A Darlington woman who took the plunge and set up her own sustainable eco-friendly business in the town centre last year is thankful she took the risk.

Jessika Morgan runs Moka Beauty, and she officially launched her business in January 2022 and worked from home.

Now, as her business has expanded, she decided to find a premises in town and has been up and running from within Eco Hair Salon on Duke Street since November 2022.

Specialising in gel nails and nail art, Jessika trained while working full-time for Durham University.

The Northern Echo: Moka Beauty has been based at Eco Hair Salon in Darlington since November 2022. Picture: Sarah Caldecott, NewsquestMoka Beauty has been based at Eco Hair Salon in Darlington since November 2022. Picture: Sarah Caldecott, Newsquest (Image: Sarah Caldecott, Newsquest)

Read more: Darlington park labelled 'Official Dogging Area' by resident with a sense of humour

She then started the business while still in full-time work, seeing clients on evenings and weekends.

Jessika said: “I worked full time in governance for Durham University for years and I then I started my business on the side and saw clients on evenings and weekends and then at the beginning of last year I just decided it was time to take the plunge and do what I really wanted full-time.

“Business has been amazing. It’s been a bit hectic since opening but it was definitely the best decision I could have made.

“In a way, I wish I’d done it sooner.”

The Northern Echo: Jess is over the moon that she took the leap. Picture: Sarah Caldecott, NewsquestJess is over the moon that she took the leap. Picture: Sarah Caldecott, Newsquest (Image: Sarah Caldecott, Newsquest)

For more quality journalism, subscribe to The Northern Echo for £1.50 a week here

Jessika explained that she looked at a few options when she wanted to find a premises but decided on Eco Hair Salon due to the shared views on sustainability.

The 31-year-old added: “I love my clients feel amazing about themselves! They’re all beautiful inside and out and they need to know it! I’m big on women supporting women and female empowerment, so making sure my clients feel supported and empowered beings my such happiness.

“I also love the relationships I’ve formed with my clients! It’s more of an experience for someone when their beauty tech is professional and they can have a laugh with them.

“I also love educating people on non-standard salons, eco-friendly and sustainable beauty. It can be hard for people to see through marketing tactics, so being able to help them on their eco-journey is great.”

Read more: 'Government just doesn't value teachers': Opinions of striking teachers in Darlington

The Northern Echo: Jess at work. Picture: Sarah Caldecott, NewsquestJess at work. Picture: Sarah Caldecott, Newsquest (Image: Sarah Caldecott, Newsquest)

The Northern Echo: Moka Beauty can be found at Eco Hair Salon on Duke Street in Darlington. Picture: Sarah Caldecott, NewsquestMoka Beauty can be found at Eco Hair Salon on Duke Street in Darlington. Picture: Sarah Caldecott, Newsquest (Image: Sarah Caldecott, Newsquest)