SHARON Hines, proprietrix of the elite Coco Cabana Salon and Spa, has not always been interested in beauty but ironically grew up as a ‘tom girl,’ climbing trees and swimming in the neighbourhood trenches. 

She is not at all regretful that she decided to try something new – dabbling in the world of cosmetology. This she did with encouragement from a friend who was already in the business.
She then enrolled at a top beautician school and excelled at the course to the point where, upon receiving her certificate, her instructor got her a job at a salon in the city. “This is where I learned the importance of trying something new,” she told the Chronicle.
She recalled working at some of the smaller salons where the work load was heavy and the pay very meagre. At times, she was even asked to do additional domestic duties. “I swallowed my pride and persisted. Not giving up allowed me to hone my skills in the profession,” she expressed.
Sharon’s first big break came when she was accepted to work at one of the biggest salons in the country. “To be honest, the first day I wanted to quit. I thought the staff was too harsh and critical. Little did I know that this training was the groundwork for future success. My eyes were opened to a greater degree of professionalism and standard.”

She therefore believes that everyone has a choice to either view their trials as stumbling blocks or stepping stones.
Eventually, she was encouraged by her husband to take the giant leap of opening her own business. “At the same time, I heard a few negative voices that I was making a mistake and that I would never be able to compete with more established salons. This is why we should never allow anyone to dissuade us from pursuing our dreams.”
Today, she runs the salon, located at Lot 266, New Market Street, Georgetown, with a team of professional staff whom she said is like one big extended family. She also has a list of her loving and loyal clients whom she has found it a privilege to work with over the years.
“I don’t ever forget the look on their faces when they are pleased with my work. I feel good pleasing them and making them feel and look beautiful,” Sharon said.
The salon is open from 9 am to 5 pm from Monday to Thursday and 9 am to 6 pm on Friday and Saturday. It specialises in hair styling, cutting, perming, relaxing, colouring, manicures, pedicures, facials, and the rest of the works.
Sharon has plans to serve the public on a much grander scale and is looking forward to doing so.
The salon can be reached on telephone number 231 8437.

(By Telesha Ramnarine)