenges?
In 2019, we faced some challenges in Hong Kong, but fortune smiled upon us as we were able to bring on talented team members from other spas and hair businesses that were closing. Their expertise and passion helped propel Glow forward in exciting ways.
We also navigated the unprecedented closures due to COVID-19, which saw our spa business closed for over 40 weeks. During this time, the entire Glow team came together, even serving two weeks at Penny’s Bay.
What’s the aim of your salon in Hong Kong today?
Our aim is to remain true to our original vision. We want to create a warm, welcoming and friendly atmosphere where all guests feel truly comfortable and well cared for and heard.
We’re dedicated to ensuring that each guest feels valued, and we’re fully committed to helping them achieve their hair care and skin goals. Ultimately, our greatest satisfaction comes from crafting positive experiences that keep our guests coming back and feeling great about themselves. Also, creating an environment that embodies warmth and professionalism, ensuring that every client leaves feeling rejuvenated and confident.
Equally important is my commitment to my team. I strive to create an environment where they can learn and grow, and contribute to the success of Glow. I want to support them, and I want them to share in our achievements, take pride in their work, and have the opportunity to expand their skill sets. Most importantly, I want them to feel empowered to provide for their families while enjoying a fulfilling creative career.
How are you planning on celebrating?
We’re excited to celebrate our 20th birthday with a series of themed promotions throughout the year! To kick things off, we’ll host a festive party before Christmas. Additionally, we’re setting an ambitious goal of raising $20,000 for Pink Month, supporting a cause that’s very close to our hearts.
Glow Spa & Salon is at 8/F, Silver Fortune Plaza, 1 Wellington Street, Central. For more information, call 2525 5198, WhatsApp 9680 2107 or go to glowspa.hk.
This article on Glow Spa & Salon in Hong Kong first appeared in the Autumn 2025 issue of Expat Living magazine. You can purchase the latest issue or subscribe so you never miss a copy!
