Sam Elvy is in her element at Buoy Salon & Spa, a business that is very close to her heart. Founded by her late uncle, celebrated stylist Derek Elvy, he influenced her career, setting her on a course to work in an industry she adores. Editor Trudi Brewer shares her business and beauty advice and some of her favourite spaces in her home.
Sam Elvy at Buoy Salon & Spa
Sam Elvy is always smiling. As the managing director at Buoy Salon & Spa, she admits her superpowers are the people in her team and the loyal clients. Her management style embodies Buoy’s founder, her late uncle Derek Elvy, whose motto was always "At Buoy, we are one family."
A talented stylist herself, today running the business that takes up most of Elvy’s time while juggling another full-time role, being a mum to three young children. Under her guidance, Buoy Salon & Spa remains the go-to beauty destination in Wellington. Here, we share her career highs, best beauty buys and Elvy at home. Read on to learn more.
Career
How did you become the owner of Buoy Salon & Spa?
My uncle Derek Elvy founded Buoy 37 years ago, and when he passed away, I bought the business from his partners. I've worked here since I was 14 and am continuing his legacy, which is incredibly important to me.
What do you love/dislike most about running a business?
I love everything about it! The people truly make it unique.
What attracted you to the beauty industry?
I grew up in it and have always loved everything about beauty.
What's a typical working day for you?
There’s no typical day, and I love that every day is different. Some days are long, others shorter, but it’s always a mix of admin, reception work, and hands-on time in the salon.
What advice would you give other women starting a business or launching a brand?
You have to love and believe in what you do. It’s lots of hard work, so you must live and breathe that passion.
What’s the #1 key to success in your business?
The people. My incredible team and all our amazing clients that walk through our doors.
What’s the most important lesson you’ve learned in business?
Always take care of your people.
Some of Elvy’s must-have beauty buys. Buoy Salon & Spa in the Majestic Centre Level 2, 100 Willis Street, Wellington
Beauty
Who is your beauty icon, and why?
Victoria Beckham. I adore everything she does.
What's your beauty routine for day and night?
I cleanse my face day and night. I am an Ultraceuticals fan. In the morning, I use Ultraceuticals Ultra C Firming Serum and Ultra B² Hydrating Serum, and then I always use an SPF, Ultraceuticals Ultra UV Protective Daily Moisturiser SPF 50. Then, in the evening, I use Ultraceuticals Ultra A Perfecting Serum, followed by a rich moisturiser, Ultraceuicals Ultra Moisturiser Cream.
What are your secrets to staying healthy and looking great?
Regular facials and a solid and consistent skincare routine.
When you're tired or run down, what’s your beauty hack?
Ultraceuticals B2 Single Sheet Mask—it’s a lifesaver.
What are your favourite beauty products you use daily?
I use Clarins Self Tan Radiance Plus Golden Glow Booster mixed with Ultraceuticals Ultra Moisturiser Cream daily and LiLash Eyelash Serum to keep my lashes long and strong.
Some of Elvy’s must-have beauty buys
Louis Vuitton Attrape-Reves, $550. Fenty Beauty Gloss Bomb Universal Lip Luminizer, $42. Clarins Self Tan Radiance-Plus Golden Glow Booster,$53. Giorgio Armani, Luminous Silk Foundation, $130.
What’s the best beauty advice you’ve ever received?
Be true to yourself and rock what works for you.
What’s the non-negotiable in your beauty routine?
Definitely self-tan.
What would we find in your makeup bag?
You’ll see a lot of Charlotte Tilbury, Hourglass, makeup, Giorgio Armani Luminous Silk Foundation, and many Fenty lip glosses.
Favourite fragrance?
Right now, PRADA Paradoxe Eau de Parfum Fragrance Spray, but I always return to my staple, Louis Vuitton Attrape-Reves.
Sam Elvy at home in her living room
Home
How would you describe your home?
A big, busy, contemporary, and modern family home.
How would your friends describe your home?
Busy, welcoming, and inclusive.
What do you think makes a great interior?
An amazing interior designer.
What's your most treasured possession?
My dining room table—it belonged to my uncle. He used to host big dinner parties around it, and it holds so many memories.
What's your favourite room in your home?
The kitchen area—it’s the hub of the house, especially when people are over. Plus, it’s home to my wine fridge.
What do you collect?
People.
What hurdles did you come across in making this house your home?
None. I got Dimi Kostandelos from Home Fusion on board right away; her guidance was brilliant.
What makes a house a home?
Our kids, our family, and our friends.
The hub of Elvy’s home is the kitchen and living space
Fashion
What’s your fashion weakness?
Shoes—definitely shoes.
What’s your one fashion indulgence?
Again, shoes.
Who are your favourite local and international fashion designers?
Zambesi, Camilla and Marc, Zimmerman. Anything from Louis Vuitton and Prada.
Best buy ever?
Louis Vuitton boots.
What fashion look makes you feel your best?
I love dressing up for work every day. Every day is a show, and I always bring my best.
What makes a great working wardrobe?
Statement pieces mixed with everyday classics. I always buy my favourite tops in multiple colours—so easy to mix and match!
Elvy’s fashion buys and living room, her Kérastase and L’Oreal Professionnel haircare collection and Viktor & Rolf Flowerbomb
Best of Wellington
A proud Wellintonian, Elvy shares her favourite spots to eat and shop.
Best fashion store in Wellington?
Coco Wellington is the perfect destination for an event outfit. It offers fabulous personalised service and stunning brands. For everyday looks, I head to Superette or Zambesi, another go-to for versatile day-to-night fashion.
Best beauty destination (apart from Buoy Spa)?
Honestly, there’s no competition. But if you need a manicure, Queen on Bond St never disappoints.
Best cafe for breakfast?
Prefab Eatery. It’s always buzzing with energy, and the food is consistently outstanding.
Best lunch spot with friends?
WBC (Wholesale Boot Company) is the ultimate choice for a long, leisurely lunch with girlfriends. The food is incredible, and Clay, the owner, has that old-school hospitality vibe; he takes care of every detail.
Best bar?
Puffin Wine Bar is an intimate gem. Offers a brilliant cocktail list to kick off the night in style.
What is the best restaurant for an evening out with the girls?
Pizzeria Napoli is fun, loud, and authentically Italian. The limoncello is a must-have; it will keep the night humming along.
Best romantic dining destination?
Ortega Fish Shack. It’s Wellington’s best-kept secret—the service is impeccable, the creamy garlic prawns are always a hit, and Davy’s hospitality is unmatched.
Photography Jenny Siaosi
Owner of Buoy Salon & Spa in Wellington.