Photos by White Linen Photography
While everyone is chasing the next big thing, there’s something deeply grounding about a story built on experience, passion, and purpose. For Colin Ford, owner of Ford Salon in Kelowna, that story spans five remarkable decades, some of the world’s most famous cities, and thousands of satisfied clients. Now, with the re-location of Ford Salon into one of downtown Kelowna’s most storied buildings — he’s working on passing the torch, while still stoking his own fire.
“I created this space for the next generation,” Ford says, his bright blue eyes a sharp contrast to his signature red curls. “It’s a beautiful space with history. Perfectly imperfect — like me.”
Colin Ford’s career is a masterclass in international hairstyling excellence. He began his journey in New Zealand, completing a rigorous four-year apprenticeship before moving to London to train and work with the iconic Sassoon team — where he honed the art of precision haircutting. In the mid ‘90s, he relocated to Canada becoming a fixture in top salons as well as a familiar face on national television. Ford’s next stop was Montreal, where he became the Education and Events Director for L’Oréal Professional Canada, eventually rising to Global Director of Education at the brand’s Paris headquarters. After 15 years in the corporate world, Colin chose a new path —a return to his creative roots. He now calls B.C. home, bringing with him a legacy of expertise, a deep love for the craft, and a refreshingly humble presence.
“I’ve been in high-pressure environments in the competitive world of hair design,” he remarks. “but now I want to step to the side, not out front. I’m here to inspire, to be part of something bigger than myself.”
That something is a new version of Ford Salon. It’s not just a place to get a cut and colour; it’s an experience, a thoughtful escape from the noise of the city, a space built with intention and heart.
“When I created Ford, I had a vision — a salon that wasn’t just about hair, but about people, growth, and a true sense of belonging. I wanted to break away from the typical salon model and create a place where teamwork, education, and innovation come first.”
Housed in Kelowna’s historic Weeden Garage, built in the 1940s at the corner of Leon and Water, the salon honours the bones of the original structure while layering in a luxe, contemporary aesthetic. With its curved wall of windows and soothing white and navy palette featuring rose gold accents, the space harmoniously blends European elegance and Okanagan warmth.
At the centre of the salon is the pièce de résistance: a massive raw-edge colour table — a European concept Ford fell in love with years ago and finally brought to life in Kelowna. It’s more than just functional; it’s communal.
“Colour can take a while,” Ford explains, “so why not make it a shared experience? People talk, laugh, and connect. It creates energy and energy is everything in this business.”
After colour comes calm. Clients transition to Ford Salon’s signature ‘Lather Lounge’, a glassed-in, spa-like retreat where stress melts away under the expert hands of Ford’s carefully selected team. With leather chairs, aromatherapy and gentle music, it’s not just a shampoo, it’s self-care.
“I want to create something that feels special every time someone walks in,” Ford says. “It’s not just about hair. It’s about how we make people feel. Pampered. Comfortable. Like part of the family.”
That word — family — comes up often. A devoted husband, father, and grandfather, Colin beams when he talks about his grandkids and their achievements.
“They’re my joy,” he enthuses. “I light up inside every time I get to brag about them. They’re my little reminders of what matters.”
That love of family extends to his team. Ford is intentional about nurturing new talent, choosing stylists not just for their technical skills, but for their warmth, ambition, and drive to grow.
“This space was never just for me,” he says. “It’s for them. I want to ignite a passion in these young stylists that burns for decades — just like it has for me.”
In many ways, Ford has become more than just a stylist; he’s a mentor, a brand ambassador, and a community builder. He’s raised thousands for local charities like Central Okanagan Hospice, never missing an opportunity to give back.
“Attention to detail doesn’t stop at the chair,” he says. “It extends to how we show up for our community.”
That commitment has earned him not just respect, but admiration. His many long- time clients trust him implicitly. They come for the cut, but stay for the conversation and consistency.
Ford’s ability to adapt and evolve is another reason he’s still relevant after more than 50 years in the game. While some resist change, he embraces it — especially when it comes to learning from the next generation.
“They teach me, too,” he grins. “Their energy is contagious. Their ideas challenge me. That’s the beauty of mentoring — it’s a two-way street.”
Although some might expect a man with five decades behind the chair to be eyeing retirement, Ford has other plans.
“I’ve got more to give,” he says simply. “I may not be behind the chair full-time forever, but I’ll always be part of this. I love what I do. I love why I do it.”
Ford Salon, then, is more than a business venture, it’s a legacy project. It’s a love letter to the industry, the people who built it, and those who will carry it forward.
“I don’t want my legacy to be just the styles I created,” muses Ford. “I want it to be the people I helped grow. The clients who feel seen. The community that feels supported.”
It’s fitting that Ford Salon sits at a historic downtown corner — a place where past and future intersect.
As Kelowna’s beauty scene continues to evolve, one thing is clear: there’s still plenty of room — and need — for business owners who care deeply, lead gracefully, and create generously. In that sense,
Colin Ford is just getting started.
Ford Salon is located at 310 Leon Avenue in downtown Kelowna. Follow them on Instagram @fordsalon