A ‘tall poppy’ is an Australian expression for an over-achiever and forms the inspiration for a brand new salon in Sheffield city centre.

Tall Poppy, on Campo Lane in the heart of the Cathedral Quarter, is run by 27-year-old creative director Julie Wood.

She has a wealth of experience in the business after working at one of Sheffield’s top salons before taking a 15-month break touring Australia and New Zealand with her partner Neil Smith.

“While I was in Australia I had a dream to come home and set up my own business,” said Julie. “Tall Poppy seemed a perfect name for the business I wanted to create.”

A big aim of the salon is to appeal to the business community.

“The salon is open three late nights a week until 9pm so business men and women can come straight from work,” explained Julie. “We have internet stations to allow clients to browse the web and email whilst they are having their hair done. They will also be able to enjoy a complimentary cocktail, a glass of wine, beer or a cappuccino.”

Harvey Nichols in Manchester offers much more than cutting edge fashion, contemporary homeware and delicious food; it’s also home to Urban Retreat, a beauty emporium for the most discerning customer.

Lead by general manager Tina Bailey, and salon manager Samantha Marshall, the Urban Retreat team of talented hair stylists, technicians, brow experts, nail technicians and beauty specialists provide an impeccable level of service to ensure that you will always want to go back.

For a little post-retail therapy you can treat yourself to a range of treatments from the likes of Dermalogica, Murad, Guinot and other leading brands.

Urban Retreat are currently offering a body detox, utilising anti-cellulite seaweed mud, which is packed with essential minerals and vitamins. The 90-minute treatment is available for £80.

Visit www.urbanretreat.co.uk for further information.

If you’re more at home with relaxation than running look no further than the Academy Spa in Harrogate for a chill-out session.

Winner of UK Day Spa of the Year 2000, its mission is to 'create a haven for the individual to refresh the body, relax the mind and renew the spirit'.

The spa’s slate floors, natural timbers, Zen pictures, aromatherapy oils and gentle new age music all combine to create an inspiring and peaceful sanctuary; home to an extensive health and beauty suite.

Therapies include: aromatherapy, beauty treatments, electrolysis, hydrotherapy, Indian head massage, manicure/pedicure, massage, reflexology, reiki, shiatsu, sun bed, solarium and waxing.

The personalised programmes blend high technology with traditional techniques and luxury products made from organically and wild grown plants, marine extracts and essential oils. Clients can book single treatments or combine them into day or half-day programmes.

For more information visit the spa at www.academyspa.com

The new Aesthetic Beauty Clinic in Sheffield brings together all you need – beauty, teeth whitening, dermal fillers, muscle relaxant injections, semi-permanent make-up, cosmetic aesthetic abrasion, even a full referral system for cosmetic surgery.

Owner Suzie Clarke is Harley Street trained; she specialises in semi-permanent make-up and cosmetic aesthetic abrasion.

Ninety per cent of women use cosmetics every single day, and without exception, all of us think we look better and feel more attractive wearing make-up. Whether it’s a simple slick of lipstick or a dash of mascara, make-up undoubtedly boosts confidence.

Many women worry that semi-permanent make-up will look ‘obvious’ but with 25 years’ experience specialising in aesthetic beauty and make-up, these fears are unfounded in Suzie’s highly-skilled hands.

For further information log on to www.botoxsouthyorkshire.co.uk