Playtime is over for Ania, as she turns kids' cafe into hair and beauty salon

A popular Forres hairdresser who set up a children’s cafe and play centre in the town has decided that hair and beauty is her true passion, and has opened a new salon in the premises where she ran My Little Play World.

Ania Gasiorowska left S Barbers in June last year and took over the old tackle shop and turned it into a playroom and cafe for youngsters.

But, she says, after nine months, she wants to go back to her biggest love – beauty and hairdressing.

Ania said: “I was diagnosed with cancer a year ago, and while I am keeping it at bay with medical treatment, I might as well be doing what I enjoy.

“I have loved my time at My Little Play World Cafe. It was exciting to set it up and fun to be there, meeting lovely people and really feeling like part of the community.

No more baking!

“But it’s also a lot of work, getting up early to bake, and cooking into the evening. Hairdressing gives me the lifestyle I need, and besides, my old customers just kept asking me to do their hair!”

Ania’s new salon, Identity, can be accessed from the high street (97d), or from Leask Road, opposite Varis Court. She will also do nails and eyelashes, and has taken on an extra member of staff to help.

“I shall treasure so many memories from the cafe like little William’s, Rory’s and Damian’s first steps and words, our Santa day experience, so many lovely birthday parties, Polish mum’s meetings, St. Andrew’s day party and so on. I want to thank each and every one who came and supported my adventure. I was blessed with such wonderful customers,” she said.

“I love being creative and helping people to look and feel good.”

Ania has also offered her advice to anyone who feels inspired to start a play cafe of their own, and is happy to pass on any ideas and insights that might be useful.