My name is Athena, I opened Total Look 29 years ago, many people thought I was taking a huge risk. But I’d been working from home for eight years, and at the time I had post-natal depression and an 18-month-old.
I needed a change, I chose a spot on a quiet side street because I thought it would stay small and manageable.
My plan was to work just two days a week. After discovering three vacant shopfronts on the corner of Winchester Street and Sixth Avenue in St Peters, I decided to take the leap.
One of the things I love about St Peters is the heritage and the history of the beautiful old homes. But that charm also came with challenges.
The building had been empty for years and it was in terrible condition. When we first opened, there was no hot water and clients had to use an outdoor bathroom.
Thankfully, things are much more comfortable today though the salon has carefully preserved its character, keeping the original stained glass and floorboards as a nod to its history.
On days when the salon wasn’t open, my mum ran an arts and crafts shop next door and took bookings for clients. Within just a few months, the business had grown enough to employ an apprentice and a senior stylist.
As Total Look expanded from those humble beginnings, I remained committed to creating a welcoming space for everyone who walked through the door.
I vividly remember the poor working conditions experienced early in my own hairdressing career.
When I opened the salon, I wanted it to be a place where everyone felt looked after. That philosophy continues today.
Both clients and staff know they’ll be treated with care and respect and several team members have been with the salon for more than a decade.
For clients, the experience begins with a warm welcome, a signature tea and a Visarome massage around the hairline and shoulders. A lot of people arrive feeling rushed. This helps them slow down and relax.
As the only South Australian partner of premium French brand La Biosthetique, the team regularly undertakes training both locally and interstate to stay current with the latest techniques.
That keeps us consistent and ensures every client receives the same high standard of service. That’s really important.
Over the years, the salon has continued to evolve. True to its name, Total Look now offers a full range of makeup and beauty services.
With waxing, tinting, facials and spray tans available, it has become a genuine one-stop destination particularly popular before formals and weddings.
Clients can have their hair, makeup, spray tan and waxing done all in one place, then head off and enjoy their event.
This year 2026, Total Look will celebrate its 30th anniversary. When we reached 25 years, we hosted a party with drinks and nibbles for our clients, so we’ll do something similar.
Some of our clients have been with me from the very beginning. They’re the reason we’re still here, so it’s important to celebrate with them.
