Balancing Beauty with Sara: Finding Growth on Your Own Terms
There’s no such thing as perfect balance — not in business, not in motherhood, and definitely not in the beauty industry. But there is a way to build something that feels aligned, even when life is full-on.
I’m Sara, founder of Eden at South Lake and Eden Beauty & Co. Over the past few years, I’ve grown two award-winning salons, led an incredible team, and introduced advanced treatments like DMK enzyme therapy, blemish removal, mole mapping and spa rituals — all while juggling sleepless nights, school runs, and everything in between.
But it didn’t start out that way. My journey began with one treatment room, a big dream, and a deep love for skin health and beauty.
Today, Eden at South Lake is one of Northern Ireland’s most advanced wellness spaces — complete with a vitality pool, sauna, steam room and lake views that feel like an escape. I’m proud of the partnership we’ve built with ABC Council to make this vision a reality.
Still, if I’ve learned anything, it’s that growth never happens overnight — and it rarely happens without challenge. I’ve had to unlearn the pressure to “do it all” and instead build something that works around my life, not against it.
3 Things I’ve Learned That Might Help You Too
1. You’re never really ‘ready.’
Start anyway. I wasn’t ready to open a second salon or lead a team — but I did it, and learned on the way. Most of us do.
2. Boundaries are not a luxury.
I used to say yes to everything. Now I know that saying no — and knowing what matters most — is how I stay grounded.
3. You’re allowed to take up space.
Your voice matters. Whether you’re posting on social or showing up for clients, don’t wait to be fearless. Just be honest.
This new blog, Balancing Beauty, will be my space to share more of the behind-the-scenes moments, mindset shifts, and messy truths that come with running a business and being a woman in beauty. Because beauty isn’t always what we see in the mirror — sometimes it’s in the resilience to show up anyway.
Until next time,
Sara-Louise Strain
Founder, Eden Beauty & Co & Eden at South Lake
