Mocha hair Year19 Issue 6 by mochagroup

FIVE-STAR HAIR GIFTS IN THE SHADE OF THE SEASON

SHOP NOW IN SALON

Ignite your salon’s success. Unwind, connect, and elevate at an immersive industry experience designed to empower salon owners and their teams. Proudly hosted by CPR and The Circle - AHIA Educator of the Year 2025.

15-16 February 2026

Spring Bay Mill, Tribunna, TAS

Use code NATURECALLS for 50% off your tickets Salon team packages available

PUBLISHER

Linda Woodhead linda@mochagroup.com.au

GENERAL MANAGER

Jarred Stedman jarred@mochagroup.com.au

EDITOR

Louise May louise@mochagroup.com.au

ADVERTISING MANAGER

Nina Barbara nina@mochagroup.com.au

ART DIRECTOR

Kellie Woodhead kellie@mochagroup.com.au

EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT

Brittany Murton brittany@mochagroup.com.au

ACCOUNTS

Jess Richmond jess@mochagroup.com.au

CONTRIBUTORS

Louise May, Zoe Richards, Tracey Hughes, Anthony Grey, Kimberly Marks, Kristie Kesic, Emily Ciardiello, Domi Cherie, Natalie Dufton, Shae Tsiknaris, Amber Bullock, Scott Sloan, Sharlene Lee, Cait Muir, Dwight Hodge, Kym Krey, Angeli Shaw, Belinda Haigh, Hayley Mears

OFFICE PO BOX 252

Helensvale Plaza Qld 4212

P: 07 5580 5155 mail@mochagroup.com.au www.mochagroup.com.au

DISTRIBUTION

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PUBLISHED BY mocha group

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EditorsLetter.

As the year draws to an end, I’ve been thinking about what the Australian hairdressing industry really looks like right now. Beneath the surface of creativity and care, there’s a quiet shift happening. A large percentage of our industry now work independently as freelance and solo operators. On one hand, that shows our adaptability and entrepreneurial spirit. But it also tells a story of owners struggling to hire and retain staff, and of a trade that’s slowly drifting away from the collaborative culture it was built on.

It isn’t something to celebrate blindly, but it’s not all cause for concern either. For many, this shift represents a gentle return, a chance to ease back into the industry, test the waters, and rebuild confidence before committing fully again. It’s a reflection of how flexible and inclusive our craft can be, allowing people to shape their careers in ways that suit their lives.

Still, it’s a sign that the traditional salon structure is under pressure. Apprenticeships are dropping, young people are leaving before they’ve had the chance to fall in love with the craft, and owners are trying to balance soaring costs with dwindling support. Many are left to do everything themselves, wearing every hat, and wondering how long they can keep going.

Yet, I believe this is the moment to rebuild. Not by returning to what was, but by creating something better. We can bring back the sense of belonging that first drew so many of us to this industry. We can lead with inspiration, education, mentorship, and genuine care. We can remind emerging stylists that being part of a team is powerful, that community is what makes a career, not just a clientele.

For salon owners, this is the time to strengthen the business side. To price properly, plan strategically, and create environments where people want to stay and grow. For freelancers, it’s about connection and collaboration, not competition. And for all of us, it’s about lifting the standard together, so the next generation sees a future worth stepping into.

As we close out 2025 and prepare for a fresh start, pause to celebrate what you’ve accomplished. Through every shift and challenge, you’ve adapted, grown, and continued to bring confidence and joy to others. That’s no small thing. You are the heartbeat of this industry, and your dedication is what will shape a brighter, stronger year ahead.

Let’s make 2026 the year we reconnect with purpose. The year we build stronger pathways, lift one another higher, and shape an industry that future generations will be proud to be part of.

Lou x

Louise May Editor – Mocha Hair Editor in Chief – Mocha Group louise@mochgroup.com.au

@louise_mochagroup @mochahairmedia

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LOUIS BYRNE

Hair, Honesty, and the Cut that’s become a Movement

By Zoe Richards - UK

From Vogue shoots to wellbeing workshops, Louis Byrne is the session stylist turning haircuts into movements. With his I Can, I Am, I Will reset plan empowering creatives, and his cult cut The Quaff making waves on-screen and in the UK charts with Vicky McClure, Byrne proves that great hair can change more than your look – it can change your life.

In an industry that often thrives on image, Louis Byrne is the rare creative whose work is as much about what’s going on inside as what’s on top. A celebrated LGBTQIA+ advocate, session stylist and empowerment coach, Louis moves between backstage glamour, salon intimacy, and wellbeing advocacy with the kind of authenticity that’s hard to fake. His portfolio reads like a luxury roll call – Tom Ford Beauty, L’Oréal Professionnel, Vogue – but his mission is bigger than brand credits.

Louis’s backstory is as real as it gets. At just 15, he found himself homeless, wrestling with questions about his identity, his sexuality, and whether the world had space for him. “Even then,” he says, “I had belief. Belief I could make it out, do something good, and turn my story into strength.” That seed grew into I Can, I Am, I Will – a reset plan for creatives, hairdressers, and humans who’ve been too busy making everyone else feel their best to check in on themselves.

The principle is deceptively simple: five minutes. A journal, a few key questions – How am I feeling today, really? What do I need right now? What’s one thing I’m proud of? What’s my intention for today? – and the honesty to answer them. Not a glossy “wellness” extra, but a tool for grafters, givers, and creators. It’s found a home everywhere from Soho House brunches to Nobu, and even as part of protected wellbeing time at La Passerelle SEMH School in Jersey.

“I can’t pour from an empty bowl,” Louis says, “no one can. This is about topping yourself up before you give to everyone else.” It’s a message that resonates, because it comes from lived experience.

And then, of course, there’s the hair. Louis is one of the UK’s most in-demand session stylists, shaping some of the most recognisable on-screen hair. His work with Kristin Scott Thomas, Emma Willis, and long-time creative partner Vicky McClure has cemented his status as the go-to for women who want hair with presence.

Enter The Quaff. First seen on McClure in her career-defining role as Lol in BAFTA-winning This Is England, it’s now the cut of the moment. Sharp, bold, endlessly empowering – equal parts 80s volume and modern punk precision, it’s become a visual shorthand for strength and individuality. “It’s not about being styled within an inch of your life,” says Louis. “It’s about wearing your identity in plain sight – with precision, purpose, and no apology.”

The Quaff’s influence has spilled beyond the salon. McClure’s debut single with Reverend & The Makers, fittingly titled Haircut, celebrates the transformative power of a great style – and the friendship behind it. Their creative bond, built on honesty, authenticity and a shared love of self-expression, has lasted years and shows no sign of slowing.

Louis’s approach is bespoke. Every Quaff is cut to the client - their hair type, their lifestyle, their story. Minimal product, maximum presence. Whether tousled for grit or tailored for polish, it’s as versatile as the women who wear it.

But what makes Louis Byrne so compelling isn’t just that he can deliver a flawless haircut or a cover-ready image. It’s that he’s equally committed to making sure the person in his chair walks away stronger, clearer, and just a little more themselves. In a world obsessed with the surface, he’s proof that hairdressing at its best still goes right to the roots.

@louisebyrneiciaiw @hairbylouisbyrne

MISSY PETERSON

Ten Minutes with Global Educator for Malibu C!

By Louise May

For over two decades, Missy has ignited the industry as a corrective colour expert. While being an American Board-Certified Hair Colourist as well as a Certified Clinical Trichologist and Hair Loss Specialist, Missy’s passion for education never ceases. She is a firm believer that the core of the industry lies in continuous learning and boundless innovation. Fuelled by her unwavering passion, Missy collaborates with multiple organisations to push the boundaries of the industry to new limits.

When Missy took on the role of a global educator for Malibu C, she had one clear vision: empower her industry peers through mentorship and hands-on training. At both trade shows and online seminars, Missy ignites a passion in up-and-coming artists who are eager to learn new, cutting-edge techniques.

Missy has taken on many different roles in her journey; from an assistant, stylist, corrective colourist, salon owner, editorial stylist, and now lead global educator, Missy has refined her skills in helping clients and stylists worldwide. Since becoming a certified Hair Loss Specialist and Trichologist in 2015, she has been able to bring the latest knowledge, treatments and products to her clients, nurturing both their hair and scalp care as well as their confidence.

Editor of Mocha Hair Magazine, Louise May, chats with Missy about Malibu C.

Tell us about Malibu C as a brand and what makes it different to other professional salon brands?

Malibu C stands in a category all by itself. What makes it different is a loaded question as there are many things that make the brand stand apart from others. Let’s start with the basics. It is the only brand using dry, freshly activated ascorbic acid (vitamin C) for the treatments. It is vegan, and free from impurities. This is important to me as a stylist because I want the products I choose to work and be at their most effective potency every time, and that is just something that can’t be guaranteed if a product is pre-mixed. I started using Malibu C when my focus in the salon was color and corrective color, now working in the hair loss and scalp care realm, and the brand has grown and evolved right along with me. Unlike other brands, Malibu C compliments everything else I choose to use, so I don’t have to compromise outcome for my clients.

How can Malibu C help stylists/colourists prep for colour services?

Malibu C helps with every color service whether it is with the color going in correctly or the color leaving correctly. A truly beautiful color needs to not only look good when it is done but also keep looking good as it is worn. You can’t truly accomplish this if you are not working on a clean canvas. That is what we do, we clean the canvas of minerals and impurities so the color can go where it needs to in the hair and live a long, beautiful life. Removing those minerals and impurities, which everyone has, is also what allows you to get an amazing lift on those beautiful blondes everyone is asking for. When the client decides it is time for a change, the same technology with added ingredients provides the perfect tool to remove the color correctly, safely and without the risk of damage.

What feedback do you hear from stylists who integrate Malibu C into their colour services, especially around achieving more predictable results?

This statement is true for me as a stylist and what I hear from everyone who has truly adapted their services with Malibu C to be next level. “I wish I would have known about this sooner!” Bringing Malibu C into your salon services is truly providing insurance. It helps prevent a lot of the catastrophes we don’t want to experience. No one wants chemically damaged or melted hair.

Swimmers’ hair can be brittle, discoloured, or can even have a green hue. How does the Swimmers Wellness help?

There is a common myth that chlorine causes swimmers’ green hair. It is only a part of that. The chlorine oxidized the copper sulfide in water which is what is actually what is causing the green color. Malibu C removes those oxidized green copper minerals gently and effectively. The Swimmers Wellness Collection is perfect for everyone getting into the water. Another great product to use for those swimmers’ locks to keep them soft and manageable is the Leave-In Conditioner Mist. This is one of my absolute favorites.

How does Malibu C address scalp health, and why should stylists see it as just as important as hair health?

As a Certified Clinical Trichologist, this is currently where my passion and heart are. You can’t have healthy hair if you don’t have a healthy scalp. Malibu C addresses the buildup on the scalp that could hinder hair growth and health.

Malibu C recently introduced a new scalp tool (Head Lab). Can you tell us about how it works, and how stylists can integrate it into their services?

Malibu C Head Lab is a new tool that allows all stylists, no matter what their specialty, to bring new services to the salon. It is a simple process with minimal tools that provides amazing outcome and revenue every time. Head Lab has a scope that allows the stylist to show the client what is on the scalp that shouldn’t be there. We then take our products like Un-Do-Goo >pH9 Clarifying Shampoo, Head Lab Crystal Gel XL and Miracle Repair with Cooling Menthol to remove what we call complex compounds (a combination of product, sweat, oils, dirt, minerals, and other things)from the scalp and then put back what the hair and scalp need to be in their healthiest condition. Having a healthy scalp is essential for having healthy beautiful hair.

How does Malibu C’s Blondes Wellness range work? What makes it different to other blonde ranges on the market?

The Malibu C Blondes Wellness Collection is great for keeping your blonde right where you want it. The remedy packet keeps the minerals in the water from building up and changing the tone and texture of the hair. The shampoo and conditioner are different from others out there because they are not a “toning” shampoo and conditioner. They are enhancing. Meaning there is enough pigment in the formula to keep your blonde perfect but not enough to shift the tone with violet pigments. I have found it is great for all of my blondes.

For salon owners, retail and service add-ons are key to profitability. How can incorporating Malibu C help them stand out and add value to their business?

I love this question. As a salon owner myself, I totally understand the challenge stylists and owners face with retail. In fact, I truly hated selling retail until recently. I no longer “sell” per se, I educate. I now let my clients know what we do together in salon is an investment and to maintain that investment, I have suggestions for them. If we don’t work as a team with how to care for the investment after they leave the salon, we will be starting over at square one every appointment. I recommend the Malibu C collection that is appropriate to each individual client. Each collection features a shampoo, conditioner and four weekly remedy packets they need to keep their hair and scalp in great condition until we see each other again. Each collection gives them at least a month’s routine of haircare. We have a phrase at Malibu C: “the power is in the packet!” This means that out of all the products that a client can purchase the most important ones are the vitamin c packets. Those happen to be the least expensive to retail. They are an easy product to suggest last-minute to each client. I can now honestly say 100% of my clientele purchase retail 100% of the time. Changing the game from selling to educating was the key for me.

Last question! Will we be seeing you again at Hair Festival in 2026 at the Dateline stand?

It is always a great pleasure to come to Sydney and be with my friends at Dateline Imports, let’s just keep our fingers crossed for this one!

@missypetersonhair

@malibucpro

@datelineimports

The Luminary of Bernadette Beswick

AUSTRALIAN HAIRDRESSING

By Louise May

Some people build careers, others build legacies. Bernadette Beswick has done both, redefining what it means to lead, teach, and create within the Australian hairdressing landscape. In a profession often split between art and business, she stands firmly at the intersection of both. A master craftsman, an educator, a mentor, and a global voice for excellence, Bernadette’s name has become synonymous with evolution itself.

This year she made history as the 2025 AHIA Creative Australian Hairdresser of the Year, while simultaneously holding the 2024 AHIA Business Educator of the Year title, a feat no one has ever achieved before. It is a rare duality that perfectly captures who she is, both visionary and teacher, both artist and architect.

A Journey Defined by Reinvention

Bernadette entered hairdressing at 17 and worked in a salon until 20 before starting her own mobile business. She later pursued nursing, but the creative spark never left her. In 2015, she returned to hairdressing, reigniting a passion that would define her next chapter.

From those early days behind the chair to her role as Guest Featured Hairstylist at Silk Hair Skin Body in Mount Martha, Bernadette’s growth has always been fuelled by intent. Every collection, every workshop, every cut has been part of something larger, a lifelong pursuit of mastery.

That pursuit led her to establish Beswick Education Services in 2017, an education brand that has since become synonymous with innovation and impact. Through her signature philosophy, Be the Exceptional Hairdresser, Bernadette has created a movement centred on three pillars, technical performance, communication skills, and sales confidence. Her message is simple but powerful, greatness is teachable.

Revolutionising Education

In an industry that can sometimes romanticise artistry while overlooking structure, Bernadette built a bridge between creativity and commerce. Her workshops, from the foundational Harness Foundation Cutting Class to the immersive Shear Excellence Cutting Camp, have transformed how hairdressers learn, think, and work.

But Bernadette’s teaching extends beyond technique. She recognised that many hairdressers struggle not with cutting or colouring, but with connection... how to communicate, how to consult with confidence, and how to recommend retail without feeling like they are selling.

“Education should never be about ego, it’s about empowerment.”

Through her courses Consultation Champion and The Product Heroes, she teaches stylists to build trust, confidence, and communication skills that turn service into care. “I wanted to teach not just technical skills, but how to care for clients in a fullservice manner,” she explains. “It’s about being a strong communicator, understanding hair wellness, and making sure clients leave with everything they need to keep their hair healthy between visits.”

These programs empower stylists to recommend products authentically, ensuring clients maintain integrity and wellness long after they leave the chair. They also represent Bernadette’s broader mission, to lift the standard of professionalism within the industry by developing the personal and interpersonal skills that define lasting success.

With more than 20,000 students trained across 570 workshops worldwide, her impact is measurable, but her approach remains deeply personal. Whether through keynote presentations for major brands, in-salon coaching, or one-on-one mentoring, Bernadette’s focus is always on elevating both skill and self-belief. Her newest initiative, Happy Hairdressers, launching next year, continues that legacy by championing wellbeing and fulfilment alongside education.

“I wanted to teach not just technical skills, but how to care for clients in a full-service manner.”

“Education should never be about ego,” she says. “It’s about empowerment.”

That ethos has seen her work closely with salon owners, apprentices, and career changers alike. As a passionate advocate for women entering the industry later in life, she has become a living testament to what is possible when courage meets discipline. For Bernadette, it is never too late to start, but it is always too soon to stop learning.

The Art and the Artist

Bernadette’s creative process is grounded in precision, geometry, and flow. She approaches a haircut the way an architect approaches design, with structure, foresight, and intention. Every shape has purpose, every movement a rhythm. It is that marriage of logic and instinct that sets her work apart.

Her artistry has earned international recognition, including finalist positions at the British Hairdressing Awards, Live Fashion Hair Awards in Spain, and #OneShot Hair Awards in the United States. Her collections have graced over 13 magazine covers and appeared in 279 global publications, with her imagery celebrated for its clean lines, directional concepts, and modern edge.

As a Brand Ambassador for Amazing Hair and National Cutting Educator for Ozdare, Bernadette’s creative footprint spans brands including ELEVEN Australia, KEVIN.MURPHY, and K18. Whether she is leading a masterclass, directing a campaign for JR MGT, or presenting at international events, her mission remains consistent, to uplift, educate, and inspire through excellence.

Luminary, A Beacon of Light

When Bernadette began conceptualising her 2025 winning collection Luminary, she wanted it to represent something far greater than technique. The word itself has dual meaning, both a source of light and a person who inspires others. For her, that symbolism became the soul of the project.

“Luminary is about being the light that guides others forward,” she explains. “It’s a reflection of what I’ve always wanted to bring to this industry, direction, hope, and the courage to be exceptional.”

Shot by Andrew O’Toole, with colour by Rachel Vitullo and makeup by Kylie O’Toole, the collection fuses futuristic form with timeless geometry. Each cut is meticulously constructed, intentional, progressive, and emotionally resonant. The palette pays homage to the raw artistry of nature, drawing inspiration from animal textures, light patterns, and organic movement.

Tortoiseshell tones ripple through hair with quiet sophistication, while muted blondes, vivid reds, and deep blues punctuate the shapes, highlighting structure and depth. Every element, from the sleek minimal styling to the subdued makeup, was designed to allow the hair to speak first, last, and always.

It is a collection that captures Bernadette’s creative DNA, disciplined yet daring, grounded yet ethereal. “I wanted it to feel futuristic but human,” she says. “Hair that moves, light that breathes.”

A Global Force with Local Heart

Despite her international acclaim, Bernadette’s connection to the grassroots level of the industry remains unshakable. She regularly mentors apprentices who are struggling to complete their training, offering free one-on-one education and ongoing support to help them graduate and thrive.

Her belief that no one should be left behind extends beyond the classroom. It is a philosophy that defines her approach to life. Whether she is speaking at Premiere Orlando, collaborating with Sharon Blain and Stevie English, or supporting local students through the BES Clubs, Bernadette’s impact is built on service, not status.

Her philanthropy is quiet, personal, and deeply human. She does not simply teach technique, she nurtures confidence. She does not just train hairdressers, she builds careers.

The Power of a Legacy

After 35 years in the industry, Bernadette Beswick’s story is far from finished, but it has already reshaped the future of Australian hairdressing. Her achievements have set new standards of what is possible when vision and discipline converge, and her influence continues to ripple across salons and classrooms worldwide.

Her life’s work, from her collections to her education empire, is anchored by a single belief, that excellence is not a destination, but a daily practice.

When she accepted the AHIA Creative Australian Hairdresser of the Year award, it was not just a personal victory. It was a statement, proof that artistry and education, often seen as separate worlds, can coexist not only beautifully but powerfully.

@be.the.exceptional.hairdresser

NEW ZEALAND HAIRDRESSING

Shaping the Future of with Sara Allsop

By Louise May

In every industry, there are those who simply participate, and then there are those who shape it. For New Zealand hairdressing, Sara Allsop is the latter, a leader, innovator, and creative force whose influence reaches far beyond the salon floor.

As the 2025 AHIA Creative New Zealand Hairdresser of the Year, Sara’s win not only recognises her artistic brilliance but also celebrates her decades-long commitment to building and elevating her nation’s hairdressing community.

For years, Sara has stood at the epicentre of New Zealand’s creative landscape, a connector, educator, and mentor whose work continuously redefines the standard of excellence.

As the owner of Dharma Salons, Industry Collective, and the NZ Hairdressing Awards, she has built platforms that celebrate artistry while driving the industry forward. Her leadership is not performative; it is practical, deeply rooted in purpose, and always guided by the belief that true success is collective.

The Architect of New Zealand Hairdressing

Sara’s journey is one of longevity and evolution. For more than two decades, she has been an anchor in the New Zealand fashion and hairdressing industries, combining creative direction with advocacy and mentorship. She is known for her strength, focus, and her unwavering commitment to seeing others rise.

Her salons and education platforms are more than workplaces; they are incubators of creative talent. Through Industry Collective, she has created an environment where hairdressers can explore, learn, and collaborate, a rare space where artistry meets opportunity. And through the NZ Hairdressing Awards, Sara has built a stage for New Zealand’s best to be recognised by their peers, judged by some of the most respected names in global hairdressing.

Each project she leads, whether educational, philanthropic, or artistic, shares the same intention: to elevate others and strengthen the foundations of the profession she loves.

A Leader, Collaborator, and Ambassador

In 2024, Sara was appointed the New Zealand Ambassador for Shark Beauty, a partnership that saw her representing the brand across high-profile events including Australian Fashion Week. Her role extended far beyond brand representation as she trained and managed a full team of New Zealand freelance stylists for four weeks during Shark Beauty’s most successful pop-up event in Newmarket.

True to form, Sara used the platform to give back to her community. Through Shark

Beauty’s support, she provided incentives and prizes for national competitions such as the Digital Influencer Award and The Brief in association with Ensemble Magazine, as well as supplying professional tools for the Industry Creative Team’s next generation of stylists.

Her ambassadorship is not about product placement or prestige; it is about partnership and purpose. Sara brings brands and people together to create meaningful impact, ensuring that collaboration becomes a vehicle for progress.

Fashion, Editorial, and Directional Influence

Sara’s creative footprint spans decades of editorial and fashion direction. As Lead Hair Director for the 2025 Fashion Quarterly Fashion Awards, she helmed one of the most anticipated events on the New Zealand style calendar. Managing an extensive team of stylists, she delivered a flawless showcase of innovation and precision, reinforcing her position as one of the country’s most respected creative directors.

Her long-standing relationship with Fashion Quarterly Magazine, spanning over 20 years, has shaped the publication’s visual language. She has worked with Its Interval Magazine

on numerous editorial shoots, including a standout campaign for Prada featuring actor KJ Apa. These projects exemplify her ability to translate conceptual artistry into editorial narratives that feel both contemporary and timeless.

Behind the camera or backstage, Sara’s leadership is defined by calm precision and creative instinct. She is known for her ability to elevate others, ensuring that every stylist, makeup artist, and model involved feels part of something purposeful.

Educator, Mentor, and Industry Builder

Education sits at the heart of Sara’s legacy. As an educator for HITO, New Zealand’s governing body for hairdressing, she developed and delivered the Year 1 Apprenticeship Off-Job Training Program, creating the foundation for the next generation of stylists across the country. She personally facilitates workshops nationwide, ensuring that every apprentice, regardless of geography, receives the same standard of excellence.

Beyond her official roles, she provides bespoke salon training throughout New Zealand, offering specialised education in cutting, colouring, and editorial styling.

Sara also leads the NZ Industry Creative Team, a collective of emerging stylists mentored through hands-on editorial shoots, live shows, and competition work. In February 2025, she took this team to New York Fashion Week, giving them the kind of international exposure that changes careers.

This mentorship model is something Sara has refined over years of experience, nurturing technical ability while fostering creativity, confidence, and professionalism. For her, education is not about hierarchy but about shared growth.

Philanthropy and Industry Legacy

Sara’s contribution to the New Zealand hairdressing community extends far beyond her own career. She is the driving force behind the NZ Industry Awards, a not-for-profit event that honours excellence across the profession. With more than 200 entries across 10 categories in 2024, the awards have become the most significant celebration of hairdressing in New Zealand.

The initiative, which she fully produces and funds herself, has attracted international judges such as Garren, Peter Gray, Pete Burkill, and Aaron De Mey, elevating the platform to global credibility. Her efforts are not for recognition, but for legacy, to ensure that the artistry and professionalism of New Zealand hairdressers are celebrated on the world stage.

Another standout project is The NZ Masters Collection, an initiative Sara personally created to unite the country’s most accomplished stylists. Bringing together icons of New Zealand hairdressing to collaborate on a single campaign, the project is a statement of unity and creativity. Through it, Sara aimed to reignite passion and camaraderie in an industry that often works in silos, reminding everyone that together, they are stronger.

She also gives her time as a judge for emerging talent across New Zealand and Australia, continuing her lifelong mission to nurture the next generation of creative leaders.

Flower of Life: A Tribute to Strength and Expression

Sara’s award-winning 2025 collection, Flower of Life, is a deeply personal reflection of femininity, identity, and creative strength. Inspired by Frida Kahlo, the collection captures the spirit of an artist who lived unapologetically, embracing pain and beauty with equal force.

“I paint flowers, so they do not die,” Frida once said, a sentiment that became the heart of Sara’s vision. Through Flower of Life, she sought to immortalise strength through artistry, using hair as both medium and metaphor.

Frida’s vibrant aesthetic is woven throughout the collection, from richly embroidered fabrics and statement earrings to the red accents that symbolise life, passion, and defiance. Each look tells a story of individuality and resilience, with strong, structured shapes balanced by soft, romantic movement.

The hair itself is an homage to Frida’s iconic image: intricate braids, textured lengths, and sculptural silhouettes that evoke both power and vulnerability. The colour palette draws from nature and art, with deep reds, warm golds, and natural textures that mirror the emotional depth of Kahlo’s work.

Makeup and styling complete the visual language, with bold red lips and expressive fashion choices designed to celebrate strength, heritage, and identity. Every image captures duality, fragility and fierceness, vulnerability and courage, embodying Frida’s philosophy of turning pain into power.

Recognition and Impact

Sara’s influence extends well beyond her home country. Her work has been published internationally in titles such as Estetica, Sophisticate’s Hairstyle Guide, and Estilismo Actual Collection, while her consistent presence backstage at New York Fashion Week over the past 15 years has solidified her reputation on a global stage. Working alongside industry greats such as Guido, Luigi Murenu, and Anthony Turner, she has honed a perspective that merges New Zealand authenticity with international sophistication. Her presence in the media is equally impactful, with regular features in Viva, Fashion Quarterly, and national event coverage that highlights her continued leadership and artistry.

A Legacy in Bloom

Sara Allsop’s career is a testament to resilience, vision, and community. Her artistry is undeniable, but it is her generosity of spirit that truly defines her. She has built pathways where none existed, elevated her peers, and given countless creatives a platform to shine.

As the 2025 AHIA Creative New Zealand Hairdresser of the Year, she stands not just as an individual winner, but as the embodiment of everything she has fought to nurture: creativity, connection, and courage.

Through Flower of Life, she celebrates what she has always believed in, that beauty is not perfection but expression, and that true artistry lies in the courage to be seen.

@saraallsop

Industry News.

Celebrate Christmas 2025 with Foil Me

‘Tis the season to be jolly and Foil Me is honouring the 2025 festive holidays with an ‘Aussie Christmas’ themed foil, featuring key elements of a summer Christmas – which is sure to be a cracker!

Channelling an Aussie summer Christmas with all the traditional spoils, this unique foil collection will pair playful illustrations of prawns (shrimp), pavlovas, festive galahs, and decorations, with classic gold and silver finishes on a green background, adding a touch of luxe to the humour and heart of Christmas down under!

The unique designs are once again artfully illustrated by Foil Me’s CEO and Creative Director, Emily Ciardiello, and heartily embody the joy, fun and a hint of nostalgia, that the Australian festive season evokes.

Says Emily, “The illustrations are to personify and celebrate the Aussie Xmas spirit and humour! We want the guests and hairdressers to have fun with these foils, share stories of Christmases past, and really embrace the Christmas spirit!”

www.foilme.com.au

Short Back & Sidewalks announces alliance with KEVIN.MURPHY

What began in a Perth carpark 10 years ago, where a few volunteers gave free haircuts to people experiencing homelessness and poverty, is now reaching new heights.

Short Back & Sidewalks is proud to announce a landmark partnership with global hair industry icon KEVIN.MURPHY, who joins as the founding member of the new national Hair Alliance.

The alliance will bring together hair industry brands to collectively make a positive impact and change lives across Australia.

Short Back & Sidewalks founder Craig Hollywood said the partnership with KEVIN.MURPHY is grounded in passion, purpose and shared values.

“A relationship with a hair industry leader will ensure we can grow our army of volunteers and also the positive connections we make with people experiencing homelessness and poverty around the country,” said Craig.

Through the act of giving a free haircut, volunteers build a connection with clients, offering a time and space in which they are not defined by their circumstances; they are seen, heard and valued.

“I’ve seen how as stylists we have the ability to completely change the way someone feels about themselves, how we can restore their confidence and remind them that they matter,” said Kevin Murphy.

“We’re incredibly proud to partner with Short Back & Sidewalks to support the emotional power of human connection through stylists to restore dignity and confidence.”

The new Hair Alliance is calling on the wider hair industry to get involved in helping people in need and use the superpowers hairdressers have to transform lives both in terms of their technical skills and their ability to make personal connections.

To mark the beginning of the partnership, Kevin Murphy himself joined members of the KEVIN.MURPHY team in Perth for a special event with Thread Together, run by Anglicare WA.

Clients received free haircuts and styling by the KEVIN.MURPHY team, followed by a personal wardrobe styling session with brand-new clothing from Thread Together, offering a complete transformation in both appearance and self-esteem.

The Hair Alliance is for brands that are game changers, rule breakers, change agents and industry leaders.

Short Back & Sidewalks are seeking four Hair Alliance founding members to join in 2025, with an annual contribution of $25,000. Email info@shortbackandsidewalks.com to connect and change lives together. www.shortbackandsidewalks.com

Gamma+ Universal Curls & Waves Kit. Ideal for creating soft waves and defined curls. Lightweight and Handy this unique fitting works with most Gamma+ Hairdryers with anti-scald selfwinding aluminium cylinders. Be part of the “soft curls or waves” trend in a matter of minutes.

Forget the searing heat of traditional curling irons and arm discomfort required with a round brush and hairdryer, the Universal Curls & Waves Kit uses powerful air to magically wrap and style hair. For effortless smooth, bouncy curls high speed air is directed over the self-winding curved surface, wrapping the hair around the barrel. No need for brushes or high heat, to achieve your desired look. Additionally, by using this attachment you are significantly reducing the risk of damage to delicate, colour-treated or fine hair.

For safer, more intuitive styling the Gamma+ Universal Curls & Waves Kit includes 2 cylinders and 3 attachment rings to ensure correct fitting to Gamma+ dryers. Gamma+ leads the way with innovative, effective and efficient styling tools to help you Make the Best Choice! www.gammaplus.com.au

Dresslier is proud to announce that it is now the official stockist to the salon industry of stellar® hair, the premium styling tools brand that has quickly made waves across Australia with its innovation, performance and unwavering commitment to healthy hair styling.

This exciting partnership aligns with Dresslier’s continued mission to bring high performance products to salons and professionals across the country. By welcoming Stellar® into the Dresslier portfolio, salons now have access to some of the most advanced styling tools on the market, designed to empower stylists and elevate client results.

Founded in Australia by industry experts with experience at leading global hair brands, Stellar® combines a sleek design with advanced technology to deliver styling tools that are technically advanced and beautifully crafted. Whether used behind the salon chair or at home, Stellar’s products are made to empower stylists, build confidence and preserve hair health all while delivering lasting results.

This partnership represents Dresslier’s commitment to innovation, salon support and premium offerings that meet the evolving needs of the hairdressing industry. www.stellarhair.com.au

Dresslier. Official stockist for Stellar® Hair

Boost Your Salon's Bottom Line: Why Smart Software is Your Secret to 2026 Success

As we edge closer to 2026, savvy salon owners across Australia are discovering that the difference between surviving and thriving lies in one critical decision: their choice of salon management software. With the latest ANZ Industry Report revealing that salons using advanced booking features generate up to 54% more revenue than those without, the message is crystal clear… your software isn't just a tool, it's your revenue engine.

The revenue revolution is here: Shortcuts has been quietly revolutionising how Australian salons operate, and the numbers speak volumes. Salons using our comprehensive salon software, from online booking to automated marketing campaigns, are seeing remarkable results. Hair businesses leveraging our booking deposits feature alone are generating an average of $30,000 more per month compared to those still relying on traditional methods.

But here's where it gets interesting: it's not just about one feature. The real magic happens when you embrace the full ecosystem. Our data shows that salons utilising multiple revenue-boosting features within our salon management software are consistently outperforming their competitors. Think Reserve with Google integration driving 27% more revenue for hair salons, or automated upselling features adding thousands to monthly takings without lifting a finger.

Why Timing Matters: With one in five hair clients now cancelling appointments and rebooking rates declining year-on-year, capturing every opportunity has never been more crucial. Shortcuts' intelligent features, from SMS marketing campaigns that boost revenue, to appointment acknowledgement systems that slash no-shows and work tirelessly in the background whilst you focus on what you do best: creating beautiful transformations. Our beauty software and barber software solutions aren't just responding to industry challenges; they're anticipating them. As clients increasingly book outside business hours (currently 40% of all appointments), salons without robust online booking systems are literally leaving money on the table whilst they sleep.

Your 2026 Game Plan Starts Now: The salons that will dominate 2026 aren't waiting for change, they're creating it! Whether you're running a boutique hair studio or managing multiple locations, Shortcuts Fusion provides the sophisticated salon scheduling software and business intelligence you need to scale smartly, without stealing from your bottom line with new booking fees. Don't let another profitable quarter slip through your fingers. Book your Shortcuts demo today and discover why we're the salon app choice for Australia's most successful salons. Because in 2026, the question won't be whether you adopted powerful salon software, it'll be why you didn't do it sooner. Book a demo now at www.shortcutssoftware.com

Grow your business with new layers of talent

TAFE NSW apprentices and trainees bring fresh thinking, practical skills, and nationally recognised training to your workplace with flexible, cost-effective pathways to build a loyal, capable team.

• Access government financial incentives

• Choose full-time, part-time, or school-based options

• Get support from TAFE NSW specialists

Ready to grow your team?

Training options for salon assistants to qualified hairdressers and beauty therapists available now.

Industry News.

Caroline Hirons leads the lineup at The Salon Owners Summit 2026!

Following the significant success of previous years, Phorest, the global salon, spa and clinic software company, is excited to announce the return of its highly anticipated 10th annual Salon Owners Summit in 2026.

This landmark event, themed “Thrive: The human experience, powered by technology,” will gather hundreds of salon and clinic owners from around the world at the Dublin Royal Convention Centre, Ireland, on Saturday and Sunday, January 25th & 26th, 2026. This two-day summit promises a deep dive into inspiration, education, and strategic business growth, demystifying how technology and AI can support and elevate a human-first business. Phorest is proud to announce Caroline Hirons, the internationally acclaimed skincare expert, author, and entrepreneur, as one of its main keynote speakers. Caroline’s journey from skincare enthusiast to multiaward-winning consultant and brand owner, including her groundbreaking Skin Rocks, embodies the spirit of innovation and community. Renowned for her honest, science-backed approach and ability to redefine consumer skincare, Caroline doesn’t just advise; she shapes trends and builds empires, having cultivated one of the beauty industry’s largest and most trusting communities. Her invaluable insights and unique perspective will undoubtedly ignite passion and drive business forward for attendees and empower salon and clinic owners to thrive in a technologically advanced landscape.

Generating an electrifying atmosphere, the Phorest Salon Owners Summit draws business owners from the UK, Ireland, US, Canada, Finland, Germany, the Netherlands, Australia, and many other countries, solidifying its status as an unmissable fixture in the industry’s calendar.

From first look at the latest innovations in software to high energy networking and knowledge sharing with the brightest businesses in the world, it’s an experiential growth programme for salon, spa and clinic leaders packed into two days.

Early Bird tickets are now available to secure your place at this unmissable event.

www.salonownerssummit.com/tickets

Cuts Builds International Growth Momentum with Landmark Week in Canada

Just Cuts, the largest hairdressing franchise in the Southern Hemisphere, has marked a major milestone in its international expansion with an outstanding debut at The National Franchise Show in Toronto.

The event saw overwhelming interest from Canadian entrepreneurs, with the Just Cuts team engaging in non-stop conversations across the twoday expo. Hundreds of franchise seekers and industry professionals visited the buzzing Just Cuts booth to learn more about the brand’s unique, noappointment, walk-in salon model.

“Canada is a key growth market for Just Cuts, and the energy and enthusiasm we experienced at the Toronto Franchise Show exceeded all expectations,” said Amber Manning, CEO of Just Cuts. “This event has fast-tracked conversations with a number of highly motivated potential

partners, and we’re already progressing several of these into formal franchise discussions.”

The Toronto show marks the next chapter in Just Cuts’ global expansion journey. It comes after the successful recent launch of JUSTICE Professional Haircare in Canada the premium haircare range created exclusively for Just Cuts salons and now stocked at Healthy Planet and Well.ca nationwide.

With over 230 salons across Australia, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom, the Just Cuts brand is now poised to establish a strong presence in North America.

“We are proud to be bringing our brand into Canada,” Manning added. “Our focus is always on supporting franchise owners with the tools, training, and systems they need to succeed.

The momentum we’re seeing is a clear signal that Just Cuts’ walk-in model resonates strongly with Canadian consumers and entrepreneurs alike.”

Just Cuts’ Canadian expansion follows a strong period of international growth, with the brand continuing to build on its position as a leader in affordable, accessible, and quality haircare worldwide.

www.justcuts.com

Wella Professionals Announces Winners of the 2025 Trendvision Awards

Wella Professionals proudly celebrated the artistry and innovation of Australia’s top hairdressing talent at the 2025 TrendVision Awards.

A digital competition that champions creativity, individuality, and technical excellence.

Since 2002, TrendVision has been Wella Professionals iconic annual event, showcasing the craft and community that define professional hairdressing in Australia and New Zealand.

This year’s theme, Surreal Colour, challenged stylists to push boundaries and transform imaginative concepts into real-life artistry. Inspired by the integration of AI and the unique touch of the hairdresser, Surreal Colour empowered entrants to create looks that are both visionary and wearable.

Rekishia Jessup, General Manager, South Asia and Pacific, said: “TrendVision is more than a competition; it’s a celebration of creativity, individuality, and the incredible craft of our hairdressing community across Australia and New Zealand. At Wella Professionals, hairdressers are truly at the heart of everything we do. Education runs through our veins... And let me tell you, the future is bright!”

Each winner impressed judges with their technical mastery, creative vision, and ability to capture the spirit of Surreal Colour. The TrendVision Awards continue to inspire and elevate the industry, connecting a vibrant community of professionals and setting the stage for the future of hairdressing.

2025 TRENDVISION WINNERS

Transformation Award: Ryan Brown, Ryan Brown Hair (VIC).

The transformation category rewards stylists who excel in technical mastery and the ability to reinvent and elevate their client’s look.

Editorial Award: Faye Redfern, HER (WA). The editorial category honours those who create trend-forward, high-fashion looks that push creative boundaries and inspire the industry.

Apprentice Award: Tori Yardley, Toni & Guy Newtown (NSW).

This category celebrates emerging talent, recognising apprentices who demonstrate exceptional skill and creativity early in their careers. @wellapro_anz

Just

Ryan Brown

Faye Redfern

Tori Yardley

Foil Me to Host Inaugural Education Event - ‘Metamorphosis’.

Promising to deliver a day of growth, creativity, and connection, Foil Me is hosting its first ever live industry event – Metamorphosis - in Adelaide on March 16th, 2026. This one-day experience goes beyond traditional education, offering a transformative journey for hairdressers and salon owners who want to grow not only in their craft, but within themselves.

Metamorphosis by Foil Me isn’t just another education event, it’s an evolution - a day designed to inspire, connect, and empower. Guided by Foil Me’s Co-Founder and Creative Director, Emily Ciardiello, the event blends authentic conversation with practical, salon-ready strategies for growth, wellbeing, and leadership. It’s a time to explore what it truly means to flourish - personally, professionally, and creatively.

Each session is intentionally curated to ensure that whether you’re attending as a solo stylist seeking fresh techniques, a salon owner looking to reconnect with purpose, or a team eager to grow together, you’ll walk away with real-world tools you can immediately implement to elevate your craft, strengthen your mindset, and cultivate lasting business and personal growth.

Says Emily, “I’m so excited to finally bring to life what so many have been asking for - connection, yes, but connection with purpose. Metamorphosis is like a supercharged three-day retreat condensed into one transformative day. It’s about discovering that when you grow personally, your business naturally follows.”

“Together, we’ll explore not only personal growth, authenticity, and leadership of yourself and others, but also the real, everyday challenges you and your team face in the salon - and how to navigate them with confidence, clarity, and care. It’s everything you need to evolve - as a creative, as a leader, and as a human being.”

Throughout the day, attendees will learn not only advanced foiling and colouring techniques, but also powerful communication and mindset tools to navigate stressful situations, manage client relationships, sell without selling, how to be an authentic leader with others and yourself all while slowly changing the way you may approach life and business.

Joining Emily and the Foil Me team on the day are two inspiring guest educators:

• Sophie Margetts from Socoh Salon, sharing her signature foiling and colour techniques along with strategies for transforming chair conversations into lasting client loyalty.

• James Henderson from Clarity by James Henderson, who will equip attendees with mindset and stress-management tools to help create calm, confident salon environments and how to sell without selling. Emily will also facilitate an exclusive Q&A with a secret special guest, diving deep into topics that bridge business and personal growth - from valuesled branding to authenticity, leadership, and the power of embracing change.

Metamorphosis is a non-profit event, with 100% of profits directed toward the guest educators and future community education initiatives. True to Foil Me’s ethos of inclusivity and education accessibility, it’s also apprentice-friendly - ensuring the next generation of stylists can access the kind of guidance and inspiration that shapes both skill and self.

Who It’s For:

• Salon owners & leaders seeking strategies to balance business growth with personal wellbeing.

• Hairdressers & colourists craving inspiration beyond technique - to grow in confidence, self-awareness, and authenticity.

• Women in the industry wanting open conversations about how to use your cycle as a superpower and for the men to gain a better understanding of the women in their lives

• Creative entrepreneurs ready to market themselves in a genuine, values-driven way.

• Foil Me community members eager to connect with Emily and the brand in person.

Along with the wealth of knowledge being imparted to them, guests can also expect to be spoiled on the day as ‘Metamorphosis’ will be generously supported by iconic industry brands Joico, K18 and O&M Australia, with the three companies providing substantial product offerings from their respective ranges for guests’ goodie bags. The Attaché Line will also provide a voucher for a complimentary gift with any Attache Tray purchase.

Event Details:

Date: Monday 16th March 2026

Time: 9:00am - 5:30pm - with Networking aka Fluttering from 3:30pm

Where: Bon Vivant, 100 Gilbert Street, Adelaide

New sales leadership at La Biosthétique & Great Lengths Australia

An exciting announcement of key new appointments to the sales leadership team at La Biosthétique and Great Lengths Australia.

Mel Drabic has joined as National Sales and Group Sales Manager, bringing over 20 years of experience leading sales growth on both national and international levels. Alongside her, Billiana Hanson steps into the role of Business Development Manager for VIC and SA, with 22 years of industry expertise supporting salon businesses and driving strategic partnerships. Together, Mel, Billi and the existing La Biosthetique and Great Lengths team are set to lead ambitious growth initiatives and strengthen relationships with hairdressing professionals and salon partners across Australia and New Zealand.

Mel – National Sales and Group Sales Manager

Mel is an accomplished leader with over 20 years of experience driving growth and innovation across national and international hair and beauty markets. With a proven talent for building high-performing teams and strategic partnerships, she expertly bridges retail and professional channels to expand market presence and elevate brand impact. Before joining La Biosthétique and Great Lengths, Mel led global growth initiatives as Global Strategy and Sales Manager at Brow Code. Her extensive background also includes National Sales Manager roles for premium brands such as Oribe, Iles Formula, and R+Co, where she shaped dynamic sales strategies and strengthened brand positioning across Australia. Now steering national strategy and multi-brand growth, Mel leads with passion and purpose, championing brands known for their luxury, innovation, and integrity.

Billi – Business Development Manager VIC and SA

With 22 years in the hair and beauty industry, Billi brings a wealth of experience working with renowned brands including Oribe, GHD, R+Co, Iles Formula, Maria Nila, DMK Skin, and Derma Aesthetics. She is known for cultivating strong client relationships and developing tailored growth strategies that support both business success and the people behind the brands.

In her role with La Biosthetique and Great Lengths, Billi focuses on driving sales and nurturing partnerships across VIC and SA. Her deep industry knowledge and passion for salon business development empower her to create meaningful opportunities that help salons thrive in a competitive market.

www.labiosthetique.com.au www.greatlengths.com.au

Sophie Margetts

Emily Ciardiello

James Henderson

Mel – National Sales and Group Sales Manager

Billi – Business Development Manager VIC and SA

Sunday 19th October saw the Australian and New Zealand winners crowned at the 12th annual ANZ Hair Industry Awards 2025 - Business. Launched in 2014 by mocha group, this definitive awards program recognises business excellence for leading hairdressers, salons, specialist businesses, educators and professional products.

Among the night's key winners was Sloans of Lane Cove which claimed four wins including the coveted AHIA Business Australian Salon of the Year 2025 and AHIA Business Director of the Year 2025 for Owner Scott Sloan, as well as The Following Hair Co which was named AHIA Business NZ Salon of the Year 2025. The evening also awarded Anthony Gray of MIG Training with AHIA Business Special Recognition 2025 and Paul Frasca and Ewelina Soroko of Sustainable Salons with AHIA Business Humanitarian Award 2025.

With award creators and industry leaders Mocha Group celebrating 20 years in 2025, the decision to open existing categories to NZ salons, and introduce the new AHIA NZ Salon of the Year 2025 category, reinforced their commitment to elevating industry excellence. This milestone year also saw a record-breaking 300+ entries assessed by an independent panel of more than 30 international and national judges including the exciting additions of Tabatha Coffey and Sandy Chong.

2025 saw the much-anticipated gala event moved to Brisbane for the first time, taking place at The Star, where the awards didn't just open, they detonated! The special guest electro-pop supergroup tore through a Teddy Swims medley mashed with powerhouse vocals, DJ, drums, sax, and surprise specialty act, delivering a high-voltage, highfashion spectacle. The result was pure electricity: glamour, grit, and high volume, unapologetic cool. The renowned official after party continued celebrations complete with special guest DJ, sponsored by Angel Extensions.

Proud sponsors include Alfaparf Milano Goldwell, Revlon, Wella Company, Rogue, CPR, Dyson, Salon Lane, Redken, Matrix, Kitomba, Angel Extensions, Shortcuts, Comfortel, Schwarzkopf Professional, Gamma+, DNA Organics, DP Exo Grow, Goddess, Sustainable Salons, L'Oréal Professional as well as Official Media partner Mocha Hair and all presented by the mocha group.

Celebrating two decades of celebrating and supporting the industry, Mocha Group Owner and Founder Linda Woodhead reflected:

"We're profoundly grateful for another hugely successful year and feel a tremendous sense of obligation to keep delivering the awards this industry deserves. The quality of this year's winners showcases what an exciting era we're experiencing across salon owners, hairdressers and brands.

We're proud to have been elevating the industry we love for so long, and these awards stand as a testament to the way that our entrants value and strive to exceed quality benchmarks across both Australia and New Zealand. We’re excited to see what another 20 years of excellence will bring!"

2025 AHIA Business Winners

Care Treat Style Electrical Awards

HOLIDAY RETAIL

How Can Cash in This Season! Salons

By Louise May

Mocha Hair Editor in Chief Louise May sits down with Selena Green, Head of Salon at ghd ANZ, to talk strategy for November and December.

Selena, November and December are huge for retail, especially with Black Friday driving massive spend. How can salon’s get a slice of that action?

Retail is competitive, fast, and fluid-but consumers are spending! Black Friday alone generated 5 billion dollars last year. Salons have a unique advantage because November and December are the busiest months for appointments. Even those “twice-a-year” guests come in to get summer ready.

"Each stylist on average has 5-8 guests in their chair every day, actively engaging. That’s more face-to-face opportunity than most retail stores see in a week! The key is turning that engagement into retail sales."

Think about it: each stylist has on average 5-8 guests in their chair every day, actively engaging. That’s more face-to-face opportunity than most retail stores see in a week! The key is turning that engagement into retail sales.

Where should salons start?

Start with confidence. Your professional recommendation matters. Guests trust you to guide them on the best tools and products for protection and styling. When you explain why a product is essential for achieving their look, it resonates.

What practical steps can salons take to boost retail?

Here are my top tips: Events are back!: Invite your guests for a mini styling masterclass or a thank-you celebration. Let them browse, try, and experience the full ghd range, without a huge stock investment. You bring the people-we’ll support with the rest.

Advertise the full opportunity: don’t have the full range in stock? Offer to order it in for your guest on ghdhairpro.com.au, don’t lose the sale to a competitor.

Leverage Christmas Collection Packs: We’ve built healthy margins into our festive packs so you can stay competitive and keep those dollars in your salon.

Styling products are the perfect stocking stuffer: ghds' styling collection fits every consumers budget from $50, and includes a lucrative margin for you!

Tap into Gifting: Did you know 30% of ghd tools are gifted at Christmas? Give guests recommendation cards listing the products you used-get ghd on their wish list.

Make Every Square Metre Work: Visual merchandising matters! Consumers want to touch, feel, and experience before they purchase. Create displays & multiple touchpoints that showcase your retail products-this turns your salon space into a productive retail zone.

You mentioned ghdhairpro.com.au earlier- how does that help salons stay competitive?

ghdhairpro.com.au is designed to make doing business as simple as possible for salons. Here’s why it’s a game-changer: Drop Shipping Made Easy: Maintain your margin while we ship directly to your customer with zero shipping fees. Plus, we update discounts daily so you can convert guests in the chair without worrying about logistics.

All-in-One Business Hub: Beyond retail, ghdhairpro gives you access to everything you need- education resources, invoices, warranty claims, and more. You can manage your business when it works for you.

Flexible Support: Our ghd account managers can walk you through the platform, or you can email sales@ghdhair.com.au to set up an account. We want to make partnering with ghd as easy and flexible as possible.

Any final advice for salons?

Treat November and December like the Grand Final of retail. Every guest is an opportunity-not just for a great service, but for a retail conversation. With the right approach and tools like ghdpro, salons can absolutely capture a slice of that holiday spend.

"Your professional recommendation matters. Guests trust you to guide them on the best tools and products for protection and styling. When you explain why a product is essential for achieving their look, it resonates."

THE FINNESSE APPROACH

Purpose, People, Progress

By Louise May

Behind every great salon is a story built on passion, persistence, and purpose... and Rachael Finn has all three. With almost four decades in the industry, she has shaped a career defined by growth and a deep commitment to her craft.

At the helm of Finnesse Hair in Kellyville, Sydney, Rachael leads with integrity and intent, creating a space where education, teamwork, and care sit at the heart of everything.

Editor in Chief of Mocha Group, Louise May, chats with Rachael about her path to salon ownership, her partnership with De Lorenzo, and what continues to inspire her after 37 years in the industry.

Tell us a little about your career prior to opening your salon?

I started my hairdressing career in the country town of Nowra, on the South Coast as a 15years old straight out of school. Right from the beginning, I was fortunate to have access to some of the best training in the industry. That early exposure and high-level training truly inspired my passion and set me on the journey to not only excel in the craft but ultimately to achieve my goal of salon ownership. I’ve been in the industry for 37 years now and continue to believe education is the key

Tell us about your salon?

We are situated in Kellyville, a fantastic location in the Hills District of Sydney. I took ownership six years ago, and one of the most rewarding parts of this journey has been our growth. We started with a small team of three and have proudly expanded to eight dedicated and valued team members and continue to grow.

What makes your salon unique to those around you?

What truly sets Finnesse Hair apart is the unique blend of our warm, welcoming atmosphere and our dynamic, youthful energy. From the moment a client walks in, they feel genuinely cared for. Our young team is not just skilled; we are highly motivated to be our best, constantly pushing ourselves to master the latest hairstyles and techniques. This commitment ensures that every client receives not only a high-quality service but also a modern, inspirational, and truly enjoyable salon experience.

sessions, building their skills and fostering a strong, cohesive team through dedicated team building initiatives.

• 4 sessions a year with technical educator

• 2 guest artists a year, one on one training in the business

• Online training through DLearning and zoom classes.

How do you develop your team to help them be the best they can be?

EDUCATION! Strategic Planning: We hold regular meetings with the team to review our progress and collaboratively plan growth programs specifically tailored to the needs of each individual team member for the business. With a plan we are to have a consistent development for our team combining De Lorenzo and outside training. Our strategy involves a strong combination of both individual and group training sessions. To ensure our team is learning from the best, we regularly bring in elite Australian hairdressers to lead these

• 2 courses outside the business

• In house training as a team

This is very valuable to us as individuals and as a team to grow and develop in ourselves.

How long have you been a De Lorenzo Salon for? And why did you choose to partner with the De Lorenzo brand?

My relationship with De Lorenzo is a longstanding one; I have been using their products for 16 years, and they have been our exclusive partner since the very beginning of my salon journey of six years ago. We chose to partner with De Lorenzo because their values align perfectly with ours. As an Australian-made and owned company, they enable me to support a local business while elevating my own brand, Finnesse Hair, through quality products. Their commitment to Sustainability, exceptional training, and crucial growth and business support makes them an invaluable partner.

What are your 3 top favourite De Lorenzo products and why?

It’s almost impossible to pick just three single products from the fantastic De Lorenzo range, but I can certainly share the three ranges we most highly recommend in the salon. These ranges are absolute must-haves for their performance and versatility:

1. Essential Treatments Range

This range is a salon staple due to its incredible ability to restore the hair’s natural pH balance and build strength. The products are designed for deep reconstruction and repair.

• Standout Products: We especially love Fortify Primer for its foundational strength-building and Equilibrium for ultimate hair health.

2. Prescriptive Solutions Range

The Prescriptive Solutions range is our goto because it truly has a targeted solution for every hair type and concern. Whether you need intense hydration or weightless volume, this range delivers.

• Why it’s Special: The products are renowned for their luxurious, creamy texture and are formulated with the four natural balances critical for healthy hair: Protein, Moisture, Natural Oils, and Minerals. We particularly recommend the Moisture range for damaged hair and the Control range for fine hair.

3. Elements Styling Range

For effortless and lasting style, the Elements range is unmatched. It caters to all styling needs with products that offer weightless hold and flexibility. The range draws its key ingredients from the great Australian outdoors, giving it a unique edge.

• Top Product Pick: If forced to name one product, it would be Sandstorm. Its texturizing capabilities are incredibly diverse, making it perfect for virtually any style.

How do De Lorenzo support your business and team?

De Lorenzo provides invaluable, multifaceted support that is crucial for our growth and success within the business. This support is delivered through a strong dedicated team.

Dedicated Representative: We have a committed Account Manager who serves as our key contact for all business needs that has assisted in developing growth within the business. Marketing team: This allows us to develop marketing strategies that align with promotions, providing educational content for our guests and resonating with our audience.

Expert Education team: A highly skilled Technical Educator regularly meets with our team to provide product knowledge and skill development.

This partnership ensures we stay current with product knowledge and have strategic support for continuous salon development for growth of the team and business.

How long have you been in the ASPYA program and what do you love about it?

We have been proud members of the ASPYA program for six years.

What we love most is the ongoing, support that De Lorenzo provides, not just to me as the business owner, but to our entire team. Their approach truly feels like a family partnership. As De Lorenzo always emphasises, ‘We are all family,’ and they prove this by actively listening to us as consumers and partners and consistently delivering products and training programs that meet our needs to grow.

You were the winner of the 2025 best social media campaign; can you tell us about that?

What an honour! We were absolutely thrilled to win the 2025 Best Social Media Campaign award, and it was a true team victory.

Our success came from a unique collaborative approach: Through a Mentorship Program: Myself and my team member first took part

in a mentor program with Hayley Mears from Six Underground to significantly deepen my understanding of the social media landscape and its various platforms.

Strategic Planning: With this knowledge, I developed our core marketing plan.

Team Collaboration: This is where the magic happened. Our younger team members are absolute experts in the social world, so we all collaborated. We used the strategic plan as a framework, and the team then worked together to develop and execute all of our social media content.

The award is a testament to what we can achieve when we strategically plan and combine different generations of expertise!

What’s next for you and your salon?

It’s been an incredibly busy three months! I’ve just returned from London, where I completed an International Masters Class at the House of Sassoon with Mark Hayes and Richard Ashforth. This experience truly elevated my appreciation for hair as an art form, and I’m excited to bring new, next-level ideas back to the team. This educational focus ties directly into our salon’s growth. We have just completed a major renovation and transformation of the salon space itself. I wanted the new design to perfectly represent the Finnesse Hair brand, emphasising:

• Precision

• Sustainability

• Australian-made products

• A touch of elegance

Salon Expansion Over the Next Two Years

We completed this transformation with growth firmly in mind. Over the next two years, we are actively looking at expanding the salon to accommodate our growing clientele and team. This physical expansion will enable us to take our business to the next level.

Our vision throughout this expansion will be to keep a strong brand focus on our core values.

@finnessehair

TEN YEARS STRONG

The Rival Way

By Louise May

Ten years ago, a young and determined Nathan Stanford opened Rival Hairdressing Studio with two chairs, a simple setup and a clear intention to create something real. A salon where clients felt comfortable, conversation came easy and great hair was a given.

A decade later, Rival has grown into a space defined by loyalty, laughter and a genuine love for the craft. It is a milestone that speaks to consistency, connection and staying true to the values that started it all.

Editor of Mocha Hair magazine Louise May chats with Nathan about the evolution of Rival, what he has learned along the way and what is next for the brand.

Tell us about you and your industry journey. Where did it all begin and what made you choose hair?

From the age of seven, I knew I was going to become a hairdresser. At that age, I had no idea what the job truly involved, other than getting to talk to interesting people and play with hair all day. When asked at school what I wanted to be when I grew up, I would always answer, “A hairdresser!”

Many years later, when I was sitting my driving assessment, the assessor happened to be my primary school education assistant. He was blown away when I told him that hairdressing was exactly what I was doing, just as I had said all those years ago when others were aspiring to be superheroes.

Growing up in the country, my mum’s cousin, who was also a qualified hairdresser, used to come over. Between him and Mum, I think they tried every colour known to humankind, and maybe even some that are yet to be seen. He gave me the confidence to believe that this was a career I could pursue and thrive in. I was lucky enough to have three sisters as semi-willing models, along with Mum and my nan. Nan was always up for sitting in the chair. When I visited her for sleepovers as a kid, she would give us two dollars to sit behind her on the couch and brush her hair. As I got older, we

moved on to blow-drying. Nan had the oldest blow-dryer known to humankind, which would overheat mid-blow-dry and take just enough time to cool down for her to have a smoke break, and for me to untangle the brush!

A few years later, Nan and I would visit the local hair supply store to buy tint, turning her kitchen into my own mini salon. Once I opened my own salon, she was still up for anything and continued to be a great support, always encouraging me to be the creative stylist I am today. She was a truly pivotal influence in my career.

When I was sitting my Year 11 exams, I knew I wanted to do hairdressing, so I signed myself out of school to get a full-time job while searching for an apprenticeship. After a few months, I found work experience in a salon on Saturdays and Thursday evenings while still working full-time. This led to a traineeship and then an apprenticeship. I owe it all to my dedication to the trade and my determination to become the hairdresser that seven-year-old Nathan dreamed of being.

Ten years for the salon this year! What has been the secret behind Rival’s longevity, and what keeps clients coming back?

Having fun and enjoying what we do! I always say the day I stop enjoying coming to work is the

day I change careers. When we love what we do, clients feel that energy too. It gives them comfort knowing they are welcomed and not just another ticket.

Secondly, caring. When adding team members to the salon, I have always said, “I can teach you how to do great hair, but I can’t teach you how to care.” Without clients, we are just people holding a pair of scissors and a comb. Being thankful every time a client chooses to sit in our chairs is part of our salon culture, and many of our clients have been with us for more than eight years. Lastly, we keep things real. We are not a culture that sugar-coats or avoids the hard conversations about hair health and client expectations. That honesty builds trust and creates genuine rapport between client and hairdresser.

What did Rival look like in year one, and how does it feel walking into the salon now, a decade later?

In the first year, the salon was being run by a 21-year-old — it makes me laugh now to think I thought I knew it all! Rival’s first year was a logo made on Fiverr, two chairs and a basin, run by me and one apprentice. I worked long days and would finish work only to go out and put flyers in letterboxes.

Rival grew faster than expected, and by the end of year two, I had a team of four.

Now, we have taught many apprentices, serviced countless guests and had plenty of fun along the way. The salon now takes more revenue in one day than it did in a week that first year. We have a team of five (soon to be six) and eight chairs. When I walk into Rival now, I feel gratitude. It would not be what it is without the team and the clients who have supported us over the years. It feels a lot more professional than the Rival of 2015 that was run by a 21-year-old, but it is still just as fun and focused on great results.

What defines the Rival experience for both clients and team?

The Rival experience is everyone leaving happy and stress-free, both clients and team. A visit to Rival is about feeling welcomed and listened to. We have a casual salon culture, accepting everyone as they are.

Our focus is on great hair condition. For clients, a great Rival experience means leaving the salon with hair that looks amazing and feels healthy.

How has your role as a De Lorenzo educator shaped your approach as a salon owner, leader and hairdresser?

Becoming an educator has strengthened my leadership skills, particularly when it comes to helping my team grow and stay engaged with the industry. My skills as a hairdresser have also evolved through this role, as I am constantly brainstorming creative ideas and challenging myself while revisiting the fundamentals of hairdressing when training new apprentices. I have always loved teaching the trade, and working with De Lorenzo ensures I get the most out of every learning interaction, not only for myself but also for those I have the privilege of teaching.

If you could change one thing about the hairdressing industry, what would it be?

The way our profession is viewed. Hairdressing is often seen as less than other trades, but it should not be. Without this industry, I would not have half the friends or experiences that have shaped my life (including conquering my fear of flying!).

We start out sweeping floors and making coffee, and before long, we are styling someone’s hair for one of the biggest days of their life. This career gives us the opportunity to travel, connect with people, and help them rediscover confidence and self-worth. It is an incredible industry that deserves the same respect as any other trade.

What has been one of your biggest growth moments across Rival’s journey?

A big one for me was employing my younger sister. After mentoring several apprentices over the years, it really hit home how significant it is to help shape someone’s career. A successful apprenticeship can lead to endless opportunities in our industry for a young, motivated person who is ready to learn. Seeing that come full circle within my own family was something special.

How do you stay inspired and continue to evolve without burning out?

I avoid doing the same thing over and over. I like change, which is why education has been great for me, every day is different. Having the best clients also helps, as they are always up for trying something new, which keeps things fresh. Industry events and ongoing education keep me inspired, and I love hearing other stylists’ stories and experiences. Of course, there are days when burnout creeps in, and a Sunday sleep-in is needed.

Outside of the salon and education, I have a busy home life with three dogs, a cat, birds and fish. They are a great reminder to slow down sometimes and just sit on the couch for a few cuddles.

What is on the agenda for the future?

Rival 2.0 is in sight. After an incredible decade in our current space, we are ready to expand. The next five-year goal for me personally is to become a Trichologist. I am a true hair nerd and love the science behind hair and scalp health. The advances in technology and products in this area really excite me, and I cannot wait to see how deeper research continues to evolve. I believe this scientific focus will drive the next generation of product development and innovation within our industry.

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POWER POWER OF ONE

By Louise May

Across her three business pillars, Katy Reeve Hair, Katy Reeve Education, and Katy Reeve Creative, she has built a model that reflects the evolution of modern hairdressing. It’s flexible, independent, and built entirely around her own vision and values. Every element of her work connects back to one clear vision: to deliver exceptional client experiences while continuing to educate and inspire others.

A Business Built on Independence

Katy operates across two boutique locations in Sydney, maintaining a deliberate balance that allows her to sustain excellence while protecting her creativity and wellbeing. Her approach is thoughtful and intentional, grounded in the understanding that true success is measured by fulfilment as much as by results.

“When I began life as a sole operator, I realised quickly that I needed to combine my scissors with a shade chart,” Katy says. “I didn’t want to be average at everything. I wanted to master colour.”

Guided by mentors like Richi Grisillo and Carolyn Gahan, and inspired by the artistry of Lesley Jennison and Jo O’Neil, she evolved her service offering to reflect her own high standards. It was not just about technical skill, but about delivering a truly personal experience to every client who sits in her chair.

The Educator Within Education has always been at the heart of Katy’s career. After years with TONI&GUY in both Australia and the UK, where she served as National Creative Director and Head of Education, she poured her knowledge and experience into her own education brand, Katy Reeve Education.

This arm of her business focuses on empowering stylists and salons through education that blends creativity with commercial sense. She continues to work with respected salon owners and teams who value her ability to teach in a way that is relatable, real, and immediately actionable.

“I’ve always looked at education as a personal responsibility,” she says. “Even when I was employed, it was up to me to stay skilled, motivated, and inspired. Opportunities exist for everyone, but you have to have the drive to find them.”

Her long-standing partnership with Salon Kiin continues to thrive, with owner Maria Unali describing her ability to inspire creatively while keeping her finger on the commercial pulse as second to none.

Partnered with Purpose

In 2024, Katy joined the JOICO Education Team as a Guest Artist, a partnership that has opened new doors and connections across the industry. Within her first year, she presented at Hair Expo, sharing the stage with some of the most respected names in hairdressing.

For Katy, JOICO represents more than just a brand partnership. It is a relationship built on trust, respect, and shared values. “When you’re running a salon solo, the right brand partnership is everything. It’s like having someone in your corner,” she says. “JOICO stands out because their products are reliable, and the support and education they offer make you feel like you’re not doing it all on your own.”

She also values how the brand supports the realities of being a solo operator. Through the HUSL retail app, she has been able to streamline her business and introduce new income opportunities. “Retail can be a sticking point for sole operators,” she explains. “We want to offer it professionally, but don’t always have the space or cash flow to carry stock. With HUSL, I can send clients a link to my store, and it works while I sleep. It’s a business model that truly suits my lifestyle.”

A Year of Growth and Reflection

Behind the achievements is a story of resilience and self-awareness. Katy is open about her commitment to self-development, investing in programs such as Tony Robbins’ Thrive to Survive to maintain focus and resilience, and working with Social Media Coach Ash Bailey to refine her digital presence.

“Independent operators can easily slip into survival mode,” she says. “Learning how to manage mindset and build confidence is just as important as technical skill.”

Creative Leadership

Through Katy Reeve Creative, she continues to contribute to industry projects that merge artistry with organisation. Her ability to coordinate creative teams and deliver seamless production outcomes has made her a trusted name in both education and event circles.

Looking Ahead

Katy’s vision for the future is clear. She plans to expand her education offering across Australia, delivering more in-salon workshops to help salon owners and their teams strengthen their business foundations. She is also eager to continue growing within JOICO, mentoring the 25/26 AHIA Hot Shots Team, and connecting with the brand’s international network.

“Mentoring the next generation is something I absolutely love,” she says. “There’s nothing more rewarding than seeing someone find their confidence and thrive.”

A Life and Business by Design

For Katy Reeve, success has never been about doing everything. It has been about doing what matters, with intention. She has built a business that fits her lifestyle, nurtures her creativity, and allows her to share her knowledge with others.

Her journey is a testament to what is possible when skill, strategy, and self-belief come together. Being a solo operator is not about doing it all alone; it is about owning every decision, every opportunity, and every success.

Katy Reeve, 2025 AHIA Business Sole Operator of the Year, stands as proof that when you build with heart, purpose, and discipline, one really is the perfect number.

Especially Honoured at the

2025 AHIA BUSINESS

At the 2025 AHIA Business, 2 very special nominated awards were presented, the AHIA Vidal Sassoon Humanitarian Award to Paul Frasca & Ewelina Soroko – Sustainable Salons and The Special Recognition Award to Anthony Gray of MIG Training.

The AHIA Humanitarian Award celebrates those who go beyond business to change lives, leaders who combine success with compassion and action.

Paul Frasca & Ewelina Soroko have built a movement that now includes 1,500 salons across Australia and New Zealand, proving that sustainability can be part of everyday salon life. Together, this network has diverted more than 2 million kilograms of waste from landfill, giving materials like hair, metals, paper and plastics a valuable second life.

Through their profit-for-purpose model, 100% of proceeds from recyclables are donated to OzHarvest and KiwiHarvest, resulting in over 420,000 meals for people facing food insecurity.

They also answered a critical shortage in ponytail donations and to date, almost 300,000 ponytails have been donated to wigmakers and charities, restoring confidence to thousands facing medical hair loss.

Inclusivity is central to their vision. Their depots employ supported workers through disability service partnerships, creating more than 80,000 hours of meaningful employment that offers purpose, independence and pride.

And their members regularly volunteer their skills to provide free hair and beauty services for those doing it tough, more than 2,000 so far, giving dignity, care and connection when it’s needed most.

From oil spill clean-ups, to bushfire relief, to fundraising for countless causes, their impact stretches across environmental, social and humanitarian fronts.

The Special recognition Award recognises not only business success, but a legacy of passion, education, and leadership that has shaped the Australian hair industry for generations.

The story begins in the 1940s, with a family barbershop. In the 70s, the next generation took that legacy forward with thriving salons. And in 1991, a new chapter began, the creation of a training organisation, now called MIG Training, that has become a cornerstone of hairdressing education in this country.

For more than three decades, this organisation has been about more than skills. It has been about doing things the right way, with integrity, professionalism, and a belief in the power of education to transform lives.

Today, it works with 300 salons across Queensland, supports over 500 apprentices, and has celebrated more than 150 new graduates in the past year alone. It’s also one of just 14 in the entire nation to achieve the gold-standard RTO Select accreditation from the Australian Hairdressing Council, recognised as truly ‘best of breed.’

But behind these numbers is a leader, Anthony Gray, who once left a completely different career in banking and finance to take up the family mantle. For more than 15 years, he has guided this organisation with vision, humility, and an unwavering commitment to the future of our industry.

He has served on national boards, judged awards, mentored countless professionals, and above all, dedicated himself to ensuring that the next generation of hairdressers and barbers are given the tools, the confidence, and the opportunity to shine.

Congrats to the special AHIA Business award recipients for 2025

Paul Frasca & Ewelina Sorok

Anthony Gray

HOTSHOTS HOUSE

The 2025 Experience

There’s something special about the energy that fills the Hot Shots House each year, a mix of excitement, anticipation and gratitude as the next generation of Australian hairdressing talent arrives for an experience that continues to inspire and shape future leaders. In October, four talented individuals stepped through the doors of the Yarraville mansion to begin their Hot Shots journey for 2025/26.

Team members Natasha TsangarisRokstar Salon QLD, Alysia PearsonToni&Guy Broadbeach QLD, Georgia Maguire - Pierrots Hair and Brow Studio WA, and Emma Boyle - Steph Meyer and Co VIC came ready to learn, grow and take their careers to the next level. What followed over four days was a program designed to expand their thinking, strengthen their skills and send them home inspired to achieve even more within their own salons. Guiding them through it all were Linda Woodhead, CEO and founder of Mocha Group, Jarred Stedman - General Manager, and Louise May - Editor in Chief.

Day 1 began with tradition, a home-cooked spaghetti bolognese welcome dinner. The team gathered around the table with the Mocha crew for the first time, sharing stories, laughing together and settling in. It was the perfect icebreaker before an early night and an even earlier start.

Day 2 kicked off with a warm welcome from Linda, Jarred and Louise, setting the tone for the days to come. Louise led an opening session focused on recognising individual strengths and setting goals, encouraging each participant to define what success looks like for them and how to work towards it. From there, Linda took the team through an industry

session that traced hairdressing back to its roots. She walked them through the craft and culture of hair from past eras and the icons who shaped techniques and trends across the 17th, 18th, 19th and 20th centuries, giving context to where the industry began and how we got to where we are now. It was a reminder that what they are part of is not just a job, it’s a craft with a legacy.

The first guests to the house were Dee Parker Attwood and Lyndal Salmon, who brought incredible energy (and champagne and pastries) and shared their expertise on photoshoot preparation, model selection and the art of creating striking editorial work. The team absorbed every bit of knowledge, eager to take these skills back into their own creative environments.

Next came Charlene Fernandez, whose session was raw, profound and moving, centred around self-love and belief, and with intention and purpose anything is possible. Her honesty and openness created a powerful moment for the team, prompting reflection on how personal confidence directly influences professional growth. Jarred Stedman followed with a highly practical session on social and visual engagement, showing the team how to elevate their personal and salon brands through authentic storytelling and consistent online presence.

The afternoon saw the arrival of Lorna Evans, who never fails to impress with her generosity and experience. With tote bags full of gifts, she shared her journey of growth and reinvention, from stylist to salon owner, educator and brand founder – showing what’s possible when you back yourself. Daniele Blakeley from Yoshiko shared her journey in the industry and continued the learning with a session on precision, balance and attention to detail, before the team connected via Zoom with Danny Pato and Ryland Wood. What an absolute treat for the team, who sat on the edge of their seats listening to this beautiful partnership talk about salon, shoot and personal life!

The day wrapped up with Sheridan Rose Shaw from MamaWest, whose honest and inspiring session focused on leadership, brand culture and building a salon environment that supports standards and growth. Professional headshots followed before the team headed out for dinner at Pizza d’Asporto in Yarraville, a relaxed night of conversation, good food and lots of laughs. Then back to the house for a movie night.

Day 3 began with a Q&A session led by Linda Woodhead, sharing her knowledge of Media with the team and how to work within the realms of PR and publicity, and how to make the most of every opportunity that comes their way.

The morning continued with the first round of sponsor sessions. Duncan Richards the ANZ Education Manager for Sabre Haircare, came bearing Joico Prize boxes full of products for each of the Hot Shots team members, and did a deep dive presentation of Joico and also what’s new in colour innovation and technique, while Laura Shokuhi from DP ExoGrow, shared education around scalp health and hair growth, reinforcing the value of knowledge when talking to clients, and also presented each of the Hotshots with their prizes. The energy lifted again when Ariana Matzaris and Jelena Hanson from AMAZING HAIR arrived with prize packs for each team member and a box of delicious sweet treats!. AHIA Creative 2025 Australian Hairdresser of the Year, Bernadette Beswick, then took the floor, sharing her industry journey, and offering guidance to the team, and the very clear message of never give up! Bernadette also gifted each team member a BES Golden Education ticket, valued at $500 each.

The afternoon session with Matsui Hair Scissors and 3 x Australian Barber of the Year, Matt Clarke was another highlight, with each Hotshot receiving a full kit of premium scissors and personalised training on technique and control. The day finished in true Hot Shots style: pizza at the house followed by a night of fun and games at Hijinx Hotel, and the games

"There is something so special about the moments you officially meet the people you’ve looked up to your whole career - some of the industry’s icons that have shaped and inspired creatively, emotionally and professionally. My biggest take away from my time in the hot shots house was that we’re all human and we all start somewhere. To say “Yes” to any opportunity for growth and that there’s no rest for the wicked, just early bedtimes! We have some really beautiful people in our industry and I’m feeling so grateful for the opportunity to meet a handful of them"

"It was an incredible few days with an absolutely jam-packed itinerary of inspiration and fun. It left me feeling more motivated than ever! I’m so appreciative of all of the guests’ for their generosity in being so open and honest about their journey and their ‘behind the scenes’ in everything they do and their journey to where they are today. I loved Lorna Evans’ story and Bernadette Beswick’s advice on guts and determination, Danny Pato’s prep for a shoot and the friendship between Lyndal and Dee is admirable as two extremely successful women supporting each other in success!"

NATASHA TSANGARIS

EMMA BOYLE

"The hotshot house was like nothing I have ever experience before. From start to finish it was a weekend full of knowledge and unforgettable opportunities. We were able to learn from the best of the best in the industry, get tips and tricks on how to be the best version and hairdresser we can be and leave full of motivation and inspiration. My biggest takeaway from my time in the hotshot house was take everything opportunity you can, work hard and have passion and love what you do. We are in an incredibly industry, full of people who inspire, break the rules around creativity and have a passion for making people feel beautiful. I feel so incredibly lucky and blessed to be in this industry and for the experience I’m the hotshot house."

"During my recent trip to Melbourne with the Hot Shots team I had the incredible opportunity to learn from some of the industry’s most renowned hairdressers. One key takeaway that resonated with me was the importance of having clear intentions and a sense of direction with what matters to you and where you want to go. A common thread with all our mentors was how crucial it is to have a network of safe people… whether it be friends, a team or a supportive partner who trusted in their vision. I truly believe in “help others achieve their dreams and you will achieve yours” and how lucky am I to be blessed with a new network of safe people to make all of our dreams reality. Who knew one weekend could have taught me lifelong lessons and given me lifelong friends!"

arcade! Back at the house, the group talked through what they’d gained over the time in the house and how they could implement it once they returned to their salons.

Day 4 came around quickly but delivered an unforgettable finale. The team had the honour of connecting virtually with Errol Douglas MBE, whose career and international experience left a lasting impact. His advice on consistency, discipline and longevity reminded everyone that great careers are built with purpose over time, not overnight.

A final wrap-up session with Linda, Louise and Jarred brought everything together. It was a chance to reflect on what they had learned, and the mentors they’d met.

The morning concluded with Tracey Lauretta from EVY PROFESSIONAL, presenting the team with their electrical tools & brushes prize pack, and introduced the team to the latest in tool innovation and shared practical ways to elevate both client results and day-to-day

salon work.

And just like that, another Hot Shots House came to an end. The 2025 team left feeling motivated and focused, ready to return to their salons with new ideas, refined skills and a deeper appreciation for the employers and mentors who have supported their journey so far. The support, trust and encouragement shown by their salon owners played a huge part in helping them reach this milestone, and it’s clear that strong mentorship within the salon is the foundation for long-term success.

The 2025 Hot Shots House was not just an experience; it was a springboard for four young stylists who are already making their mark. Bring on 2026!

@joicoaustralianz

@amazinghairaustralia

@evyprofessional

@exogrow_hair

@dermapenworld

@matsuihair

ALYSSIA PEASON

Art

THE OF ELEVATION

Karlie Roberts’ Style & Colour Trophy Story

By Louise May

When passion, persistence and artistry align, magic happens, and this year, that magic belonged to Karlie Roberts of LNDN, VIC, who took home the title of L’Oréal Professionnel Style & Colour Trophy 2025 Winner.

Held in September at the L’Oréal Melbourne Academy and streamed nationwide, the grand final showcased the country’s most talented stylists, each reimagining timeless beauty through the theme “Elevate Classics.”

Representing the renowned Collingwood salon LNDN, owned by Jamie Furlan and Danni Solier, who are both Artistic Team members and global educators for L’Oréal Professionnel, Karlie’s look stood out for its blend of technical precision and understated elegance, a reflection of both her skill and creative maturity.

This was Karlie’s third time entering the competition, proving that dedication and growth truly pay off, because this year, it was her time to shine.

Mocha Hair Magazine editor, Louise May, chats with Karlie about her journey and her incredible win.

Can you tell us about your industry journey so far?

I am working at LNDN salon on Smith Street in Collingwood. I’ve been in the hair industry for 9 years in total for 7 of those years I have been working alongside Jamie Furlan and Danni Solier.

What originally inspired you to pursue hairdressing, and how has your journey shaped the artist you are today?

I tried hairdressing during high school, and wasn’t completely sure whether it was the right path for me. While studying makeup I was given the opportunity to hair model, and from that I saw a side of the industry that really intrigued me and motivated me to pursue hairdressing again. I loved seeing the creativity that came with creating collections, and saw how large the industry really is, and it became such an inspiration for me throughout my career to continue to push myself.

You’ve entered the Style & Colour Trophy before. What did you take away from those earlier experiences that helped you create this year’s winning look?

Previous experiences taught me a lot about creating and competing. A huge takeaway for me, has been to really push myself, and work within my strengths. I don’t want to play it safe, but I need to make sure that I’m showcasing my skills, what I specialise in, but most importantly who I am as well. I always think the best thing about these experiences, is making sure you are proud of the work you have created, regardless of the outcome of the competition.

The theme “Elevate Classics” encouraged artists to reinvent timeless beauty. What was your interpretation of that, and how did you bring it to life in your entry?

For me, I wanted to choose classic haircutting shapes and techniques and use that as a base to elevate my colour work. I love being able to create silhouettes and shapes in both my cutting and colouring.

Who or what inspires you creatively? Do you look to art, fashion, or people around you for ideas?

I find nature and art is a huge inspiration when it comes to colour for me, seeing different textures and colours always stimulates me. Film is also a very big inspiration for me. I love watching films from different eras and different countries as it gives you such great insight into fashion and trends that are going on around the world, not only now but in history as well. I’ll always be inspired by those around me as well. I love seeing people push themselves and try new ideas as it inspires me to keep pushing myself in my craft.

Part of your prize includes an exclusive trip to Paris with L’Oréal Professionnel. What are you most looking forward to about that experience, and how do you think it will influence your future work?

The opportunity still feels like a dream to me! I’m really excited to see where L’Oréal originated and visit the headquarters of such an iconic brand. It’s something I’ll cherish forever because it shows me just how far this career can take you. I think the experience will open my eyes to new techniques, ideas, and ways of working that I can bring back and apply in my own way.

What advice would you give to other stylists thinking about entering next year’s Style & Colour Trophy?

My biggest advice would always be to just give it a go. It’s an incredible opportunity to be able to have creative fun and push yourself out of your comfort zone. It’s an experience that you’ll be able to look back on and be proud of achieving and the connections you make along the way can be lifelong friendships too.

Finally, what’s next for you, both creatively and within your career? How do you plan to build on this incredible milestone?

I’m not too sure yet! I know from this experience I will be having a lot of amazing media opportunities, and I’m really looking forward to seeing what the future holds!

@karliejane.hair

@lndn_hair

2025 CURATE Regional Australia

Colour & Style Award Winner KYNAN BOOTY

Kynan Booty is quickly making his mark as one of regional Australia’s most promising emerging talents thanks to an innate passion for creativity and an unwavering dedication to his craft. Winner of the 2025 CURATE Regional

Australia Colour & Style Award, he brings a fresh perspective and fearless approach to hairdressing that speaks to the future of the industry.

Kynan joined the acclaimed Parlour O in Orange, NSW in April 2024, drawn by its vibrant creative culture and reputation for fostering innovation. Despite having no previous professional experience, his raw talent and ambitious spirit have already distinguished him as a standout in the local community and beyond.

Hairdressing represents the perfect fusion of artistry and personal connection for Kynan. His childhood dream of becoming a hairdresser has evolved into a sophisticated understanding of how hair can serve as a canvas for transformation and self-expression, and his work demonstrates an intuitive grasp of colour theory and styling techniques that belie his newcomer status.

Under the mentorship of Parlour O owners Julia Homard and Sally Dowling, Kynan has rapidly developed both his technical skills and professional mindset. Their guidance has been instrumental in shaping not only his abilities behind the chair but his approach to client relationships and industry professionalism.

Here we explore this rising talent’s journey and creative philosophy.

What does winning the CURATE Regional Australia Colour & Style Award mean to you?

It’s incredible and a bit overwhelming in the best way! Winning this award so early in my career feels like validation that I’m on the right path. It’s given me such a boost in confidence to trust my instincts and keep pushing creative boundaries. What really excites me is knowing this opens doors I hadn’t even dreamed of yet. I hope it also shows other apprentices that you don’t need years of experience to make an impact, sometimes fresh eyes and passion are exactly what the industry needs.

How does your childhood dream of becoming a hairdresser influence your work today?

Having that vision from such a young age means this has never felt like “just a job” to me. I’ve always been drawn to art and creativity, and hair became this perfect medium where I could channel all of that energy. When I work with clients, I’m not just cutting or colouring, I’m helping them express who they are or who they want to become and that childhood excitement is still there every day.

What advice would you give to aspiring apprentices starting their journey?

Embrace being the new person! Don’t be afraid to ask questions or admit when you don’t know something. Find mentors who believe in you and push you to grow, Julia and Sally have been incredible in that way. Also, stay curious about everything. I get inspiration from social media, from watching other stylists work and from random conversations. The more open you are to learning, the faster you’ll develop your own unique style.

Where will we see you next?

I’m focused on building my client base and really honing my technical skills while I finish my apprenticeship, especially diving deeper into advanced colour techniques and exploring new styling methods. Long-term, I’d love to compete more and maybe even mentor other young stylists coming through. I’m passionate about helping shape the future of this industry, bringing new energy and ideas that reflect our generation.

@kynanparlour_o @parlour_o

Celebrating South Australian Talent! PARLOUR ACADEMY & FRIENDS

By Louise May

Jamming Session

What began as a grassroots idea from Karen and Robert Bava 12 years ago has grown into one of South Australia’s most loved industry nights. The Parlour Academy & Friends Jamming Session continues to unite the local hair community for an evening of inspiration, connection, and celebration.

From the outset, Karen and Robert’s vision was simple: to create a platform where hairdressers of all levels could share, learn, and celebrate their craft while giving back to the industry that gives them so much. That purpose remains unchanged, these sessions are about passion, community, and uplifting others in the industry.

This year marked a special milestone, the 10th Parlour Academy & Friends Jamming Session, held at the iconic Capri Theatre in Goodwood. The heritage-listed, volunteer-run art deco venue provided the perfect setting for an evening dedicated to everything that makes South Australia extraordinary. Around 200 guests filled the theatre, soaking up an atmosphere brimming with talent, pride, and home-grown excellence.

The 2025 theme celebrated the creativity, resilience, and pride of South Australia’s hairdressing community, from the pioneers who’ve shaped its identity to the brands making their mark nationally and beyond. Innovators like Hair & Beauty Collective and Davroe were honoured for proving that world-class excellence can thrive locally.

A standout moment came from Mary and Phil from Davroe, who joined host Lee Cohen for a

quick chat about their journey as a proud South Australian brand talking about sustainability, staying true to their values, and the importance of never underestimating the power of being local.

THE SHOW

Backstage buzzed with energy as Media Makeup prepped the models to perfection before the lights dimmed and Lee Cohen opened the show with his trademark warmth and humour.

Session One set the tone with Karen from Parlour Hair, Seb from Seb Did This, and Johnny (2025 AHIA Creative SA Hairdresser of the Year) from Parlour Academy. Their blend of creativity and storytelling inspired the next generation, with Seb’s fearless artistry standing out for its modern edge. Karen’s advice to young stylists; stay curious, work hard, and back yourself, struck a chord across the room. Pre-done looks from Rebecca and Sophia from Parlour Semaphore, Lucy May from Dare Hair, and Daniel from Pipsqueek added freshness and flair.

Session Two delivered variety and insight, with live demos from Konnie from Media Makeup, Travis from Travis Hair, Tiffany from Iris House of Hair, Lisa from CoLab West, and

Marcela from Longko Hair (2025 AHIA Business SA Salon of the Year). Marcela then joined Lee for a segment to discuss her work with the SA Hair & Beauty Association (SAHBA) and how it continues to support and unite the industry. Predone looks from Jack from Elysian, Monet from Kinky Curly Straight, and Kayla from Miss Mae showcased South Australia’s depth of talent.

Session Three lifted the energy to new heights with Uros from Kinky Curly Straight, Robert from Parlour Hair, Sam James (2024 AHIA Australian Hairdresser of the Year) from SJ Establishment, Paul from Dare Hair, and Johnny from Parlour Academy. Their live work displayed the precision and artistry that have placed South Australia firmly on the national stage. During their “3 in 30” segment, each shared quickfire advice for young salon owners and stylists on leadership, courage, and authenticity. Pre-done work by Riley from Rock Retro Scissors added the perfect creative edge to close the show.

COMMUNITY, CONNECTION, AND HEART

Beyond the artistry, the true spirit of the evening lay in its sense of togetherness. Every artist, model, guest, sponsor, and organiser contributed to what has become one of South Australia’s most anticipated annual events.

As the applause filled the Capri Theatre and all artists came back on stage, it was clear that the Parlour Academy & Friends Jamming Session is more than an event. It’s a celebration of creativity, community, and South Australian pride, a night where connection meets craftsmanship, leaving everyone inspired to keep creating, collaborating, and giving back.

Natasha hotshots team members

By Louise May

Meet the AHIA 2025 Tsangaris

In the last issue of Mocha Hair, we introduced you to AHIA 2025 Hot Shots team member Georgia Maguire. With two issues – and two Hot Shots – still to come, this edition we shine the spotlight on Natasha Tsangaris, one of the four rising stars who make up the 2025/26 Hot Shots Team.

Eight years in, Natasha Tsangaris has built a career grounded in passion, precision, and purpose. Her journey began at Luke Reynolds Hairdressing, where she honed her technical skills and developed a deep respect for the craft. Those early years shaped her understanding of what it means to create connection and confidence through hair.

Today, as part of the Rokstar team, Natasha continues to grow under the mentorship of Brodie Tsiknaris – exploring her creativity, refining her artistry, and embracing opportunities that challenge and inspire her. Being named one of the 2025 Hot Shots is another step in a journey defined by hard work, humility, and a genuine love for what she does.

Editor of Mocha Beauty chats with Natasha about her industry journey and what it means to be an AHIA Creative’s Hotshot.

Tell us about your industry journey?

I’ve been in the hairdressing industry for eight years, and what a journey it’s been –full of growth, creativity, and opportunities that have shaped me both personally and professionally.

I began my career at Luke Reynolds Hairdressing, where I built the foundation of my skills and first started entering competitions. It was such an important time for me to find my feet, discover the technical side of hairdressing, and begin to understand the deeper impact of creating confidence and connection through my craft. The real shift came when I made the move to Rokstar Salon. Joining Rokstar was about taking my career to the next level, but it became so much more than that. With the mentorship and direction of Brodie Tsiknaris, I was given the encouragement and push I needed to really step into my potential.

Brodie has been instrumental in nurturing my creativity, refining my techniques, and showing me what’s possible when you combine hard work with vision. It’s here at Rokstar that the magic truly started for me.

Every stage of my career has shaped who I am today, but Rokstar has given me the space, mentorship, and belief to keep evolving. I’m more motivated than ever to push boundaries, embrace new opportunities, and continue making my mark in this incredible industry.

What inspired you to become a hairdresser?

I’ve always been obsessed with hair. I was that kid who’d get caught with scissors in hand, taking little chunks out of anyone’s hair, I could get near. In my teens and early twenties, I became my own canvas, rocking vivid colours, bold shaggy cuts, and constantly experimenting. My friends weren’t safe either; they were often roped in for panel work and all-over colours. The thrill of creativity and transformation had me hooked from the very beginning. Looking back, it feels like becoming a hairdresser was inevitable. What started as curiosity and fun has grown into a career that fuels my passion and drive every single day.

How do you manage the balance of work and life?

I feel incredibly fortunate to work in an environment where work–life balance is genuinely valued. At Rokstar, we work a four-day week, Tuesday to Friday, which gives me the space to recharge on weekends, spend quality time with loved ones, and enjoy life outside the salon. But it also creates room for me to focus on my growth as a stylist, whether that’s investing in education and training, assisting on photoshoots, or being part of brand-exclusive events and behind-the-scenes opportunities.

This balance keeps burnout at bay and allows me to show up every day with fresh energy and creativity. Having the time to nurture myself means I can give even more to my craft, my clients, and my career. For me, balance isn’t just about rest, it’s about fuelling my passion, so I can keep evolving as a hairdresser.

Who inspires you in the industry and why?

There are so many incredible legends in our industry that it’s almost impossible to narrow it down. A few who have really shaped my inspiration through their work on shoots include Danny Pato, his collections are always breathtaking and showcase a level of artistry that leaves me in awe. Lyndal Salmon’s precision and colour work constantly amazes me, while Dee Parker Attwood’s collections never fail to spark fresh ideas.

I’ve also long admired Bill and Brodie Tsiknaris; their collections are phenomenal, and I feel incredibly grateful to now be mentored by and working alongside Brodie.

Sharon Blain is another huge influence. I’ve saved countless tutorials of hers and continue to bring them into practice on shoots.

Honestly, the list could go on. I idolise so many creatives in this industry who push boundaries, elevate the craft, and motivate me to keep growing, experimenting, and finding my own unique voice in hairdressing.

If you could spend a day with anyone from a business or lifestyle mentorship perspective, who would it be and why?

If I could spend a day with anyone, it would be Bernadette Beswick. I’m inspired by how she balances so many aspects of her career, from creating stunning editorial work to educating and mentoring other stylists, all while running a successful business. Her approach is uplifting, motivational, and practical, and I’d love to learn how she manages it all while continuing to push creativity and excellence. Spending a day with Bernadette would be an incredible opportunity to gain insights into building a sustainable, impactful, and fulfilling career in hairdressing

How important are competitions and awards to you?

Competitions and awards are a huge part of my journey because they give me the space to dive into complete creative freedom. They challenge me to step outside my comfort zone, experiment with new ideas, and create work that I wouldn’t normally get to explore in everyday salon life. Just as inspiring is the chance to see what other incredible creatives bring to the table, it fuels my motivation and reminds me how extraordinary this industry truly is.

For me, it’s never just about winning. While recognition is always exciting, I approach competitions with humility and the mindset of growth. They’re about learning, pushing boundaries, celebrating artistry, and uplifting the talent around us. At the heart of it, competitions are a celebration of creativity and the community we’re so lucky to be part of.

What excites you most about being a Hotshot? I’m most excited about the opportunity to dive deeper into my career and continue growing as a stylist and creative. Being part of Hot Shots is an incredible chance to create and build meaningful connections with other passionate professionals in the industry. It’s also about embracing opportunities for growth, learning from peers and mentors, and pushing my own creative boundaries. Above all, I’m looking forward to enjoying every moment of the experience and making the most of everything this amazing opportunity has to offer.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

In 10 years, I’d love to see myself fully immersed in the creative side of the industry, working on and assisting in fashion weeks, photoshoots, and brand-exclusive events. I want to continue expanding my own skills while also educating and mentoring future hairdressers, sharing the knowledge and experience I’ve gained to help the next generation grow. I’d also love to collaborate with brands, bringing my creativity and expertise to exciting projects and campaigns. Equally important is building strong, lasting connections within the industry, being part of a community that inspires, challenges, and supports each other. Ultimately, I want to look back and see a career defined by growth, creativity, collaboration, and meaningful contributions to the world of hairdressing.

FAST FUN FAVES

Fav holiday destination: Switzerland

Fav drink: Something sweet

Fav food/meal: Mediterranean

Fav music/song: Ranges from 80s and 90s throwbacks to pop, punk, hardcore and heavy metal

Celeb high school crush: Ryan Reynolds

If I wasn’t a hairdresser, what would I be: Photographer or something creative

@tash_rokstar

THE LAS VEGAS TOUR

When opportunity calls, you answer, even if it is 14 hours away and halfway across the world. That is exactly what Mocha Group’s General Manager, Jarred Stedman, did when he was invited to join 4Barbers Education, Matsui Hair, and international barbering powerhouse Josh.O.P on their global launch tour for the new scissor collaboration, unveiled at the LV Barber Expo in Las Vegas.

As the official media partner, Mocha Group was invited to personally join the collaboration on their journey, capturing the behind-the-scenes moments, global launch, and the Australian team’s incredible presence on one of the world’s biggest barbering stages.

This partnership between Matsui Hair, 4Barbers, and Josh.O.P marked a major milestone for the industry, combining Japanese craftsmanship, Australian innovation, and American artistry to create a range designed for professionals who demand precision and performance.

The Journey to Vegas

The adventure began on a long-haul flight from Australia to Los Angeles, where Jarred joined Fraser Forsey owner of 4Barbers, Matt Clarke (4Barber Creative Director and two-time AMBA Barber of the Year), and the Matsui Hair Directors Lisa and Tom, who flew in from Western Australia. From there, it was a six-hour drive through the desert to reach the bright lights of Las Vegas and the beginning of an unforgettable two weeks.

As the official media partner, Mocha Group documented every step, from team travel and preparation to the moment the collaboration was unveiled to the world.

Preparation and Purpose

Before the excitement of the expo came the real work. The team spent long days on logistics, quality control, and fine-tuning every detail of the launch. There were moments of planning, problem solving, and teamwork, all focused on ensuring the collaboration represented the quality and reputation behind each brand involved.

Matsui Director Tom shared insight into the meticulous process behind creating tools of this calibre, combining Japanese steel, precision design, and months of testing to ensure every scissor met professional expectations. During preparations, Jarred sat down with Fraser Forsey to discuss what the expo meant for the team, the training that was taking place around the new Matsui products, and the global significance of this partnership, which brings together artistry, craftsmanship, and education.

The Global Launch

When the doors opened to the LV Barber Expo, the energy was electric. Barbers from across the world gathered to see, learn, and connect. For the Australian contingent, it was a proud moment to see their collaboration on display at one of the industry’s most prestigious international events.

The partnership between Matsui Hair, 4Barbers, and Josh.O.P was founded on shared values of excellence, education, and accessibility. As Josh explained, the purpose behind the collaboration was about uniting Japanese precision, Australian innovation, and American creativity, to deliver tools that elevate every barber’s craft.

For Matsui Director Lisa, Vegas was more than another stop on a global tour. It was one of

thirteen international shows planned for the year, each requiring immense coordination and effort. The outcome was a professional showcase, that celebrated global teamwork, skill, and the shared love of the craft.

Giving Back to the Industry

After the expo, the team visited The Original Barber School in Las Vegas, a stop that became one of the most meaningful moments of the entire trip. Welcomed by passionate educators and dedicated students, Fraser, Matt, and the Matsui team spent time connecting with the next generation of barbers.

In an incredible act of generosity, every student in class received either a new set of scissors, clippers, or trimmers. It was a gesture that embodied the heart of the barbering community, where education, sharing, and support always come first.

The visit served as a reminder of the power of connection, showing how much can be learned and shared when professionals across countries come together to lift the industry higher under strong and passionate leadership.

A big shout out is required for Carl Littles, aka ‘Mr Little’, who is the founder / owner of The Original Barber School LV. He welcomed the team into his school and understood and celebrated the power of collaboration.

When Collaboration Goes Global!

By Louise May

Desert Dreams

After the hard work came a chance to celebrate. Before the team headed back to LA, there was one more day in Vegas which was filled with a professional studio shoot.

The main objective was to capture Josh.O.P, using and explaining the new range of scissors and how each one is unique. Plus getting some editorial shots of the models around Vegas.

On the five-hour drive back to Los Angeles, the group transformed the journey into a desert photoshoot, capturing stunning visuals of the new collaboration against the rugged Nevada landscape.

With a fresh haircut by Josh.O.P, the previous day, Blair Martin was the model, under the creative direction of Matt Clarke and Jarred Stedman the desert shoot was creative representation of an international launch in Vegas.

Wrapping It Up

Two weeks in the United States brought moments of challenge, pride, and connection. From the global product launch to education and video training, community engagement, and media coverage, the tour reflected the true spirit of modern barbering.

For Mocha Group, it was an honour to be invited to join the collaboration and document the experience for the Australian and New Zealand industries. It was not only a chance to showcase Australian talent on an international platform, but also to witness firsthand how education and collaboration continue to evolve globally.

As the team made their way home, one thing was certain. The Vegas Tour was more than a launch; it was a celebration of passion, people, and progress... and a glimpse into what the future of global barbering looks like.

Imagery by Jarred Stedman. @4barbersau @matsuihair @barber.josh.o.p

ASPYA 2025

A Family Legacy, A Shared Vision.

By Louise May

The 23rd De Lorenzo ASPYA Conference took place in Cairns across three vibrant days in September, bringing together education, recognition and connection under the banner of Tropical Wonder.

For the 193 delegates in attendance, the gathering was more than an industry event. It was a reminder of the power of community, the value of shared learning, and the importance of staying connected to the “why” behind the work. Louise May was delighted to attend as a guest in her role as Editor in Chief of Mocha Group, and to experience the first-hand the warmth and unity that defined the event.

Hosted at the Crystalbrook Riley, one of Cairns’ most stunning hotels, the venue provided the perfect backdrop for the conference. Delegates stayed, learned, and celebrated together in a setting that combined five-star comfort with tropical character. With accommodation, conference and social spaces all in one place, the flow of the event encouraged delegates to connect easily and carry conversations beyond the formal sessions.

A Family United in Purpose

At the heart of ASPYA 2025 was the De Lorenzo family, who led the program not as individuals but as a united voice. Their story stretches back more than 80 years to great-great-grandfather Giuseppe De Lorenzo, and to Vincent De Lorenzo, whose commitment to integrity, care and education has shaped every generation since.

In Cairns, Chris, Anthony and Luca De Lorenzo stood together to reflect on what that heritage means today. They spoke of the pride of being family-owned, the determination it takes to remain independent, and the resilience that has kept them true to their path. They reflected on the challenges of growth, the setbacks that demanded agility, and the loyalty of both staff and salons who have been part of their journey. The family’s message was clear: while the industry has changed dramatically over the decades, the values of family, care, education, loyalty and sustainability remain the anchors of

the business. These principles are not negotiable. They are the heart of who De Lorenzo is and will continue to be.

A New Era with Familiar Values

ASPYA 2025 also marked the introduction of Luca De Lorenzo as General Manager, representing the third generation of leadership. Luca’s presence symbolised both continuity and evolution. He spoke of modernising systems and adapting to a fast-changing industry, while also reaffirming that the company’s values would remain unchanged.

Sustainability has long been part of the De Lorenzo story, and Luca emphasised that the brand is continuing this commitment with the same focus it has always had. He described it as a responsibility that underpins decisions across the business, ensuring that care for people and the environment remains central as the company looks ahead. His perspective highlighted the balance between honouring heritage and carrying forward the values that define the brand.

A Commitment to Sustainability

That message was reinforced by Shuba Paheerathan, Partnerships Manager at Sustainable Salons ANZ, who attended the event to share the organisation’s work. She outlined how salons are reducing waste, recycling materials and contributing to social good, and how partnerships across the sector can amplify those efforts. In short, her message to the ASPYA audience was that sustainability is not only about being environmentally conscious, but also about creating a positive social and business impact when the industry works together.

Delegates were also treated to a new video created by De Lorenzo and Sustainable Salons, capturing the two organisations visiting each other’s businesses and reflecting on their shared commitment to reducing waste and driving

positive change. The film gave an authentic look at how aligned values can translate into practical action, reinforcing the importance of collaboration in building a more sustainable future.

Her presence highlighted the strength of the partnership between De Lorenzo and Sustainable Salons, showing how sustainability has long been part of the brand’s story and remains a responsibility that sits at the heart of the wider ASPYA community.

Atmosphere and Connection

ASPYA has always been known for combining serious learning with moments of joy and connection. The opening dinner at Mexicairn captured that spirit perfectly. With its Mexican theme and dress-up, the night was filled with music, colour and laughter, immediately creating a sense of family among delegates.

The Gala Awards the following evening at The Sugar Shed carried a different energy, elegant yet relaxed. With a Black-Tie dress code softened by a touch of Country, the night celebrated the achievements of ASPYA salons with warmth and humour.

Guiding the 3 day event was Rob Carlton, who returned as Emcee. His wit and timing kept the program flowing while reminding everyone that learning and laughter can coexist. His contribution added an energy that matched the spirit of ASPYA itself, professional but never without heart.

Insights From the Stage

ASPYA 2025 offered delegates a line-up of speakers that balanced inspiration with practical strategies. Each session was designed to challenge thinking while providing tools that could be applied directly back in the salon. Therese Tarlinton spoke about the power of partnerships, drawing on her experience in marketing and collaboration. She explained how salons often hold untapped assets that, when

paired with local businesses, can increase visibility without requiring large advertising budgets. Through case studies, she showed how simple collaborations such as crosspromotions with neighbouring businesses or joint events can create mutual growth. Her session encouraged delegates to think beyond traditional marketing and to see their salon as part of a wider business ecosystem. Milo-Arne Wilkinson, internationally recognised behavioural scientist and performance coach, delivered one of the most thought-provoking presentations of the conference. She unpacked how the brain filters thousands of pieces of information every minute, yet only allows a fraction of it into conscious awareness. Through interactive demonstrations, she showed how much people miss when focus is misplaced, and how easily assumptions can cloud communication. For salon owners and leaders, the lesson was clear: the way you choose to listen, observe and respond directly impacts your team, your clients, and the growth of your business. Delegates left with practical insights into decision-making, problem solving and client connection.

Fiona Beamish, newly appointed CEO of the Australian Hairdressing Council, shared key industry data and insights. She reminded delegates of the AHC’s mission to raise standards, act as the voice to government, and support salons and training providers through advocacy and connection. Fiona highlighted that there are now more than 70,000 registered hairdressing businesses, reflecting a 5 per cent increase in the past year, while 71 per cent of operators are now working solo.

She also addressed the biggest concerns facing salon owners, with rising business costs and a national skills shortage at the forefront. Fiona noted that over 65 per cent of salons report difficulty attracting qualified staff, compounded by declining apprenticeship enrolments and completions. She outlined the AHC’s work with government and industry bodies to update training packages and improve retention, as well as initiatives designed to reduce business costs and strengthen apprenticeship pathways. Importantly, she reminded delegates of De Lorenzo’s role as a foundation member of the AHC and thanked the brand for its longstanding support of the council’s work.

Estelle Carroll (Boss Coaching) took the stage to share her leadership journey, from her early days as an apprentice to becoming an award-winning salon owner and coach. She outlined her five-pillar framework, vision, communication, systems, training and accountability, as the foundation for building a high-performing team. Estelle also introduced the concept of “decidership,” her term for decisive leadership, and stressed the importance of making confident, valuesbased choices. She spoke candidly about the realities of balancing personal life with business growth, reminding delegates that leadership is as much about clarity and care as it is about results.

Shannon James Williams, known for his editorial and celebrity work, brought energy and artistry to the stage. Creating a styling showcase that was as inspiring as it was practical. The focus was on creating mediaready looks that translate to both clients

and digital platforms. Shannon spoke openly about staying authentic, encouraging delegates not to mimic trends blindly but to define and own their own brand identity. His experience across fashion, film and editorial gave context to how salons can lift their visibility while staying true to who they are.

A special mention also to both Ellie Bolton from Honey Hair in Kwinana, WA & Holly Breen from Californian Blonde QLD, who created the beautiful colour work.

Closing the conference was Toni Powell, whose session combined humour, storytelling and heartfelt honesty. She encouraged delegates to consider how perspective shapes every part of life and business. By reframing challenges with gratitude, she explained, stress can be reduced and resilience strengthened. Through anecdotes, from everyday examples to life-changing stories, Toni demonstrated how positivity is not about ignoring difficulties, but about deliberately choosing where to place focus. Her session ended the conference on an uplifting note, reminding everyone that the way they see the world can directly influence the outcomes they create.

Beyond the Stage

Alongside the formal presentations, delegates also had the chance to explore exhibitor stands. Sustainable Salons were present to highlight their programs and impact, further reinforcing the sustainability message woven throughout the conference. Beside them, EVY PROFESSIONAL showcased their tools and innovations, including the launch of their new-to-market plasmaAIR dryer, which drew plenty of interest from salon owners eager to see the technology first-hand.

Recognition and Awards

The ASPYA Awards once again celebrated achievement across the network, not just in numbers but in creativity and loyalty.

• Soul Hair, McGraths Hill was recognised for its outstanding growth in retail sales.

• White Diamond Hair Design achieved the highest growth in professional products.

• Coffs Coast Hair Studio impressed with the strongest mystery shopper result.

• Finnesse Hair was applauded for its creativity in social media.

The Hall of Fame acknowledged the commitment of EP Teaze Hairdresser and Stylish Notts, both of whom have been part of the ASPYA program for more than 15 years. Their induction reflected the loyalty and consistency that has shaped the community since its beginnings.

A Collective Takeaway

ASPYA 2025 was a reflection of what can be achieved when education, recognition and community come together, guided by values that have never wavered. For three days in Cairns, delegates experienced a program that balanced learning with laughter, celebration with connection, and heritage with vision for the future.

The De Lorenzo family’s message was delivered not as individuals but as one united voice. Success is not just measured by growth or awards, but by staying true to the values and principles that have guided them for generations.

HAIR THE MOVEMENT

A New Era for Hairdressing Education & Artistry.

Sydney became the creative heartbeat of the global hairdressing community as Hair The Movement debuted in September, a bold threeday festival of artistry, education, and connection. Conceived by industry legend Sharon Blain OAM and staged at the Fullerton Hotel, the event was more than a showcase — it was a statement of intent.

Backed by major sponsors KEVIN.MURPHY and Dyson, and featuring some 35 world-class educators, the program fused cutting-edge learning with boundary-pushing creativity, underscoring Australia’s position as a hub of hair innovation.

From immersive seminars to the Australian premiere of the global NOISE show, the event set a new benchmark for what education and inspiration can look like when artistry meets community.

Day 1: Expert Artists Take the Stage

The opening day, sponsored by CPR Hair and compered by the incomparable Tabatha Coffey, placed 14 of Australia and New Zealand’s brightest talents in the spotlight.

Across four dynamic sessions, audiences experienced rotating showcases in colour, barbering, precision cutting, and editorial styling. Names like Kristie Kesic, Justin Pace, Marilyn Guarino, Leigh Winsor, Gina Yates, James Akers, Dave McCulloch, Scott Sloan, Jules Tognini, Jenni Tarrant, Michael Beel, Jamie Furlan, Caterina Di Biase, and Lauren McCowan each brought their unique creative language to the stage.

The day culminated in the Movement Launch Celebration Evening, proudly supported by Seamless1, where networking flowed as freely as the drinks and canapés, marking the perfect start to the three-day journey.

Day 2: Global Masters Power Sessions

Education scaled up on day two with three concurrent rooms of international icons and local legends, each running in-depth 60–120 minute sessions:

• Room 1: Cutting Mastery – hosted by Kylie Dwyer, with sharp technical precision from Nathan Haley, Joel Torres, Nick Arrojo, Rick Roberts, and Dove Palmer.

• Room 2: Styling Innovation – sponsored by KEVIN.MURPHY and hosted by Tiffany Blair, showcasing Sharon Blain, Wendy Iles, Aminata Kamara, Jean Baptiste Santens, Danny Pato, and Kevin himself in a special “20 Questions for 20 Years” feature.

• Room 3: Colour Expertise & Business – hosted by Gary Latham with Bernadette Beswick, Stevie English, Matt Clements, and Ashlee Norman; plus a Business Leaders Panel featuring Carla Thompson, Helen Owens, Nicole Kae, Oscar Cullinan, Sam James, and Samantha Jones, co-hosted by Linda Woodhead.

The night belonged to NOISE. For the first time on Australian soil, the underground cultshow wowed audiences at Sydney’s Machine Hall. With Richard Ashforth, Kobi Bokshish, Peter Grey, Dee Parker Attwood, Lyndal Salmon, and Benni Tognini, the show blurred the line between art and rebellion, as hair became sculpture, fashion, and performance.

Day 3: Legends, Learning & Inspiration

The final day brought conversation and creativity together.

• Hair to Fame: Diverse Success Stories, hosted by Richard Kavanagh, saw icons including Tabatha Coffey, Patrick Fitzpatrick, Sarah Laidlaw, Sheridan Rose Shaw, Kerrie Stanley, Brodie Lee Tsiknaris, and Chrissy Zemura share candid stories of resilience, reinvention, and creative courage.

• Learning with Legends, sponsored by Showpony and NAK Hair, followed with a threehour showcase where NOISE artists pulled back the curtain, recreating their avantgarde masterpieces live while unpacking the methods and inspiration behind them.

More Than an Event

Alongside its packed program, Hair The Movement proudly supported philanthropy, raising funds for Giant Steps, a charity supporting children with autism, through initiatives by A.H Salon and Sustainable Salons.

With its fusion of education, artistry, business insight, and community spirit, Hair The Movement proved to be more than a gathering — it was the launch of a movement that will shape the future of hairdressing in Australia and beyond.

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CURATE AWARDS

Return for Third Year! 2026 Entries Now Open!

After two incredibly successful years changing the lives of Australian and New Zealand apprentices, the CURATE Awards are back for 2026, and they're bigger and better than ever. This unique competition initiative to spotlight ANZ's most promising apprentice talent has proven so transformative since expanding to include New Zealand last year, continuing to foster creative growth and elevate careers across both countries.

Brisbane hairdressing icon and AHIA Creative Australian Hairdresser of the Year 2023 Justin Pace created this ground-breaking platform to discover and celebrate our most talented urban and regional Apprentices through the delivery of exciting hair vision and creativity. What sets CURATE apart is its unprecedented access, giving apprentices the unique opportunity to have the best in the industry view their work and raise their profile as rising stars. There is simply no other opportunity like it in the hairdressing world.

The goal remains to reinvigorate a sustainable industry by attracting, inspiring, and retaining a new generation of driven and motivated hairdressers whilst elevating the perception of hairdressing as one of the most exciting career pathways in both the creative and education sectors.

The 2026 CURATE categories include:

• Urban Cut and Colour - Australia

• Urban Colour and Style - Australia

• Regional Cut and Colour - Australia

• Regional Colour and Style - Australia

• Colour and Style - New Zealand

For Salon Owners and Directors, CURATE is a unique tool to motivate and guide Apprentices to enter the competitive arena for the first time and to shine a light on their salon.

For Apprentices, CURATE presents not only the opportunity to make a name for themselves, but to win incredible prizes. Winners will each receive a $10K+ prize package comprising full-day photo shoot workshop with Justin, tickets to the AHIA Creative Awards gala and Hair Festival, coverage in Official Media Partner Mocha Hair magazine and across Mocha Hair digital platforms, as well as many more goodies.

The industry has once again thrown its support behind this powerful initiative with collaborators including Major Partner REDKEN; Prize Partners ACCESS Hair Education by L’Oréal, Angel Extensions, ghd and Matsui Hair; Sustainability Partner Sustainable Salons; and Proud Supporters the Australian Hairdressing Council, MIG Training and Taylorweir Hairdressing & Barber Training.

KEY DATES:

• Launch – 1st October 2025

• Entry deadline – 2nd March 2026

• Finalists announced – 19th April 2026

• Winners announced – 17th May 2026

www.curateawards.com

Facebook: CurateAwardsForApprentices

Instagram: @curateawards

IMPORTANT DATES:

PRODUCT ENTRY DEADLINE 2 nd FEBUARY ‘26

GENERAL ENTRY DEADLINE 20 th FEBUARY ‘26

FINALISTS ANNOUNCED 23 rd MARCH ‘26

AWARDS NIGHT 20 th APRIL 2026 GOLD COAST, QLD

IN 2026 THE AMBA WILL BE HELD ON THE LAST NIGHT OF:

TONI&GUY AUSTRALIA

30 Years of , Education & Innovation Creativity

By Louise May

Celebrating 30 years of evolution, artistry, and ambition, TONI&GUY Australia have built a community of hairdressers, salon owners, and educators united by the pursuit of excellence, while nurturing the next generation of talent and continuing to lead the industry.

Thirty years ago, Dennis Langford envisioned a new era for Australian hairdressingone that would elevate the craft and bring the heritage of TONI&GUY to our shores. Having honed his skills internationally in Japan and London, Dennis was not only a phenomenal hairdresser and educator but also a true visionary. In 1995, he set out to raise the standard of Australian hairdressing, by introducing a powerful global education force to an eager local salon culture.

Embodying the legacy of the TONI&GUY Flagship Academy in London, Dennis brought home a culture built on creativity, education, and fashionforward thinking that would go on to reshape the Australian hairdressing industry. Three decades on, that culture continues to evolve. It’s focused on shaping a new generation of hairdressers, supporting 19 salon partners across the country. Together, they are redefining what it means to lead in an ever-changing industry.

The early launch (1995–2000)

The founding Mascolo brothers - Toni, Bruno, Guy, and Anthony - championed Dennis to bring TONI&GUY to Australia. He brought with him the brand’s core education principles and a salon culture that had already set a global benchmark. Fuelled by that ethos, the flagship salon in Sydney’s Oxford St Darlinghurst was established. From day one, TONI&GUY Australia’s vision was bold — to unite creative hairdressing, highfashion influence, and world-class education within a distinctly Australian salon experience. Born from TONI&GUY’s London roots, it carried forward a legacy of pushing the boundaries of hair fashion since the early 1960s. By the end of the 1990s, TONI&GUY’s Australian rollout had gained serious momentum - within four years, eight salons had opened across Sydney, Brisbane, and Perth. This period set the tone for what TONI&GUY Australia would become. It became a destination for clients seeking phenomenal hair, and for stylists eager to join a global brand infused with local energy.

Building a national presence (2000–2010)

As the new millennium dawned, TONI&GUY’s global systems began to shape the Australian business. In Sydney’s Paddington, the brand relaunched its flagship salon and Academy, signalling that TONI&GUY was more than just a chain of salons. It had become a creative and educational hub.

In 2004, TONI&GUY Australia chose Wella Professionals as its colour house, uniting two legacies defined by creativity, innovation, and technical mastery. Together, they deliver exceptional colour results and premium home hair care experiences, while providing stylists with products and education to elevate their craft. That same year, TONI&GUY became the official partner of London Fashion Week with its premium professional collection, LABEL.M, cementing the brand’s identity in fashion, editorial, and highend hair artistry. LABEL.M continues to grow and expand, remaining the brand’s in-house professional styling product and benefiting from ongoing collaboration with London Fashion Week. By the end of the decade, TONI&GUY Australia had firmly established itself as a leader in hair education. Classic, advanced, and editorial courses made the Academy a magnet for ambitious stylists, artists, and colourists, attracting talent from across Australia and internationally.

Innovation, Identity & Culture (2010–2020)

During the 2010s, TONI&GUY Australia embraced the twin pillars of heritage and innovation. The global brand celebrated its 50th anniversary, and locally, the focus sharpened on creativity, education and community. Responding to the industry’s growing appetite for world-class education, strengthening the Academy became a central strategic focus in Australia.

In 2017, the launch of the Pink Scissor Program into TONI&GUY Australia salons marked a proud milestone. This complimentary service helps clients navigate the emotional experience of hair loss during cancer treatment, embodying the brand’s commitment to community and unwavering support for those on their journey. Salon culture also continued to evolve, TONI&GUY

Australia moved to blend high-fashion editorial work with high-street accessibility. Whether it was a bold colour transformation or a refined precision haircut, the brand catered to both aspirational clients and commercial stylists alike. Throughout the decade, milestones like 15, 20, and 25 years were celebrated with infectious energy by the team. Marking wins together reflects the pride, passion, and creativity the team brings to the brand - a true family where every member feels integral.

30 years & beyond

Entering the 2020s, TONI&GUY Australia is firmly established, guided by a clear vision and a lasting presence in the industry. In 2022, Sara Langford took the helm as CEO of TONI&GUY Australia, bringing vision, creativity, and unwavering drive. Respected by colleagues and peers alike, she leads with an empathetic, human touch, ensuring the brand’s success is always grounded in people as much as innovation. Despite an ever-changing hair-fashion landscape, TONI&GUY continues to invest in education, mentorship programs and digital learning through its global academies. Both in Australia and around the globe, the brand is positioning itself to lead the next generation of hairdressing talent.

Pillars of Success: What Has Kept TONI&GUY Australia at the Forefront Education has always been at the heart of TONI&GUY Australia. From the very beginning, the Academy model set the brand apart. By combining global education frameworks with a focus on local talent, TONI&GUY has built a strong pipeline of stylists skilled in both technique and fashion-led thinking. While the brand is rooted in the London and Italian Mascolo legacy, TONI&GUY Australia tailored the brand to the Australian market. It embraces street-smart casual, urban sophistication, and

‘Chew off more than you can chew, and chew like crazy’ – MD Dennis Langford

regional diversity, all tailored to resonate with Australian clients and stylists alike. Growth has been driven not just by salon openings and franchising, but also by innovation and a keen understanding of the client experience. The brand has embraced new technologies and services, including the launch of Hair Therapy, which elevates the basin experience with a luxurious shiatsu massage. By staying in tune with client needs and the realities of busy modern life, TONI&GUY ensures its offering remains luxurious, relevant and ahead of the curve.

At the same time, TONI&GUY invests deeply in its people. Programs such as the Breakthrough Team, National Education Conference, and London Bootcamp nurture young stylists, ensuring the brand remains relevant, futurefocused, and ready to lead the next generation of hairdressing talent.

As TONI&GUY Australia reflects on three decades, it’s noting how far the brand has come. From a single salon on Sydney’s Oxford Street to a national network, a hub for education and innovation, and a homegrown version of a global brand with its own identity.

Three decades is a remarkable milestone in any industry. As the next chapter unfolds, TONI&GUY Australia stands not just as a salon brand, but as a cultural anchor, a talent accelerator, and an institution. The next thirty years promise to be as dynamic, inventive, and ambitious as the first - continuing to shape the future of Australian hairdressing.

Twenty years of

For 20 years, Amazing Hair has been a beacon of innovation and beauty in the hair industry. What began as a passion project has blossomed into a trusted brand known for excellence in hair extensions, and client care. Through years of dedication, creativity and commitment to quality, Amazing Hair has earned its place in the hearts of clients, stylists and the wider hair community alike.

As we mark this anniversary, we celebrate not just what Amazing Hair has built, but the people behind it – the team, the clients, and everyone who believed in the vision.

As proud supporters of the industry and the mocha group a Huge Congratulations to Ariana Mantzaris and Peter Georgoulos from Linda, Jarred, Louise, Kellie, Brittany and the rest of the team.

Congratulations Ariana and Peter!

What an incredible milestone, 20 years of Amazing Hair! I’m so proud of everything you’ve achieved and the extraordinary brand you’ve built. From the very beginning, we’ve supported each other in every possible way. Through the highs, the challenges, the launches, the shows, and all the magic in between.

Your passion, professionalism, and heart have always shone through, and it’s been such an honour to grow alongside you over all these years.

A very special shout-out for your ongoing support of HOT SHOTS. Your belief in nurturing new talent has made such a lasting difference in shaping the next generation of our industry. Here’s to two decades of excellence, collaboration, and friendship and to everything still to come. With love and admiration.

Linda Woodhead, ceo and founder of mocha group

Congratulations to Amazing Hair Australia on 20 incredible years!

Everyone loves dealing with beautiful people, and Ariana, Peter, and their amazing team truly embody that. They are always so supportive and constantly go above and beyond to help – nothing is ever too much trouble. The quality of their hair speaks for itself, setting the standard for excellence in our industry. It’s no surprise they’ve stayed at the forefront of innovation year after year. Here’s to two decades of passion, creativity, and outstanding service, and to many more to come!

Lorna Evans

I always use a lot of hair in my collections, and hands down, Amazing Hair is the absolute best quality and the best people to deal with.

Over the years, I’ve developed a special friendship with Ariana. She is an incredible, hilarious, and generous woman, with such a beautiful heart.

Amazing Hair is such a huge supporter of the industry. They consistently support, sponsor and lift up the community. Hairdressing is lucky to have them.

Danny Pato

Amazing Hair has been instrumental in my career for over 10 years, from clients, my editorial and hair shoots to even being used in the celebrities I have looked after. Ariana and the team always have my back, nothing is an issue and without them I couldn’t do my job. Happiest of anniversaries… you really are amazing!

Michael Beel

Cheers to an incredible 20 years of, growth, success, innovation, consistency and excellence!!

Ari and her Amazing Hair queens are a force! Thank you for always supporting me and being such an instrumental part of my growth over the last 12 years! You always find a way to make it work, quick turn arounds, 150% care factor for your clients and ours!

A quality that is always evolving, and second to none!

Cheers to another Amazing 20 years!

Sam James

Happy 20th Anniversary, Amazing Hair! Amazing Hair changed everything for me. As an artist, finding a brand that matches your standards for innovation and creativity is rare but Amazing Hair does it effortlessly.

Two decades of transformation, excellence, and confidence and I’m so grateful to be part of that legacy.

Being part of Amazing Hair feels like home. I've never felt more supported, seen, or free to create.

Here’s to 20 years of pushing boundaries… and the future we’re about to build next.

Domi Cherie

For me, Amazing Hair has always been more than a hair brand…. it’s a creative partner that’s been woven into every artistic journey I take! Ariana’s warmth, generosity and unwavering commitment to quality, is a true gift to our industry. Congratulations on 20 years of artistry and heart!

Lyndal Salmon

I’ve had the pleasure of knowing Ariana Mantzaris for many years, and she is one of the most genuine, warm, and uplifting people in our industry. No matter what event or awards night I attend, Ariana will always go out of her way to greet me with a big hug and the kindest words. She radiates positivity and grace; truly a bright shining light in Australian hairdressing.

Introduced to me by my beautiful wife Brodie, Ariana has become someone I hold great respect and admiration for. What she’s achieved with Amazing Hair over two decades in one of the most competitive markets in our industry is nothing short of incredible. The brand continues to go from strength to strength under her vision and heart. Congratulations, Ariana. You deserve every success.

Bill Tsiknaris

Adriana is a QUEEN .. Not only has she run a successful company AMAZING HAIR for over 20 years, she is also so admired and respected within the industry. She’s so generous to the hairdressing community, with any top creative project or amazing collaboration and she is always there supporting the creatives. She’s completely glamorous and heaps of fun. We all consider her a great friend x Dee Parker Attwood

Congratulations to Amazing Hair on such an incredible 20-year milestone! I’ve always admired the brand’s commitment to quality, innovation, and authenticity; values that truly align with how I approach my craft. Working with Amazing Hair has been such a pleasure; their extensions not only deliver beautiful, consistent results but also empower stylists to create with confidence. Ariana and the team’s dedication to excellence and education have made a lasting impact on our industry. Wishing you continued success and many more years of inspiring work and beautiful hair!

Hermiz

Daniel

I’ve been using Amazing Hair for over 12 years now, and I absolutely love it. The versatility of the hair is second to none. I’ve used it in every single photographic collection I’ve ever created, as well as in-salon for clients, bridal work, and extension services at Rokstar, I’ve called on her for fashion runway shows I’ve directed at fashion week, for backstage work and I never have a hesitation to put fourth amazing hair because I know whatever it is, they deliver. What truly sets Amazing Hair apart is the integrity of the company and the consistent quality they deliver. Beyond the product itself, I didn’t realise that when I signed up for a business partnership, I would also gain a beautiful friend in Ariana, she’s become so special to me over the years. I always smile when I see her name on my phone or feel inspired in her beautiful company. Her passion, authenticity, and unwavering support for our industry is second to none and has been just as impactful as the brand itself. That’s what makes Amazing Hair so special.

Brodie Tsiknaris

“I’ve known Ariana for years and have always admired what she’s built with Amazing Hair. She’s passionate, hardworking, and has such a genuine love for the industry – it really shows in everything the brand does. We’ve used Amazing Hair in the salon for a long time because the quality and consistency are second to none. It’s been awesome to watch the brand grow and evolve over the years, and I couldn’t be happier for Ariana and the team celebrating 20 years. Huge congratulations. You deserve every bit of success.”

Joey Scandizzo

It’s easy to see why a brand like Amazing Hair has stood the test of time. For two decades, they have led with authenticity, innovation, and heart and it shows in every interaction, every product, and every person behind the brand.

For the past five years, I’ve had the privilege of experiencing that warmth and support first hand. Ariana and the entire Amazing Hair team, your unwavering encouragement, kindness, and belief have played such a huge part in my journey to achieving Australian Hairdresser of the Year. I am so deeply grateful.

You are a team that truly lives its values, always there, always genuine, and always inspiring.

Congratulations on 20 years of excellence, passion, and purpose. I can’t wait to see what the next 20 hold for Amazing Hair, the future is bright, and I’m honoured to continue being part of your story. Bernadette Beswick

My journey with Amazing Hair began when I was honoured to be a finalist for Hairdresser of the Year. During that memorable event, Ariana shared her tradition of giving a lucky kiss. Although I didn’t win, I became an ambassador for a brand that truly uplifts and supports our craft and industry. It has been an absolute pleasure working with Amazing Hair for over a decade, especially as we celebrate their 20th anniversary. I wish them another 20 years of success. This is a remarkable company filled with wonderful people, and they truly embody amazing hair. Kobi Bokshish

GODDESS

The New Era of Haircare has Arrived!

By Louise May

When a brand takes the global hair industry by storm in just a few short months, you know it’s something special. Goddess Maintenance Company has done exactly that... rewriting the rules of performance haircare with science-backed innovation and a clear mission: to simplify, elevate, and empower the professional stylist.

Now officially available in Australia through Salon Pro Australia, owned by Simon Pitt, Goddess arrives with serious momentum and a reputation for results that speak louder than hype. Its flagship innovation, BioTech Blowout, has already earned cult status among stylists around the world for its ability to repair, protect, and transform hair in a single step.

To learn more about the technology, philosophy, and lightning-fast global rise of Goddess, Mocha Hair Magazine Editor Louise May sat down with Global Artistic Director Jon Reyman and Vice President of Global Sales and Education Jordan Alexander, two international powerhouse names shaping the brand’s future and redefining what “professional haircare” truly means.

Jon, can you share your industry background and experience? And can you share what your new role with Goddess entails, and what you are most excited about?

I’ve been doing hair since 1997, over 25 years now. I’ve trained around the world and worked at Fashion Weeks with the most innovative creators in New York, Paris, London, and Milan. I’ve led over 20 shows a season for the past 20 years. I’ve helped shape and guide well-known hair brands, developing products that transformed the industry.

I’ve owned 10 salons generating over $20 million annually. I’ve done over 10,000 models’ hair, worked with celebrities, and helped shape trends that define modern hairdressing. Education is in my DNA, and I’m passionate about empowering stylists to master every hair type and love what they do.

At Goddess, as Global Artistic Director, I get to collaborate with some of the best minds in the world to create truly innovative products that redefine what’s possible. My job is to help guide the brand toward its North Star, uniting creativity, education, and excellence with transparency, clarity, and a relentless focus on creating products that deliver real results. We are the best, and I’m here to prove it.

Jordan, can you tell us about your industry background and experience? You’ve been instrumental in the rapid growth of Goddess, what’s been key to building such strong trust and excitement worldwide, in such a short period of time?

Before moving into manufacturing, I worked at Meche Salon in Beverly Hills with Tracy Cunningham, where our clients included the Kardashians, Sarah Paulson, Jennifer Garner, Cameron Diaz, Kate Beckinsale, Shakira, and many more notable names. Mesh was the first tester of Olaplex, and I went on to help launch the brand across 60 countries. Later, I joined K18, expanding it to more than 50 countries globally. I’ve led education, events, and distributor partnerships around the world.

Now, with Goddess as the Vice President of Global Sales and Education, I’m focused on building that same global success by connecting directly with stylists, salons, and distributors and delivering products that set a new standard for performance and results.

Goddess has taken off in just a few months. What do you think sparked this incredible global response?

Jordan: What sets Goddess apart is the experience we deliver in the haircare industry. I’ve been a stylist for 20 years and on the manufacturing side for 12, and I can confidently say that the product actually works. Too many brands today are built around marketing rather than science. Goddess delivers true performance and results.

Jon: Goddess has created the best product in the world, and like attracts like. Once hairdressers try it, they know it’s the real deal, and they keep coming back for more. We’re a team of hairdressers for hairdressers, so we speak their language and understand what they truly want and need. We’re here to offer the best products in the most effective, efficient way. No fluff. Just results that cut through the noise.

For those who haven’t tried it yet, what makes Biotech Blowout so different from anything else on the market?

Jordan: BioTech Blowout reduces dry time while extending the life of your style with additional benefits like increasing hair strength by 173%, damage protection, frizz reduction, and 38% improved curl retention.

Jon: BioTech Blowout enhances and restores like a mask, holds like a gel (without stiffness), and hydrates without greasy weight. It’s truly the only product you need. Unlike other products on the market that solve one problem, BioTech Blowout addresses them all to make hair its best self.

Jon Reyman

Jordan Alexander

BIOPROTECTION™ technology, what does that actually mean for the health and strength of the hair?

Jordan: We looked outside the traditional haircare space for innovation, partnering with experts in other industries to solve real stylist challenges, such as reducing style time and protecting the hair before damage can occur.

Jon: Our proprietary technology, the Goddess Molecule™, uses a micropeptide that penetrates the cortex to support internal hair strength, and a macropeptide that forms a hydrophobic, flexible shield on the cuticle to lock in moisture and protect against damage. The formula is lightweight, non-greasy, and doesn’t flatten the hair.

Ultimately, our technology replaces 90% of what’s currently on your shelf, delivering everything your hair needs in one intelligent formula.

Education seems to be a big part of Goddess. How are you helping stylists understand and use the technology behind the brand?

Jordan: The beauty of our technology is its simplicity. It’s powerful and easy to use. We want to put artistry and education back in the hands of the hairdresser. Goddess is providing a tool that helps them do what they do best. Our industry is about making people feel good about themselves, and stylists with our product are able to do that.

Jon: Our mission is to help stylists do what they do best: make people feel amazing. We’re providing tools that elevate their craft without complicating it. Too many brands add complexity to create perceived value; we’re doing the opposite by simplifying to empower. We’re hairdressers speaking to hairdressers. With Goddess, there’s no hair type you can’t master.

Goddess has just landed in Australia. What makes this market special for you, and what can stylists here expect?

Jordan: I’ve spent a lot of time in Australia, and the people make it special. The passion for hairdressing is contagious. It’s a creative energy you can feel everywhere in the country.

Jon: Australian hairdressers are the best in the world, and I truly mean that. You are an elite community of hairdressers who have elevated techniques and refined aesthetics to represent masterful work. Winning over Australian stylists is like climbing Mount Everest: challenging, beautiful, and worth every step. If we can make it in Australia, we can make it anywhere. The market is noisy, but we know that once the best stylists try Goddess, they’ll recognize its power immediately.

Where do you see Goddess heading next? both in innovation and in how you continue to inspire professionals around the world?

Jordan: We’ll continue creating products that empower stylists and deliver exceptional results for every client. We have some truly exciting innovations in the pipeline that we can’t wait to share.

Jon: Education will remain at our core. We’re building world-class content and resources to help stylists become more successful and confident. Our goal is to push the limits of what’s possible in haircare, reduce waste, simplify routines, and deliver products so effective that every hairdresser wants them on their shelf. We’re here to turn the industry upside down and redefine what “the best” really means.

@goddessmaintenanceco

@jonreymanhair

@jordanstylist

@salonproaus

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THE OF CONFIDENCE

Why Stylists Need to talk about Hair Loss. Science

By Tracey Hughes

Hair loss is one of the most common yet least openly discussed concerns clients bring to the salon chair. For many, thinning hair impacts not only their appearance but also their confidence, identity, and self-esteem.

As stylists, we often become the first trusted professional they turn to for advice — yet education in this niche area has generally been very minimal, leaving many of us unsure on how to best advice our clients.

The truth is, understanding hair thinning and hair loss is no longer optional. With science advancing rapidly, clients are seeking solutions that are both credible and compassionate. This presents an enormous opportunity for hairstylists to bridge the gap between artistry and bioscience.

Why Hair Thins

Hair thinning can be influenced by many factors: genetics, hormones, ageing, stress, poor scalp health, and environmental aggressors. At the root of it all lies the health of the hair follicle. When follicles shrink, hair becomes finer, weaker, and eventually stops growing.

The Education Gap

Despite how common hair loss is, most professional training, and brand education, doesn’t cover the science of thinning hair. Stylists learn how to cut, colour, and style, but rarely how to support clients experiencing one of the most personal and emotional challenges they’ll ever face. This lack of knowledge not only limits service offerings but can leave clients feeling unsupported at the very moment they need reassurance most.

The New Role of the Hairstylist

Today, clients seek expertise. Stylists who can speak confidently about scalp health and guide clients to credible solutions set themselves apart.

Addressing thinning hair doesn’t require being a medical expert or a trichologist. Instead, it’s about offering informed knowledge, compassion, and introducing proven technologies that genuinely make a difference.

Science Meets the Salon: EXO-GROW

EXO-GROW by DermapenWorld represents a new frontier in professional care. Using patented Exosome technology — one of the most advanced anti-ageing innovations in bioscience — EXO-GROW helps rejuvenate the scalp, improve follicle vitality, and support denser, healthier-looking hair. The results are not just cosmetic; they restore confidence, vitality, and self-belief.

By leading the conversation in your consultations and integrating solutions like EXO-GROW, stylists can redefine their role in clients’ lives. It’s no longer just about what happens in the chair — it’s about giving clients the confidence to believe in themselves again.

Scan QR code to learn more

Education is the missing link. With the right knowledge, stylists can transform client relationships deeper, expand service offerings, give the best retail care for home…and ultimately inspire belief in what’s possible. DermapenWorld is committed to providing the science, the tools, and the education to empower salon professionals in this vital area.

When it comes to hair loss, it’s never just about hair growth — it’s about confidence. And with EXO-GROW, You Will Believe.

ELEVATING EDUCATION with CPR Hair and The Circle

Fresh off being crowned AHIA Educator of the Year 2025, CPR Hair and The Circle are celebrating by doing what they do best — elevating education and bringing global inspiration home to Australian shores.

In 2026, the stage gets bigger, the conversations get deeper, and the learning gets bolder.

We’re welcoming international icons, boundary-pushing educators, and home grown fearless creatives to empower stylists and salon leaders across the country. From bold artistry to brave leadership, these experiences promise to elevate not just your skill, but your spirit.

Create Without Limits: Colour, Cut & Finish With Chrystofer & Hannah Benson and MOD Squad in 2026.

Step into an artist’s playground. Create Without Limits is more than a workshop — it’s a movement of creativity without constraints.

In this immersive 3-hour Look & Learn experience across Sydney and Melbourne, Chrystofer & Hannah Benson and The Mod Squad (Harrison Sansom, Demelza Button, Aimee Egan, Caprice de Sanctis) invite you into a world where colour meets shape, and technique becomes pure self-expression.

Expect live demos, real conversation, and the kind of raw authenticity that reminds you why you fell in love with this craft in the first place. You’ll leave with refined skill, renewed vision, and the confidence to create fearlessly — because true artistry begins where comfort ends. Monday 23rd February Melbourne | Monday 2nd March Sydney

Chrystofer & Hannah Benson

AHIA Company Educator of the Year - CPR Hair

Harrison Sansom Aimee Egan Demelza Button Caprice de Sanctis

Learning Without Limits! A Journey from School-Based Apprentice to Industry Rising Star

By Anthony Grey - MIG Training

For Kate Gallagher, hairdressing wasn’t just a career choice, it was a calling that grew from creativity and curiosity. “I always wanted to be in an industry where I could grow and learn,” Kate says. “As a kid, I loved experimenting with hair and looking online for inspiration. When I discovered I could do a school-based apprenticeship, I was so excited.”

That excitement turned into reality when she walked into Elizabeth JJ’s for her interview. “From the moment I stepped inside, I knew I’d found the right place,” she recalls. “It felt welcoming, professional, and full of opportunity.”

Kate’s defining moment came when she realised hairdressing was about more than just hair. “It happened once I started building connections with clients,” she explains. “Seeing how a hairstyle could transform the way someone felt showed me hairdressing was about confidence, care, and creativity. That, combined with realising how big and inspiring this industry is, confirmed I’d found my calling.”

Inside Elizabeth JJ’s

Elizabeth JJ’s isn’t just a salon - it’s a community. “The space is so welcoming and supportive,” Kate says. “I’ve learnt so much from our incredible senior stylists, who share their knowledge and techniques generously. Jo, our salon owner, has been an amazing mentor, shaping my journey with her constant support.” The salon’s values resonate deeply with Kate. “I love the plants throughout the space, the organic products, and the sustainable practices,” she says. “It’s a beautiful environment for both our team and our clients.”

Education: The Heart of Her Journey

Kate’s passion for learning has defined her career so far.

“I’ve always wanted to learn as much as possible, so I’ve taken every opportunity,” she says. “Early on, I was reading Mocha Hair and following inspiring creators online.”

Her formal training with MIG Training has been a cornerstone of her growth. “Training with MIG has been incredible, and my trainer Donella has guided me every step of the way,” Kate explains. “She’s helped me refine my technical skills and think critically about every service.”

But Kate didn’t stop there. She’s attended Hair Festival, completed the Clever Curl masterclass, joined MIG Day Out, and participated in brand classes, look & learns, and online workshops. “Each experience has taught me new skills and perspectives to bring back into the salon,” she says. “Education keeps me inspired and confident, it’s how I stay ahead and keep growing.”

Taking Risks and Finding Rewards

Kate’s journey hasn’t been without challenges. “Traveling alone to Sydney for Hair Festival 2025 was scary,” she admits. “I was nervous, but I knew I wanted to meet some of my favourite hair influencers, learn new skills, and see the latest innovations. It turned out to be an incredible decision, I came home feeling so inspired.”

She’s also pushed herself by entering competitions and building a presence on social media. “Putting myself out there was its own risk,” Kate says. “But those challenges have helped me grow, connect, and keep improving.”

Achievements That Matter

For Kate, success isn’t just about accolades, it’s about impact.

“Having clients return to see me has been such a rewarding milestone,” she says. “It shows trust and progress.”

Another highlight has been mastering curly hair through the Clever Curl masterclass. “It gave me a whole new understanding of curly and textured hair,” Kate explains. “Seeing clients feel confident in their natural texture is something I’m especially proud of.”

Mentors and Influences

Kate credits her growth to the people around her.

“I’ve been lucky to have incredible mentors,” she says. “The seniors at Elizabeth JJ’s have been so generous with their knowledge, and Jo has always backed me and supported my ideas. Sharyn, my in-salon trainer, helped me build my technical skills, and Donella from MIG constantly pushes me to refine my work and explore new methods.”

She also draws inspiration from Instagram

icons like Sarah Emilia, Mia Langley, and Lorna Evans. “Sarah inspires me with her confidence and mindset, it was amazing meeting her at Hair Festival,” Kate says. “Mia motivates me with everything she’s achieved at such a young age, and Lorna’s styling and updos are incredible.”

Advice That Stuck

The best advice Kate has received?

“Never stop learning,” she says. “There’s always something new to gain from a class, a workshop, or another stylist.”

Another piece of wisdom she lives by: “Approach every situation with confidence, even while you’re still learning. It’s about trusting yourself, showing clients you’re capable, and letting your passion shine.”

Dreams for the Future

Kate’s aspirations are as bold as her commitment to learning.

“I want to create a positive experience for every client, so they feel good about themselves and their hair,” she says. “I’d also love to inspire and educate other stylists in the future, just as others have done for me.”

Long term? “I see myself working in a supportive, creative salon environment, and maybe even running my own space one day, with learning and community at the heart.”

Kate’s final word?

“Hairdressing is about more than hair, it’s about people, confidence, and growth. If you never stop learning, the opportunities are endless.”

As Kate’s Registered Training Organisation, we have had the privilege to watch Kate grow in confidence and skill over her apprenticeship journey and with support from Employers like Elizabeth JJ’s the future for our emerging stylists is a bright one.

@kategallagherhair

In Praise of Curls: A Love Letter to Natural Texture

By Kimberley Marks

Curly hair isn’t just a texture – it’s a statement. And those who dare to wear their curls bare are bold, rebellious, and beautifully unique in a world that often praises uniformity.

As someone who works with curls – and is deeply obsessed with them – I’m constantly inspired by the people who embrace their natural hair.

If you have curls yourself, or work with them behind the chair, you know one universal truth: no two curls are the same, and they rarely behave the same way twice. They are as individual as the people who wear them.

The Challenge of Curls (and Why It’s Worth It)

Curly hair teaches you humility, whether or not you asked for the lesson. You can’t tame it, control it, or beat it into submission – not for long, anyway. Try to treat curls like straight hair, and you’ll quickly find yourself confused, frustrated, and out of your depth.

Curls are thirsty. Unquenchably thirsty. They demand hydration – so much of it that even the most conservative salon owners stare wideeyed at their “professional use” invoices. But here’s the thing: the return on investment is incredible.

Curly-haired clients are fiercely loyal, and their retail spend matches their commitment. Not just any product will do. They demand formulas free from alcohol, sulfates, heavy waxes – and please, don’t even think about bringing silicone near them, unless you’re sealing a bathtub.

Why Didn’t We Learn This Sooner?

It makes me wonder: why has curly hair care been left out of our education for so long? Was it because we assumed our “Curlfriends” wanted straight hair? Or maybe because we didn’t know how to care for curls, so we simply didn’t?

Over the years, we’ve offered solutions to smooth and straighten: flat irons, chemical relaxers, keratin treatments. These have their place, but they’ve also reinforced the narrative

that only sleek, straight, shiny hair is desirable. And in the process, we lost something. When perms fell out of fashion, many stylists lost their knowledge of working with texture. An entire generation missed out on learning the art and science of curls. And yet, curls kept existing – kept demanding proper care and attention.

The Curl Renaissance

It makes my heart happy to see textured hair finally having its moment. We’re seeing it celebrated in the media, on catwalks, and all over social media. A new generation of curl influencers and product innovators are leading the charge.

The curls of today are nothing like the triangle-shaped, crunchy perms of the past. They’re hydrated, defined, and full of life. Their shapes – elongated, rounded, voluminous – are intentional and artistic.

And the products? They’re no longer just straight-hair formulas repackaged with a splash of shea butter or coconut oil. We’re seeing real innovation: hydrating agents, peptides, bond builders, and scientifically sound formulations designed specifically for textured hair.

We’re also rediscovering the craft: dry cutting techniques, curl-by-curl shaping, gentle colour approaches, and a whole toolbox of accessories to preserve curls well past wash day.

A Call to Stylists: Embrace the Art of Curls

This shift is more than a trend – it’s a movement. One that presents a huge opportunity for stylists who are ready to learn, grow, and embrace the uniqueness of curly hair.

Curls require a different skill set, but they reward you tenfold. You’re not just cutting or styling – you’re helping someone love a part

of themselves that was often misunderstood or mistreated.

There is just as much art in a curly cut as in any precision cut. If not more.

Final Thoughts: To the Rebels With Curls

To all the lovers of curls: stay rebellious, stay wild, and stay free.

In a sea of sleek, dare to stand bold – exactly as nature intended. Embrace your unique skills, know your worth, and if you’re ready to learn more about curls, you’ve come to the right place.

@yeahthecurls

When one of us Grows, We All Grow!

By Kristie Kesic

As you’re reading this, we’re closing out 2025 — and my goodness, hasn’t it flown by?

When I look back at the start of the year here in Brisbane, the Gold Coast and the Sunshine Coast, it kicked off with the unexpected — a cyclone and a flash of déjà vu from the COVID days. Being told to stay home, closing the salon for a few days… honestly, what even was that?

In that moment — especially as a business owner — we could be forgiven for thinking 2025 was going to be a rough one. But here’s the thing: it was just a moment.

Every year comes with its bumps in the road. Think about it — is there ever really a “perfect” year? Sure, there are perfect moments, but life and business will always bring a few challenges. You might have a slow month, a few difficult clients, or a team member move on.

But that slow month might give you time to rest, reset, refocus, and train for the next big one. Those challenging clients teach patience and resilience. And that staff member leaving? It often opens the door for new energy and growth — allowing the rest of your team to truly flourish.

Because the truth is, growth hides inside chaos.

At the start of each year, I write down my personal and professional goals, and I encourage my team to do the same. At the end of the year, we sit together, reflect on what we achieved, what worked, what didn’t, and — most importantly — how we can grow next year. It’s a real self check-in, and it’s one of the best things I do for both myself and my team.

You might think you’ve had a tough year, but

when you actually make a list, you realise those “bad” moments were just that — moments. Maybe it was a bad day, a hard month, or a challenge that tested you. But that doesn’t mean it was a bad year.

I choose to measure success in growth.

As a creative, did I grow in my craft? Did I achieve the goals I set, attend that education event I’d been eyeing, or learn something new? Did I make a new connection or collaboration that inspired me?

As a business owner, did my team grow? Did they expand their clientele, strengthen their skills, and reach their goals? Did my team feel worthy and supported? Because if my team grew — in confidence, ability, and purpose — then naturally, the salon did too.

As an educator, I ask myself — did I help someone else grow? Did I give them tools or insights they didn’t have before walking into my class? Did I help them see our industry in a brighter light — to feel a little more inspired, a little more capable, a little more proud to be part of it?

That, to me, is the most rewarding kind of growth — knowing you’ve sparked something in someone else that will ripple far beyond your own chair.

Growth is deeply personal. It’s unique to each of us and should never be measured by anyone else’s timeline. It’s so easy to glance across at someone else’s success and think, why am I not there yet? But what we often forget is that they might be years ahead in their journey — or walking an entirely different path altogether.

When we compare, we rob ourselves of the joy in our own progress. The truth is, every milestone, every tiny improvement, every challenge you push through — it all adds up to your version of success. Honour that. Celebrate it. Because your growth, no matter how big or small, is yours — and that’s what makes it powerful.

Don’t fall into the comparison trap. You’ll miss the magic that is your own growth.

Every small step, every tiny improvement, every time you get back up — it all counts. I hope you can find joy in what 2025 brought you, even if that joy simply comes from knowing you overcame something you once thought you couldn’t.

As we step into 2026, I encourage you to pause, reflect, and carry forward the lessons, the triumphs, and yes — even the failures. They’re all part of your growth story.

Remember how incredible your wins felt this year, and see every challenge as a lesson that shaped you into something stronger. Growth isn’t meant to be easy, but it’s always worth it.

My hope for 2026 is that our industry continues to rise — that we keep learning, evolving, collaborating, and lifting each other higher. Because when one of us grows, we all grow.

Here’s to another year of creativity, collaboration, and connection.

Kristie Kesic @kristiekesic_colourist @cobellecreative

The AHC. The Voice, The Support and The Community.

In an industry built on connection, creativity, and care, it’s easy for salon and barber business owners to put themselves last. Between juggling staff, clients, and rising costs, the business side of hairdressing can feel like a solo sport - but it doesn’t have to be.

Why the AHC?

The Australian Hairdressing Council (AHC) is Australia’s leading and most trusted voice for salon and barber owners. As the only national peak body representing the professional hair industry, the AHC provides what every business owner needs but rarely finds - resources, support, community, and advocacy in one place.

A recent AHC survey revealed that 70% of salon owners say rising operational costs are their biggest challenge. Add constant Fair Work changes, staff shortages, and compliance demands, and it’s clear that running a salon without external support can be overwhelming.

That’s where the AHC steps in. Membership gives salon owners access to HR and employee relations support, legal updates, workplace compliance tools, and education that simplify the complex world of business management. Since 2022, there have been over 35 amendments to the Fair Work Act, each one potentially affecting your obligations as an employer.

The AHC’s HR Advisory Team - with unlimited member access - translates those legislative changes into plain language and practical steps, so you can focus on what you do best: leading your team and delighting your clients.

“Being part of the AHC is the best decision we made as business owners, to have the support and guidance you need to run a successful, sustainable business,” says AHC Member Oscar Henderson of Elysium Hair.

“I really love being a member of the AHC,” adds Brodie Tsiknaris of Rokstar Salon. “The benefits are amazing, the support is incredible. You never feel alone or lost when navigating your business with the AHC.”

Strength in numbers – why belonging matters

Research shows that businesses connected to an industry association perform better than those that go it alone - with stronger profitability, efficiency, and risk management.

Put simply, businesses that belong to a professional community thrive because they have access to the knowledge, tools, and networks to adapt faster and operate smarter. When you’re part of the AHC, you’re not just keeping up - you’re leading the way.

What you gain when you join

Whether you’re a salon owner, solo operator, barber, educator, or supplier, there’s a place for you at the AHC. Members enjoy:

• HR and IR support from industry experts

• Access to compliance tools, policies, and workplace templates

• Exclusive business education and webinars

• Advocacy at state and federal levels

• Connection to a likeminded, supportive community

“Running a profitable, successful business requires many skills that we do not learn as hairdressers working in salons,” says Kym Krey,

The Salon Mentor. “The AHC is the network you need to support your business.”

AHC membership is more than a resource - it’s a partnership that grows with you. From business advice to workplace guidance, you’ll find support every step of the way.

Turning challenges into opportunities

Every industry faces disruption - and the hair industry is no exception. Rising costs, evolving client expectations, and workforce shortages continue to reshape how salons operate. The difference between surviving and thriving often comes down to connection: who you have in your corner.

The AHC advocates for you at every level, ensuring the industry’s voice is heard by government and policymakers. Whether it’s championing fair workplace legislation, securing training reform, or tackling skills shortages, the AHC works behind the scenes to safeguard your future.

The power of community

The AHC isn’t just about policy and paperwork, it’s about people. It’s a thriving network of salon owners, barbers, educators, and suppliers who share knowledge, celebrate success, and elevate the standards of the industry. It’s about being part of something that represents professionalism, integrity, and passion for Australian hairdressing.

“If you’re not with the AHC, you are missing out on the greatest resource available to business owners in our industry!” says Emily Maguire, Super Natural Hair and Body Clinic.

“Being part of the Australian Hairdressing Council has been an incredibly rewarding experience,” enthuses AHC member Rebecca Anderson from Becky B Hair. “I’m grateful to be part of an organisation that not only champions our industry, but also fosters such a strong sense of connection, support, and purpose.”

Coming up – 2026 AHC Events

After the huge success of the 2025 AHC Industry Day and Leadership Summit + Schmoozefest, these flagship events return in June 2026 at the beautiful Ivy Ballroom, Sydney.

• Industry Day – Friday 26 June 2026: A full day of insight and education focused on the future of hair industry training and business innovation.

• Leadership Summit + Schmoozefest – Saturday 27 June 2026: A premium afternoon and evening of leadership, inspiration, and networking in signature AHC style.

Early bird tickets go on sale in November — watch this space!

Ready to raise the bar?

Running a salon isn’t easy, but it’s easier when you’re part of a collective that understands your challenges and champions your success. The AHC helps turn uncertainty into opportunity with the right knowledge, community, and advocacy by your side.

It’s time to stop going it alone.

Join Australia’s most supportive hair industry community.

You have to be with the AHC. http://www.theahc.org.au/

Hair SHOP

OMEGA™ HAIRCARE RANGE BY DYSON

Indulge in Dyson’s first venture into haircare with the Omega™ Nourishing Range for soft, healthy, spring-inspired locks when using heat styling during the party season.

Prep hair with the Dyson Omega™ leave-in conditioning spray - a weightless leave-in conditioner that instantly smooths, and detangles locks before using your favourite heat tools. Simply spray on damp strands to protect against heat and UV from long spring days, to reduce visible split ends and frizz.

Enhance your bouncy waves with the Omega™ Hydrating Hair Oil by Dyson - a lightweight oil made for all hair types to smooth and lock in your style. Either apply to damp hair prior to styling to reduce frizz and protect against heat, or run through styled, dry hair for a glossy finish.

www.dyson.com.au

MELENA PERM RANGE BY HI LIFT PROFESSIONAL

The new Hi Lift Professional Melena perm range offers salons affordable quality perms in 1 litre. Available from leading wholesalers

www.muimports.com.au

STYLE MATE PRO TROLLEY BY JOIKEN

The Style Mate Pro Trolley is designed for modern stylists, combining a sleek aesthetic with multiple functions. Effortlessly adapts to various techniques, whether sectioning for foils or colouring with precision, this board is a must-have for every salon.

Features: Tint brush Compartments, Tilting mechanism and Lockable Easy Rolling Castor Wheels

Designed for salon professionals, the Style Mate Pro Trolley makes hair colouring effortless—perfect for foiling or achieving flawless balayage. Its smooth, non-slip surface helps hold foil in place for a controlled application, while the smooth-glide locking caster wheels ensure stable, easy movement throughout your workspace. Designed with functionality at its core, the Adjustable Tilt Bracket lets you customise the board angle for maximum comfort and stability. Finished in a sleek, matte black, the Style Mate Pro brings a clean, clutter-free, and modern aesthetic to any salon.

www.joiken.com.au

THE NEW NEUTRALS STUDIO TROLLEYS BY COMFORTEL

Introducing Champagne Beige and Mist Green, the latest colour additions to Comfortel’s Studio Trolley collection. Soft, refined tones designed to complement modern salon interiors. With stain-resistant surfaces, generous storage and workspace, customisable attachments to suit the way you work and Comfortel’s signature hair-repellent wheels, your favourite hairdressing trolley just became your favourite designer

Available from Comfortel Salon Furniture. Shop now at www.comfortel.com.au Showrooms Australia Wide

THE ROTATING SERVICE TRAY BY JOIKEN

A space-saving innovation that redefines efficiency at the styling station. This cleverly engineered tray mounts directly to your salon chair’s hydraulic base, creating a seamless and organised workspace without sacrificing style or freedom of movement. Whether you're mixing colours, cutting, or styling, every tool you need is within effortless reach, no trolley required.

Enhance your salon’s productivity and elevate the client experience with the Rotating Service Tray, a sleek, chair-mounted solution that simplifies your workflow. Say goodbye to floor clutter and bulky carts; this innovative tray securely attaches to most hydraulic chair bases, keeping your essential tools close at hand while maintaining a clean, professional space. Crafted from durable, salon-grade materials, it resists stains & chemical wear, wiping clean in seconds for effortless upkeep. With its compact, minimalist design, the tray blends seamlessly into any modern salon interior, offering a streamlined, stylish upgrade that enhances both efficiency & aesthetics. It’s more than just a surface—it’s a smarter way to work.

(*Chair Not Included)

Features incude:- Adjustable Comfort: Ample flat surface space lets you neatly organise everything from colour bowls and foils to brushes, clips, and shears, keeping your essentials tidy and within reach.

Generous Tray Capacity: With customisable height and arm positioning, this tray adapts to your preferred working style, no matter your height or service technique.

360° Rotating Arm: The fully swivelling arm allows the tray to swing in all directions, providing smooth, dynamic access to your tools from any angle without disrupting your workflow. www.joiken.com.au

HOLIDAY 2025 COLLECTION BY

KEVIN.MURPHY

This holiday season, KEVIN.MURPHY is proud to launch its 2025 Holiday Collection: Homeward Journey to Country, a limited-edition campaign that pays tribute to the joy of coming home... whether that means a place, a person, or a feeling.

At the heart of the campaign is a powerful collaboration with contemporary Aboriginal artist, teacher and proud Bundjalung woman, Holly Sanders. Through vibrant custom artworks inspired by the rich heritage of Australia’s First Nations peoples, Sanders brings to life themes of caring for ourselves, our communities and the land.

ILLUMINATE HYDRATE – A nourishing trio featuring HYDRATEME.WASH, HYDRATE-ME.RINSE, and UN.TANGLED – perfect for quenching dry, thirsty strands with lightweight moisture and radiant softness.

VA-VA-VOLUME – The go-to for finer hair types, this volumising set includes ANGEL.WASH, ANGEL.RINSE, and the cult-favourite ANTI. GRAVITY styling lotion.

INFINITE COLOUR – Featuring the EVERLASTING.COLOUR range, this set is all about preserving vibrancy and shine, with added bond-building technology for strength and resilience.

BLONDE AND BRIGHT – A blonde-perfecting trio that tones, enhances and illuminates with BLONDE.ANGEL.WASH, BLONDE.ANGEL, and SHIMMER.ME BLONDE.

READY, SET, REPAIR – For hair in need of revival, this restorative set delivers strength and softness with REPAIR-ME.WASH, REPAIR-ME.RINSE, and YOUNG.AGAIN treatment oil.

ETERNAL CURLS – A celebration of textured hair, this curl-defining set includes KILLER.CURLS WASH, KILLER.CURLS RINSE, and KILLER.CURLS crème for frizz-free bounce and definition.

PLUM NOIR – Infused with the signature scent of KEVIN.MURPHY’s beloved HYDRATE-ME range, this reed diffuser brings the salon experience home with a uplifting blend of tangerine, orange peel, earthy patchouli and warm vanilla.

VOYAGER – A limited edition cosmetic bag crafted with a Saffiano leather-look finish and metallic accents, featuring Holly Sanders’ Healing Land artwork lining the interior – a thoughtful balance of design, function and cultural reverence. Stylish and functional, it’s perfect for travel or daily use. www.kevinmurphy.com.au

OUR

COLOUR RANGE CONTINUES TO GROW!

3 Satin Mocha

Almond Mist

Woodgrain Brown

Nightfall Duos Deliver BaBylissPRO Nightfall doubles the power. BaBylissPRO FXONE Nightfall limited edition duos: Clipper & Trimmer Duo and Trimmer & Shaver Duo. Cutting-edge tools in bold colour. Outstanding additions to the FXONE universe.

Smart Contouring

Shave smarter with StyleCraft by Silver Bullet Ace Balding Shaver. Seven floating heads contour to every curve for the closest, smoothest finish. Supercharged motor, 100% waterproof, ergonomic design and USB-C charging, every detail built for precision.

Pink Power

The power of pink with the Silver Bullet City Chic Pink collection. This collection includes 2,000 watt hair dryer, hot brush with infrared, frizz-reducing technology and titanium straightener. High-performance tools with attitude. Pink it up!

In-Salon Bond Repair Revolution

Fast, simple, transformative. epres Professional Bond Repair is a one-step in-salon innovation that works faster and easier. Pair with epres Healthy Hair Shampoo and Conditioner in 950ml sizes, for stronger, smoother hair. Perfect for any backbar.

Gamechanger Texturising Spray

Spray, tousle and go. It’s as simple as that with Fatboy Tousle & Go, the dry shampoo and lightweight hairspray hybrid. This versatile texturising spray boosts volume, definition and workable hold for all hair types. Never stiff, never crunchy.

Smooth as Velvet

Smooth, sleek and effortless. The Silver Bullet Black Velvet Brush range delivers control and softness with every stroke. Includes round, hot tube, vent, and paddle brushes, each designed for flawless, frizz-free, velvety results.

Maximum Impact, Minimal Weight

Powered by innovation, the Parlux Elysium features a new mini digital motor that delivers 2,300 watts of professional performance. With Air Ionizer Tech and two AirFusion nozzles, it ensures flawless, lightweight styling every time.

Experts in Salon Sundries

Salon Smart keeps your salon running smoothly with high-performance, affordable sundries. Salon Smart is the smart choice. A comprehensive range of professional grade essentials including bleach, peroxide, gloves, capes, aprons, disinfectant and more. 100% Australian-owned.

Sweeten Up Your Style

Indulge in a juicy new experience with WetBrush Pro Tutti Fruitti Collection! Featuring exclusive IntelliFlex bristles that glide through tangles with ease for pain-free brushing. This collection comes in vibrant fruity designs: Orange, Lemon, Watermelon, and Cherry. Sweet styling made easy.

Cut Closer to Perfection

When every cut matters, there’s no room for compromise. Introducing Mizumi by Iceman, Japanese-inspired excellence with premium precision and performance. Scissors and thinners meticulously crafted from VG10 steel, consisting of cobalt and a high carbon content, ensuring extraordinary sharpness, durability and corrosion resistance.

Professional Styling Must-Haves

Your favourite styling essentials! Premium Pin Company 999 Bobby Pins deliver unwavering style support. Strong grip, durable tips, non-corrosive finish and convenient see-through dispenser for easy access. 999 are the must-have necessity for every styling station.

Repair Without Residue

Introducing Qiqi Bare Repair Oil, designed for uniquely weightless repair. Bare Repair Oil is a dry, weightless formula which penetrates deeply to strengthen, smooth and add shine. No buildup, no compromise. Powered by advanced plant-based science.

The Latest from Ouidad

Newness from the curl experts, Ouidad. Tone It Away Purple Shampoo neutralises brassy tones and prolongs the life of colour. Hello Shine Glossy Treatment Mask enhances vibrancy while giving curls incredible gloss-like shine.

Corrective Colour Toolbox

Colour correction has met its match! Malibu C Corrective Colour Toolbox is a must-have bundle with everything you need to prepare for colour service or perform corrective colour. Vegan, plant-based, cruelty-free. The colour correction quintessentials, all in one.

How to be a See-Saw: The Real 'Balance' of Business and Family

By Emily Ciardiello

If you’re in business, you’ve probably heard the phrase “worklife balance” thrown around a million times. It sounds nice, doesn’t it? This picture-perfect idea that you can equally split your time, energy, and attention between work and family… like some kind of magical, harmonious juggle. But let’s be real. Balance, in that sense, doesn’t exist.

Instead, what I’ve found actually works is leaning in and leaning out - knowing when to fully commit to your work and when to step back and focus on your family. It’s not about juggling everything at once, but rather about making intentional choices based on what or who needs you the most at any given time.

Understanding the Shift: It’s Not a Juggle, It’s a Flow

When we think of balance as a constant juggle, we create unnecessary stress. There’s this pressure to “do it all” and do it all at the same time. But what if we shifted our thinking? What if, instead of feeling torn between responsibilities, we became clear on when to lean in and when to lean out?

For example, if I’m launching a new product or working on a major business project, I know I need to lean in to work. That means fewer commitments outside of that - a clear calendar, and ensuring my family understands that this period requires more of me in the business.

On the flip side, when my family needs me - whether it’s school holidays, a personal milestone, or just those moments where I know I need to be more present - I lean out of work. That doesn’t mean shutting down the business, but it does mean creating space so I can be fully present, without distraction or guilt.

Prioritisation: Knowing What Matters Most Right Now

1. Will this bring me closer to my goals (both personal and workrelated)?

2. Does this serve my family and business in the long run?

Leaning in and out requires clarity on priorities. And priorities change depending on the season of life and the business you’re in.

I live by my calendar—not just for scheduling work, but for life. If it’s not in the calendar, it doesn’t exist. Planning ahead, setting clear boundaries, and making intentional decisions about where I need to be means I’m present in the right moments.

This also means getting comfortable with saying no. If something doesn’t align with my priorities right now, I don’t force it. Whether it’s a business opportunity, a social event, or an extra project, I ask myself:

1. Does this serve my bigger vision?

2. Can this wait, or is it essential right now?

3. Where am I in my cycle at that time? (Yes, in the last 6 months I have been taking that into account when I am booking myself in for things that may require more concentration and energy).

If it’s not a strong yes, it’s a no (or a “not right now”) and if it’s not during a time in my cycle where I know it will be easier to do/be there, then I say no most of the time depending on the commitment required energy wise!

Your Decision-Making Policy: The ROI of Time

One of the best things I’ve done in business and life is having a clear decision-making framework. I treat my time and energy like I would treat money - I need a return on investment.

When making decisions, I ask myself:

3. What’s the cost if I say yes? (Because every yes means saying no to something else)

This approach has helped me avoid burnout, stay focused, and be intentional about where I put my energy. It also removes guilt - because when I lean into work, I know it’s for a purpose. And when I lean into family, I know work is set up to run without me stressing over every detail.

Final Thoughts: Trust Yourself & The Process

Realistically, there’s no perfect formula for this. Some days, work will demand more from you. Other days, family will. And that’s okay.

The key is to stop feeling like you’re constantly juggling and start owning your decisions. Lean in when you need to. Lean out when it’s time. Use your calendar, prioritise, and make decisions that align with your bigger picture.

It’s not about balance. It’s about being present where it matters most in the moment.

And trust me, once you start thinking this way, everything becomes so much clearer.

So as always, be kind during your grind and learn how to be a see-saw! @foilmefoils

@foilme.thedressinggownceo www.foilme.com.au

EDUCATION

EDUCATION EPIC BARBER BATTLE

Passion, Values & Virtues

By Domi Cherie

For a long time, I believed passion was the most important thing I needed to succeed. I wanted nothing more than to be the greatest version of myself — the best at everything I did. So, I said yes to every opportunity, every challenge, every moment that crossed my path.

And while that hunger is something to be celebrated, somewhere along the way I realised something deeper: Without understanding my own values and virtues, I let other people define them for me.

I chased every spark of passion… but I didn’t always stop to ask whether it aligned with who I actually am.

Passion is electric, and often reckless.

It whispers, “Go where it burns brightest. Live on the edge of meaning.” It demands surrender — momentary madness, art over safety, risk over approval.

It made me leave my comfort zone. Salons, relationships, cities — just to feel expansion. It pushed me to double down on creativity, even when I couldn’t see tomorrow.

But passion rages without mercy. If untempered, it burns your roots. Leaves you hollow. Unsatisfied. Burned out.

Without passion, I wouldn’t be who I am. But when I stop to consider my values and virtues… I become so much better.

That’s where virtue steps in.

Virtue: The Anchor in the Wild

Virtue is discipline turned into light. It’s the boundaries you draw so your fire doesn’t burn down your home. It’s self-respect, humility, kindness, and long-sightedness.

- You keep your promises, even when no one sees.

- You fight for your integrity, even when shortcuts glitter.

- You close doors that refuse your growth.

Virtue stops passion from eroding your dignity. It protects your values, honours your essence, and gives you the strength to say “not now” or “no more.”

It helps you choose yourself.

But even virtue can become distorted.

When you’re not anchored in self-awareness, what looks like loyalty might just be fear in disguise.

You stay in roles, relationships, identities — not because they still align with your values, but because they once did. Or because leaving would feel like betrayal.

You call it commitment. But really? It’s sacrifice.

That’s when virtue becomes a chain:

When staying loyal stunts your growth.

Loyalty vs. Evolution

Loyalty is often framed as noble.

But when does it become glorified self-abandonment?

When you stay in jobs that shrink you, in dynamics that ghost you, in versions of yourself that no longer fit —

Because you promised. Because you loved.

Because you feared the unknown might be worse.

You’ve been loyal to people who disappeared.

To styles that silenced you.

To roles that rewarded your burnout.

But here’s the line:

Stay loyal to who you are — not who you used to be.

Loyalty should serve your evolution, not trap it.

Passion + Virtue: The Sacred Marriage

You don’t have to choose one over the other. You have to marry them.

Let passion speak. Write it down. Feel the ache, the loss, the cosmic urgency. Let the fire burn and drive you.

Let virtue translate it. Ask:

“Is this aligned with who I am?”

“Does it protect my peace, my dignity, my long game?”

Commit to the tension. Growth always asks for friction. You lean into the burning and choose the way forward.

Check your edges:

If loyalty demands you kill your voice, silence your dreams, betray your compass — it’s not loyalty.

It’s a dictatorship.

The bridge between them is virtuous passion

Virtuous passion is walking away from the wrong opportunity — even when it flatters your ego.

It’s saying ‘not this, not yet’ — even when your ambition screams for more. Because sometimes you have to burn your old self to the ground and rebuild to align yourself.

For You, Reading This:

You’ve been told loyalty is holy.

Yes — but loyal to what?

To someone else’s version of you?

To stagnant comfort?

You deserve love — but not at the cost of your freedom or evolution. You deserve rooms that expand your light — not dim it.

When passion rises, fear will cry, “Danger.”

Virtue will whisper, “Yes — but how?”

The next time you stand at a crossroads, Don’t choose between comfort or chaos.

Choose the third path — the one that honours both your fire and your foundation.

Take the time to truly know yourself.

Understand your values.

Root into your virtues.

Those — more than anything — will carry you forward.

For me, passion drives me and virtue sustains me. Passion allows me to live boldly, virtue ensures I know when to burn brightly and when to control it.

Who might you become if you stopped being loyal to what no longer serves you and aligned passion and virtue?

@domi.cherie

Beyond Aesthetics: Why your Salon Space Should Work as Hard as you do.

By Natalie Dufton

Let’s talk about trust. Because trust is growth. In the hairdressing industry, it shows up when a client hands over their hair and says, “Do your thing.” That vulnerability needs confidence - in the hairdresser, the service, and yes, even the space.

I get it - my world’s built on trust too. As an interior designer, I walk into businesses that have worked hard to build their name and offering, and they’re asking me to shape the environment that holds it all. No pressure, right?

But here’s what I see: when your interior feels like a true extension of your business, it works harder for you. It supports your team, makes clients feel seen, and instantly communicates authenticity.

When your space is trying to be something it’s not, clients feel it. Maybe it’s a new guest hovering at the door because your entry is so ‘cool’ only regulars know where to go. Or being shuffled between chairs because the layout suits one hero service but ignores everything else. Discomfort isn’t just physical, it lingers.

On the flipside, you can spot a truly thought-out salon space a mile off. It feels effortless; clients know where to go, the welcome is intentional, and there’s clarity and confidence built into every corner. The energy just feels right.

So, what makes a salon space ‘well designed’?

It’s all about purpose. Here are a few key examples:

Lighting that serves the work: I’ve had my hair done, stepped outside and instantly regretted it. The culprit? Mood lighting that looked great but totally threw off the colour. Lighting should mimic natural daylight. No big windows? Use Kelvin-controlled lighting to shift from warm to cool. That quality control tells clients you’re serious about results.

Function that doubles as fashion: Every item should earn its place, especially in smaller salons. I often look to Japanese design: compact, efficient and impressive. Think detailed joinery where everything’s within reach (not buried in a cupboard that leads to Narnia). And why hide the action? Treat your salon like an open-plan kitchen… it’s called ‘the heart of the home’ for a reason.

Zones that do more: Your salon might be a sanctuary, but let’s be honest, some clients have things to do. So, give them choice. Whether they want to unwind or work during their colour, create a space that supports both. Add a bench, a charging station, or a snack menu. However, they spend the time, make it feel personal and valuable.

Design Traps? Yep, there are a few.

It’s easy to focus on the look and forget function. Here are a few common ones:

Trend-chasing: Those curvy mirrors? Cute for a minute. But if they don’t reflect your brand, they’re just clutter. My favourite thing to do is embrace the bones of a space. It might feel rundown, but you could have heritage elements worth celebrating.

DIY overload: I’m all for resourcefulness but doing it without a plan often leads to mismatched styles or wasted spend. A quick chat with a designer can help avoid expensive missteps.

Copy-paste syndrome: It’s tempting to borrow concepts from another salon (or your Instagram feed), but your interior should reflect what makes you different.

Ultimately, design drives growth. I work with businesses who want more than ‘nice’. They want traction, and that takes alignment between brand, space, and experience. But it works.

If your salon looks ultra-trendy but you’re targeting mature clients with big spend, you might be missing the mark. Likewise, a thoughtful shopfront that reflects your values can literally stop the right person in their tracks. Every design choice communicates something. So be intentional. Be authentic.

Maybe your current fitout was a ‘just get the doors open’ situation. Fair enough, we’ve all been there. But if you’re ready to elevate, here’s how to begin:

1. Audit your space. What’s working? What frustrates you or your team?

2. Ask for help. Even a one-off consultation with a designer can uncover opportunities (and prevent costly mistakes).

3. Start with layout and lighting. Nail those first. The rest follows.

A beautiful salon is lovely. But a space that supports your staff, delights your clients, reflects your values and really works? That’s a salon built on trust. And trust doesn’t just look good; it grows your business.

Natalie Dufton is a professional interior designer with 20 years’ experience. She’s the founder of Sydney-based Pony Design Co.a studio known for creating strategic, highimpact interiors across the wellness, retail and hospitality sectors. With a background in hair and makeup, she also brings firsthand industry insight, solving salon pain-points through clever, functional design. Natalie is passionate about crafting immersive, storytelling environments that deliver memorable experiences and commercial success. She’s deeply committed to using design to drive the positive evolution of the salon industry and its profound impact on well-being.

ponydesignco.com @ponydesignco

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Reflecting on the Year and Celebrating Hair Moments

By Shae Tsiknaris

As the year draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on just how quickly time has flown. With Halloween just around the corner, one of my favourite times of the year, it feels like the perfect moment to share some highlights from both my personal life and the salon.

If you’ve followed my journey from the beginning, you’ll know Halloween holds a special place in my heart. Perhaps it’s because my birthday falls at the end of October, or maybe it’s the joy I get from donning my favourite spooky Mickey Mouse shirt at work. At home, my daughter Connie and I share some playful traditions too, like my glow in the dark skeleton pyjamas and the annual addition of charming solar powered ghost decorations lighting up our driveway. These little touches keep the season magical year after year and remind me of the importance of celebrating life’s small joys.

Salon Highlights and Innovations

It’s been an exciting season in the salon as well. A huge thank you to Dyson for gifting Bill and several other AHIA Award winners the stunning rose gold Supersonic dryer. Naturally, I had to try it myself and I loved it so much that I purchased one for myself. It’s incredibly lightweight, which is a relief for my hands and shoulders, yet packs a powerful performance. The speed and efficiency have truly transformed my drying routine, allowing me to work faster without compromising on quality or care. I can’t recommend it enough! Special thanks to Linda and Jessamine for your recommendations .

A Memorable Wedding Hair Experience

One of the most rewarding moments this year was styling the hair of my beautiful guest, Chelsea, for her wedding. I’ve had the privilege of doing her hair since she was in primary school, and to be part of her big day at The Calile Hotel was truly special. Placing her veil felt like a milestone, and I found myself overwhelmed with emotion. Chelsea’s mother shared with the photographer how I’ve been part of her hair journey since she was little such moments are incredibly humbling and remind me why I love this profession so much.

Adding to the joy, my 12-year-old daughter Nikki assisted me that morning. She’s been learning to master the GHD duet, and her professionalism and enthusiasm were impressive. From prepping the bridal party’s hair to managing hairspray and even enjoying the food platters with the girls, she was a fantastic help. It was a proud moment having her by my side, witnessing her growth and passion for hair. Moments like these reinforce the importance of passing on knowledge and nurturing the next generation.

Tackling the Heat and Humidity

Now that winter is behind us and the warmer, more humid months are here, we’ve been busier than ever with smoothing and straightening services. Many clients are looking to tame their mane, and the transformations are inspiring. My sister, for example, has thick, coarse, and naturally voluminous hair. After her treatment, she told me she felt confident and sexy again it’s moments like these that make this work so rewarding, especially when it’s someone close to you.

In addition to straightening, we’ve been focusing on hair health, recommending products that combat frizz and protect strands from humidity damage. It’s essential to maintain the integrity of the hair while achieving the sleek, polished look clients desire. We encourage everyone to invest in professional advice and quality hair care products because healthy hair truly is beautiful .

As I wrap up this final column, I want to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude. First, a huge thank you to Louise May from Mocha for inviting me to be a part of this incredible journey. And to Linda and the entire team at Mocha Hair Magazine, thank you for believing in me and for giving me the platform to share my stories.

These past twelve months have been nothing short of amazing. I’ve loved giving you a peek into my life both in the salon and at home and sharing what this industry truly means to me. I also want to thank all the readers who followed along and supported my blog. It’s been an absolute blast!

The connections I’ve made through this industry have been priceless, and I’m so grateful for every opportunity I’ve had because people embraced me for exactly who I am. To everyone I’ve met and worked with over the last year thank you. Your support has meant the world.

Take care, and sending love to you all.

Shae x @hairbyshaetsiknaris

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AHIA Master Colourist of the Year 2024 How I Got Here

(and How I Can Help You)

By Amber Bullock

Winning the AHIA Master Colourist of the Year 2024 was a dream come true. It didn’t happen by luck it happened through relentless hard work, a clear vision, and most importantly, the support of my incredible boss Jenni Tarrant, my team at Bond Hair Religion and of course my beautiful husband Evan who believed in me every step of the way.

From the beginning, I knew I wanted to push the boundaries of hair colour. I wanted this collection for the AHIA Creative Awards to be something people hadn’t seen before. I have committed to mastering my craft inside and out over the last 22 years, hours of education, hands-on experience, testing, failing, refining, and repeating.

When I set my sights on winning this award, I went all in. I was working full time, I was training for a 30km trail race, managing a highvolume salon and caring for a full client load. I spent every spare minute thinking about what I needed to make my vision come to life. I chose to do all my prep at home, so I carted everything I needed home and began. I spent hours on my back table, in the heat, rinsing wefts under the backyard tap. I even got my husband in on the action some days. I am my own toughest critic! I would spend hours and hours creating one look and hate it so to me there were many failures and many moments where I nearly scrapped it all and started from scratch but eventually, it all came together into a vision I was proud to share.

Being in a team with Jenni for our shoot was so easy. I handed her my work, and she did her thing bringing my colour work to life in a way that was even better than I could have imagined. That collaboration, trust and shared creative energy was a huge part of our success. Right from the very beginning Jenni knew that we had to have Andrew O’Toole as our photographer and boy did he deliver. We were blown away with how much we learnt, and the talent delivered by him and his team.

I’ve been there. I am you.

This award isn’t just mine; it’s a reflection of every person who helped shape me as a colourist - the stylists I’ve worked alongside, the mentors who continue to challenge me, and the clients who trust me with their hair.

So, how can I help you become a better colourist?

Ask yourself:

Are you in a supportive team that lifts you up and challenges you to grow?

Are you attending every education opportunity that comes your way?

Are you really putting in the work behind the scenes beyond what the client sees?

Have you taken time to reflect on what you really want? Do you want to be good or truly exceptional?

If any of those questions hit home, you’re not alone.

I truly believe that the secret to becoming a master in anything especially in colourist consistency, curiosity, and community. The technical skills matter, but so does your mindset, so does the energy you surround yourself with and so does the willingness to do the work that nobody sees.

Whether you need guidance, inspiration, or a real talk about what it takes to stand out in this industry, I’m here to share what I’ve learnt and help you step into your full potential as a colourist.

The path to mastery isn’t always easy but it’s absolutely worth it. I’ve cried over colour corrections, second guessed entire collections and stayed up all night tweaking the tiniest details and I’d do it all again tomorrow, because this industry is my passion, my outlet, and my purpose.

You’ve got the talent. Let’s refine the technique. You’ve got the passion. Let’s give it direction. You’ve got the dream. Let’s make it real.

@ambercolourdirector @bondhairreligion

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Never Stop Learning: How Education Will Power 25

More Years of Sloans

By Scott Sloan, Sloans

As I sit here reflecting on 25 incredible years of Sloans, I can’t help but think about what the next 25 might hold. If someone had told me back in 2000 that I’d still be as excited about hairdressing today as I was on opening day, I might have been sceptical.

But here I am, more passionate than ever, and I’ve come to realise that the secret to staying motivated isn’t just about maintaining your love for the craft, it’s about never stopping your commitment to learning and sharing that knowledge with others.

Education has become my North Star, the thing that keeps me energised, curious, and constantly evolving. It’s what I believe will carry me through the next quarter-century with the same enthusiasm I feel today.

Always a Student

There’s something profoundly motivating about walking into a classroom, workshop, or masterclass and admitting you don’t know everything. That vulnerability, that drive to learn, it keeps you humble and it keeps you hungry.

Whether I’m learning a new styling technique from a master in London, attending the L’Oreal Business Forum, or diving deep into the psychology of client communication, every educational experience reminds me that the moment you think you know it all is the moment you start becoming irrelevant.

I’ve made it a non-negotiable part of my routine to attend at least four major educational events each year. The perfect recent example was Hair The Movement- what an incredible event! To be able to learn from so many amazing global artists in one place, then also stand alongside them presenting my own work was such a thrill and honour. Each experience like this inspires not just my skills, but the entire team’s, when I’m able to bring it back to the salon.

Educating From Within

There’s something magical about watching someone grasp a concept for the first time, seeing their eyes light up as they master a technique they’ve been struggling with. It’s better than any competition win, more satisfying than any industry recognition.

Very early on I learned that in-salon education shouldn’t just come from me. It’s vital for our team to experience different voices and perspectives, which is why I provide sessions with our brand partners and industry leaders, and often bring external educators into the salon.

I also encourage the team to teach one another across topics covering everything from social media and content creation to the latest trends and techniques. Some of my favourite moments happen during our Creative Play sessions, where our Seniors guide our Juniors and unleash creativity in a safe, non-judgmental space.

This variety keeps ideas fresh, prevents us from becoming insular, and ensures everyone learns in a way that resonates with them.

Keeping Young Through Young Minds

One of the unexpected benefits of constantly educating and mentoring the next-gen is how it keeps me connected to fresh perspectives and emerging trends. Working with younger stylists isn’t just about passing down knowledge, it’s about staying open to learning from them too.

Our junior team members arrive with different cultural references, different aesthetic sensibilities, and often, a completely different relationship with technology and social media than I have. Rather than seeing this as a

generation gap, I’ve learned to view it as an opportunity for reverse mentoring.

This exchange of knowledge across generations has become one of the most energising aspects of running Sloans. When I see a young stylist experiment with a colour technique they learned on Instagram, I don’t dismiss it, I ask them to show me. This curiosity about what the next generation brings to our craft keeps me feeling young and relevant in an industry that never stops evolving.

The Digital Classroom

While face-to-face education will always have my heart, the digital revolution has completely transformed how I think about education in our industry. Online education platforms as well as Instagram, TikTok, YouTube and our Sloans blogs, have become incredible classrooms where knowledge is shared instantly across the globe- for peers and clients.

L’Oreal Access has been a gamechanger, both for me as an educator as well as for my team as students. To have access to world-renowned teachers from anywhere has opened up so many new opportunities and as a former boy from Wagga Wagga, I know just what that means for regional hairdressers.

Clients also now arrive at Sloans far more educated than 25 years ago! They’ve seen tutorials, they understand terminology, they have read our blogs and have specific references, often from our own social media content. Every post becomes a mini-lesson, every story becomes an opportunity to teach something new.

Celebrating Student Success

Perhaps nothing motivates me more than watching my team achieve recognition for their skills and creativity. When one of our stylists wins a competition, gets published, or achieves a major milestone, I feel the same pride I imagine a teacher feels watching their student graduate.

These victories are also validation of our entire approach to education and development at Sloans, as seen in over 100 industry accolades in the past decade alone. They prove that the time we invest in training, the resources we dedicate to learning, and the culture of continuous improvement we’ve built actually works.

It’s about empowering people to become the best versions of themselves, professionally and personally.

My Voice in the Industry

Over the years, I’ve discovered that sharing knowledge through media articles, industry publications, and speaking engagements has become another powerful source of motivation. When Mocha Hair magazine or other publications ask me to contribute articles like this series, I’m excited to translate 25 years of experience into insights that might help other salon owners and stylists.

This external education, teaching the broader industry through writing and speaking, has pushed me to think more strategically about my experiences. It’s one thing to run a successful salon, it’s another to understand why it’s successful and be

able to communicate that to others. This has deepened my understanding of what makes Sloans work and what keeps me motivated.

Every article I write, every presentation I give, becomes both a teaching moment and a learning opportunity. The feedback I receive, the questions people ask, the different perspectives they bring, all of this contributes to my ongoing education and keeps me growing.

The Next 25 Years

As I look toward the future, I know that education will continue to be the driving force that keeps me motivated. The industry will evolve, new techniques will emerge, different challenges will arise, but the fundamental principle remains the same: never stop learning, never stop teaching, never stop growing. I’m still learning something new every week. That sense of possibility, that excitement about what I might discover tomorrow, that’s what will carry me through the next 25 years.

The student in me can’t wait to see what lessons are waiting to be learned. The teacher in me can’t wait to share them with others. And the salon owner in me can’t wait to see how all of this learning continues to elevate Sloans and our incredible team.

Here’s to staying curious, staying hungry, and staying motivated through the power of never-ending education. The next 25 years are going to be incredible!

HOW YOU CAN USE EDUCATION TO SUPERCHARGE SALON MOTIVATION

Master the people puzzle early: Implement team

• Make learning non-negotiable: Schedule regular educational experiences into your calendar, whether it’s attending masterclasses, industry seminars, or technical workshops, and treat them as essential business investments, not optional extras.

• Create safe spaces for experimentation: Establish regular creative sessions like our ‘Sloans Creative Play’ where your team can explore new techniques without judgment, turning education into an exciting team-building experience.

• Embrace reverse mentoring: Actively seek learning opportunities from your junior team members, especially around social media, emerging trends, and new technologies, recognising that education flows both ways across generations.

• Turn every success into a teaching moment: When team members achieve milestones or win awards, use these victories as opportunities to analyse what worked, share learnings across the team, and reinforce your salon’s educational culture.

• Leverage digital opportunities: Take advantage of the global hair community and provide your team with access to leading educators from your own salon floor.

• Share your knowledge externally: Contribute to articles, speak at events, or mentor other salon owners to deepen your own understanding while positioning yourself as an industry leader and staying accountable to continuous growth.

• Invest in team education budgets: Allocate specific resources for ongoing training and development, recognising that the return on investment comes through improved skills, higher team morale, and the competitive advantage of a constantly evolving salon.

Why Circles will always Rewrite the Rules of Hairdressing!

By Sharlene Lee, Circles of Hair

Here’s the hard truth: the salon industry rewards the bold, not the comfortable. While others cling to traditional models and wonder why their profits aren’t growing, we’ve been busy building something completely unique. The difference between thriving and merely surviving comes down to one thing - your willingness to abandon what everyone else considers “normal.”

I’ve built my entire career on refusing to accept limitations. When industry veterans told me certain things couldn’t be done, I made them happen anyway. When conventional wisdom suggested staying in your lane, I created multiple lanes. This isn’t just about being different for the sake of it, it’s about recognising that the biggest opportunities lie in the spaces others refuse to explore.

The salon owners who truly succeed understand that revenue doesn’t just come from the chair anymore. It comes from building something bigger than a service business. It comes from creating a brand that clients don’t just visit, but rather invest in, believe in, and actively promote.

I’ve never been one to follow the crowd. When everyone else zigs, I zag. It’s not just a personality trait; it’s a business strategy that has transformed Circles from the run-down salon I first purchased into the powerhouse superbrand it is today.

When I first started talking about diversifying income streams people thought I was crazy. “Just focus on doing good hair,” they said. But here’s the thing, if you’re only making money when someone’s sitting in your chair, you’re limiting your potential in so many ways!

Circles Merch

Our merchandising journey started with a simple observation: our clients loved being part of the Circles family. They wanted to represent the brand beyond their appointments. So, we created merchandise that actually means something. Our Circles accessories aren’t just promotional items, they’re lifestyle pieces that our clients genuinely want to own and use.

The numbers don’t lie. Our merchandise sales now contribute a significant percentage to our overall revenue, and here’s the kicker, the profit margins are incredible. But it goes deeper than profit. Every time

someone wears or pulls our merchandise out of their handbag, they’re walking billboards for our brand. They’re starting conversations, creating curiosity, and driving new business through the door. That’s marketing you can’t put a price tag on.

Innovation Meets Necessity

When we launched our own branded foil, the industry was sceptical, but our foil isn’t just functional, it’s part of our brand experience. When clients see our distinctive logo in their hair during the colouring process, they know they’re getting the premium Circles experience. Not to mention the extra coverage we saw across social media as clients documented their transformation process.

The same philosophy drove our extension line. We didn’t just want to sell extensions, we wanted to sell the Circles standard of quality. Every piece is carefully selected, tested, and approved by our team. When a client opts for Circles extensions, they’re not just buying hair, they’re buying into our commitment to excellence.

These product lines have also opened up entirely new conversations with our clients about at-home maintenance, styling techniques, and ongoing care. We’ve become their trusted advisors, not just their hairdressers.

Club C Education

This is where I get really excited. Club C Education is becoming a significant revenue stream, and it’s something I’m incredibly passionate about. We’ve already touched on our Circles Shadowing Program in this Mocha Hair series and that has been such a personal highlight, but Club C means we can reach so many more people.

So far, we have launched our online Circles Social

Media Starter Course, and we also have our new Club C Discussion Forum for Salon Owners. This exciting new platform lets us connect directly with salon owners who can’t make it to Perth for Shadowing, giving us the opportunity to help drive real results in salons across the country. Increased profits, happier teams, more confident pricing strategies, this is the stuff that keeps me up at night in the best possible way.

Social Media With Purpose

Let’s talk about social media, because I know so many of you are still treating it like an afterthought. Here’s my approach: everyone can do social media, but not everyone does it with intention. We were among the first salons to really embrace social media as an educational platform. While others were posting pretty pictures (which is fine, by the way), we were sharing the real stuff, the business strategies, the pricing conversations, the team building techniques that actually work.

My Instagram and TikTok aren’t just portfolios, they are masterclasses in salon business. I show the glamorous finished results, absolutely, but I also pull back the curtain and show what it really takes to run a successful salon. The response has been mixed- both incredible feedback as well as the inevitable trolls, but it has been an invaluable learning about making sure we are focused on our core demographic and not those wanting to pull us down. Most importantly, it’s driven real business results with increased bookings and salon awareness.

Being Unapologetically Us

Here’s something the industry needed to hear: it’s okay to want financial success. It’s okay to enjoy the finer things in life. It’s okay to be motivated by money. I’ve never hidden my ambition, and I never will.

This authenticity has become our greatest asset. When I share our real numbers, our actual profit margins, our genuine challenges, people listen because they know I’m telling the truth. There’s no smoke and mirrors, no pretending that passion alone pays the bills.

I’ve pioneered discussions about money in an industry that traditionally shies away from these topics. Pricing strategies, profit margins, salary structures, these aren’t secrets that should be guarded. They’re essential business fundamentals that every salon owner needs to understand.

The response to our transparency has been overwhelming. Salon owners are finally having honest conversations about their businesses, and this shift is changing the industry landscape.

Stepping Back To Lift Others Up

Here’s something that might surprise you, after taking our some of the biggest industry awards available we’ve made the conscious decision to step back from competitions this year.

We’ve help set benchmarks, shared our strategies, and demonstrated what’s possible. Now it’s time for us to cheer on our peers and get back to doing what we do best in the salon, offering support and advice to anyone who wants it.

The salon industry is at a crossroads. You can either embrace change, innovation, and new thinking, or you can get left behind. The choice is entirely yours. At Circles, we’ll always be the ones willing to take risks, try new approaches, and challenge conventional wisdom. We’ll continue to share our wins, our losses, and everything in between because that’s how we all grow together.

Want to know more? Contact me at Sharlene@circlesofhair.com.au or DM me on TikTok. I mean it when I say I am here for the industry I love!

“When industry veterans told me certain things couldn’t be done, I made them happen anyway. When conventional wisdom suggested staying in your lane, I created multiple lanes.”

- Sharlene Lee

Why Salon Owners Need to Embrace the 'Work/Life Blend'

By Cait Muir

Picture this: It’s Wednesday night. You’re shutting your laptop, committed to achieving that elusive “work/life balance”. Having dinner with your partner, your phone pings. That client you’ve been nurturing for months is finally ready to book! Your brain splits – half listening to your partner’s day, half calculating how much their booking is worth, throwing colour around ideas in your head - while that opportunity slowly slips away because you shouldn’t be working at night.

Sound familiar? Welcome to the reality of being a salon owner in 2025, where the myth of worklife balance isn’t just unrealistic – it’s actively destructive.

The 1920s Called, They Want Their Work Model Back

Let’s talk about the elephant in the salon: the 40-hour work week. This relic from the industrial age was when one person worked, while another managed the entire household, and the all could be financial funded by a single wage. Its 2025, why are we still trying to squeeze modern salon ownership into a framework that died last century.

The truth? Balance assumes that work and life are opposing forces fighting for your time, like two sides of a scale that can never both win, but for hairdressing entrepreneurs, this separation is artificial. Your business isn’t something you do – it’s part of who you are. Your breakthrough moments don’t happen during business hours, they happen in the shower, on a walk, or in the middle of the night!

The Blend Revolution

So what’s the alternative? Enter the work-life blend – a radical acceptance that your business and personal life aren’t separate entities but interconnected parts of your whole existence. The blend looks like taking that urgent client call during dinner because you genuinely care about their aftercare. It’s also taking Wednesday morning off to surf because the conditions are perfect and you’ll return energised and creative. It means your office might be your kitchen bench at 5am when the house is quiet, or a bar where you’re sipping wine while planning next month’s marketing.

For appointment-based businesses, the blend requires strategic thinking. Consider implementing what I call the “planning week.” If most of your clients are on an eight-week appointment cycle, block out every eighth week as your planning week – no clients, just strategic development and catch-up time. This strategy prevented that suffocating feeling of working “in” the business but never “on” it for me, and for hundreds of my clinic-owner clients too.

Embrace the Seasons

Building a successful business isn’t a steady marathon – it’s a series of intensive sprints followed by strategic recovery. Those first years might demand everything. You might work 70hour weeks during a launch or an expansion, then spend the next month working four days

a week. This isn’t failure; it’s intelligent business strategy.

The owners who insist you can build something exceptional while maintaining perfect balance, are the same ones whose dreams die slow and painful deaths. Success requires seasons of complete immersion, particularly during growth. those intense early years aren’t the permanent plan. They’re the price of admission. You’re building systems, training teams, doing the work - but first, you have to build them, and that demands everything!

The Technology Freedom

Contrary to popular belief, your smartphone isn’t a leash – it’s freedom. It means you can attend your child’s sports day and still respond to clients, or place your colour order. It means creative solutions can be captured the moment they arise, not lost because you were “maintaining boundaries.”

The blend means your energy, not the clock, dictates your schedule. Creative bursts at 10pm? Go with it. Feeling fried at 2pm? Take that walk. Sync with your natural rhythms, instead of against them.

Your Support System Makes or Breaks

Let’s not forget about relationships. If you have a partner, they need to be 120% supportive of your vision. The wrong partner becomes your biggest business expense – not just financially, but emotionally too. Every guilt trip about working late, every passive-aggressive comment about missing dinner, compounds into a tax on your dreams.

The right partner celebrates your wins harder than you do. They understand when you need to review booking policies at midnight or attend weekend training and seminars. They’re your champion, not your anchor. If you don’t have that support, you’re better off solo than saddled with someone who dulls your sparkle.

The Future You’re Building

Every level you reach in business opens new possibilities. Those late nights building systems become morning sleep-ins. Those missed happy hours become month-long vacations. The sacrificed weekends become the freedom to never miss another important family event. The work-life blend isn’t about having it all at once – it’s about having it all over time. It’s about designing a life where your salon business and personal fulfilment enhance each other rather than compete. It’s permission to be fully present in whatever you’re doing, whether that’s perfecting a balayage technique or playing with your kids, without the guilt of what you “should” be doing instead.

Stop chasing the myth of balance. Embrace the WORK/LIFE BLEND! Your business, your family, and your sanity will thank you for it. After all, in an industry built on transformation, isn’t it time we transformed our outdated ideas about success?

Salon perfection? Sure. But when it comes to gin, we prefer it Imperfect.

This Christmas, gift your favourite clients (or yourself) a bottle from our small-batch range, crafted to celebrate the beauty of imperfection. Pink, Chilli, Cherry, Dry… even a few Curious Creations if you’re feeling bold.

Because good spirits belong in more than just your salon.

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Salon Success Has a Recipe. Are You Following It?

By Dwight Hodge

I don’t know if you’re much of a cook, but whether you burn toast or could teach Nigella a thing or two, hear me out.

Because the thing that makes a great cook… is the same thing that makes a great salon owner.

It’s not talent.

It’s not hard work.

It’s not luck.

It’s the recipe.

If you want to bake a delicious cake, you follow a recipe.

If you want to build a thriving, profitable salon business - you guessed it - you follow a recipe.

There’s a method. A system. A sequence that, when followed, gets you consistent results. However, too often in our industry, I see salon owners throwing in random ingredients, mixing them in the wrong order, or forgetting the oven’s even on, then wondering why the result is flat, burnt, or worse, crumbling.

So, let’s talk about what makes a salon ‘recipe’ actually work, and how you can stop winging it and start scaling something sweet.

Recipes Aren’t Reinvented from Scratch

Every Time

No one wakes up one morning, decides to bake a cake, and reinvents the science of baking. That’d be madness.

Instead, we lean on recipes passed down through generations. We learn from others. We borrow the base and tweak the flavour. We stand on the shoulders of the bakers before us.

Salon ownership is no different.

There are proven strategies that work - systems for pricing, rebooking, team communication, target setting, and guest experience. You don’t need to reinvent how a successful salon runs. You just need to learn the foundational steps, tweak for your taste, and follow through.

The salon owners who struggle most are often the ones doing what I call “Pinterest baking” with their business. They’re mixing bits from Instagram coaches, Facebook groups, what their old boss did, and some gut instinct, and hoping it turns out okay.

Sometimes it does. But more often, it’s inconsistent at best and chaotic at worst.

Good Recipes Are Measured

You wouldn’t bake a cake by guessing the flour or eyeballing the eggs.

But I see salon owners doing this with their business every day. No clear targets. No pricing strategy. No plan for how many clients each stylist needs per week to break even. Then they wonder why cash flow feels unpredictable, why the team’s motivation comes and goes, and why they’re stuck taking on more clients just to keep the lights on.

If you want consistency, you need measurements. What’s your break-even point?

How many new guests do you need per week to grow? How much should you be charging for a half head of foils to actually make a profit?

Good recipes don’t rely on guesswork - and neither should your business.

Order Matters

You don’t cream the butter and sugar after the cake’s baked.

In the same way, you don’t fix your culture after your team’s burnt out. You don’t create loyalty after clients have drifted. You don’t raise your prices after you’ve gone broke. The order matters.

There’s a flow to running a great salon. A sequence that starts with clarity on your numbers, your dream clients, your team vision, and builds from there.

Jump ahead too soon, and you risk collapse. Ignore the foundational steps, and your growth won’t hold.

The Best Recipes Leave Room to Make It Yours

Of course, not every cake needs to taste the same. You might love a lemon drizzle; someone else prefers a double choc fudge.

Likewise, not every salon needs to look or feel the same. You’ve got your own vision, vibe, and values, and that’s part of your secret sauce.

But here’s the thing: the science of a successful salon is the same.

Whether you’re edgy and urban or luxe and laid-back, the fundamentals don’t change. What changes is how you bring those fundamentals to life.

You can add your twist, but only once the structure is solid.

You’re the Head Chef (Whether You Like It or Not)

Now, here’s the hard truth.

If your salon feels chaotic, inconsistent, or stuck, it’s not your team, it’s not the economy, and it’s not Instagram’s algorithm. It’s the recipe you’re using - or not using.

As the owner, you’re the one in charge of the ingredients. You set the tone. You decide what

gets baked and what gets binned.

And if you’re spending your days elbow-deep in clients and your nights tossing and turning over cash flow or team drama, it might be time to stop baking blind and start following a system.

You don’t have to be Gordon Ramsay. You just have to stop guessing.

What a Salon Success Recipe Looks Like

A good business recipe includes:

• A clear idea of who your salon is for (So you’re not trying to be everything to everyone).

• A pricing and service structure that’s profitable (Not just popular).

• Systems to build guest loyalty (So rebooking and retail aren’t left to chance).

• Targets that drive behaviour (That your team actually understand).

• Leadership habits that create culture (Instead of confusion and quiet quitting).

It’s not glamorous. But it works.

Final Thought: Stop Chasing Random Tactics

Too many salon owners are chasing the next shiny idea, new service, new stylist, new software - thinking it’ll fix their business.

But without a clear, structured system underneath, those things are just frosting on an uncooked cake.

Want more freedom? Want to stop being the only one who can keep things afloat? Want to hit consistent profit without burning out? Start with the recipe.

Then stick to it.

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The Future Has Arrived: How AI Is Solving the Biggest Pain Points in the Salon Industry.

By Kym Krey

The salon industry is changing - fast. Meet the revolutionary AI technology built to help overworked salon owners reclaim their time, reduce stress, and boost profitability.

Running a salon has always required a certain mastery in multitasking- but for today’s overworked salon owners, the balance is becoming harder and harder to maintain.

Staff shortages. Rising costs. Last-minute cancellations. Client churn. A never-ending todo list that follows you home every night.

“Salon owners are working harder than ever, yet feeling less in control than ever before.”

Every call missed*, every empty appointment slot, every lost client - is costing you. The question is, how do you grow when there’s no more time to give and no more hands to help?

*Data shows 30% of all calls to salons go unanswered. You’re too busy to leave a client but will that caller, move on to someone else?

Introducing Your Digital Dream Team

A new era has arrived – combining salon smarts with cutting-edge technology.

Developed specifically for the hairdressing industry, this breakthrough platform introduces three specialised AI agents that work seamlessly within your business (with a 4th not far away!).

This is not the painful, robotic experience you’ve experienced with banks and call centres! Think intelligent, adaptive digital team members designed to lighten your load, protect your profits, and elevate your client experience.

Let’s meet them.

1. The 24/7 Digital Salon Assistant

Picture this: a receptionist who never takes a break, never misses a call, never forgets what you’ve trained them to do, and can handle multiple conversations at once - always with your salon’s brand voice, professionalism, and warmth.

Your AI Salon Assistant is always on duty. It answers calls 24/7, interacts naturally with clients, provides information, and books directly into your salon software.

Whether it’s 10 a.m. or 10 p.m., your clients can book instantly without waiting for opening hours - so you’ll never lose another sale because the phone went unanswered, and you won’t arrive Tuesday morning to an exhaustive list of messages that you’ll never have time to return!

“It’s like having your best front desk team member on duty 24 hours a day - without the cost, stress, or scheduling headaches.”

2. The Client Re-Engagement Specialist

Every salon has a goldmine hidden in plain sight - the clients who loved your work but simply drifted away.

Your AI Client Re-Engagement Specialist brings them back with just a few clicks. Within seconds, you can create a tailored offer or promotion, and your AI will identify clients who haven’t visited in a set timeframe (e.g. 6 months), then reaches out to them personally, reopens the conversation,

explains the offer, and books them straight back into your system.

No spam. No mass marketing. Just warm, human-style communication that fills your book - and your bank account.

“Every empty chair in your salon is costing you money. Aura 300 fills those gaps automatically.”

3. The Digital Social Media Manager

You know social media is essential - but who has the time to plan content, film reels, write captions, and chase algorithms?

Your AI Social Media Manager does. It creates high-ranking reels, writes captions, uses your salon imagery and maintains your unique salon voice, producing authentic testimonialstyle posts (User Generated Content) that highlight your team’s talent and showcase guest experience.

No more guessing what to post. No more burnout trying to stay visible online. Your brand stays consistent, relevant, and magneticallowing you to do what you love.

And …. Another soon to be released that will blow you away!

Three Agents. One Mission: Freedom.

Together, these three AI agents create a fully integrated, intelligent ecosystem that transforms the way salons operate.

They don’t replace your team - they support them, removing the repetitive, time-consuming tasks that no one wants to do!

• No more missed calls.

• No more empty chairs.

• No more late nights creating social media content.

Instead, more time, more bookings, and more balance.

“AI doesn’t replace human connection - it protects it.”

By automating the background work, your human team can focus on what they do best: creativity, care, and client experience.

Why This Matters Now

The salon industry is at a turning point. Clients expect instant responses. Staff are harder to find. Costs are rising faster than service prices can keep up.

Technology isn’t a luxury anymore - it’s now survival.

The salons that thrive in the next five years will be those that embrace intelligent systems early. AI isn’t coming to take over - it’s coming to empower.

Just as foils once replaced caps, and online booking replaced appointment books, AI is the next evolution.

“The future of successful salons won’t belong to those who work the hardest - it will belong to those brave enough to embrace change”

The Cost of Doing Nothing

Some owners hesitate at the mention of AI, worried about cost or complexity. But the truth is, the real cost lies in doing nothing.

• Every missed phone call.

• Every lapsed client.

• Every hour spent on admin instead of growth.

This technology can now perform tasks that once required multiple employees - at a fraction of the cost, with perfect consistency, and no downtime.

The return on investment is immediate: more bookings, stronger client retention, and greater profit.

The Smart Salon Revolution

For decades, large corporations have had the monopoly on powerful data-driven tools that streamline operations and boost performance. Now, for the first time, that same intelligence is available - and affordable - for every salon business.

Aura 300 has been created specifically for the hairdressing industry - by industry specialists, for salon owners. It understands the rhythm of salon life, the tone of client communication, and

the importance of personal connection.

It learns your brand, mirrors your voice, and connects seamlessly with your existing software.

This isn’t the future. It’s here, now. And it’s ready to work for you.

Meet your new team - 3 digital specialists who never call in sick, never miss a beat, never forget an instruction, and never stop building your brand.

If you’ve ever wished for an extra set of handsor three - this is your chance.

Your AI-powered team is ready to:

• Answer every call

• Fill every gap

• Engage every guest

• Attract new ideal clients

…so you can focus on the creative, human side of your business - the part that no machine will ever replace.

Are you ready to meet your new digital dream team?

Kym Krey is one of the industry’s most trusted voices, being an exceptional specialist business coach and leadership mentor. She’s been where you are and has the runs on the board to help you get real results. Kym is also leading the Australian introduction of Aura 300 ai. If you’re ready to lead your business into the future, reach out @kymkrey www.kymkrey.com.au or www.aura300.ai

Kindness Without Boundaries: The Emotional Trap and How to Avoid Getting Stuck

By Angeli Shaw

Kindness is often regarded as a virtue. We show it through our interactions, conversations and the way that we show up. Generally, we build our businesses on care, empathy, and connection. Yet, when kindness goes unchecked and lacks clear boundaries, it can quietly become an emotional trap.

As leaders, we begin each day with the best intentions. To support our teams, nurture our clients, and maintain harmony in the workplace. But over time, those same intentions can lead to exhaustion, resentment, and disconnection, especially when the kindness you’re giving tends to not be returned. The leader who once radiated compassion begins to feel drained, underappreciated, and at times, invisible.

This is where we see the result of what can happen when there is kindness without boundaries. What begins as generosity can, without awareness, turn into self-neglect.

True kindness is rooted in strength, not sacrifice. It arises from empathy paired with self-respect. Niceness, by contrast, often stems from fear. A fear of conflict, disappointing others, or being perceived as difficult or ‘not nice’. When you don’t have boundaries put in place for what you give out, kindness becomes an overextension, something that depletes you, leaving you resentful rather than fulfilled.

Once upon a time I was guilty of this myself, and now, I often see leaders doing what I used to. They fall into patterns of overextending themselves and overcompensating for others. They say yes when they mean no, they take on emotional weight that isn’t theirs, and they absorb tension to maintain peace.

In the work environment, that might look like:

• Continually accommodating a team member who takes advantage of flexibility

• Offering repeated discounts to clients who “just need a little help”

• Mediating personal conflicts long after they should have been addressed directly

These behaviours can feel like acts of kindness in the moment, but over time they dilute authority and deplete emotional energy. Leaders find themselves caught between wanting to be respected and fearing that enforcing boundaries will make them seem unkind.

Let’s try to understand the root cause. That the tendency to give beyond your capacity doesn’t come from weakness. In fact, it often comes from deep empathy and a genuine desire to care. Many leaders are natural nurturers. They thrive on connection and want to create safe, welcoming environments. The thing is, beneath that generosity can lie some learned beliefs.

Examples are:

• “If people like me, they’ll stay.”

• “If I say no, I’ll let someone down.”

• “It’s easier to just do it myself.”

These beliefs may have served a purpose early on, helping us belong, gain approval, or avoid conflict, but in leadership, they become limiting. They turn compassion into compliance and emotional intelligence into emotional exhaustion.

The truth is simple yet powerful. You cannot lead effectively if your energy is constantly leaking through the cracks of unspoken boundaries!

I want you to remember this. Boundaries are not barriers! They are the framework that protect integrity. Yours and others. When you lead with clear boundaries, you’re not withholding kindness, you’re refining it. You’re saying, “I value myself enough to lead with clarity, and I value you enough to be honest.” This form of kindness is calm, consistent, and most of all, sustainable. It doesn’t overpromise, instead, it builds trust. Teams learn that your yes means yes, and your no is grounded in fairness, not frustration.

Here are some prime examples of boundary-led kindness:

• Clarity before compassion- “I understand your situation, and I also need to uphold our agreed hours”

• Empathy without absorption- “That sounds challenging. Let’s explore a solution that works for both of us”

• Firm kindness- “I appreciate your perspective, but our policies remain in place for consistency”

Boundaries ensure that kindness flows from a place of alignment, not depletion. It’s possible to escape the emotional trap of kindness without boundaries and it all begins with awareness. Remember, it’s not about becoming harder or less caring. It’s about anchoring your leadership in emotional clarity.

Kindness without boundaries often disguises itself as virtue. In other words, a form of moral excellence, goodness or righteousness, but in

truth, it drains the very qualities that make you an effective leader. Real kindness doesn’t mean saying yes to everyone. It means staying true to yourself while acting with compassion. It means knowing where you end and others begin and leading from that grounded place. When you bring boundaries into your leadership, your kindness transforms from an act of self-sacrifice into an act of integrity. You model balance, inspire respect, and create emotional safety for you and your team.

Remember, the most powerful acts of kindness aren’t the ones that gives endlessly. It’s the ones that give consciously.

It’s been an honour to be able to share my thoughts, words and knowledge with you. Wishing you all a balanced and thriving lead up to the end of 2025. See you all in 2026!

With growth & gratitude, Angeli xxoo

Angeli Shaw is a mindset mentor helping leaders in the hair, beauty and wellness industries lead with integrity, purpose, and confidence. To work with me in 2026, discuss training options or collaborations, visit www. angelishawmentoring.com.au or follow me on socials @angelishawmentoring

The 3 Types of Posts You Need to Blow Up Your Salon’s Instagram!

By Social Standards Founder, Belinda Haigh

The good news? You don’t need to post more; you just need to post smarter.

In 2025, the salons that stand out online aren’t the ones with the fanciest edits or trendiest filters. They’re the ones that create a balanced mix of three powerful types of content that grow your audience, deepen connections, and convert followers into loyal clients.

Let’s break down the magic formula.

1. Content That Grows

Goal: Make people want to follow you.

How: Education, motivation, entertainment or storytelling.

This is your reach content. The kind that puts you in front of new eyes and sparks curiosity about your salon. It’s what helps people discover you in the first place.

Think trending Reels, quick educational tips, or storytelling posts that make someone stop scrolling and think, “I need to follow this salon.”

For example:

• “Why your toner fades faster in summer (and how to fix it).”

• A trending Reel showing a behind-the-chair moment that stylists everywhere relate to.

Post idea: A quick, trending Reel showing a “client expectation vs. reality” balayage moment, ending with a tip on how clients can communicate their dream colour at their next appointment.

2. Content That Connects

Goal: Make people relate to you and your brand on a personal level.

How: Personal stories, opinions, behind-thescenes moments.

This is where you show what happens behind the hair.

People buy from people, not logos. When followers see your personality, your values, and your team’s genuine vibe, they start to feel part of your salon’s world.

So, show what makes you different. Share your rituals, your why, your messy behind-the-scenes moments. Talk about your approach to client

care or what fuels your creativity.

Post idea: A photo carousel showing your salon’s morning routine; coffee brewing, foils ready, team chatting, with the caption: “Before the foils and toners come out, here’s where the magic starts: calm energy, good coffee, and a team who genuinely loves what they do.”

This content type is about connecting. Connection builds trust. Trust builds loyalty. Loyalty fills your appointment book

3. Content That Converts

Goal: Turn trust into bookings.

How: Show proof, results, transformations, and step-by-step education.

This is where your followers become paying clients.

When people can clearly see your expertise, your methods, your results, and your process, booking becomes a no-brainer.

Show your transformations. Walk through your colour formulas or extension applications. Share results that highlight your signature style.

Post idea: A before-and-after Reel showing your signature lived-in blonde, with captions walking through each stage of the process: “Step 1: Remove banding. Step 2: Re-tone for a soft beige finish. Step 3: Hydration and gloss for that reflective shine.”

End with: “Ready for your own transformation? Tap the link in bio to book.”

Why This Formula Works.

Each type of post has a job to do:

• Grow posts bring new eyes to your brand.

• Connect posts make followers fall in love with your vibe.

• Convert posts to turn that trust into bookings.

When you hit all three consistently, your Instagram becomes more than a highlight reel; it becomes a marketing system that builds visibility, trust, and action.

If you’re only posting hair photos, you’re missing two-thirds of what makes Instagram actually work for your salon.

Ready to Level Up Your Salon’s Instagram? At Social Standards, we help salons like yours create scroll-stopping, strategic content that not only looks incredible, but actually brings clients through the door.

Want to know what’s working (and what’s not) on your current feed?

Book a free Instagram Content Audit with our team. We’ll review your feed, identify gaps, and give you tailored tips to help your salon stand out in 2025.

Scan the QR code below to book. Limited spaces available.

Are you feeling stuck with your salon’s Instagram lately? Between algorithm changes, Reels trends, and trying to actually run a busy salon, it’s no wonder your content isn’t hitting like it used to.

AI in the Commercial World of Hairdressing. The Urgent Need to Upskill in 2026.

By Hayley Mears

The future of hairdressing education is no longer a distant projection; it’s a rapidly unfolding reality shaped by Artificial Intelligence. For Australian salon owners, educators, and corporate beauty brands, the time for passive observation is over.

The transformative speed of AI demands real-time adaptation in our skill sets, or we risk being left behind entirely. Let’s be blunt: this is how your competitors will overtake you.

While it might sound intense or like a utopian Hunger Games where only the fastest adapt, that is the reality of business as we step into 2026. We are operating in a climate where 34% of Australian salon businesses closed in 2024 (oof, yeah, that’s one hell of a wake-up call if you haven’t already been slapped in the face by your P&L) It’s that age old case of the rhetoric “get comfortable, with being uncomfortable”, which is easier said than done when you are in a spiral of overwhelm. We need to lean in, not pull away, from innovation to secure our future. The easiest and most comfortable way to do that is to find the right person to walk you through the AI onboarding process in small and digestible steps. Start with one area—perhaps automating your newsletters, implementing a chatbot or editing your images with new AI tech.

If you want to wrap your head around what is next, here are a few predictions that feel like a natural evolution in our industry. Using AI to find efficiency flaws in your business. Where do you think you waste money, but can’t quite quantify it? Think about what you can ask AI. Collect the data ,work out your costings, and then wait and see what that looks like for your bottom line.

Is it the exhaustive number of software and tech subscriptions you’re not utilising. Is it in the bank fees and payment providers? What manual jobs give you no ROI that can be delegated to Ai to allow for better revenue generation?

The AI Skill Gap: A Business Threat

The skill gap in using AI is your biggest threat, because if you don’t move with it, your competitors will. From customer management to colour formulation what Ai can do is gaining momentum and this rapid adoption creates a critical problem: the AI skill gap.

If you’re not actively learning to at least understand, let alone implement tools like AIdriven pre- appointment virtual consultations (designed to prepare your day and optimise your workflow) or smart scheduling systems, the hole in your business skill set is forming right now. In 2026, AI won’t just be an extra tool; it will be integral to the curriculum, requiring a fundamental shift in how professionals learn.

Future education will centre on mastering the use of Augmented Reality (AR) and AI analysis tools. Students won’t just learn how to cut hair;

they’ll learn how to interpret an AI’s analysis of a client’s face shape, skin tone, and hair health to recommend a style. The value will shift from knowing every formula by heart to critically evaluating and refining the data provided by AI.

As AI automates administrative tasks and technical analysis, the core of hairdressing education must pivot to emphasise the skills AI can’t replicate:

● Creative Vision: Using the efficiency of AI to free up time for pure artistry.

● Emotional Intelligence: Building deep client rapport, which is the ultimate nonautomatable service.

● Problem Solving: Handling the complex, unique challenges that require human judgment.

Educational platforms will integrate AI-powered virtual simulations. Students can practice complex techniques with an AI system that provides immediate, objective feedback on cutting angles or colour application consistency. This means quicker skill acquisition and a higher standard of technical precision before a student ever touches a client’s hair.

A Clear Message for Corporate Brands: Invest in Innovation For corporate brands—manufacturers, distributors, and large salon chains—your message must be clear and succinct: INVEST in educating your team in how to innovate for you using AI.

When your educators, sales representatives, and in-house trainers are fluent in AI, they become powerful evangelists for your brand. This allows them to effectively teach your customers and clients how to use these new tools, transforming what could be perceived as a threat into a competitive advantage. By taking your clients on this journey along with your team, your brand will become the preferred partner of choice in

@sixundergroundmedia @haylsmears @cuttitngthroughthenoise.podcast

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