mochahair Year 19 Issue 3

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TABATHA COFFEY

JEAN BAPTISTE SANTENS

ASHLEE NORMAN

DANNY PATO

JULES TOGNINI

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

ADMINISTRATION

Jess Richmond jess@mochagroup.com.au

CONTRIBUTORS

Louise May

Candice McKay // Anthony Gray

Sarah Smith // Kathleen Lindsay

Amber Bullock // Bernadette Beswick

Shae Tsiknaris // Sami J

Samantha Jones // Emily Ciardiello

Andrew Cobeldick // Kym Krey

Cait Muir // Dwight Hodge

Scott Sloan // Jess Marie Del-Borello

Mark Chapman // Hayley Mears

Belinda Haigh // Angeli Marie Shaw

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mochahair is published six times a year by mocha publishing ABN 65 091 846 189 No Part of the publication may be reproduced in any manner or form without written permission. mochahair does not accept responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts, transparencies, original artwork or other material. The views expressed in mochahair are not necessarily those of the publisher. No responsibility will be accepted if the publication is delayed or prevented by factors beyong the control of the publisher. No responsibility will be accepted for errors in copy, or for any loss arising from the failure of an advertisement or any part thereof to appear.

editors letter.

If I could shine a spotlight on just one thing in this issue, it would be this: the future of our industry. And no, I don’t mean future trends or future tech... I mean the future hands, hearts, and minds that will carry this industry forward. Our apprentices. Our next generation. The youth of hairdressing in Australia and New Zealand.

Let’s not sugar-coat it: the state of apprenticeships right now is dire. Apprenticeship numbers are at an all-time low, and of the few we do manage to bring into the fold, the dropout rate is nothing short of heartbreaking. We’re in trouble. And it’s time we really asked ourselves why.

Is it because they’re not resilient enough? Because they don’t want to work? Because they’re ‘too soft’? That’s the kind of talk I hear floating around, this misguided narrative that young people these days are entitled or lazy. Honestly, it couldn’t be further from the truth.

I’ve just returned from the Expo4Barbers and AMBA’s events on the Gold Coast, and let me tell you—my mind was blown. The sheer number of young teens already barbering, already honing their craft, already so passionate… it was electric. The talent? Off the charts. The energy? Palpable. The enthusiasm? Inspiring.

So what’s the difference? Why can barbering draw in so many young people, particularly teenage boys, with energy and drive, while salons are seeing apprentices walk out the door before they’re barely in?

The answer, I believe, is simple: inspiration.

They’re inspired. They’re encouraged. They’re connected to the culture. They’re part of something. And they’re seen.

Too often in salons, young apprentices are given a broom and expected to pay their dues. They’re pushed aside until they’ve ‘earned’ their place on the floor, but no one tells them when or how they’ll get there. They’re hired with excitement, only to feel invisible three months in—sweeping hair, folding towels, washing basins. And let’s be real: who’s mentoring them? Who’s asking how they’re going? Who’s lighting their fire and showing them what’s possible?

It’s no surprise that many lose their spark and walk away before they ever get the chance to fall in love with what this industry could be.

And here’s where I might ruffle some feathers. I’ve been in this game for 38 years. I’ve seen the best of the best, and I’ve also seen patterns that just keep repeating. Too many salon owners still treat apprentices the way they were treated. It’s learned behaviour, passed down from one generation to the next, and it’s stunting the growth of our entire industry.

We’re not growing our own. We’re not nurturing them. We’re not paying them properly, pricing our services correctly, or investing in their education. We’re not making them feel like they’re part of something exciting, something purposeful, something worth sticking around for.

That’s not to say all salon owners are guilty—far from it. I know so many incredible salon owners doing beautiful work, building amazing cultures, and growing brilliant teams. But there’s an elephant in the room, and it’s time we all acknowledge it. Our industry is struggling, and if we’re being honest with ourselves, we have to take some responsibility.

We need to stop pointing fingers and start asking better questions.

What can I do to change this? What role do I play in inspiring the next generation?

Because here’s the truth: if nothing changes, nothing changes.

One of the most powerful things I learnt through my study of NLP was this simple truth—when you point your finger at someone else, there are always three fingers pointing back at you.

This issue of Mocha Hair is a celebration of everything we are, but also a call to action for everything we could be. Let’s commit to doing better. Let’s challenge old habits. Let’s lift up our young ones and show them what this industry can really be. Let’s make space for them to shine.

They’re not just the future—they’re the now. And they deserve better than what we’ve been giving them.

Until next time,

Lou x

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

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By Candice McKay

NEXT UP IS SOFIA GEIDEBY.

Sofia is a distinguished colorist and salon owner at Little Factory in Sweden. Known for her creativity and dedication, Sofia’s impact on the hairdressing industry is profound, with a focus on innovation and mentorship. From her beginnings in Sweden, where she grew up working in her parents’ butcher shop, to studying at Vidal Sassoon in London, Sofia’s journey has been marked by a relentless pursuit of excellence and innovation. Her career took a significant turn when she decided to focus on coloring, a move that solidified her reputation as a leading colorist.

Hi Sofia, it’s great to meet you. I first noticed your work was through social media. Your posts are incredible and really stand out. What strategies have you used to get noticed in the industry, and what advice would you give to other people wanting to leave their mark?

I don’t know if I’ve had a proper strategy per se. My goal has always been to give people a genuine sense of who I am when they visit my Instagram. I want them to see my personality, my likes, and my work. I haven’t taken any social media classes, but I do pick up tips and tricks from others, like posting at the same time every day. Ultimately, I try to be honest and show my true self—whether it’s in the salon, the studio, or exploring new techniques. I mix it up. I post about what I’m currently working on, share the process, and sometimes just post a single image.

It’s important to not overthink and just post what feels right, even if it’s not perfectly polished. On my stories, I might share more private moments or thoughts, while my main posts focus on my work. It’s about creating a holistic view of who I am, both as a professional and as a person.

For someone aspiring to reach your level of recognition, what’s the most important thing to keep in mind?

Consistency and authenticity are key. Keep posting, stay true to yourself, and practice regularly. Don’t be afraid to show your personality and the behind-the-scenes of your work. This not only helps build your brand but also creates a connection with your audience. And always be curious—try new things and explore different techniques. That’s where the real magic happens.

Sofia Geideby

We invited Freelance Art Director and International Educator Candice McKay to dial up the inspirational

figureheads who are shaking up hairdressing on the global stage.

How important is networking and mentorship, and how can young hairdressers build these relationships?

Networking and mentorship are incredibly important. We live in a time when it’s very easy to reach out to people through social media. It’s never been this easy to communicate and connect. This is one of the best aspects of social media—building these connections. Even though I’ve been working for many years, I still need mentors.

For instance, I’m currently doing a mentorship with George Cancer from Xpression. He’s acting as a creative mentor for me. It’s not that I’m going to start doing exactly what he does, but I need new insights to take the next step with Little Factory. This way, I can offer something new and develop further. It’s important for me to have a mentor so I can be a good mentor myself.

That sounds like a symbiotic relationship. How does this mentoring dynamic work within your salon?

As a salon owner and educator, it often feels like you’re constantly giving. But you also get a lot back when your team starts working with what you’ve taught them and even developing new styles. This creates a magic give-and-take dynamic. For me, it’s crucial to continue my education and have a mentor, so I can keep this cycle of growth and mentorship going.It’s all about being proactive and open to opportunities. Networking and mentorship can truly shape your career and help you grow both professionally and personally.

How do you stay current with all the latest trends, stay innovative, and still maintain your unique style?

Sofia Geideby: I try to stay in the middle of everything, observing the latest trends and translating them into my own style. It’s important not to copy but to get inspired and develop something unique. For me, it involves taking inspiration, practicing new techniques, and then presenting them in a way that reflects my personal touch.

I also strive to be part of creating new trends, thinking about what could be the next big thing. Recently, I’ve been experimenting with unconventional techniques, like making random bleach patterns to see what happens. It’s about exploring the wrong side of things to develop something new. You have to be willing to make mistakes and see where they lead. This unpredictability often leads to creative breakthroughs.

With 77% of the industry being female, there are still relatively few women in top roles as art directors. What do you think are the main barriers to women reaching these high positions?

One of the barriers is that women often see barriers more than men do. Men might just go for it without overthinking, while women might hesitate and think about what’s happening around them. Women need to focus more on themselves and their goals and just go for it. Women naturally tend to think about others, often balancing family responsibilities alongside their careers.

In Sweden, I’m part of and helped start a group called Kai Collective. This group is all about collaborating with the best women in the industry here. We believe in working together instead of seeing each other as competitors. By communicating and collaborating with other inspiring and talented hairdressers and artists, we can achieve more.

Recently, I saw two very high-profile shows announcing their headliners, and both lineups only featured men. How does that make you feel?

I’ve noticed this happening a lot, and it’s frustrating. In Sweden, I’ve reached out to organizers and engaged in discussions about this, but I haven’t received satisfactory answers. It often seems like it’s up to the brands to decide who gets on stage, but this needs to change.

We should question why brands have such control over this and push for more inclusivity. There is some change happening, with more focus on colorists and stylists who collaborate with various brands rather than being tied to just one. This shift could help address the imbalance and promote a more diverse range of talent on stage.

How can the industry better support and promote women in leadership roles such as art directors?

One key way is through effective communication and networking. Building strong communities where women support each other is crucial. For instance, groups that offer mutual assistance with outreach and networking can make a big difference. Social media and competitions are also valuable tools for visibility and inspiration. Competitions, in particular, have been instrumental in building my own brand, and they provide an excellent platform for women to showcase their talents and gain recognition.

How do you use your platform to empower and inspire other female hairdressers?

I use my platform to encourage women to overcome fears and not worry about others’ opinions. By participating in competitions and sharing my authentic self on social media, I aim to provide a genuine glimpse into my work and experiences. This openness helps inspire others to be themselves and pursue their passions without hesitation.

What legacy do you hope to leave behind in the hair industry, and how are you working towards it?

In Sweden, I hope to be remembered for my contributions to the industry and for being

an enduring presence. I plan to continue participating in hair events and mentoring the next generation, even into old age. My goal is to ensure that Little Factory remains a thriving salon and company, and to maintain a positive, influential role in the industry for as long as I can.

About the interviewer:

Candice McKay is a prominent art director, trends forecaster and educator with a deep passion for the hair industry. Her expertise in trend analysis and industry insights plays a key role in shaping and inspiring hair professionals globally.

@candicemckay_

@sofiageideby

@littlefaktory

2024 AHIA VIC Salon Business of the Year TELLEISH HAIR STUDIO

By Louise May

There are salons—and then there are destinations. Telleish Hair Studio is proudly the latter. This South Melbourne standout, crowned 2024 AHIA VIC Salon of the Year, has built something beyond beautiful hair. It’s a space where passion, purpose, and people intersect—a sanctuary for self-expression, transformation, and excellence.

Founded sixteen years ago by Chantelle Cowcher in a modest 90m2 miners’ cottage in Port Melbourne, Telleish has evolved into a 240m2 architectural masterpiece. Awarded AHIA Salon Design of the Year in 2020, the new Telleish space is inspired by New York loft aesthetics, wrapped in 7-metre-high floor-to-ceiling windows that flood the studio with natural light. It houses 19 stations, a 10-seater colour table, a dedicated Business Hub, and lounge-style seating designed for comfort, calm, and connection.

But behind the stylish interiors and awardwinning design lies a deeper story—a story of leadership, community, and unwavering commitment to raising the bar. “We’re in the people industry,” Chantelle says. “Hair is what we do, but who we are is all about growth, care, and purpose.”

That philosophy is evident in every layer of the business. With a team of 24, Telleish welcomed five new apprentices during the award period and supported four experienced team members in opening their own salons. In an industry marked by constant turnover, Telleish has seen three of its original apprentices reach long service leave—a powerful testament to its culture of retention, growth, and genuine care. Telleish’s operational model is grounded in flexibility and wellbeing. The team works on rotating 5 and 4-day rosters, allowing everyone regular Saturdays off to spend with family. They are paid for 38 hours despite working 37, and enjoy additional “Telleish Siestas”—bonus rest days built into the calendar. Education is nonnegotiable and seamlessly built into the week. One-third of all training at Telleish focuses on personal development. The belief is simple but profound: to deliver exceptional service,

stylists must feel empowered, self-aware, and supported. The team participates in private coaching, monthly leadership workshops, and sessions focused on emotional intelligence, behavioural dynamics, and effective communication. A custom-designed Education Planner maps each individual’s growth, tracks progress, and reflects on key achievements throughout the year.

Then come the Jam Days. Four times a year, the salon shuts its doors for full-day training intensives. These aren’t your average workshops. Each Jam Day is curated to include a blend of technical education, creative inspiration, and mindset development. From advanced colouring techniques to leadership and communication skills, these sessions are designed to stretch, uplift, and empower every member of the team—ensuring holistic professional and personal growth.

One-on-one education is also deeply embedded. Master Cutter finalist Teagan Cousins delivers cutting training two days a week, while Chantelle works closely with the team on colour. Every Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday are structured education days, with ongoing mentorship designed to address real-time challenges, elevate skills, and build confidence.

But the learning doesn’t stop in Melbourne. Two stylists travelled to Italy to train one-on-one with Gianni Scumaci, while others participated in hands-on workshops across Perth, Sydney, and Adelaide. These included cutting intensives, lived-in colour sessions, shadow programs, and international educator events with names like Sophia Hilton, Nicole Kay, Peter Becket, Braggin Beauty, and Circles of Hair.

That investment in education extends to management too. Leadership workshops with figures like Gary Vee and Ethan Donati, help build resilient, visionary leadership across all levels of the business.

Client care at Telleish is an artform. From the first moment of contact, whether it’s a DM, email, phone call, or text—clients receive a real, human response. Every new guest is offered a complimentary 30-minute consultation that includes strand testing, stylist matching, and a customised plan. This ensures they feel understood, confident, and in expert hands before even sitting in the chair.

The salon caters to a wide demographic of guests, from professionals aged 25–70 to long-time loyal clients now bringing their adult children. To ensure comfort for all, the space offers five levels of stylist experience and three station types, including the popular mirrorless bench area for guests who prefer not to look in the mirror during their service.

Telleish also understands the value of space and presence. The Business Hub features highspeed internet and USB ports so clients can work during their appointments. A “Mums and Bubs” area downstairs offers quiet, private space for parents and their children. Clients are welcome to stay, linger, and connect—a reflection of the salon’s core value of community.

After appointments, guests are contacted for reviews or direct feedback. This extra layer of communication reflects the salon’s dedication to continuous improvement and trust-building. Despite being fully booked six weeks in advance, Telleish welcomed 1,330 new clients during the awards period—an average of 25 per week. Growth has come not from heavy marketing, but from Google reviews, social media visibility, and most of all, word of mouth.

On the floor, Telleish buzzes with collaboration. Stylists bounce ideas off each other, leadership is visibly present, and creativity flows freely

between colleagues. Team members know they are supported, and clients feel that energy in the service they receive.

Equally impressive is Telleish’s leadership in sustainability. Since 2016, they’ve partnered with Sustainable Salons, diverting 95% of their waste. During the awards period, they recycled 269kg of plastic, 537kg of paper, 389kg of metal, and 81kg of hair. These efforts have helped fund meals for vulnerable communities through OzHarvest and KiwiHarvest.

They’ve implemented Vish, a salon-specific colour wastage system, and proudly hold AHC Green accreditation. Clients actively seek out their sustainable ethos, often asking about vegan and cruelty-free products, or how to donate their hair to a worthy cause. Events like Tim from Gogglebox’s charity shave have only further cemented their community-minded approach.

For Chantelle, sustainability isn’t just about recycling. It’s about people. It’s about building a business model that can sustain its team, its clients, and its purpose long into the future. “We’re creating careers, not jobs. That means looking after every aspect of the person— technical, emotional, and human,” she says.

One of the greatest achievements over the past year was watching a Telleish team member become an Australian cutting educator, travelling the country to sold-out workshops. For the team, it was more than a proud moment—it was proof that their internal education system works. It creates leaders, role models, and experts.

The salon’s ongoing commitment to education, team support, client excellence, and environmental responsibility is why Telleish doesn’t just thrive—it leads.

Winning the 2024 AHIA VIC Salon of the Year is not simply about recognition. It’s the result of sixteen years of showing up, refining the craft, nurturing people, and building a brand that people believe in.

BELLA DONNA: STRENGTH, SOUL & SALON MASTERY

The story of and her powerhouse colle ctive in Bundaberg. Kala Duffy

By Louise May

Kala Duffy never planned on being a hairdresser. Like many, she grew up with the idea that hairdressing was what you did if you weren’t bright enough to do something else. But life, as it often does, had a different plan.

As a teenager, Kala was already cutting boys’ hair across the road from school and doing up styles for discos, for a fee, of course. When her grandparents and a friend’s sister approached her with the idea of opening a salon and offering her an apprenticeship, she was a little lost and unsure of her path. She said yes. That moment would quietly shape everything that followed.

In May 2003, Bella Donna Hair Salon opened its doors in Bundaberg, a tiny 20m² space with three chairs, two basins, and a whole lot of second-hand furniture. Kala began her apprenticeship on opening day. By February 2007, at just 21, she had completed her training and bought the salon outright.

A Clearer Vision

At the time, Kala didn’t think she had a vision. But looking back, she can see it was always there. “I wanted to be known for doing quality hair, not just being the affordable option,” she says. “I wanted a clean, beautiful space where people could feel comfortable, and where I felt good showing up every day.”

That clarity has only grown stronger with time. Today, Bella Donna has a defined vision, mission statement, policies, procedures, and proudly holds Gold Accreditation with the Australian Hairdressing Council.

“I used to be embarrassed to say I was a hairdresser. I wanted to build something I could be proud of—something that would change the stigma.”

Bigger Space, Bigger Impact

In 2008, Kala moved Bella Donna into a larger space with seven chairs, finally creating the atmosphere and experience she had imagined. Fast forward to today and the salon has just undergone a full renovation—gutted and transformed to accommodate 11 stations, four basins, and the biggest team Kala has ever had: four seniors, three apprentices, and one rent-achair stylist.

Adaptability has always been a strength. “We evolve as times change. I’m open to feedback and never afraid of hard work,” she shares. That grit is part of Kala’s DNA. She moved out of home at 15. She worked six days a week for the first seven years, only closing at Christmas. “I wasn’t one of those kids you’d bet on to succeed,” she says. “But I’ve always liked proving to myself, and others, that I can do what people think I can’t.”

From day one, she ran Bella Donna like a business. She knew where every dollar went, only drew a wage, and never relied on backup plans. That mindset, along with her business acumen, meant the salon grew year on year.

Coaching, Mentorship & Self-Growth

By 2019, Kala knew she’d taken the business as far as she could on her own. She’d only ever worked in Bella Donna and was craving outside perspective. Enter business coach Faye Murray. “Faye helped me look at my business in a completely new way,” Kala says. “She supported my dream to shadow other salons, a dream I didn’t have the network to pursue, until she opened those doors.”

Since then, Kala has visited salons around Australia, learning, growing, and connecting with like-minded owners. She makes it a goal to do this twice a year.

She’s also grateful to have an accountant who acts as a mentor, constantly challenging her limiting beliefs and pushing her to grow further. These mentors have been instrumental not only in business but also in helping Kala find the confidence to step into her role as a leader.

The Heart Behind It All

There’s another layer to Kala’s story, one that speaks to her resilience and drive in a different way. She’s also a mum to an 11-year-old son with brain damage, uncontrolled epilepsy, and a severe intellectual impairment. Life is busy, often challenging, and certainly not simple.

But for Kala, it’s part of what fuels her.

“It’s not easy, but it shows my daughter what’s possible. That you can be a present mum and still build something strong. That anything is achievable.”

Building a Culture

That Feels Like Home

Culture wasn’t easy in the beginning. “I always knew the kind of environment I wanted for myself and my team, but creating that, learning to manage people, personalities, and hold boundaries, all took time.”

Only in the last five years has Kala felt truly confident in that space.

Bella Donna now runs daily 30-minute team meetings, closes for one week every school holidays and two weeks at Christmas, and works hard on building a space where both clients and team members feel safe, supported and seen.

They work on gratitude, vulnerability, open communication, and mutual respect. “It’s about creating the kind of workplace I’d want to be part of,” Kala says.

And it’s working. Staff retention is the highest it’s ever been. The team describes the culture as inclusive, collaborative, ego-free, calm, and connected.

Team First, Always

Kala hires for fit. “No egos. That’s the first thing I look for.”

Instead of chasing seniors, the team focuses on growing their own. Apprentices are supported from day one. One just qualified after starting with Bella Donna as a school-based apprentice.

Kala also invests in each team member’s unique strengths. One stylist now manages their social media, having completed a 12-week course. Another, with 20+ years’ experience, is their in-house educator, off the floor for three hours a week, training apprentices, and certified in training and assessing.

When the team renovated last year, two local salons generously hosted them so they could keep trading, an experience that challenged everyone to step out of their comfort zones and grow.

Training That’s Personal, Purposeful & Ongoing

Education is central to Bella Donna’s ethos.

• Weekly three-hour apprentice sessions with the in-salon educator

• Second-year apprentices earn their scissor licences via Elite Hair Education (with three trips to Brisbane)

• In-salon team training every six weeks

• Two guest artists brought to Bundaberg each year—this year it’s Nathan Yip and Sara Briscoe

• Each team member chooses 2–4 development courses annually

• Soft skills training with L’Oréal every six weeks, focused on consultation, connection and communication

• Completed the Super Stylist program with Antony Whitaker, and doing it again this year

And it doesn’t stop there.

Every three months, the salon closes for a Wellness Day. These days are all about connection, awareness and fun. Past sessions include gratitude workshops, nutrition talks, meditation, ice baths, pole dancing, goal setting, and even physio sessions to talk about longevity in the trade. Coming up? A psychologist covering stress and anxiety, and a financial advisor teaching budgeting and superannuation.

Real, Raw & Respected

Bella Donna is known for being real. “We don’t cut corners. We don’t overpromise. We’re honest, welcoming, and genuine. That’s what sets us apart.”

Even other hairdressers book in. “They tell us it’s non-judgemental here. They love what we do.”

Kala has also started building a local network of like-minded salons called Connect and Elevate. They share guest artists, host networking mornings, and collaborate instead of competing. Past speakers include Sandy Chong and Faye Murray.

The team describes Bella Donna as consistent, professional, welcoming, and warm. “We build real relationships,” one says. “Clients feel it the second they walk in.”

What’s Next?

Two main focuses: deepening client connections and launching new education initiatives for the region, especially for apprentices. When the salon rebranded as Bella Donna The Hair Collective, it quietly hinted at something bigger on the horizon.

“We’ve got a project in the pipeline around foundational skills education. It’s still under wraps, but it’s big,” Kala says.

The team is also entering the AHIA Business Awards for the first time— something Kala calls “nerve-wracking but exciting.” By year’s end, they’ll have two more qualified apprentices.

Rising From Rock Bottom

After COVID, the salon lost half its team. Three weeks of uncertainty, rules changing daily, and team members leaving the industry or starting new careers. Then in mid-2021, they were hit again. Within three months, almost the entire team was gone.

Kala sent an email to clients saying she could no longer take on anyone new. “It was soul-destroying. I didn’t know if we’d survive.”

But a client said something that changed her: “If you can keep the doors open, it can only get better from here.”

That flicked a switch.

“I rebuilt from scratch, with intention. I found people who aligned with my values. It ended up being the best thing that ever happened to the business.”

Today, Bella Donna stands strong... shaped by resilience, fuelled by purpose, and led by a woman who never gave up.

Industry News.

Foil Me Expands ‘Simply’ Collection with New ‘Simply Lemon’ Foil

With the symbolic meaning of renewal, happiness, and clarity, the colour lemon has inspired Foil Me to deliver the soft & subtle ‘Simply Lemon’ foil, the newest addition to the brand’s coveted ‘Simply’ Collection. Boasting a luscious pastel yellow hue reminiscent of a creamy lemon sorbet, this collection emanates a minimalistic, polished aesthetic with a vibrant citrus twist, perfectly reflecting the ‘Simply’ Collection ‘less is more’ sensibility. Featuring a velvety, luxe matte finish, ‘Simply Lemon’ promises to infuse any space with a warm, sunny ambiance, ideal for those who crave simplicity but love an understated pop of colour.

Foil Me CEO and Creative Director, Emily Ciardiello, explains, “We created the ‘Simply’ range because we understand that hair artists have different needs and preferences - ‘Simply Lemon’ caters to that. When paired with any other Foil Me foil designs, this collection makes crafting highlights and lowlights effortless by creating clear, distinguished sections; we actually have a new collection in the works featuring this same lemon shade, so watch this space! I also think this colour is going to look STUNNING on brunettes!”

The delightfully refreshing ‘Simply Lemon’ foil features Foil Me’s signature embossing and exclusive foil composition to ensure an effortless application and desirable result every time. www.foilme.com.au

INSPIRE BRANDS

As a business it’s easy to take for granted the customers that continually support you day in day out. It’s not often that they are recognised for their support. Inspire Brands certainly don’t expect their customers to support them unless they provide them with the services they require and even the ones they don’t, and that is why they go out of their way to make sure that the following are true when dealing with them.

- High quality products

- A good range of products catering to both hairdressers and barbers

- Affordable and usual below market pricing

- Easy order processing

- High level of communication

But their main priority is respect for each other. With their Gamma+, Fascinelle and Salon & Co ranges, they have taken the approach of ONLY dealing with Wholesalers and Distributors across Australia and New Zealand, this allows them to be focussed and deliver on not only their needs but that of their customers also.

A WORD FROM SOME OF THEIR CUSTOMERS:

HairCo – Hoppers Crossing Victoria

Working with Inspire Brands has been a consistently positive experience for over a decade. Our relationship spans more than 10 years, built on trust, reliability, and genuine partnership. Their team is always friendly, approachable, and incredibly easy to work with—making every interaction seamless. The level of service they provide is second to none. Corey (Sales Manager) is always helpful, personable, and a true pleasure to deal with. It’s this combination of professionalism and warmth that has made Inspire Brands such a valued and longstanding partner in our business journey.

WA Hair and Beauty

Hair 2 Beauty – Warwick Farm NSW

Thank you Inspire brands for your support and service.

Corey (Sales Manager) has been an absolute legend, and his commitment and passion is unmatched. He’s got a heart of gold and makes dealing with him always a pleasure.

Thank you, Inspire Brands. We value our relationship and commitment with you and look forward to seeing more business opportunities in the near future.

We have been working with Inspire Brands well over 4 years + now.

Carmelo (CEO) and Corey (Sales Manager) have been a positive influence on our business.

They are always looking for new cutting-edge products and offering great service, products and competitive margins. We are and continue to be more than happy with the Team at Inspire Brands.

Easy to deal with. Nothing is a problem and if so, is easily fixed immediately. Great company. A+. We wish them continued success and look forward to continuing and growing our businesses together

Inspire Brands are grateful to their wholesalers for their support and input into how to improve their services to them. Every interaction is considered valuable to the team at Inspire Brands.

www.inspirebrands.com.au @inspirebrandsau

Short Back & Sidewalks partners with TONI&GUY Australia for new service in Sydney

Australia to once again offer haircuts in Sydney to people in need.

TONI&GUY Australia’s nationally renowned hairdressers from across their network of Sydney salons will volunteer to deliver new monthly SBSW services at the Central Community Hub at St Andrew’s Cathedral.

SBSW CEO Natalie Jenkins said the charity was delighted to return to Sydney.

“It’s really special to get to work alongside such an iconic hairdressing brand and crew like the TONI&GUY Australia team to deliver services to the people who need it most,” Ms Jenkins said.

“The people who use our services deserve the very best, and this partnership ensures they will continue to receive it from some of Sydney’s best hairdressers.”

TONI&GUY Australia CEO Sara Langford said, “It’s our personal, professional and social responsibility to partner with meaningful and likeminded organisations like Short Back & Sidewalks”.

“Our Salons are excited for the opportunity to utilise their skillset and give back to the local community”.

The new Central Community Hub TONI&GUY Australia service will complement SBSW’s second presence in Sydney at Foster House in Surry Hills, a residential facility for men aged 18 and over who are experiencing or at risk of homelessness.

@short_back_and_sidewalks

Short Back & Sidewalks (SBSW) is partnering with premium hairdressing salon brand TONI&GUY

Industry News.

SLOANS CELEBRATES 25 YEARS OF STYLE EXCELLENCE

Industry renowned salon Sloans is celebrating a huge milestone with 25 years of as a cornerstone of the local community and a national flagship for hair fashion.

Established in 2000 by industry icon and renowned educator Scott Sloan, Sloans is one Australia’s most awarded hair establishments and the current AHIA NSW/ACT Salon of the Year 2024, AHIA Creative Team of the Year 2023 as well as AHFA Salon of the Year 2023. Scott is supported by a dynamic team of hairdressers who bring a trend-led yet totally timeless approach to the salon floor. These highly skilled and diverse individuals provide the ultimate hair fashion experience, ensuring every client’s hair is always a step ahead and styled perfectly. While most often happily ensconced with the team in Sloans’ stunning salon space, Scott is also regularly called upon to create cutting edge fashion looks around the world. He has worked alongside icons including Guido Paolo and Sam McKnight at London, Milan and Paris Fashion Weeks for Fendi, Prada, Chanel, Gucci, Dolce & Gabbana, Dior, Valentino, Versace, Miu Miu and The Row.

Scott’s signature aesthetic of creative yet commercial styling, precision cutting and maximum wearability has also led to him being called upon to comment on all things hair. Providing expertise for publications Beauty Crew, Body+Soul, Daily Telegraph, Marie Claire and Beautyheaven through to Mocha Hair (HAIR BIZ), INSTYLE and The Journal, Scott is a go-to for those in the know.

One of Scott’s most high-profile moments involved creating Julie Bishop’s iconic ‘revenge hair’ which was plastered across The Australian, Sydney Confidential, Daily Mail, Sky News and SMH. Over the past 25 years countless local hairdressers have also experienced a touch of the Sloans magic with Scott becoming one of the industry’s most popular and respected educators for L’Oreal Professionnel. He has travelled as far afield as Kuala Lumpur, Vietnam, Singapore, Dubai and India hosting week-long seminars, workshops and hair shows for audiences of over 2,000 participants. But these exciting career highlights have also been passed onto the Sloans team with Scott the ultimate mentor. Their work has featured across local media as well as fashion publications including Men In This Town, Fen Hong Se, Doing Bird and Schon! Magazine, they have stood alongside him at fashion shows from Melbourne to Milan as well as assisted with shoots, workshops and campaigns.

Kicking off celebrations with a brand-new website and competition giving 25 lucky North Shore mums a complete hair makeover, the team is feeling incredibly grateful for the journey so far and excited to continue the Sloans experience for many years to come. www.sloans.com.au

Industry News.

AWARD-WINNING, LOCAL SA SALON TRANSITIONS TO PREMIUM HAIRCARE RANGE

Revlon Professional proudly welcomes leading local Adelaide salon, Acqua Lounge Hair Studio to their growing network across Australia. Most recently awarded the ‘AHIA Business Salon of the Year for SA/NT in 2024’, other recognitions include the ‘2024 Gold Accredited Salon’ (AHC) and the ‘2023 Recognition of Excellence in Business’ award by the Australian Business Review Board. With a deep focus on education, professional development and personal well-being, Directors of Acqua Lounge Hair Studio, Anthony and Sarah, are committed to empowering their team and look forward to helping them achieve their goals using Revlon Professional products.

“We believe great products help our salon achieve great results and with the support of Revlon Professional, we’re ready to take the Acqua Lounge Hair Studio brand to the next level and continue to deliver premium results for clients,” says Anthony, Co-Director of Acqua Lounge Hair Studio.

“Our salon ideology aligns seamlessly with Revlon Professional’s strong commitment to inspiring and educating. We look forward to fostering growth and creativity within our salon as we believe that an excited, talented and happy team is a team that can achieve anything together.” he adds.

What’s more, not only a leader in inclusivity and South Australia’s first Autistic Certified Salon, Acqua Lounge Hair Studio specialise cutting hair of children with Autism. Renowned for providing a calming, sensory-friendly environment with one-on-one services tailored for children with autism, the Acqua Lounge Hair Studio team takes pride in building confidence within both the child and their families. With a strong focus on community values, the team also concentrates on giving back to the local community such as local sporting clubs and helping raise funds through donations of gifts to raffles.

In an exciting new chapter for two industry powerhouses, HOB Academy has taken up an exclusive 12-month residency at the Wella World Studio in Central London. This dynamic partnership between HOB Academy and Wella Professionals brings together two award-winning brands, united by a shared commitment to innovation, creativity, and world-class education. Led by International Creative Director Akin Konizi, the Artistic Team of the Year and education team will be based at Wella’s London studio on The Strand, where they will educate both UK and international students. This collaboration marks the latest milestone in a relationship that has spanned over four decades, further strengthening their dedication to shaping the future of hairdressing education.

Akin Konizi says: “We are very excited about working at the Wella World Studio. Education is at the heart of everything we do, and HOB Academy X Wella Professionals gives us the opportunity to take this to another level, open accessibility to even more stylists and technicians, and help us raise standards in hairdressing education. Our 12-month residency is just the beginning of a new phase of innovation and creativity from the HOB team.”

HOB Directors Akin Konizi, Clive Collins, and Paul Simbler began with a single salon in Mill Hill and now have a 16-strong salon group, renowned for its cutting-edge techniques and first-class education.

Allison Hargreaves, Associate Director Education Operations Wella UKI, adds: “We’re delighted to be collaborating with HOB Academy and hosting them at the Wella World Studio for the next 12 months. We have worked closely with the team over the past 40 years, and we are privileged to be part of their exciting plans for the future.”

The HOB Academy X Wella Professionals collaboration marks a significant moment in hair education—bringing together heritage, expertise, and innovation in an inspiring central London setting.

@hob_academy

O&M has announced its newest Global CØR.creator, Linson Jamison!

Linson joins the O&M team as the newest Global CØR.creator, he is a globally acclaimed hair stylist and educator known as “the balayage expert”, who knows how to bring effortless, lived-in hair to life!

Based in Denver but constantly on the move, Linson is more than just a stylist, he’s a dedicated educator, sharing his refined techniques with hairstylists across the globe. Whether he’s behind the chair crafting natural, glowing transformations or leading soldout workshops, Linson’s passion for hair artistry is undeniable.

“I’m beyond honoured to join Australia’s O&M as a Global COR.creator, says Linson. Partnering with O&M was an easy decision & here’s why” “O&M is shaping the future of haircare with responsibility and purpose. This is the cleanest hair color in the world, and proves you don’t have to choose between high performance and clean ingredients. The team is the most important part for me when partnering with a company, and O&M’s team is nothing short of talented, passionate, innovative, and dedicated to elevating the industry.”

“This partnership represents so much, and I can’t wait to share this journey with you all!”

Linson’s passion for effortless, lived-in hair is undeniable, but what really sets him apart is his dedication to educating and inspiring hairdressers worldwide. As O&M continues to expand internationally, Linson’s influence in global education makes him the perfect addition to our COR.creator program. His drive to empower hairdressers perfectly embodies everything we stand for here at O&M...says - Jose Bryce Smith, O&M Founder and CVO.

@linsonhair @originalmineral

Revlon Professional and American Crew proudly welcome back Geoffrey Herberg as National Education Manager

Revlon Professional and American Crew are proud to welcome back Geoffrey Herberg as National Education Manager, marking a dynamic new era for the brands’ education and professional development initiatives.

A respected industry leader with an extensive background in hairdressing education and creative direction, Geoffrey’s return signals an exciting evolution in how Revlon Professional

HOB Academy X Wella World Studio

Industry News.

and American Crew engage and inspire salon professionals. With a career dedicated to shaping the future of hairstyling and barbering, his expertise will be instrumental in redefining education across Australia’s hair industry.

“I’m thrilled to be rejoining the Revlon Professional and American Crew family,” said Geoffrey. “Education is the heartbeat of our industry, and I’m passionate about equipping stylists and barbers with the knowledge, confidence, and creativity to push boundaries and elevate their craft. The future of hair is bold, innovative, and full of opportunity—and I can’t wait to be part of that journey.”, says Geoffrey.

In his role, Geoffrey will lead the development of cutting-edge education programs, hands-on workshops, and digital learning experiences tailored to empower professionals at every stage of their careers. His deep understanding of both Revlon Professional’s sophisticated colour artistry and American Crew’s pioneering approach to men’s grooming ensures a holistic and transformative education platform for salons nationwide. “We are delighted to welcome Geoffrey back to the team. “His visionary approach to education and passion for the craft align perfectly with our mission to support and inspire hair professionals. We look forward to seeing the impact he will bring as he helps shape the future of our industry.” said Brad Raper - General Manager at Revlon Professional. @revlonprofessionalaustralia

Ethically Sourced

Showpony Hair Extensions has announced Faye Redfern as their New Global Brand Ambassador Showpony Hair Extensions, a leading innovator in premium, high-quality, and Ethically Sourced Remy A+ Hair Extensions, is proud to announce the appointment of renowned Hair Extensionist & Stylist, Faye Redfern, as their new Global Brand Ambassador. As a brand focused on empowering women to look and feel beautiful with transformative hair extensions, this collaboration marks a major milestone in Showpony’s continued growth and commitment to bringing top-tier hair solutions to beauty enthusiasts worldwide.

Faye Redfern, a name synonymous with impeccable style and a discerning eye within the beauty sphere, has emerged as an influential figure, captivating audiences both in the UK and on a global stage. Faye’s salon, HER on Oxford, has blossomed into one of Perth’s most adored and in-demand hair havens. Redfern’s mastery in crafting voluminous, breathtaking styles makes her the perfect ambassador for Showpony’s diverse range of premium extensions, tools for self-expression and empowerment. “Whether it’s creating an editorial look for a shoot or transforming my clients at HER in the salon, Showpony hair is my go-to every time,” said Faye Redfern.

“We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Faye Redfern of Her Salons in Perth to the Showpony family as our newest Global Brand Ambassador.” said Nadine, General Manager of Showpony Hair Extensions. “Faye is renowned for her effortlessly cool, lived-in hair transformations that combine luxury with approachability—an aesthetic that resonates deeply with today’s modern client. Her unique ability to create dimensional, natural-looking extensions has earned her a loyal following and makes her an incredible asset to our network across 18 countries. Faye’s appointment to our artistic team will not only elevate our creative vision but also empower stylists around the globe with fresh inspiration, expert techniques, and a shared passion for premium hair artistry. Welcome, Faye—we can’t wait to see the magic you bring to our global community!” Redfern’s collaboration with Showpony promises a collection of inspirational & educational content across all Showpony hair extension methods. Expect to witness Redfern, a vision of modern elegance, showcasing Showpony’s iconic creations – from the invisible luxury of their tape-ins to the dramatic volume of their clip-ins – each meticulously designed for enduring, flawless transformations. www.showponyaus.com.au @showponthairextensions

Industry News.

CHANGE SOMEONES LIFE

Donate

OR Trade-in your PRE-LOVED SCISSORS

The team at Elite Scissors, believe that tools can transform lives, and that as hairdressers, we’re part of something bigger than ourselves. That’s why they proudly support two powerful initiatives and through these programs, people learn the skills they need to create income, build confidence, and change the trajectory of their lives. We support this work by supplying scissors, helping students and educators access the tools they need to teach, learn, and thrive.

Elite Scissors, are proud to partner with Deadly Hair Dude, a Northern Territory initiative dedicated to empowering underprivileged young Indigenous individuals in youth detention centres and remote areas through hairdressing training. This program instils a profound sense of pride and achievement, helping participants build self-worth and skills for a brighter future.

They are also supporting Hair Aid who facilitate projects each year to the Philippines, Thailand, Indonesia, Cambodia. and Vietnam training locals in hairdressing skills who, to date, have trained over 5500+ people. Training can be under a tree or on a basketball court – wherever there is space. In five days, the locals learn five basic cuts. With their newfound skills and also the hair-cutting kits donated through Hair Aid, the locals can go on to open their own businesses – even on the side of a road – to start earning money to feed their children.

Elite are inviting hairdressers across Australia to donate their old scissors or trade in their current pair. Your used tools can be repurposed for training or fundraising, giving them a second life that makes a real difference. When you trade in, you’ll also receive a discount on a brand-new pair of Elite Scissors—ergonomically designed, salon-quality tools created to support your craft and protect your joints.

HOW TO DONATE OR TRADE-IN YOUR SCISSORS:

Your Elite Scissors Sales Agent can assist you. You will receive a discount code for $50 off your next pair of Elite Scissors. OR Send your pre-loved scissors to Elite Scissors www.elitescissors.com

Introducing the Cleanse, Soothe & Brush Scalp Collection by Mr Smith. Where Hair Health Begins.

Mr. Smith, a luxury haircare brand dedicated to style, substance, and simplicity, is proud to unveil its latest innovation: the Scalp Collection. Expanding the brand’s care philosophy beyond hair, this new collection offers a holistic approach to scalp health as the foundation of balanced, healthy hair.

Designed to create new in-salon service opportunities while enhancing the retail experience, the Scalp Collection elevates the way we approach haircare—starting at the source.

“After two years of rigorous testing, we are thrilled to introduce our Mr. Smith Scalp Collection” says Freda Rossidis, Creative Director.

“The results from our testing phase have been nothing short of transformative. A healthy scalp is the foundation of strong and healthy hair.”

www.mr-smith.com.au

Michael Belcastro Launches B.EDUCATED Online Cutting Platform. Premium haircutting education – anytime, anywhere Respected Sydney-based hairdresser and educator, Michael Belcastro, has officially launched the B.EDUCATED Online Cutting platform – an innovative digital education space designed to elevate haircutting skills for hair professionals across all levels.

With over 30 years of industry experience and a reputation for excellence, Michael’s mission is clear: to make high-quality, practical education accessible for every stylist – regardless of location – and to inspire growth, confidence, and collaboration within salon teams.

The platform is packed with features that make it both effective and userfriendly:

• Salon Owner Dashboards to track team progress and development

• Personalised Stylist Access for flexible, self-paced learning

• Comprehensive Course Materials including visuals, diagrams, quizzes and programs

• Specialised Content that evolves with industry needs

Whether you’re a salon owner seeking to upskill your team or a stylist looking to build cutting confidence and expertise, B.EDUCATED offers a cost-effective, inspiring and practical training solution.

Michael believes that ongoing education is the backbone of a thriving salon business:

“This platform empowers teams to learn, grow and support each other –creating confident stylists and stronger salon culture.”

Explore the B.EDUCATED Online Cutting platform today.

Website: www.beducatedonlinecutting.com.au\

The 2025 AHIA Creative Awards have once again raised the bar, with entries surging by an incredible 40% as the program expands its impact across Australia and New Zealand. Now celebrating five years of excellence, this premium awards platform from Mocha Group continues to honour visionary talent within the industry, while also marking 20 years of Mocha Group as a driving force and trusted voice in hair media and events.

Finalists have now been revealed across the full suite of categories, including the prestigious AHIA Australian Hairdresser of the Year, New Zealand Hairdresser of the Year, and International Hairdresser of the Year. The 2025 awards also welcome exciting new additions, reflecting the evolving creative landscape with categories One Shot Hair Masterpiece, Editorial Hairstylist of the Year, Make Over Artist of the Year, and Best Branded Video. The latter two debut in a digitalfocused group, designed to celebrate the fusion of content creation and transformation storytelling.

This year’s AHIA – Creative Awards G ala will be held on Monday 30th June at spectacular The Star Sydney Event Centre, promising an unforgettable evening of fashion, art, and innovation. It proudly supports an action-packed weekend for the who’s who of hair alongside Hair Festival and AHC events. The night will also reveal the 2025 HOT SHOTS Team, shining a spotlight on the industry’s most exciting under-31 emerging talents, sponsored by

Joico, EVY Professional, Matsui Hair, Amazing Hair and DP Exogrow.

Founder of Mocha Group, Linda Woodhead, reflects on the continued growth of the program:

“When we launched the AHIA Creative Awards five years ago, we aimed to inspire the industry to dream big, push boundaries, and be seen. To see how far it’s come now with creative voices from across ANZ and a 40% growth in entries is truly humbling. The standard of work, storytelling, and imagination just keeps getting better. Congratulations to all our incredible finalists!”

The 2025 AHIA Creative Awards are proudly sponsored by Dyson, CPR and Amazing Hair, and supported by Angel Extensions, Cloud Nine, Dateline Imports, Expo4Barbers, Goddess, Goldwell, Hair Candy, Kin, L’Oréal Professionnel, Matrix, Matsui Hair, Redken, Rogue Beauty, Schwarzkopf, Something Beauty, Hair Festival and Wella

Entries were judged by a panel of international icons including Errol Douglas, Mark Leeson, Hooker & Young, Candy Shaw, and Vivienne Mackinder, alongside elite international media such as Charlotte Grant West, HJI, UK, Nicky Pope, Tribu.te, UK, and Veronica Boodhan, Salon Magazine, Canada.

AHIA Creative 2025 Awards Gala 7pm-late, Mon 30th June 2025 The Star. Sydney. To purchase tickets, visit: www.mochagroup.com.au/shop

Instagram: @mochahairaustralia Facebook: Mocha Hair

supported by

APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR

Presented by Matrix

Alice Howard, Ryder Salon

Caprice De Sanctis, Abracadabra Hair

Franks Hill, Stevie English Hair

Isabella Portaro, SJ Establishment

Jess Wilson, Zibido Hair

Jessika Klein, Safari Room

Shannon Westwood, The Factory Yarraville

Tori Yardley, Toni & Guy Newtown

EMERGING STYLIST OF THE YEAR

Presented by Rogue Beauty

Gemma Koster, The Safari Room

Holly Evans, Respekt Your Hair

NEW CREATIVE TALENT OF THE YEAR

Presented by Dateline Imports

Amelia Joy Winen, SJ Establishment

Emma Boyle, Steph Meyer and Co

Gabrielle Tautava Evaga, Tokunai Hair

Jackson Fifield, Paper Rokk Hair

Jade Veitch, Etcher Salon

Natasha Tsangaris, Rokstar Salon

AI COLLECTION OF THE YEAR

Presented by mocha hair

Domi Cherie

Geoffrey Herberg

Jason Kane Browne

Johnny Georgiou

BRAND CONTENT OF THE YEAR

Presented by Hair Candy

CPR Hair

Evo Hair

O&M

The Factory 3013

Yoshiko Hair

MAKE OVER ARTIST OF THE YEAR

Presented by Cloud Nine

(Multiple entries allowed)

Amanda Lunedei, Almayne Hair Studio

Domi Cherie, Tsiknaris Hair

Jade Pendergrast, Xin Twenty One

Xin Guo, Xin Twenty One

XIN Guo, Xin Twenty One

AVANT GARDE HAIRDRESSER OF THE YEAR

Presented by Amazing Hair

AhKim, AhKim Art of Hair

Bill Tsiknaris, Tsiknaris Hair

Emma Boyle, Steph Meyer and Co

Joshua Congreve, Togninis Hair

Stephanie Bellairs, Cabello by Stephanie Bellairs

MEN’S HAIR SPECIALIST OF THE YEAR

Presented by Expo4Barbers

Jason Weeks, Calibre Workshop

Lexie Shay, Vault Ninety One Matt Clarke, Esq. Male Grooming

Paul James Graham, Paul & Paul Salon

Sara Allsop, Dharma Salon

COLLECTIVE TEAM OF THE YEAR

Presented by Kin

A & E Creative - Aimee Egan and Emma Merrifield

Breakthrough Team - Jude McEwen, Morgan Weise, Skott Condon and Josh Stewart

Kristie and Dee - Kristie Kesic and Dee Parker-Attwood

NZ Masters Collective - Michael Beel, Sean Mahoney, Kelly Manu, Andrew Cobeldick, Sara Allsop and Brownwyn Kronfeld

SALON TEAM OF THE YEAR

Presented by Schwarzkopf Professional Bach Hair Franco of Canberra

SJ Establishment

Tokunai Hair

Tsiknaris Hair

EDITORIAL HAIRSTYLIST OF THE YEAR

Presented by Angel Extensions

Anthony Nader

Carolyn Gahan

Diane Gorgievski

Kelly Manu

Lauren McCowan

Matthew Ashton

Sheridan Rose Shaw

HAIR MASTERPIECE OF THE YEAR

Presented by Goddess (Multiple entries allowed)

Amanda Magistro, Salon ALM x2

Benjamin Martin, Salon XVI x2

Carl Manderson, Liberté Salon and Spa x3

Carolyn Gahan, Quarry Avenue

Danielle Blakeley, Yoshiko Hair

Dee Parker Attwood, Wieselmann Salon

Geoffrey Herberg

Isabella Portaro, SJ Establishment

Jade Veitch, Etcher Salon

Kelly Manu, Una

Lauren McCowan x4

Mariia Kolchina, Mariia Kolchina Hair

Styling

Michael Beel, Salute Hair Skin Spa

Nicole Kae Sanja Scher, Beatnik Studio

Stephanie Bellairs, Cabello by Stephanie Bellairs x2

Tahlia Stamenkovic, Bach Hair

HOT SHOTS TEAM

Sponsored by Joico, EVY Professional, Matsui, Amazing Hair and DP Exogrow

Alyssia Pearson, Toni&Guy Broadbeach

Amelia Joy Winen, SJ Establishment

Emma Boyle, Steph Meyer and Co

Gabrielle Tautava Evaga, Tokunai Hair

Georgia Maguire, Pierrot’s Hair & Brow

Studio Jackson Fifield, Paper Rokk Hair

Jade Veitch, Etcher Salon

Morgan Weiss, Toni and Guy Bondi

Beach

Natasha Tsangaris, Rokstar Salon

Ryan Poole, Esq. Male Grooming

MASTER CUTTER OF THE YEAR

Presented by Matsui

Danielle Blakeley, Yoshiko Hair

Domi Cherie, Tsiknaris Hair

Harrison Sansom, A.H Salon

Ryan King, Loco London

Sheridan Rose Shaw, Mamawest

MASTER COLOURIST OF THE YEAR

Presented by CPR

Adam Reece Hopkins, Koda Cutters

Chris Tsiknaris, Tsiknaris hair

Danielle Blakeley, Yoshiko Hair

Domi Cherie, Tsiknaris Hair

Elly Paynter, Elly Hair Paynter

Holly Breen, Californian Blonde

Kristie Kesic, Cobelle Creative

Krystle Tokunai, Tokunai Hair

Leanne Kay, Stevie English Hair

Stuart Bane, Stuart Bane Colour

NORTH ISLAND HAIRDRESSER OF THE YEAR

Presented by Hair Festival

Anthony Bayer, Anthony Bayer Hair

Carla Southan, Rawk Hairdressing

Heidi Christian, Heidi Christian

Tenielle Gillies, Flyger

SOUTH ISLAND HAIRDRESSER OF THE YEAR

Presented by Something Beauty

Marque Morehu, M M Hair Studio

Sarah McGuigan, Savvy Hair

NSW/ACT HAIRDRESSER OF THE YEAR

Presented by Wella

AhKim, AhKim Art of Hair

Aimee Egan, Aimee Egan hair

Harrison Sansom, A.H Salon

Leanne Kay, Stevie English

QLD HAIRDRESSER OF THE YEAR

Presented by Redken

Domi Cherie, Tsiknaris Hair

Holly Breen, Californian Blonde

Krystle Tokunai, Tokunai Hair

Ryan King, Loco London

Shae Tsiknaris, Tsiknaris Hair

VIC/TAS HAIRDRESSER OF THE YEAR

Presented by Goldwell

Danielle Blakeley, Yoshiko Hair

Posey Broomhall, Harpo Hair

Sheridan Rose Shaw, Mamawest

WA/SA HAIRDRESSER OF THE YEAR

Presented by L’Oreal Professionnel

Delvene Kocman, Delvene Hair Co

Johnny Georgiou, Parlour Hair

Tiffany Decaux, Iris House of Hair

Tina Belham, SJ Establishment

Victoria Shayler, Sir Fletcher

BTS DREAM TEAM OF THE YEAR

Presented by mocha group

Photographer: Andrew O’Toole. MUA:

Kylie O’Toole. Stylist: Catherine V

For Bernadette Beswick Australian Hairdresser of the Year Collection

Photographer: Fiona Quinn. MUA: Chanelle Aldridge. Stylist: Brooke Tyson

For Ann Marie Young New Zealand Hairdresser of the Year Collection

Photographer: Anniss and Barton. MUA: Shev Kelly. Stylist: Dani Blakeley.

For Danielle Blakeley Master Colourist of the Year Collection

Photographer: Anniss and Barton. MUA: Shev Kelly. Stylist: Dani Blakeley. For Danielle Blakeley Victorian Hairdresser of the Year Collection

Photographer: Theresa Hall. MUA: Sarah Smith. Stylist: Ysha Giorno.

For Joshua Congreve Avant Garde Collection

Photographer: Apela Bell. MUA: Liz Hyun. Stylist: Claudia Li.

For Kelly Manu New Zealand Hairdresser of the Year Collection

Photographer: Andrew O’Toole. MUA: Kylie O’Toole. Stylist: Catherine V.

For Kristie Kesic Master Colourist of the

Year Collection

Photographer: Lou Hatten. MUA: Micheala McKendry. STYLIST: Sopheak Seng.

For Michael Beel New Zealand Hairdresser of the Year Collection

Photographer: Liane Hurvitz. MUA: Janice Wu. Stylist: Daniel Paciocco. For Posey Broomhall Victorian Hairdresser of the Year Collection

Photographer: Derec Ethan. MUA: Laura Thomas. Stylist: Luke Meakins. For Stephanie Bellairs Avant Garde Collection

INTERNATIONAL HAIRDRESSER OF THE YEAR

Presented by dyson Carles Sanchez Congost, Pelsynera, Spain

Casey Coleman, Chair Salons, UK

Elle Foreman, Tribe Salons, UK

Errol Douglas MBE, Errol Douglas, UK

Lukas Press, Lukas Press Hair Studio, Canada

Manuel Mon, Manual Mon Estilistas, Spain

Mark Leeson, Mark Leeson, UK

Marlon Hawkins, Brooks & Brooks, UK

Michelle Summers Davies, Michelle Davies Hair, UK

Rafael Bueno, Rafael Bueno Peluqueros, Spain

Rebecca Jacques, Rebecca Jacques Hair, UK

Tim Scott-Wright, The Hair Surgery, UK

NEW ZEALAND HAIRDRESSER OF THE YEAR

Presented by mocha group

Ann Marie Young, Jingles Hair Design

Kelly Manu, Una Kylie Hayes, Moha Hairdressing

Michael Beel, Salute Hair Skin Spa

Sara Allsop, Dharma Salon

Shannon Dowd, Zibido Hair

AUSTRALIAN HAIRDRESSER OF THE YEAR

Presented by mocha group

Bernadette Beswick, Beswick Education Services

Bill Tsiknaris, Tsiknaris Hair

Brodie Lee Tsiknaris, Rokstar Salon

Dee Parker Attwood, Wieselmann Salon

Jude McEwan, Toni&Guy Perth

Nathan Yazbek, Salon Yazbek

Paul James Graham, Paul & Paul Salon

2024/25 Hotshots Hair Collection

Having already received their prize packs of a Joico styling kit, EVY Professional electrical kit, Excellent Edges full scissor kit and an Amazing Hair editorial styling kit, while in the HOT SHOTS House, not to mention mixing with iconic hairdressing greats both in real life and via zoom, the 2024/25 HOT SHOTS Team were ready for the creative aspect of their tenure.

“It’s always a pleasure to spend time with the Hot Shots team in Melbourne. This year especially, the team’s willingness to experiment, take risks, and trust the creative process was truly remarkable. I encouraged them to let go of what they thought they should do and instead lead with their hearts and imagination—because that’s where the real magic happens. It was such an honour to be part of their creative journey.”

Andrew O’Toole

Culminating in an all-expenses paid photoshoot with world class photographer Andrew O’Toole and Kylie O’Toole, the team consisting of Adam Harant, Ella Stewart, Domi Novella and Victoria Fletcher spent a few precious days together once again to create sheer beauty in a collection that evolved through the creative process before and during the shoot under the mentorship of Hair Director, Carolyn Gahan and Creative Director Jarred Stedman. The Concept – Ophelia.

Shakespeare’s fragile heroine, long defined by sorrow, submission, and a watery grave, has been reimagined in this bold, modern interpretation by the 2024/5 Hotshots Team who have brought new life into her story, shifting the narrative from helplessness to power.

This is not the Ophelia we’ve come to expect.
This is: What if she didn’t? What if she could fight?

Each image in this very special photographic collection captures one of five visceral human emotions – Defiance, Grief, Rebirth, Love, and Madness, charting an alternate path for Ophelia. One where she doesn’t drown but rises. One where sorrow fuels strength, and vulnerability transforms into defiance.

Through striking hair artistry and evocative visual storytelling, this collection reframes tragedy into triumph. It’s a tribute to resilience. A rebellion against fate. A hauntingly beautiful declaration that even the most broken stories can be rewritten.

Both the Prep and Collection shoot were hosted at Vic University where the team created a stunning mix of colour, length and precision cutting resulting in a collection that could easily grace any high-end fashion magazine in the world!

Guided and mentored by Andrew O’Toole this experience is truly priceless and something that will be remembered and treasured for many years to come by the team!

Special thanks to everyone who played a role in making this dream become a reality!

CREDITS:

Hair Team: 2024/5 HOTSHOTS: Adam Harant, Ella Stewart, Domi Novella and Victoria Fletcher Photographer: Andrew O’Toole // Makeup: Kylie O’Toole // Artistic Hair Director: Carolyn Gahan Creative Director: Jarred Stedman // Models: JR Management // BTS Photography: Jarred Stedman

HOT SHOTS IS AN INITIATIVE OF MOCHA GROUP

@adamharant @domi.slays.hair @hairbystinky @sirfletcherhair @mochahairmedia @carolynjayun @andrewotoolestudios @kylieotoole @joicoaustralianz @evyprofessional @amazinghairaustralia @excellentedges @jarredstedman

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KELLIE NOONAN’S INSPIRATIONAL JOURNEY

In the world of hairdressing, success stories often start with a passion for creativity and a desire to make people feel beautiful. Kellie Noonan, the owner of two thriving salons “Dirty Little Secret” on the picturesque Mornington Peninsula, has a story that defies convention. Her journey from being an insurance underwriter to a successful hairdresser and salon owner is nothing short of inspirational.

Kellie’s life took a different turn after a series of life-altering events. She candidly recalls, “I turned the big 50 last year. I haven’t always been a hairdresser.” Kellie’s early career saw her globe-trotting through Europe and Asia before returning to Australia to work in the insurance industry. She climbed the corporate ladder, becoming an Insurance Underwriter for one of Australia’s largest insurance companies, all while enjoying her role in the bustling city of Melbourne.

Her life took a dramatic turn when she fell in love, got married, and welcomed three children into the world—two boys and a girl. However, her world was shaken when her youngest child arrived prematurely by emergency and both she and her newborn daughter fought for their lives in hospital. It was not long after her marriage broke down and she ended up a single mum of three small children.

Kellie’s determination and resilience shone through. She had little money and had to move in with her parents, with her three children in tow.

It was during this challenging period that Kellie discovered a lifeline— a Hairdressing Cert III course in Melbourne that offered flexible learning. This unique program allowed her to attend practical sessions at the school while completing most of the theory at home. It was a lifeline for a mother of three, seeking a way to support her family while nurturing her passion for creativity. Although she was told that “she would never become a hairdresser” Kellie threw herself into the world of hairdressing with unwavering dedication. Her creativity blossomed, becoming both her passion and her outlet. Despite the typical 24-month duration for the part time course, Kellie completed it in just 12 months, determined to create a better life for herself and her children.

As she learned the art of hairdressing, Kellie set up a makeshift salon at home, complete with a mirror on the pantry door and a portable basin that drained into her bathroom. Friends became her first clients, allowing her to practice the skills she acquired at school.

Despite her limited resources and the doubts of others, Kellie remained undeterred.

She sought guidance from mentors, including Daphne Savage and Wade at Professional Haircare. These friendships and guidance were invaluable as Kellie embarked on her journey to becoming a skilled hairdresser.

Kellie’s passion for hair extensions emerged, driven by her own desire for thicker, longer hair. She was determined to find better options for her clients, focusing on perfect colour matches and undetectable extensions. Her clients quickly grew in number as word spread about her skills and dedication. Before she even completed her course, Kellie had established her own home-based hairdressing business, a testament to her talent and the trust of her clients. To further her learning, she offered her services for free at various salons to observe and ask questions.

Kellie’s path wasn’t without its challenges. She faced rejection when a local salon deemed her too slow and unfit for a job due to her certificate-based education rather than an apprenticeship. Instead of being disheartened, Kellie continued to practice and learn from anyone and anything she could.

The entrepreneurial spirit in Kellie led her to open her first salon, housed in a portable building in an industrial area. She employed her first apprentice and brought in part-time hairdressers to assist. Although the business struggled, Kellie’s determination remained unwavering.

She made the bold decision to move her business back home while her children were still young. Financially, it made more sense, but it came with its own set of challenges, particularly with disgruntled neighbours regarding parking.

Kellie’s breakthrough came when a storefront became available in her hometown. She seized the opportunity to open another salon, this time in a shopping strip. Starting with just four staff members, she grew the business to employ around ten people.

While the financial aspects of business management became clearer to Kellie, managing people presented its own set of difficulties. She faced staffing issues for a couple of years, seeking guidance from various business coaches to overcome these hurdles. It was the coaching from Julie Piantadosi and Daphne Savage that truly made a difference in her ability to manage her team effectively.

In 2020, Kellie faced a significant staff change due to the challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite the hurdles, she expanded her empire, opening her second salon in a beautiful seaside location in Mornington in October of that year. Her team grew to include 20 staff members, including five apprentices, reflecting her commitment to nurturing the future of hairdressing.

Kellie’s journey from insurance underwriter to successful salon owner is a testament to hard work, perseverance, and the support of the right people. She not only raised her three children singlehandedly but also created a thriving business empire that continues to flourish.

Today, Kellie resides in Tyabb on the Mornington Peninsula, enjoying hobbies that include tennis, gym, beach outings, saunas, shopping, indulging in British dramas, and savouring the pleasures of sporty cars and travel. Her family, including two beloved dogs, Bella, and Toby, bring immense joy to her life.

Kellie Noonan’s story is a testament to the transformative power of determination, passion, and an unwavering commitment to one’s dreams. From her early struggles to her current success, she serves as an inspiration to anyone pursuing their passion, proving that with the right mindset, even the most unconventional paths can lead to extraordinary achievements.

@dirtylittlesecret

PLUSH HAIRDRESSING

A 25YR BUSINESS RETROSPECTIVE

How disappointing that it’s come to that. We have these groups to support each other and that should be a place that’s safe and secure. I used to be frightened of people knowing my struggles and weaknesses too; self-managed mess hoping someone would give me a sticker of achievement, something you could hold onto that you’d made it this far and a guarantee I’d make it through.

Here’s a little snippet of what 25years of challenges, trials and tribulations has looked like for Plush Hairdressing, and for me.

What’s worked well is being clear about our business standard. Its something I focussed on from the very beginning, and continues to be the reason for our progression. It’s also been the justification of so many past employees’ reasoning to leave.

“Your expectations are too high” - some will rise to the occasion, be excited and motivated, and others will step away.

I have learnt that you build a high-performance culture by raising the bar and expecting more. What I have tolerated, accepted and ignored isn’t a staffing issue it’s a leadership problem. ME. Each time this has happened over the years, I have had to refocus, lift and rejuvenate the vision and standard. Sounds so simple – it wasn’t. It’s all very clear to me now though it took all of those 25years for the penny to drop.

Some of you reading this may also know the impact of mental health on top of processing one’s challenges at hand. For me it was a dark mess of emotion when someone threatened, bent and gaslit my values. I would fall in a heap. Try to understand why. Cut off communication. Cry in despair, broken and so desperately scrambling to find the power and strength to get back up. I realise now, they where all lessons and tests - how valuable are the standards you place on yourself and your business? For me, they are make or break.

by Kathleen Lindsay, Owner & Founder

We’re all just trying to get it right. But what’s right? I see more than ever loads of messages and posts written anonymously on industry groups and I can only guess that the mask is through fear of someone being identified, labelled and judged, encouraging shame.

“A strong culture isn’t built on comfort, it’s built on clarity, accountability and expectations. Stop trying to motivate underperformance; set the standard and hold it. Great teams don’t need cheerleaders they need clarity and consequences.”Jack Delosa

What hasn’t worked well but was one of my biggest lessons, has been me thinking I could run a business based on my skill alone. I could not, and almost failed in the early days. Structured systems and a team of professional people both inside and outside the salon space was and is paramount. Aligning these people with your expectations, values and goals is the only way forward.

Overcoming challenges

The emotional ones are always the toughest, right? When the challenge is skill we learn, focus and do. When the challenge is a crazy busy day back-to-back, full team, a little stress/tension here and there - that comes back to the leader. Our space wraps around a courtyard and is split zones. We all have earpieces to speak to each other. A coffee or cocktail request. A colour mix check. A time or level check. Treatment remedy, reminder that someone in the space has a birthday…you get the picture. This system gives us clarity and also gives the director/leader a chance to balance any heated moments and or find/give a solution.

The challenges that have hit the hardest are when staff have come to the end of their time within the salon. I never understood the need for some to place themselves as the victim and their own story leaving me with a WTF just happened zone of disbelief. Or the ones that tell mum and dad how much of a bully you are, yet come to work daily crying over her parents requests for responsibility and needing a cuddle and pep talk to start the day.

My favourite, the good ole ‘I hope we can stay friends’ then all you hear for months is the lies of what never happened and trust me, we are not friends. However, I’m grateful now for each and every one of them.

They all taught me to be better as a leader, to want to raise the bar some tried to pull down, to hold my head up high when they thought they had broken me with words. To lead my now incredible team with an open mind for all to achieve great things. The haters hate but they

still watch your every move. Keep watching, I say. We will still be achieving and inspiring each other and the clients we take care of.

Teamwork

Training has always been a priority for me and the people we employ though I don’t focus on traditional ways and sequence. I have learnt that the best way for growth and knowledge is learn it emotionally and if possible, through our senses. How a product feels first then the acknowledgement of what that does. What are the key ingredients that are helping you achieve a solution? For Skill, the repetition of watching, then clear instruction and direction to take what’s been downloaded visually into action. We involve our team in everything so that they are learning life skills as well as technical skill. It never feels clunky or boring, and when it does present in this way, we know it’s time to reset the delivery.

Curating a dedicated & loyal clientele

Our work is well thought through. We know and understand our product; not ‘think’ we know. We have a clear focus on our communication with our clientele outside the salon visit, and we commit to the value of what is requested - or maybe of concern - in between appointments. Plush is welcoming. It’s a place not a salon, and it has a beautiful soul. It’s ever evolving and progressive. Our customers are welcomed like family, and they come back because of the way we make them feel.

There are also moments when our clients time

with us has run its course. Like any human, there are relationships that develop and grow stronger and of course there are ones that dwindle. As a stylist you can get caught up trying to work out why, beating yourself up over how you could have done things differently.

What I have learnt is that often it has nothing to do with you. Just time for a change and to be frank, often the feeling is mutual. What I do know though, that it’s when the demand begins to fade, that the problem is beyond the simplicity of a client or two needing a change, that’s a red light for reset.

The Last Bit…

You know, I admire what some of this industry do and achieve and I honestly despise a handful too; I think we are all a little that way inclined. What I love about hairdressing is the incredible and privileged position we are in to take care of our clients. To make them feel good about themselves. Not sure why we don’t do that for each other more often.

The Next chapter for us is, and will be, the best of them all. Being able to function without fear, to be able to help and create without the worry of the unknown or what I thought and did think I couldn’t achieve. We have attracted the energy of people that inspire each other and match our love for life so with that to celebrate there will only be smiles and great moments to be had. Plush has a new partner - one of our first apprentices, Ariane - 20 years in the making! We are both very much leaning into the shared imagination for the future. The business has a clear vision of who we want to be. Specialists. We custom cut and colour; that is about all the wants, requests, and solutions our clients ask for. We now focus on Hair and Scalp analogy, providing detailed understanding, clear prescriptions and a solution to a problem that otherwise is left to the supermarket shelves to fix. We explain and advise our clients of what is required to maintain scalp and hair health in a holistic way. We understand and make clear what their future appointments and support might look like, so our customers have clarity and a plan. We offer an open line of communication beyond the salon time.

Most of all, our future is all about being open, supportive, professional. We will keep on pushing for better and we will take all the opportunities placed before us.

Officially made it through the other side like a 25-year-long marathon!

www.plushhairdressing.com.au @plushhairdressing

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INTUITION THE ART OF HAIR: GROWING TALENT, ELEVATING INDUSTRY

By Anthony Gray – MIG Training

In the heart of Mackay, sits a salon that’s quietly redefining what leadership, education, and culture look like in the Australian hair industry. Intuition The Art of Hair is not just a destination for beautifully executed blondes and lived-in colour—it’s a blueprint for building high-performing teams.

Led by founder Victoria Rushby and her leadership partner Kate, Intuition has grown into a nationally recognised brand. It’s not just the technical work that’s earned accolades—it’s the business model itself, rooted in mentorship, mindset, and the belief that when you invest in your people, everything else follows.

“I didn’t just want to run a salon,” says Victoria. “I wanted to build a space where hairdressing was a fulfilling career—where people could grow both professionally and personally.” She purchased Intuition at just 23 years old. Eight years on, it’s now home to a 14-strong team, seven of whom began their careers there as apprentices.

From Apprentices to Industry Assets

The salon’s growth story is inextricably tied to its commitment to education. Victoria and Kate have designed a custom training pathway under the “Intuition Training Academy” banner, in partnership with MIG Training. The goal? Turn raw enthusiasm into commercially competent, confident stylists - fast. Apprentices begin by mastering foundational

skills: consultations, basin work, blowdries. As they demonstrate competency, they advance to colour, men’s cutting, and eventually full colour services and restyles. Time trials are used to build speed and confidence, and each skill milestone is signed off only once the apprentice feels genuinely ready.

“There’s no conveyor belt,” explains Kate. “We check in regularly to ensure they’re not just technically capable, but mentally prepared too.”

At the 2.5-year mark, apprentices graduate to the “Emerging Stylist” level—a vital transitional phase that blends responsibility with support. They begin working with clients, managing columns, and earning commissions—giving them hands-on experience while still under the watchful guidance of mentors. By the time they reach full qualification, they’re not just “qualified” on paper—they’re contributing to the business, financially and culturally.

Education Beyond the Chair

While technical development is essential, what truly sets Intuition apart is its commitment to personal development. Every Wednesday morning, the salon closes for one hour of

dedicated education, covering topics that range from balayage and cutting to mindset, confidence, posture, boundaries, and emotional regulation.

From yoga and chiropractic sessions to workshops on victim mentality and goal setting, no topic is off-limits. The goal is simple: support the whole person, not just the stylist.

“Without mindset, the technical skills don’t land,” says Victoria. “You can’t pour into someone who’s burnt out or doubting themselves.”

The team also has access to EAP Assist, offering counselling sessions when needed—just one of many wellbeing touchpoints that foster safety and openness in the workplace.

Team Culture That Sticks

In an industry known for high turnover, Intuition boasts unusually high retention. Stylists stay for years—many for their entire careers—thanks to a leadership style built on honesty, transparency, and shared vision.

Every year kicks off with a “brand identity and goals” meeting. Team members help shape the year ahead: what kind of reputation the salon should have, where skills need improving, and what personal goals each stylist wants to pursue. This buy-in creates ownership.

“When people feel heard, they stick around,” says Kate. “They’re not just working for us— they’re working with us.”

That sense of shared purpose extends to financial transparency. The team is taught how the business runs: overheads, budgets, profit margins, and even seasonal fluctuations. They help track salon expenses and are rewarded when the business hits targets. There’s even a whiteboard “goal tree” in the back room that grows when budgets are met.

Performance with Purpose

Intuition’s incentive structure isn’t about pressure—it’s about empowerment. Stylists are rewarded not just for productivity, but for consistency and alignment with team values.

New KPIs were introduced in 2024 after Victoria

and Kate shadowed Perth-based salon leader Charlene and revamped their systems.

“We realised we needed a model that worked not just for the business—but for the team’s personal goals too,” says Victoria.

Since implementing the new structure, every stylist has hit their bonus at least once. The commission model is tiered and transparent, giving everyone a clear view of what’s achievable. Stylists know their numbers, understand how to work smarter, and celebrate one another’s success.

This clarity has translated into the salon’s most profitable month to date. But more importantly, it’s created a motivated team with high morale and a shared desire to push forward together.

Chelsea’s Climb: From School-Based to Star Performer

One of Intuition’s standout stories is Chelsea, who began her journey as a school-based apprentice. From the beginning, she stood out for her work ethic and drive. Supported by both the MIG training model and in-salon mentoring, she moved swiftly through her practical milestones, transitioning through her apprenticeship.

In 2023, she represented Queensland at the Australian Training Awards—a career-defining milestone and a testament to what’s possible when education is structured, consistent, and personal.

“Chelsea’s journey is the result of a system that works,” says Kate. “We knew she had potential, and the structure helped her unlock it.”

Scaling Sustainably in Regional

Australia

What makes Intuition’s story even more compelling is that it’s unfolding in the regional centre of Mackay and not in one of the larger capital cities where hair education and opportunities are concentrated and often more easily accessed.

Intuition proves that success doesn’t require a capital city postcode. With intention, mentorship, and innovation, regional salons can be just as competitive—and often more supportive.

“We’re showing that excellence can happen anywhere,” says Victoria. “You don’t have to be in Melbourne or Sydney to run a world-class salon.”

The team’s success is attracting attention: job applicants now cite Intuition’s strong culture and Instagram presence as their reason for applying. Some even say, “I just want to work somewhere that feels like that.”

Eyes on the Future

With a recent lease renewal and plans to build a larger premises, Intuition is already planning its next chapter. In the coming months, the team hopes to welcome two or three new apprentices, expanding their training pipeline and opening up more opportunities for senior stylists to mentor and lead.

That growth is exciting, but for Victoria and Kate, it’s also deeply personal. They want to raise their families while growing a business that reflects their values: sustainability, empowerment, and education.

“We’re not gatekeepers,” Victoria says. “We share everything we’ve learned because we want to see the whole industry rise.”

A Model Worth Following

In an era where staff retention, mental wellbeing, and training outcomes are front and centre, Intuition The Art of Hair is proving that these challenges aren’t unsolvable—they just require intention.

By focusing on people over profits, and systems over short-term solutions, Victoria and Kate have created something rare: a salon that doesn’t just teach hairdressing—it teaches leadership, selfbelief, and the value of long-term vision.

“We’re not just building hairdressers,” Victoria says again, this time with a smile. “We’re building futures.”

@intuitionhairmackay @mig_training

HONE &CO

NORTH SYDNEY’S NEW STYLE HAVEN.

Jordan Hone Is Proud To Reveal His Newly Rebranded Salon –HONE&CO

North Sydney’s most exciting new hair destination was created for all humans seeking beautiful hair, with every look individually curated and crafted with confidence.

Renowned within the creative industry following more than 15 years of experience across fashion, editorial and photography work, Jordan has channelled his vision into a fresh salon designed to reflect the modern client. Situated conveniently on Walker Street, HONE&CO. offers Sydney’s urban community a welcome pause from the city pulse.

From the decadent marble reception desk and precise timber finishes to the chestnut club chairs that melt mayhem away, clients can prepare to step into a relaxing space of real style and sophistication. Joining Jordan are an experienced and dedicated team tasked with creating the perfect balance of expert technique and friendly atmosphere.

As a multi-award-winning hairdresser with over a decade of industry recognition, Jordan is now stepping into the next chapter of his career with a continued commitment to excellence.

Jordan’s experience as an International Educator on the Asian circuit has already earnt him a glowing reputation as an expert colourist and stylist and now, he has been announced as Australian Ambassador for Moroccanoil. This is a dream role for him, as he is continually driven by the desire to impart his ever-increasing knowledge to inspire and motivate the next generation of hairdressers.

HONE&CO are also proud to partner with Kerastase, Colour Wow, Great Lengths Extensions, Vish Hair Color Management Software and Shortcuts Salon Software. Jordan has been using Shortcuts Software for over 20 years, throughout his industry journey and now with the newly rebranded salon. Jordan says there are many reasons why he chose to partner with Shortcuts, but what he really loves about it is the absolute care and support that Shortcuts give their clients.

“During the entire rebrand process, Shortcuts were there to help and only a phone call away, when I needed questions answered. It was a seamless experience, and they really supported me, to alleviate any added stress.”

He also says that he loves the Shortcuts online booking system. It goes through a payment provider which is called Stripe, which takes care of all the booking fees. The reporting system is another excellent feature of Shortcuts Software that he really loves. The reports are very easy to understand, great for managing cashflow and to see where the business is doing really well, and also identify areas that need tweaking.

Jordan is thrilled to welcome back existing clients to the rebranded space, as well as invite in lots of new faces; “I’m so proud to reveal the new HONE&CO brand to the industry as the go-to for Sydneysiders who want to look and feel their best.

HONE&CO is about more than beautiful hair, it’s a space where style, beauty and confidence come together. My team and I are all ready for an exciting new adventure!”

@honeandcohair

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FROM SMALLTOWN ROOTS TO BIG DREAMS IN HAIRDRESSING!

By Anthony Gray

Hailing from the small rural town of Thargomindah, 1200 kilometres west of Brisbane, Jacinta Byrne’s journey into hairdressing is as unique as it is inspiring. Growing up in a community of just 150 residents, she developed a strong connection to her roots, a love for the outdoors, and an unshakable determination to turn her dreams into reality. Now on the brink of completing her hairdressing qualifications, Jacinta is set to open her very own salon to serve her hometown and surrounding areas.

A SMALL-TOWN UPBRINGING

Jacinta’s upbringing in Thargomindah was shaped by the close-knit community and rural lifestyle. “Life here is different,” she shares. “It’s quiet, but there’s a sense of connection and support that you don’t find elsewhere.” Hairdressing in such a remote area is rare, and Jacinta saw an opportunity to fill that gap. “Most people have to travel hours just to get a haircut,” she explains. “I want to change that by bringing professional hairdressing services to my town.”

THE HAIRDRESSING JOURNEY

Jacinta’s path into hairdressing began at 16 when she started her first apprenticeship in Roma. “Working in that first salon gave me a strong foundation and confirmed that hairdressing was my calling,” she says. Moving to her second salon, she honed her skills further, gaining confidence and experience. After taking time off to start a family, Jacinta found her way to MIG Training to complete her Certificate III in Hairdressing through the RPL (Recognition of Prior Learning) process.

“The RPL process was perfect for me,” she shares. “I already had so much hands-on experience but needed to formalise my qualifications. MIG has been incredible, helping me fill in the gaps and ensuring I have the skills I need to succeed.” Traveling 1200 kilometres for block training—sometimes flying, sometimes driving—has been a challenge, but Jacinta is determined to see it through. “The atmosphere at MIG is so supportive and fun. The trainers genuinely want you to succeed, and that makes all the difference.”

PASSION BEYOND HAIRDRESSING: MUSIC, RACING, AND HORSES

When Jacinta isn’t cutting and styling, she’s pursuing her other passions: music, racing, and horses. A talented musician and songwriter, Jacinta’s love for music began in childhood, inspired by her mother playing guitar. She now performs and shares her music online, with her debut single recently launching on streaming platforms. Her Instagram account, @jacinta_byrne_music_, gives a glimpse into her musical journey, showcasing her artistry and connection to fans. “Music is another way for me to express myself and connect with people,” she shares. “It’s something I hope to continue alongside my hairdressing career.”

In addition to music, Jacinta has a passion for dirt bikes and racing. In 2021, she competed in the iconic Tatts Finke Desert Race, a gruelling off-road event held in Alice Springs. “The Finke Desert Race was one of the most challenging but rewarding experiences of my life,” she says. “It pushed me to my limits, both physically and mentally. The camaraderie among the racers and

the thrill of the course made it unforgettable.” Her adventurous spirit and love for the outdoors are clear reflections of her upbringing in the rugged Australian outback.

Jacinta’s love for horses has also been a lifelong passion. Growing up in Thargomindah, horses were an integral part of her life, representing freedom and connection to the land. “Horses have always been a source of joy and calm for me,” she shares. Whether riding for leisure or

helping out on the farm, Jacinta finds solace and inspiration in spending time with her horses.

THE FUTURE OF HAIRDRESSING IN THARGOMINDAH

Once she completes her qualifications, Jacinta plans to open a family salon tailored to the needs of her community. “It’s about more than just hair,” she explains. “It’s about creating a space where people feel valued and cared for, where they don’t have to travel hours for quality service.” Her salon will also allow her to balance her professional aspirations with her family and rural lifestyle.

Jacinta credits her previous employers and mentors for shaping her approach to hairdressing. “Each of them brought something unique to the table and helped me grow,” she says. Now, she’s eager to pass that care and expertise on to her clients.

A JOURNEY OF DETERMINATION

Jacinta’s journey has been one of sacrifices, resilience, and unwavering determination. Taking time away from her family to travel for training hasn’t been easy, but she knows it’s all worth it. “Every challenge has made me stronger,” she reflects. “I’m doing this for my family, my community, and myself.”

As Jacinta prepares to launch her salon and continue her music, racing, and equestrian pursuits, she’s proving that small-town roots

can lead to big dreams. Her story is a testament to the power of passion, hard work, and staying true to one’s values.

90% of melanomas can be successfully treated if caught early. As a hairdresser, you’re in a unique position to spot a suspicious spot in hard-to-see places. That’s why TAFE NSW has partnered with experts to deliver an online 45-minute microskill to help you recognise suspicious skin spots. Enrol now and you could help save a life.

Find your education at

HAIR FESTIVAL

Hair Festival, 2025 taking place at The ICC, Sydney, on June 29 and 30, offers you a full smorgasbord of education, and we’re here to detail the options so you find the right education session for you.

More than 40 hours of education thanks to 60 global and national educators will inspire you across the two days, from every corner of creative pursuits our industry offers to business acumen to help you survive in business today. You can still save with an All Access Pass which includes the infamous Wonderland party and REALtalk Business Forum – which collectively offer $1460 of value. You can buy also purchase five Education Sessions and get one free, where else can you be educated with leading and international names in the industry for just $89!?

Read on to find the perfect Education Sessions for you – and check out www.hairfestival.com. au for the full agenda.

If You Want Business

A range of business experts are taking to Hair Festival. Sonia Tomas, AKA the Salon Dr, will teach you how to take control of your profits, discover where you’re leaving money on the table and maximise your retail, services and team performance. This one-hour workshop will deliver relevant methods to offer salons “more profit, more freedom, and less overwhelm”.

Then, Caitlyn Muir of Iconic Coaching will return to Hair Festival to educate salon owners, employees and independent hairdressers to overcome pricing guilt, assess hustle culture and “flip the script” on their entire careers, with actionable strategies to really change your business. A new Wellness pillar that showcases experts who have integrated a wellness

approach to their business to make money is a sure way to ensure, the industry you love you will enjoy for years to come.

Angela Rose of Indie Hair Academy will share insights with independent hairdressers who want to scale their business, as well as welcoming any prospective Indies to the movement. In this “hour of power”, you can learn how to increase both your value and prices, how to fortify your business with multiple streams of income and how to embrace an entrepreneurial mindset.

If You Want Creativity

Welcome ‘Bigger, Bolder, and Brighter’ from Danger Jones, which follows from 2024’s mammoth session from this global brand. Danger Jones has rapidly expanded into 40 countries in just its first two years with extensive social media engagement, and that energy will take to Hair Festival as educators from Australia, the UK and the US inspire on stage. The brand’s co-founder, Alexis Thurston, alongside Global Ambassadors Chrissy Danielle and Tia Lambourn, as well as local Australian talents, will present inspiring hues.

De Lorenzo presents ‘Assorted Creams’, a hair event celebrating luxury hues such as Golden Butter Blondes, Sunkissed highlights, Apricot coppers, and Maple Cream tones. Join De Lorenzo Brand Ambassadors Holly Breen, Ellie Bolton, Jules Gauci and the Education Team, who will educate on creatively using Nova360 colours, as well as creating texture and movement.

Join two pairs of Joico powerhouses, Katy Reeve and Carolyn Gahan, and Andrew Cobeldick and MikelahJayde Riley, as they present ‘ILLUME’, celebrating 50 years of Joico with a high-impact showcase of creativity, technique, and innovation, compered by Kerrie Di Mattia and Duncan Richards. The artistic showcase will highlight crafted cuts, radiant colour and polished styling work that all connect structure, tone, shape, colour and texture. The teams will demonstrate the iconic techniques that have defined five decades of the brand.

An award-winning, all-star line-up of talents take to the stage to present Moroccanoil’s live editorial shoot for Creative Team of the Year, with hair icons 2024 Australian Hairdresser of the Year Richi Grisillo, 2024 New Zealand Hairdresser of the Year Chinney Yeap, 2024 Editorial Hairdresser of the Year Michael Beel and 2021 NSW/ACT Hairdresser of the Year Jordan Hone. These celebrity hairdressers will bring their editorial vision to life on stage, while talking through behind-the-scenes secrets of their prolific careers.

Alisher Karabaev will introduce you to AIRTOUCH, a new global bonding trend that’s taking over social media for seamless blondes. AIRTOUCH uses a patented hair drying technique that blows out baby hair leaving only the longest and strongest strands for lightening, so you can create an ultra-soft blend from roots to ends, with no harsh lines or streaks, with total colour control and the improvement of hair health. Alisher will use his vast experience to demonstrate this unique skill.

The personalities at Excellent Edges will introduce you to the NAFTA Team – that’s Gina Yates, Pete Koziell, Matt Tronson, Steph Meyer, Ben Kane,

Tom White and Pete Walstab, who promise a healthy dose of insights and entertainment.

Seamless1 presents ‘Inch by Inch’, where social media powerhouse, former AHFA Transformation Stylist of the Year and current Digital Influencer of the Year, Sarah Emilia, will teach expert hair extensions and social media mastery. Sarah is the co-owner and face of Sarah Jade Hair, alongside her role as an educator, extensions leader and influencer, and the session will include a meet and greet with this hairdressing superstar.

Milkshake Global Artists Andrew Smith and Gianluca Grechi present Urbanaglobal cutting techniques with vibrant colours and effortlessly elegant cuts, both having spent time as the Sassoon Academy before moving onto awardwinning ambassador roles.

CPR Hair have your ‘Glow up’ sorted with the iconic Tabatha Coffey hosting Nicole Lamers, CPR Hair’s National Colour Ambassador, unveil our stunning new Gloss Colour range, while Kaine Vakai shares expert tips on Content that Converts.

If You Want Men’s Hair

Inspire Brands and Gamma+ will headline Jordan Tabakman, Lead Educator for Gamma + and owner of The Barber Club Salons Across Australia, Bali & India, with Teegan Dyson, Gamma+ Ambassador and Educator, also educating on stage. The session will showcase a barbering look and learn, as well as teaching personal branding, business development, team building and salon tips and tricks. Reuzel co-founders Leen and Bertus, are visiting from Rotterdam in the Netherlands to showcase their styling chops, in an unmissable international show, thanks to Hairco.

Then, a presentation from international US headliner and barbering legend Kevin Nguyen from Wahl will finish the final day with definitive direction.

This is just the beginning of a global industry worth of inspiration in one place, so to make sure you can see all of this and more, get your All Access Pass now!

www.hairfestival.com.au

z.one Educater Gianluca Grechi

z.one Educater

Andrew Smith

Reuzel co-founders Leen and Bertus

Tabatha Coffey

Jordan Tabakman

Bringing Hairdressing Education BACK TO GREATNESS!

most electrifying industry educational events on the global calendar - HAIR The Movement 2025.

More than just a hair event, it’s a celebration of creativity, craftsmanship, and community, uniting the world’s most inspiring artists for 3 days of unmissable education, innovation, and connection. It’s about bringing back the high-level technical training the industry needs, making hair education great again, and empowering us to be our best.

From precision cutting and colour mastery to avant-garde styling, business strategy, and barbering , HAIR The Movement is the ultimate destination for professionals ready to refine their skills and push creative boundaries. With the full line-up of 35+ artists under one roof for the first time, here’s a preview at just a few of the visionaries taking the stage:

AUSTRALIA + NEW ZEALAND ARTISTS:

See the full lineup on the website

Jules Tognini – The education rockstar known for his effortless cool, technical brilliance, and boundary-pushing approach to men’s hair. Learn his innovative approach to refine your cutting skills.

Scott Sloan – A salon leader and cutting expert who champions individuality and creativity in every look. Discover how to transform your cutting approach and ignite your creativity behind the chair.

Justin Pace – Master colourist celebrated for his ability to combine precision, vibrancy, and commercial appeal. Learn how to refine and enhance your colour skills and create stunning, impactful looks.

GLOBAL HEADLINERS:

See the full lineup on the website

Global industry icon known for her fierce leadership and business acumen. Experience her unapologetic approach to empowering stylists and enhance the way you lead, work, and grow.

Ashlee Norman (US) – A creative force, colourist, and educator redefining dimensional colour with a fresh, theory-driven approach. Learn how to transform your colour work with clarity, structure, and bold innovation.

Dove Palmer (UK) – Master of precision and progressive cutting. Discover cutting techniques and perspectives that will challenge your thinking and power up your creative edge.

Jean Baptiste Santens (FR) – Visionary artist turning hair into high art. Known for his breathtaking wig work and avant-garde creations, his artistry will leave you inspired, emotional, and creatively recharged.

Danny Pato (NZ) – Multi-award-winning hairstylist celebrated for his breathtaking avantgarde creations. Tap into new levels of creativity and expand your artistic possibilities.

PLUS – NOISE is coming to Australia

The world’s leading underground hair show lands for the first time in Australia, thanks to HAIR The Movement. A golden opportunity to experience NOISE at a secret location, where six visionary teams deliver a raw, high-energy showcase redefining the edge of global hair artistry.

This is just a glimpse of the incredible talent uniting for HAIR The Movement, set to redefine the industry. Explore the full lineup, learn more, and secure your early bird tickets at hairthemovement.com

EVENT SCHEDULE & TICKETS

Whether you’re diving into the full three-day experience or selecting the days that suit you best, HAIR The Movement has flexible ticket options to match your goals. The AllAccess 3-Day Pass delivers the complete experience, including all education sessions and exclusive entry to the iconic NOISE event. Prefer to curate your journey? Single-day tickets are available for each day’s schedule. And for those who want to experience the raw, high-energy creativity of NOISE, individual NOISE tickets can be purchased separately, perfect for artists who thrive on bold inspiration and boundary-pushing artistry. With early bird specials and group discounts on offer, there’s never been a better time to secure your seat.

Tabatha Coffey (US) –

DAY 1 14th SEPT

AFTERNOON

1:00pm-5:00pm

EXPERT ARTISTS: WATCH & LEARN SEMINAR

14 Australian & New Zealand Artists

4 Hours of Cut, Colour & Styling Education

5 Dynamic Sessions on One Live Stage

Hosted by Industry Icon, Tabatha Coffey Tea and coffee included.

EVENING

ALL ACCESS 3 DAY PASS EARLY BIRD SPECIAL OFFER

Access to ALL events over 3 full days. Includes NOISE Event on 15th September. 14-16 September 2025

Personal & Professional Growth Value of $10,000

$2,299 | Save $468

Does not include accommodation at the Fullerton Hotel.

Separate booking information below.

5:30pm – Late THE MOVEMENT LAUNCH CELEBRATION EVENING

Network with the industry’s best!

Connect, exchange ideas, and build meaningful relationships during this unforgettable evening celebrating our industry. Food and drinks included.

DAY 2 15th SEPT

FULL DAY

9:00am-6:00pm

GLOBAL MASTERS POWER SESSIONS

14 Global Masters + Business Session

3 Live Stages | 9 hours of Education

6 High-Level Technical Power Sessions

Lunch, tea, and coffee included.

NOISE Event

15th September | 8:30pm – Late

The World’s Top Hair Show for 13 Years is coming to Australia!

3-hour raw, edgy hair experience at a Secret Underground Location! Pushing creative boundaries to new heights with a high-energy hair show like no other.

Tickets for NOISE are sold separately and are not included with single-day tickets, only with the AllAccess 3-Day Pass.

DAY 3 16th SEPT

MORNING

10:00am-12:00pm

HAIR TO FAME: LIVE TALKS ON DIVERSE SUCCESS STORIES

7 Inspiring Stars: Celebrity Stylists, Film, Theatre & Business Professionals

Exclusive Career Insights & Expert Advice

Hosted by Industry Superstar, Richard Kavanagh

AFTERNOON

1:30pm-4:30pm

NOISE: LEARNING WITH LEGENDS

6 Award-Winning Artists

3 hours of non-stop creativity

Watch NOISE Artists in the next day Watch and Learn Seminar as they share looks from the previous night’s showcase or unveil new creations, bringing them to life while revealing the inspiration, techniques, and creative process behind their boundary-pushing work.

Lunch, tea, and coffee included.

SINGLE DAY TICKETS EARLY BIRD SPECIAL OFFER

Access to all events on that day.

Day 1 14 September 2025

$629 // Save $70

Day 2 15 September 2025

$899 // Save $100 Does NOT include NOISE

Day 3 16 September 2025

$539 // Save $60

NOISE Event 15 September 2025

$359 // Save $40

GROUP DISCOUNT TICKETS EARLY BIRD SPECIAL OFFER

Access to all scheduled events on that day.

Save 20% when booking 3 or more people.

All-Access 3 Day Pass 14-16 September 2025

$2,069 per person

Access to all events on that day.

Day 1 14 September 2025

$566 per person

Day 2 15 September 2025

$809 per person

Day 3 16 September 2025

$485 per person

NOISE Event 15 September 2025

$359 per person

Get Ready to Be Inspired, Informed and Empowered AHC 2025 Industry Day + Leadership Summit

There’s never been a more important time to be in the room. This June, the Australian Hairdressing Council is bringing the industry together for two game-changing events at the Sheraton Grand Sydney Hyde Park. Whether you’re shaping the future of education or leading a salon business through transformation, the AHC Industry Day (Friday 27 June) and the Leadership Summit + Schmoozefest (Saturday 28 June) will deliver the insights, inspiration and community connection you need to stay ahead of the curve.

With the lineups now confirmed, here’s just a taste of what’s in store…

AHC INDUSTRY DAY

FRIDAY 27 JUNE | 9AM–5PM

Designed for salon owners, educators, RTOs and independent trainers, Industry Day focuses on what’s next in education and training - and how we work together to improve outcomes for learners and the industry.

What can you expect? Here’s just a taste of the day’s lineup:

The future of training: Natalie Turmine from SaCSA will outline the timeline for the national Training Package Review - what’s changing, what’s coming, and how the transition will unfold for both salons and RTOs. Don’t miss this essential update that will shape how we train the next generation of stylists and barbers.

and quality in training units moving forward. This is

your opportunity to have your say in what the future of hairdressing education looks like!

Apprenticeship trends uncovered: Hear the latest data and insights from Apprenticeship Support Australia about how young people are engaging with apprenticeships in hairdressing and barbering. What’s driving completions, where are the roadblocks, and what can we learn?

Panel: Salons Doing Apprenticeships

Differently – and Making It Work:

This inspiring session brings together four dynamic salon businesses who are changing the game. By reimagining how they mentor, train and engage apprentices, they’re seeing stronger recruitment, faster skills development, and better long-term retention. Find out what’s working, how it’s scalable, and how it’s transforming salon culture.

AHC LEADERSHIP SUMMIT + SCHMOOZEFEST

SATURDAY 28 JUNE | 2PM–7PM

If you’re a salon owner, business leader or industry partner, this is the one event you don’t want to miss. The Leadership Summit brings together powerful voices and fresh perspectives to help you future proof your business and thrive in a changing landscape.

Here’s some highlights on the agenda:

Keynote: Mark McCrindle

Chief Economist for the Business Council of Australia, Stephen will provide a dynamic update on the Australian and global economies - plus the outlook for inflation, interest rates, and what businesses need to prepare for now.

State of the Industry Report

The AHC reveals the latest industry benchmarking data - from the ATO, software platforms and member surveys. Find out where your business sits in the national picture, and how to leverage this insight to grow and adapt.

Panel: Future-Proofing Your Salon

From seasoned trailblazers to next-gen salon innovators, this panel brings the real-world experience of those who are adapting, evolving and thriving. From tech and sustainability to culture and leadership, get inspired with ideas you can put into practice.

Schmoozefest

Let’s toast to what makes this industry so special. After the summit, stay and connect at our signature cocktail celebration. It’s where conversations continue, friendships are made, and new opportunities are born.

Whether you’re an AHC member or part of the wider industry community - these events are open to all. If you want to be part of the conversation, help shape the future and elevate your own journey… you need to be in the room.

Tickets are available now via www.theahc.org.au/events.

the years ahead.

Workshop: Reshaping Units of Currency: Aaron Hines from SaCSA leads an interactive workshop that dives into what real reform could look like - and how we ensure flexibility, relevance,

The renowned social researcher and futurist will explore what tomorrow’s salon client looks like, how generational trends are evolving, and what this means for how we lead, hire and market in

Keynote: Stephen Walters

2025 ANZ MODERN BARBER AWARDS

Australia and New Zealand’s best in barbering talent, creativity, and business excellence have been named at the ANZ Modern Barber Awards 2025 (AMBAs). The biggest winners of the evening included Empire Barbershop, named ANZ Modern Barber Business of the Year 2025, Matt Clarke, Esq. Male Grooming, named ANZ Modern Barber of the Year, Jimmy O’Brien, AKA Jimmy Rod awarded Special Recognition and Clare Castles inducted into the Hall of Fame.

Held on Monday 5th May at The Island in Surfers Paradise, the gala celebrated the most talented barbers, business leaders, and educators from across Australia and New Zealand and shone a spotlight on this fastevolving industry. Guests enjoyed a stylish start to the night with canapés and drinks before moving into the elegant Glasshouse room for the awards ceremony.

The evening included an experiential fusion of elevated and interactive street art, beat boxing, live musicians, deep DJ beats, plus alley echo rhythms and raps that hit like they were born in the backstreets. An absolute mic dropping’ highlight of the night was street scene icon VOLTAK, whose live performance cemented why he’s the reigning champion of numerous Australian and international titles and regularly called on to judge major street scene competition categories right across the globe. The celebrations then continued late into the evening at the official afterparty, hosted at the ultracool Duke’s Parlour and proudly sponsored by JRL and Reuzel.

Established in 2021 by Linda Woodhead and the Mocha Group, the AMBAs have quickly become the ultimate benchmark of success in barbering. In a landmark moment, the 2025 awards opened the floor to New Zealand participants for the first time, creating a trans-Tasman showcase of talent and innovation.

As the official media partner of EXPO4BARBERS, the AMBAs were the crown jewel in a weekend packed with networking, education, and high-impact events. The awards night provided a fitting finale, leaving attendees inspired and energised by the possibilities ahead.

Appreciation goes to the event’s valued sponsors Dateline Imports, American Crew, Hairco, JRL, Reuzel, Comfortel, Depot, Heiniger, Shortcuts, Gamma+, Expo4Barbers, ZIB, American Barber, and DP Exo Grow. Thanks, are also due to the esteemed panel of independent judges, comprising leading media representatives, business professionals, international barbering authorities, and respected industry experts. The unwavering commitment of these organisations and individuals continues to elevate the barbering industry and highlight the exceptional talent it encompasses.

ANZ Modern Barber of the Year: Matt Clarke, Esq. Male Grooming

AMBA 2025 WINNERS

Style Product of the Year

Sponsored by mocha barber magazine

REF Rough Paste by Smiths Collective Brands

Best ANZ Barber Collection – Junior

Sponsored by Hairco – JRL/Reuzel

Duncan Black, Harrison and Co Barbers

Best ANZ Barbershop Team

Member of the Year

Sponsored by Dp EXO GROW

Keegan Walklin, Kings Domain Barber Shop

Best ANZ Business Director/ Owner of the Year

Sponsored by Shortcuts

Robby Lippett, Attaboy

Best ANZ Barber Collection – Classic

Sponsored by Dateline Imports

Gianni Sollazzo, Esq. Male Grooming

Best ANZ Barber Collection – Freestyle

Sponsored by Gamma+

Jordan Donegan, Studio X

Best ANZ Customer Care

Sponsored by Heiniger

The Studio-X

Best ANZ Barbershop Design

Sponsored by Comfortel Common Barbershop

Best ANZ Barber Educator of the Year – Individual

Sponsored by ZIB

Damian Lai

Best ANZ Barber Educator of the Year – Organisation

Sponsored by Depot

The Barber Academy x 4 Barbers

Best ANZ Team Collection

Sponsored by American Crew Hearts & Minds

BTS Crew

Sponsored by mocha barber magazine

Photographer: Theresa Hall.

Stylist: Ysha Giorno. MUA: Sarah Smith. For Ryan Poole, Modern Barber Collection

International Modern Barber of the Year

Sponsored by Expo4Barbers

Rino Riccio, UK

ANZ Modern Barber Business of the Year

Sponsored by American Barber Empire Barbershop

ANZ Modern Barber of the Year

Sponsored by mocha group

Matt Clarke, Esq. Male Grooming

Special Recognition

Sponsored by mocha group

Jimmy O’Brien, AKA Jimmy Rod

AMBA Hall of Fame

Sponsored by mocha group

Clare Castles

GODDESS Has Arrived!

The Brand Built for Salons, Backed by Science

By Louise May

When a brand like Goddess enters the Australian salon scene, it’s not just a product drop—it’s a movement. Designed by stylists, powered by science, and launched with purpose, Goddess Maintenance Co. is rewriting the rules of hair care, one strand at a time. It’s modern, female-founded, and backed by the same disruptive force that brought industry icons like Olaplex

At the helm of the brand’s Australian debut is Simon Pitt, a respected figure in hairdressing and professional distribution with four decades of experience. Through his new venture Salon Pro Aus (SPA), Simon is leading the charge to bring Goddess to salons around the country, starting with the launch of its hero product: BioTech

We caught up with Simon to talk about this bold new brand, what makes it different, and why Goddess isn’t just another salon product—it’s a highperformance ritual for modern hair.

Simon, before we dive into Goddess, tell us about your industry background and what led you to this moment. I’ve been in the hair and beauty industry for over 40 years. I started on the salon floor and managed salons for more than a decade before moving into sales in the UK in the ‘90s with the Wella/Sebastian brand. I migrated to Australia in 2000 and worked in Trade Marketing at Wella, then became General Manager of the Sebastian brand

Since then, I’ve led national sales teams at Schwarzkopf Professional, helped build the Cloud Nine irons business in Victoria, and was part of the foundational launch team for

ELEVEN Australia with Ozdare. I’ve also driven the sales of ECOHEADS, launched Cezanne Keratin Smoothing Treatment in Australia, and most recently brought K18 to market nationally—one of the most successful salon brand launches in recent memory.

This year I launched Salon Pro Aus, a new distribution business focused on meaningful, results-driven products— and our first brand is Goddess.

So, let’s talk Goddess. What’s the story behind the brand?

Goddess Maintenance Co. was founded by two salon owner sisters from the Midwest of the United States, Lauren Vesler and Manda Mason. They had a clear vision: to build a luxury self-care line that blended science, simplicity, and empowerment, starting with haircare and expanding to become a head-to-toe offering.

They’ve partnered with Ed Connaghan and Denise Russell; the same powerhouse duo that helped bring both Olaplex and K18 to market. That level of experience and success speaks volumes—they know what professionals need, and they understand how to create category-defining brands.

Goddess is built on smart SKUs powered by proprietary technology, and it’s created with salon professionals in mind. It’s aspirational but grounded in results.

What is the first product launch from Goddess, and how does it work?

Our debut product is the BioTech BlowOut—a powered, leave-in treatment that delivers multi-layered protection and performance in a single step. It uses a dual peptide system, with a micropeptide to reinforce the hair’s cortex from the inside out and a macropeptide that shields the cuticle, protecting it from heat, humidity, pollution, and environmental stressors.

The results are immediate and impressive. It enhances curl retention by 38%, strengthens hair by 173%, provides heat protection up to 232°C, reduces frizz, adds visible fullness, and blocks up to 90% of environmental buildup. It’s designed to be used on every client, with no extra time added to the service.

Think of it like an espresso shot of defence and strength—high-impact, easy to use, and genuinely transformational. Whether blow-drying or air-drying, it slots into any salon service or home routine seamlessly.

Who is BioTech BlowOut for?

Every client. Every hair type. Every finish. Whether your client is straightening, curling, embracing natural texture, or simply blow-drying for smoothness, this product fits. It’s particularly great for clients who struggle with frizz, damage, or density—because it not only protects, it improves hair health and appearance over time.

From a professional standpoint, it’s about delivering value in every appointment. Stylists can use it on every single guest without added time or processing—just better results and longer-lasting finishes.

What does the opening order look like for salons interested in trying it out?

We’ve made it incredibly accessible. The minimum opening order is just $400, and that includes both the 300ml pro mask for in-salon use and the 50ml retail version for clients to purchase and maintain results at home. The 50ml retails at $75.00, which reflects the performance and premium nature of the formula.

We want salons to feel confident trialling the brand and building it into their services without pressure.

How and when can salons order Goddess in Australia?

It’s available now. Salons can visit www.salonproaus. com.au or reach out directly via info@salonproaus. com.au to place orders or get more information. We’re also here to support salons with education, retail tools, and service menu ideas to help integrate BioTech BlowOut easily and effectively.

From your perspective, what makes Goddess stand out in a very saturated market?

There’s real intent behind Goddess—it’s built by stylists who understand the day-to-day of salon

life, but it’s also elevated by proven innovators who know how to scale a brand and create global impact. It doesn’t try to be everything. It’s focused, smart, and beautifully executed. The formulation speaks for itself, but what I really admire is the clarity of purpose: clean, powerful, luxury self-care that genuinely performs. The aesthetic is modern and beautiful, the results are real, and it fits the needs of today’s salon business. For me, it’s a brand that respects the professional while giving clients something indulgent and effective. That’s a rare mix.

A word from Jordan Alexander who has joined Goddess Maintenance Co as Vice President of Global Sales and Education... Over the past 10 years, working with Ed Connaghan, Denise Russel and Simon Pitt, I’ve worked on launching some amazing brands in more than 60 countries around the world. I am extremely excited to be launching Goddess with Simon in Australia and looking to new innovation within our industry, starting with a brand-new product category called BioProtection. We’ve spent the past decade focused on repair, however if we are to look at hair as the only accessory we never take off, why not protect it and never let it get damaged in the first place? We are excited to announce this launch available now throughout Australia. Protect every client with every service whether in-salon or at-home.

With Goddess Maintenance Co., Australian salons now have access to a brand that blends modern elegance with meaningful innovation. At the forefront of this launch is Simon Pitt—whose eye for what the industry needs next has never missed. From his time behind the chair to championing brands like ELEVEN, K18, and now Goddess, Simon continues to shape the future of salon success.

Goddess isn’t just another product—it’s a ritual, a statement, and a celebration of strength, science, and style.

To bring Goddess to your salon, visit www.salonproaus.com.au or email info@salonproaus.com.au today.

YOUR BFF with benefits

REVOLUTIONARY REPAIR The proprietary Goddess Molecule™ reinforces strands from the inside out for more strength, resilience, and shine with every use.

DEFENDS AGAINST STYLING DAMAGE Creates a protective barrier that guards against heat damage up to 450℉, so your hair stays safe while you style.

EXTEND YOUR BLOWOUT

Maintain fresh, volumized styles longer with a lightweight, hydrating formula that reduces frizz, enhances elasticity, and prevents split ends.

WEIGHTLESS HYDRATION & SHINE Designed for all hair types, this biotech-powered leave-in mask delivers hydration without buildup, for hair that is manageable, polished, and effortlessly radiant.

FRIZZ CONTROL Smooths strands to tame unruly stray hairs and flyaways, delivering a sleek, polished, and touchable finish.

Mocha Mousse: The Colour Everyone’s Craving

Inspired by Pantone’s Colour of the Year, KINCREM™’s new collection blends artistry, comfort, and conscious colour into three perfect shades of brown.

There’s something undeniably satisfying about the first sip of a mocha. It’s familiar, indulgent, a little bit earthy and it just makes you feel good. That same feeling is exactly what KINCREM™ Color is bottling up in its newest launch: the Mocha Mousse Collection.

Inspired by Pantone’s Colour of the Year, Mocha Mousse is all about reconnecting with warmth and softness and creating a comeback moment for brown! Each shade is thoughtfully crafted to reflect light, enhance movement, and complement natural undertones, giving you total creative control. From soft, diffused highlights to rich, full-bodied blends, the possibilities are endless. Picture a mocha balayage with a gentle root shadow, or an ombré that fades so seamlessly it gives “born that way”. For first-timers? A few subtle ribbons around the face can add just the right touch of warmth without a big commitment.

Behind this beautiful colour collection lies some clever science. KINCREM™ Color is powered by CRK+v™ – a smart blend of 70% natural ingredients built on a fully vegan base. At its core? Ceramides to strengthen and hydrate, quinoa for shine and lasting vibrancy, and the Perfect Color Complex, which smooths, seals, and keeps every strand looking its best. It’s colour that not only performs but actually cares for the hair with every application.

Even the packaging has been thought through. The new 100ml XL tube gives colourists more product to play with, making services more cost-effective without cutting corners on quality. The updated tube design cuts down on plastic and paper waste too, with a simplified QR code replacing bulky leaflets. It’s a small shift with big impact, especially for salons looking to work more sustainably.

But the real magic? That happens in the chair. KINCREM™ Mocha Mousse is one of those rare collections that just gets it. It gives you the freedom to create, whether you’re enhancing natural depth with subtle dimension or going for something a little more statement-making. The tones are rich, versatile, and easy to wear. And as the colour develops, a delicate scent of tropical fruits, pink florals, and a warm musky base lingers in the air—adding a sensory layer to the service that feels just as well-thought-out as the final result.

It’s colour that looks good, feels good, and performs the way professionals need it to.

If you’re ready to bring the Colour of the Year into your salon, get in touch at admin@conceptualbrands.com.au www.conceptualbrands.com.au

These tones elevate brunettes, enrich bronde & stand strong as solo shades in any modern colourist’s kit.

KIN Cosmetics Aus Ambassador, Kristina Russell

Elevating Salon Success Through Expert Education

Angel Extensions is an Australian-owned and family-run business, with over 60 years of experience in the hair industry. Established in 1957 and proudly based in Moorabbin, Melbourne, Angel Extensions has built a strong reputation as Australia’s one-stop shop for hair extensions, ponytails, and hair accessories.

Alongside their premium product range, Angel Extensions is committed to supporting salon professionals with industry-leading education to help them deliver outstanding results for their clients and grow their businesses.

Angel Extensions Training Information 2025

Angel Extensions offers flexible and comprehensive training programs for salon professionals looking to master hair extension services. Training is available across a variety of methods, with options tailored to suit each stylist’s needs and goals.

Training covers:

• Tapes

• Wefts (sew-in, no-sew, and butterfly methods)

• Nano Beads

• U-Tip Extensions

Stylists have the flexibility to focus on one method or complete training across multiple methods during their session.

Training can be completed in-person at Angel HQ in Moorabbin, Melbourne, or remotely through a self-paced online format, providing accessible options for stylists across Australia.

Angel Extensions offers training for:

• One-on-one sessions for personalised attention

• Group sessions for team learning

The training duration ranges from a half day to two full days, depending on the number of methods being covered and the participants’ schedules.

Tuition includes all necessary equipment, ensuring stylists have the tools they need to start offering extension services immediately after training.

Training highlights include:

• Hands-on practice using a head block for safe, controlled learning

• Certificate of completion awarded at the end of the course

• Access to training videos for tapes and

wefts for future reference

• Follow-up video calls available for ongoing support and questions

Angel Extensions training programs are not just about application techniques. They also focus on providing stylists with a full understanding of:

• Best practice consultation techniques to ensure client satisfaction

• Pricing strategies to help stylists structure their services for maximum profitability

• Comprehensive aftercare instructions, including all DO’s and DON’Ts for clients

• Advice on creating transitional and dimensional colours with extensions, allowing stylists to achieve seamless blends and stunning transformations

Beyond the training session, Angel Extensions is committed to building an ongoing relationship with every stylist they train, offering continued support to help salons grow and succeed in the competitive hair industry.

www.angelextensions.com.au

www.angelextensions.com.au @angelextensions au call: 1800 68 69 54

100% Remy Cuticle Intact

Human Hair

Family owned and operated

All extension methods

Trusted by leading salons, broadcast media and industry professionals since 2007

THE RE: GEN ROADSHOW The Future of Hair & Skin

You’re invited to an unmissable evening of innovation, expertise & connection.

Network with industry peers, immerse yourself in our vibrant community, and enjoy delicious canapés and drinks—all while gaining invaluable knowledge from global experts.

Join an inspiring panel discussion featuring worldclass specialists as they share cutting-edge insights, groundbreaking solutions, and emotional perspectives on the journey of hair loss.

Meet the World-renowned International Experts

Tracey Hughes: Hall of Fame Hairstylist, International Keynote Speaker, and 8-time Educator of the Year. As Global Brand General Manager for EXO-GROW™, Tracey will host and moderate with her signature charisma and wisdom.

Andrew Hansford: Renowned trichologist, Key Opinion Leader, and Treatment Development Specialist, Andrew is an expert in hair restoration and scalp health, who speaks on the latest advancements in hair regeneration.

Dr Andrew Christie: A world-leading microneedling expert with a PhD in Biochemistry. Dr Christie is an award-winning educator, author, and specialist in clinical aesthetics and regenerative treatments.

Corri Marshall: As Founder of DermapenWorld™ and the Director of Cosmeceuticals, Corri is a visionary who is dedicated to advancing innovation within skincare and haircare who is a respected mentor committed to giving back.

Local Specialists: Gain insights from successful aestheticians and hairstylists as they share real-world success stories and invaluable business strategies.

Why Attend?

This is more than an event—it’s an opportunity to elevate your expertise, transform your approach to hair and skin care, and leave feeling inspired, empowered, and ready to lead in the industry.

Reserve your spot now and take the next step toward becoming a true authority in hair and skin regeneration.

TICKETS NOW AVAILABLE

Sydney: Tuesday, 5th of August

Brisbane: Wednesday, 6th of August

Gold Coast: Thursday, 7th of August

Melbourne: Monday, 11th of August

Adelaide: Tuesday, 12th of August

Perth: Wednesday, 13th of August

Don’t miss out—secure your spot now.

Scan QR Code to Book Tickets

Tracey Hughes

Andrew Hansford

Corri Marshall

Dr

Andrew Christie

Hair Confidence Starts with the Scalp

Introducing the EXO-GROW™ Collection, designed to combat hair shedding, thinning, and hair loss. Unlike other products that focus on the hair strands, EXO-GROW nourishes the scalp and regenerates the follicles for real, visible results your clients will love.

Why Choose EXO-GROW?

B Thicker, Stronger Hair: Enhance hair density and reduce hair fall.

B Clinically Proven Results: Keep clients returning with a product that works, ensuring great returns for your business.

B Conscious Formulas: Enjoy toxin-free, dermatologist-tested, and cruelty-free products.

Empower your clients to reclaim their identity and confidence with healthier, thicker hair.

Scan to Learn More and Start Offering EXO-GROW™ Today.

DATELINE IMPORTS brings a new edge to Australia:

Meet

Dateline Imports continues to build momentum across the Australian professional hair and beauty market with the introduction of Fatboy, an authentic, performance-driven haircare and styling brand that brings a fresh approach to modern hairdressing.

“With Dateline Imports’ strong track record of partnering with brands that make a genuine impact on the professional market, the launch of Fatboy is a significant addition to the Australian hairdressing industry.”

As one of Australia’s most respected professional distributors, Dateline has built a strong reputation for bringing high-quality brands into the hands of salon professionals.

Their expanding portfolio reflects a commitment to meeting the changing needs of salons and stylists across the country, and the addition of Fatboy is a clear example of this continued evolution. By introducing brands that combine authenticity, performance, and relevance, Dateline is helping salons across Australia offer new and exciting options to their clients.

From NYC Street-Style Roots to Global Success

Fatboy is a brand built out of necessity and realworld experience. Founded by Tyson Kennedy, lead singer of the Grammy-nominated band Steriogram and a professional hairstylist, Fatboy was born during Kennedy’s years touring and performing. Constantly on the road, he needed styling products that could survive the heat, movement, and demands of life on stage. When nothing available lived up to the task, he took matters into his own hands, creating his first batches of Perfect Putty on his kitchen stove.

After the band took a break, Kennedy moved to New York City and turned his attention to fulltime hairdressing. Working behind the chair gave him a deeper understanding of what stylists needed: products that could perform in real-world conditions, not just for photo shoots or controlled environments. In 2009, he perfected the formula for Perfect Putty. What started as a homemade experiment quickly earned a loyal following among New York’s stylists and clients.

Fatboy grew organically, built through wordof-mouth, performance, and trust rather than aggressive marketing. Today, Fatboy is recognised globally, stocked in professional salons around the world. Despite its expansion, the brand has remained true to its original values: delivering real, usable solutions for hair stylists and clients who expect more from their styling products. Fatboy’s reputation continues to grow, reflecting its focus on necessity, creativity, and results.

Fatboy Perfect Putty – The OG

At the heart of Fatboy’s success is the product that started it all — Perfect Putty, known simply as the OG of the Fatboy range.

This is the original product that built the brand’s cult following and continues to define its reputation around the world.

Fatboy Perfect Putty is formulated with Kaolin clay to deliver flexible hold, volume, and a natural matte finish without stiffness.

It is soft to the touch, mouldable throughout the day, water-soluble, and paraben-free.

Perfect for all hair types, it creates lived-in, effortless styles that hold their shape without feeling sticky, greasy, or overly styled.

Stylists rely on Perfect Putty for its versatility, performance, and ability to deliver authentic texture and movement with ease, whether creating undone casual looks or more defined styles that need flexibility.

From texturised styles to hydrated, healthy hair, the launch collection covers all bases, allowing salons to work creatively and provide clients with simple, effective solutions for both in-salon services and at-home care.

Why Fatboy’s Launch is Exciting for Australian Salons

Perfect Putty remains the hero of the Fatboy range globally and will be the centrepiece of Fatboy’s launch into Australia through Dateline Imports.

Other Products in the Launch Range

As well as Perfect Putty, Dateline will also range the following Fatboy products:

• Fatboy Sea Salt Pomade

• Fatboy Styling Cream

• Fatboy Spray Putty

• Fatboy Tousle & Go

• Fatboy Defining Finish Flexible Hold Hairspray

• Fatboy Moisturising Shampoo & Moisturising Conditioner

• Fatboy Volumising Shampoo & Volumising Conditioner

This carefully selected Fatboy range gives Australian salons a fresh opportunity to expand their styling and care offerings with versatile, high-performing products designed for today’s clients.

The expectations of salon clients are evolving. Clients today are looking for hair that feels natural, moves with them, and reflects their lifestyle. They want styles that are wearable, adaptable, and effortless. They also want products that help them maintain those looks outside of the salon, without complicated routines or the need for multiple steps.

Fatboy is perfectly positioned to meet these needs. Its products are designed to create natural texture, flexible hold, and real movement, allowing stylists to build styles that are wearable and lasting. Fatboy offers solutions that work with the hair rather than forcing it into rigid, artificial shapes. This makes the brand especially appealing to clients who are seeking modern, adaptable hairstyles that fit their daily lives.

For Australian salons, the arrival of Fatboy represents a new opportunity to work with a brand that speaks directly to contemporary styling demands. Salons can offer their clients a fresh option that feels accessible, authentic, and relevant. The simplicity of the Fatboy range means stylists can work efficiently and creatively without having to rely on multiple products or overly complicated routines. It is a win for both the stylist behind the chair and the client in it.

Dateline Imports’ decision to bring Fatboy into the Australian market underscores their ongoing commitment to offering salons brands that combine quality, authenticity, and realworld performance. By aligning with brands like Fatboy, Dateline continues to help salons grow, adapt, and lead in a highly competitive industry.

Fatboy is not just another brand on the shelf. It represents a shift toward styling products that prioritise ease, adaptability, and real life, rather than overcomplicated promises. It gives stylists more freedom to work creatively and gives clients styles that genuinely suit the way they live.

Looking Ahead

With Dateline Imports’ strong track record of partnering with brands that make a genuine impact on the professional market, the launch of Fatboy is a significant addition to the Australian hairdressing industry.

As client expectations continue to shift, and as the industry continues to evolve, the brands that succeed will be the ones that combine strong performance with simplicity and relevance. Fatboy fits that brief perfectly. With its clear brand story, trusted signature products, and a genuine connection to modern styling demands, it is poised to become a valuable addition to Australian salons.

ten minutes with

SANDY CARTY

from Phorest

By Louise May

As the Australian Managing Director of Phorest, Sandy Carty feels incredibly lucky to work alongside a passionate, onshore team that’s dedicated to supporting salon, spa, and clinic owners in every step of their journey. For them, it’s not just about software, it’s about people, relationships, and helping businesses reach their full potential.

At the heart of everything Phorest do, is a simple but powerful mission: to uplift, empower, and inspire salon, spa, and aesthetic clinic owners to build thriving businesses, attract and delight loyal clients, and create workplaces where great talent loves to stay. They know the passion and dedication it takes to run a service-based business, and they’re here to be more than just a software provider, they’re here to be a true partner in that journey.

Sandy’s role is all about making sure this mission becomes a reality for the businesses that trust them as their partner. That means growing their footprint in the industry while delivering real, hands-on support. Whether it’s guiding a smooth migration of a salon’s data to their new system, helping teams get started with the software, or providing ongoing coaching and education, great software is only the beginning. It’s the knowledge, confidence, and support behind it that unlocks its full potential; that’s where they come in and it’s his job to make sure the team has everything they need to make that happen.

He also places huge value on building strong, genuine relationships with industry bodies and communities, which forms a big part of his role. These connections not only help shape who they are as a brand, but also ensure they’re always listening, learning, and growing alongside the businesses they serve.

Mocha Hair Editor Louise May, chats with Sandy Carty about his role and the Phorest brand.

Can you share the history behind Phorest and how it became a global salon software brand?

Phorest was founded 22 years ago by Ronan Perceval, originating from a need to reduce noshows in a Dublin salon where he first worked as a receptionist. What started as a simple software tool to send text reminders to clients quickly evolved to become a complete salon management system. Phorest now supports over 11,500 businesses in 10 different regions globally.

How has Phorest evolved since it first entered the Australian market, and what has that growth looked like from your perspective?

Phorest started its Australian operations in 2018, and the journey since has been remarkable. Over the past seven years, we’ve grown from a small presence to becoming the trusted software partner for nearly 1,000 of Australia’s top-performing premium salons, spas, and aesthetic clinics. In 2020, we faced unprecedented challenges alongside our industry. We were fortunate to be able to pivot quickly to support Australian salons through those tough times with technology innovation, but also provide meaningful, human support to our customers. It was a defining moment for us as it reaffirmed our dedication to being more than just a software provider. It strengthened our relationship with our clients, but also with the industry as a whole. It helped us understand better than ever how we show up as a partner invested in our clients’ success.

From a technology perspective, we’ve kept our momentum strong. Over these years, we’ve introduced some of our most innovative features while also completing a comprehensive “under the hood” overhaul to ensure our solution is faster, more accessible and reliable, and better equipped to meet the evolving needs of salon owners.

As we reflect on how far we’ve come, it’s a proud milestone for our team; it’s a testament to our shared vision and relentless pursuit of excellence.

What would you say sets Phorest apart from other salon software systems available today?

I believe what sets us apart is the magic mix of our powerful platform and the heart behind it all. We have built this incredible product and have an innovation team that can anticipate and exceed the evolving needs of salons, spas and aesthetic clinics and deliver the best tools on the market when it comes to streamlining operations, having the best integrated marketing and payments solutions and event tools to help you build a motivated and high performing team within your business. But I think what really sets us apart is that we get it. Under the thoughtful leadership of our founder and CEO, Ronan Perceval, we’ve stayed grounded in the values that matter most: care, collaboration, and community. Every feature we build and every update we roll out comes from a deep understanding of what it means to be in this industry—and how we can make your day-today just a little bit easier. And of course, the real magic of Phorest is the community of people that use it every day. You’ll hear it best from our customers what it feels like to be part of the Phorest family - I’m very proud to be a part of it.

Phorest talks a lot about empowering salon owners to run better businesses –what are the core tools or features that help achieve this?

Phorest touches all areas of daily salon life, from attracting new clients and scheduling appointments to streamlining checkout processes and driving retention through targeted marketing. Designed by and for hair and beauty professionals, our system is, most importantly,

simple to use and reliable.

Our PhorestGo app ensures easy & convenient access to everything you need to run your business on the go, so it’s a core tool for salon owners and their staff. It is also home to one of our newest and already best-loved features that helps create, track and celebrate performance goals with your team. The results are incredible. A lot of people will know Phorest for its sophisticated marketing suite. With everything from new client advertising through to clever reporting, you accurately track and measure your campaign ROI without the need for multiple subscriptions with different vendors.

The Phorest Ads Manager is the industry’s first in-built Social Media Marketing integration that lets you build and publish your ads from a simple, easy-to-use interface within Phorest. With all of your client data at your fingertips, salons can now attract and engage new, current and lost clients, tracking both online and offline conversions with unparalleled precision. The other tool that is having an increasing impact on growth, client retention and salon efficiency, is the Salon Branded App; a fully branded customer facing app that allows salon, spa and clinic clients to book appointments, buy products and gift cards, refer friends and earn and redeem loyalty points from their phone. With new client benefits being frequently added to this tool, our customers are raving about this. If I had to pick my two favourite tools for busy salon owners, it would be the PhorestGo app for efficient and effective day-to-day operations, and the Salon Branded App for increased client engagement and generation of referrals.

What do you consider to be Phorest’s unique selling proposition (USP) in such a competitive space?

From a software perspective, we understand that it is becoming increasingly difficult to attract and retain good quality staff and clients alike. So the tools that set us apart are:

1. PhorestGo App (internal salon team app that keeps your team organised, engaged and accountable).

2. Our Salon Branded App (customer-facing app that simplifies booking engagement, transactions and referrals)

3. Phorest Ads Manager (social media marketing tool that helps salons find new clients and reengage existing clients).

From a customer service perspective, all Phorest packages offer on-shore 6-day-aweek phone support and on-demand software training/coaching. All you have to do is go onto the industry social pages to see that our clients consistently rave about our service being second to none.

From a community perspective, it’s knowing that you’ll be heard by our development teams and be part of building the software of the future, that you have a business partner to call on to help you grow and a network of other likeminded, high-performing professionals ready to treat you like family.

You’ve worked closely with salons across Australia – what challenges are you seeing in the industry right now and how does Phorest help address them?

The challenges we hear from salons across Australia mostly relate to staff retention and motivation, finding new high-quality clients, and retaining them. Phorest has seen these needs grow and built features specifically to address them, with tools like our New Client Finder and Staff Goals. And we have those technology offerings backed up with personalised service to ensure you’re correctly utilising Phorest to tackle these obstacles head on.

How important is community to the Phorest brand, and how do you stay connected with your salon clients?

Connection to the salon community is the backbone of Phorest. We stay connected with our clients through our ongoing free and unlimited education and local support. It’s important to us that our clients can reach us by phone or jump on a training session. We see ourselves not as a software solution, but as a software partner. The human touch is what the hair and beauty industry is all about, and we’re no different! We connect every business with their own dedicated Client Success Manager, who is a committed partner for helping salon owners achieve their business goals through software utilisation.

Plus, you will always find our team at industry events, and me, on the microphone at karaoke at our Salon Owners Summit in Dublin every January.

What’s next for Phorest in Australia? Are there any new developments, features, or goals on the horizon for 2025 and beyond?

We have some really exciting feature developments in the next few months. But to give you a sneak behind the curtain, we have a comprehensive lead nurture and management tool launching very soon, a new and improved Memberships platform coming, and a refreshed new look overall.

www.phorest.com @phorestsalonsoftware

The Brand

In an industry where trends shift quickly and expectations are sky-high, Amazing Hair has cemented its status as one of the most trusted names in professional hair extensions.

Proudly Australian-owned and operated, the brand has built its reputation on consistency, integrity, and a deep understanding of what stylists and salons need to thrive.

Launched over two decades ago with a vision to create the world’s finest hair extensions, Amazing Hair has since grown into a globally recognised leader. Its products and campaigns have appeared on the covers of leading magazines and editorials around the world, reflecting both industry influence and broad appeal.

From the salon floor to high-fashion shoots, Amazing Hair is more than a supplier, it’s a true partner to the professional salon industry. Its strength lies in reliability, with a focus on delivering excellence every time. Staying at the forefront of innovation, the brand continues to invest in advanced technologies, improved application techniques, and ongoing product development.

The company is dedicated to providing 100% Remy human hair extensions and upholding strong, authentic partnerships with its salon network. These ambassadorships are built on trust, mutual respect, and shared success.

With an extensive product portfolio, Amazing Hair empowers salons by offering premium quality, unique service opportunities, and education to support growth. Committed to sustainability and ethical sourcing, the brand ensures its business practices remain responsible and environmentally conscious.

As the brand continues to evolve, so too does its offering. From the launch of a cutting-edge online education portal to the debut of an exclusive collaboration with renowned stylist Marie Uva, Amazing Hair is expanding its world in ways that speak directly to the needs of today’s salon professionals. Alongside their ever-evolving collection of ethically sourced, high-performance extensions, these new initiatives reflect the brand’s commitment to innovation, accessibility, and genuine partnership—meeting salons where they are, and helping them grow.

THE AMAZING COLLECTION

Amazing Hair’s collection is a seamless fusion of innovation, quality, and conscious craftsmanship. With 27 shades available—and more on the horizon—their expansive colour portfolio includes fresh new base tones, foiled finishes, root stretches, and Pantone-inspired pastels, offering stylists creative freedom and clients personalised results.

Central to their colour offering is the brand’s exclusive cold bleaching process—a gentle, chemical-light method developed to preserve the integrity of the hair. This, combined with temperature-controlled drying rooms, ensures every strand maintains its strength and beauty throughout processing.

Only the highest quality Virgin and 100% Remy human hair is used, with all cuticles aligned to reduce tangling and maintain a natural, luxurious texture. Treatments are deliberately silicone-free, preventing buildup and artificial shine while supporting the hair’s true softness and movement through alternative conditioning techniques.

Longevity is built in—when cared for correctly, the extensions offer a lifespan of up to a year. Packaged with purpose, the brand’s commitment to sustainability continues with 90% fully recyclable packaging across its range.

The full collection is available now, including professional in-salon, retail-ready human hair extensions, and premium synthetic options— all reflecting Amazing Hair’s signature blend of performance, ethics, and style.

THE MARIE UVA X AMAZING HAIR COLLABORATION

After extensive in-salon styling and expertise we are excited to announce Marie Uva x Amazing Hair collaboration exclusively designed by Marie Uva.

Introducing six new meticulously designed staple coloured pieces. Designed for everyone to feel their most confident, amazing self.

Designed with a simple snap-lock system that secures the hair into place and is removed without any damage to the wearers hair. The hair can be washed, blow-dried, flat ironed and curled using hot tools.

“As Hairdresser and Celebrity Hair Stylist for over 25 years, clip in hair wefts are something that are essential in my kit when styling hair for events. As an ambassador for Amazing Hair for quite some time now it was natural progression for this collaboration to evolve. I have designed a collection with 6 colours with variation that will match everyone’s hair seamlessly. The ‘side fillers’ two clip extension pieces are perfect to fill in the ‘gaps.’ Everyone’s hair is naturally finer around the face and more tapered or damaged from colouring. The side fillers give ultimate volume whilst looking natural and are easy enough to put in yourself for a quick bit of volume and an instant magic to your hair.”

Product Benefits:

– 100% premium human hair

– Snap-lock system for quick and secure application

– Gentle on the natural hair

– Washable and heat-style compatible

– Lightweight and discreet

– Suitable for all hair types

– 20-inch length, 10cm wide

Available Colours:

– Light Brown / Chocolate Brown

– Light Brown / Dark Blonde

– Caramel / Dark Blonde

– Dark Brown / Natural Brown

– Natural Blonde / Dark Blonde

– Blonde / Natural Blonde

The collection is a beautiful fusion of salon-level quality and client-friendly simplicity—a true extension staple that elevates any look with ease. With more colours and products launching soon!

AMAZING EDUCATION

Amazing hair has unveiled its new cutting-edge online education platform to empower hair extension professionals, created to elevate the skills and expertise of hair extensions professionals.

As industry leaders, Amazing Hair has expanded its educational offerings, providing accessible and comprehensive learning experience in all facets.

The new platform is designed to cater from beginners to experienced stylists, offering courses that range from fundamentals to advanced hair extension techniques and methods.

With the focus on interactive and hands on learning, the platform delivers high quality, step by step application process, expert exclusive knowledge, insight and practical tips all on a user-friendly platform.

Whether you are starting your journey in the world of hair extensions or looking to perfect your craft, Amazing Hair Online Courses provides the tools, skill and guidance needed to succeed.

WHY AMAZING HAIR?

Because they show up, consistently and with care. Because they understand what salons actually need: quality, reliability, and real support. From the hair itself to the way every order is handled, from education to everyday service, Amazing Hair sets the standard for what a true salon partner should be.

COLOURIST BOARD

by Michele

Michele is an experienced hairdresser and colour specialist with a deep passion for helping her clients look and feel their best. Her entrepreneurial spirit and desire to innovate led her to create a unique tool designed to bridge a noticeable gap in the hairdressing industry.

The Colourist Board.

Launched in 2024, the Colourist Board is a revolutionary resource that supports hair professionals in accurately identifying and working with their clients’ skin tones to deliver personalised colour results. Inspired by both the science of colour analysis and the art of hairdressing, the tool features a dual-sided design. One side is dedicated to clothing colour swatches that demonstrate how colours affect the skin’s appearance, and the other side provides a universal hair colour guide tailored for professional use.

Michele was motivated to develop the Colourist Board after noticing that many clients requested colours that didn’t necessarily complement their natural tones, especially during the rise of trends like ash blonde and cowboy copper. As a result, she set out to create a practical, educational solution that would empower stylists to make more informed decisions in their colour services.

The Colourist Board is proudly Australian made, designed, and printed. Michele also offers clothing swatch packs that help clients make informed wardrobe choices to enhance their overall look and connecting the worlds of hair and fashion.

In addition to product development, Michele is currently studying to become a certified colour analyst and personal stylist. She travels across Australia to host in-person workshops, where she teaches hairdressers

how to assess skin tones and vein colours hands-on, building confidence in their colour decisions.

Her long-term vision is to have the Colourist Board integrated into TAFE and hairdressing curriculums nationwide, ensuring the next generation of stylists are equipped to colour with precision and purpose with a strong focus on skin tone and the impact this has on colour choice.

At the core of Michele’s mission is a simple but powerful goal: to help people look and feel their most confident, every day.

www.thecolouristboard.com.au

@thecolouristboard

Winners of Second Annual 2025 AWARDS announced across Australia & New Zealand!

The incredible winners of the CURATE Awards have been announced and recognised as the best apprentice talent that Australia and New Zealand have to offer. These five individuals may just be starting out, but they have well and truly made their first mark on the industry.

THE 2025 CURATE AWARD WINNERS ARE:

REGIONAL AUSTRALIA - COLOUR & STYLE

Kynan Booty, Parlour O

REGIONAL AUSTRALIA - CUT & COLOUR

Kealey-Grace Harkins, Jarahs Hair

URBAN AUSTRALIA - COLOUR & STYLE

Elisha Forgione, Bliss The Art Of Hair

URBAN AUSTRALIA - CUT & COLOUR

Kobi Lee, The Factory 3013

NEW ZEALAND - COLOUR & STYLE

Jess Wilson, Zibido Hair

Created to discover and celebrate the freshest urban and regional Apprentices through the delivery of exciting hair vision and creativity, the 2025 CURATE Awards are a unique competition platform. Envisioned by Brisbane hairdressing icon and reigning AHIA Creative Australian Hairdresser of the Year 2023 Justin Pace, the ongoing goal of CURATE is to elevate the perception of hairdressing as an exciting career pathway for all entrants.

As a digital competition, CURATE allows for apprentice talent to shine through the creation of a two-minute video to showcase their cutting, colouring and styling skills, eliminating any geographical barriers to entry. Entrants are judged on a combination of inspiration, delivery of their hair creation, finished result and video editing skills and these winners all showed their superior skills.

The winners will now start prepping online with Justin for their full-day photo shoot workshop in Sydney, just one part of their share of the $51k+ prize pool, which also includes tickets to Hair Festival and the AHIA Creative Awards Gala, L’Oréal ACCESS Education vouchers, Excellent Edges scissors, ghd Professional electrical tools, ELEVEN Australia products, Sustainable Salons goodie bags, a biography from Lily Blue Communications plus industry exposure throughout 2025.

Justin is thrilled to honour Australia and New Zealand’s most exciting new talent; “Working with our winners last year was such a personal highlight, but I also truly believe that the success of the Awards is crucial for the longevity and sustainability of our industry. Hairdressing is an incredibly fulfilling and exciting career, and I want every Apprentice and aspiring Apprentice to feel that. I can’t wait to work with our five amazing talents this year. Watch this space for the magic we will create!”

A big thank you to CURATE’s collaborators for 2025 who are championing the industry. These include Official Media Partner Mocha Group, Major Partner L’Oréal Access, Prize Partners Excellent Edges, ELEVEN Australia and ghd, Sustainability Partner Sustainable Salons and Proud Supporters MIG Training, the AHC and Jadore Hair which will be supplying all hair for the winners’ photo shoot.

Regional Australia - Colour & Style: Kynan Booty, Parlour

Regional Australia - Cut & Colour: Kealey-Grace Harkins, Jarahs Hair

Urban Australia - Colour & Style Elisha Forgione, Bliss The Art Of Hair

Urban Australia - Cut & Colour: Kobi Lee, The Factory 3013

New Zealand - Colour & Style: Jess Wilson, Zibido Hair

The Finalists Have Been Announced!

These 60 Finalists will do their hands-on competition on May 19th May, 2025 in Sydney, and the winners will be announced on May 26th, 2025.

There will be 6 winners in total – 1 winner from each state!

NSW/ACT FINALISTS

Hannah Linsley - Hannah Louise Hair

Jordan Skrtic - Axis Salon

Letitia Booth - Letitia Booth Hair

Tania Anderson - Beachcomber Hair Salon

Louise Williamson - Jyle Frame Hair

Jean Vadnal - Elluca Hair

Kelly Powell - Hair By Kelly Powell

Dakota Woweries - Wow Hair Co

Janelle Snyman - Galen Hair

Kate Leggart - Salon Sass & Co

NZ FINALISTS

Cayla Litherland - Nspyre Red Collective

Marouska Cundy - Black Pearl & Co

Gail Kock -Lakehouse Salon

Jess Howard - New Image Hair Salon

Grace Mccaffrey - Nspyre Red Collective

Monique Banovich - Creative Hair

Lauren Hawkins - New Image Hair

Newton Cook - Rodney Wayne

Stacy Peden - The Hair Hub

Tegan Foley Hussey - Nspyre Red Collective

QLD FINALISTS

Brooke Felsch - Fresh Image

Cara Jeffrey - Mr & Mrs The Hair Experts

Kya Gaiter - Fresh Image

Vera Agatic - House Of York Hair Design

Emogen Pooler - Jessica James

Amy Kerwin - Hairhouse Ipswich

Adelle Thompson - Adele Thompson

Felicity Boon - Hairessence

Jordan Porter - Colour Me Mel

Emma Lloyd - M&Co Beauty & Hair

SA/TAS FINALISTS

Emily Beams - Noor Hair

Amiee Parr-Duka - Hairhouse Marion

Chloe Duggen - Gossips Hair

Mabelline Douglas - Sj Establishment

Amelia Winen - Sj Establishment

Danielle Raine - Wilde Style

Shanice Melville - Hairhouse Tee Tree Plaza

Jacqui Gladwell - Hairhouse Tee Tree Plaza

Lauren Barnes - Laurens Hair

Anna Tsakyrios - Hairhouse Tee Tree Plaza

VIC FINALISTS

Fabian Gonzalez - Mr T Salon

Mikayla Jones - Fallachi Hair

Ashley Ellis - D’lush Hair

Jourdy Oliver - Hakkas Hair Design

April Aquilina - Lady And The Hair

Charlotte Stephens - Mane Envy Hair Lounge

Jeanette Rowe - Thomson Street Hair Design

Cheyenne Orr - Hairhouse Victoria Gardens

Brodie Kleesh - Jair Hair Artistry

Chloe Healey - Hakkas Hair Design

WA FINALISTS

Shanaye Johnson - Hairhouse Belmont

Tobee Richards - Fig The Art Of Hair

Cienna O’donnell - Hairhouse Midland

Gemma Mitsopoulos - Eaton Hair

Gracie Willetts - Hair On Swan

Alyssa Catalano - House Of Melvan

Sacha Kirby - Fox & Mane

Orlanda Estcourt - Fig The Art Of Hair

Jarryd Harkin - Salon Z Hair & Beauty

Charleigh Garrott - Hairhouse Joondalup

Matrix believes in uniting and celebrating all hairdressers no matter their experience level.

The Matrix All Stars Competition provides the opportunity for ALL to showcase their unique colour and styling talents.

THE 2025 SIX WINNERS WILL EACH RECEIVE

• 5 Nights accomodation in Sydney

• Return flights from your closest capital city to Sydney.

• 3-Day pro artist mentorship and content

creation experience with our global Matrix artists

• 1-Day pass to Hair Festival 2025

• Ticket to the biggest awards night on the hairdressing calendar – the AHIA Creative awards gala on the 30th of June 2025

• 12 Month subscription to mochahair magazine.

• mochahair magazine winners combined feature story

• Join the Matrix advocate team (11-months)

• Exclusive pre-launch product trainings

Valued at $8,500 per person.

Official Media Partner for Matrix All Stars is the Mocha Group.

Mocha Group have been the authentic voice of the Australian hair industry 20 years and, as the definitive media, digital and awards network, they are committed to sharing knowledge and championing the best of the best through their creative and business awards as well as media channels including MOCHAHAIR magazine both online and in print.

Mocha Group is by the industry, for the industry and continues to raise the benchmark of Australian hair excellence on a global scale.

@matrixpro_anz

Last Year’s 2024 winners mentorship session

ROCK ‘N’ ROLL DREAMS

CAME TRUE SOMEHOW…

By Sarah Smith

People often ask the question “What would you be if you weren’t a Hair and Makeup Artist?” “Easy!” I reply, “A Rockstar, for sure!”

Unfortunately, I have very little musical talent, which I’m totally ok with (there’s always karaoke, right?). I guess it’s a good thing, with a career spanning over 23 years, that I’m still obsessed with my chosen profession. I’m incredibly fortunate that makeup and music have often intertwined for me, both serving as powerful forms of self-expression and creativity. In my wildest dreams, I could never have imagined being backstage, glamming up my idols.

I’m sitting at the Domestic Terminal in Naarm, waiting on a delayed flight home to Meanjin, after a whirlwind trip. I sit quietly in reflection, trying to process the events of the previous 24 hours. How on earth did 15-year-old me, sitting in my teenage bedroom in rural Queensland, listening to Killing Heidi’s debut 1# multi-platinum album ‘Reflector’, find myself 25 years later, in the same room as Ella and Jesse Hooper, doing their hair and makeup for the Album’s quarter century anniversary release?

It began 5 years earlier when, after a chance meeting on Social Media, finding each other through mutual creative connections, we arranged to meet and collaborate on an Editorial Shoot. The band were on Tour for Reflector’s 20 Year Anniversary (definitely not my first or last time seeing them live). Right before breaking into rock song ‘Real People’, Ella addressed the crowd “This next song, I had to fight to get it on the album. I just knew that there were young people out there who needed to hear it..”

Real People (First Verse + Chorus – Lyrics by Ella and Jesse Hooper)

Learn to keep the pain you feel

Keep it and don’t let it spill

Under lock and key don’t let it out

That’s what secrecy is about

Make it alright just keep your eyes shut

Keep your eyes shut tight

What you feel ain’t bad

‘Cause there’s no shame in being sad

The next morning, mid-glam, I turn to Ella (a little teary-eyed) “It was me! I was young people. That song and those lyrics spoke to me” and we hugged it out. Being a young person, growing up in the country in the late 90’s was a confusing and complicated time in my life. Trying to navigate new emotions and recently diagnosed mental health conditions, felt incredibly isolating – oftentimes locking my door, cranking the tunes and finding comfort in the words coming out of my CD player. I felt understood and seen.

I turned 40 at the start of this year. A pretty huge milestone, considering I barley saw myself making it out of my 30’s alive. Perhaps a little morbid, but in all honesty, I think I had always glamorised the idea of living fast and dying young. That narrative changed quickly after experiencing the earth-shattering aftermath of losing 2 friends, in short succession, to their battles with mental health and substance abuse. Shook me to my core.

It turns out I won’t be on the Guest List for Rock ‘n’ Roll Heaven for quite a few years yet. Lots of living left to do and plenty more icons left to glam! A few things I’ve learnt over the years:

• It’s never too late to start to start living the life you always dreamed of - “She turned her cant’s into cans and her dreams into plans” Kobi Yamada

• ‘THEY’ say “Never meet your heroes”. What do ‘THEY’ know? Looks like y’all are just idolizing the wrong people.

• Stay humble and always be kind. Create connections, not content – we live in a time where Social Media rules – put your focus into building genuine connections with people and guaranteed, you’ll stay booked and busy.

• There’s a big difference between making someone LOOK hot, and making them FEEL hot. Everybody is already beautiful. You can be the best HMUA in the world, but energy is transferable. Making people FEEL beautiful should be number one priority. Never underestimate the power of a kind word and a swipe of red lipstick.

• Never make money your main motivator. Sure, money is nice. We need it, obviously (especially in this economy). PLAY. CREATE. COLLABORATE. Stay passionate and see the value in human connection. There is nothing better than the feeling of seeing a collective creative vision come to life.

• Most importantly - BE GENUINE. Embrace your authenticity. The real ones can spot the fakes from a mile away. Be yourself; everyone is already taken.

YOU ARE A ROCK STAR! See you on Tour!

Sarah xo

PS. You WILL make it in the end.

Navigating the Colour Chaos: How I Handle Difficult Clients

By Amber Bullock

Let’s talk about the elephant in the salon—the difficult colour client. You know the one. Has had black box dye for five years but wants to be “Scandi blonde by 3 PM.” Or insists the last hairdresser got it “just right” but still ended up in your chair with half a Pinterest board and a whole lot of trust issues.

Sound familiar? Don’t worry—you’re not alone, and you’re definitely not losing your mind. After 21 years behind the chair (and a few menty B’s), I’ve developed a little toolkit for dealing with tricky colour clients. I promise, with the right approach, even the most challenging situations can turn into long-term loyalty—or at the very least, a drama-free service.

The “I Want to Be Blonde, Like White Paper Blonde” Client

This is the classic blonde transformation on a budget, with zero understanding of hair science. I approach this one with a mix of honesty, education, and a visual of what’s actually achievable.

First, I get the iPad, and we look at tones of blonde. Sometimes all that’s needed is a good old tone or more education on home care.

I show a few real-world transformations, preferably ones that took 2–3 sessions and still looked gorgeous at every stage. I explain the process on what I need to do to achieve the look I then explain that their hair’s integrity is more important to me than being platinum today— because I know they don’t want jelly hair! That usually gets the message across.

The “My Last Hairdresser Got It Wrong” Client These clients arrive with baggage. They often come in guarded, arms crossed, already bracing for disappointment. The key here? Patience and empathy.

I start with, “I’m so sorry you had that experience. Let’s make today different.” Then I listen—really listen. Sometimes they just need to vent. I let them. Then, once they’ve exhaled, we can start fresh with clear communication and realistic expectations. I don’t throw other hairdressers under the bus (we’ve all had off days), but I do reassure them that I am here for the journey with them.

The “I’m So Happy but My Family Doesn’t Like It” Client

This is the client who loved their hair in the chair, raved about it at the front desk, and then two days later calls. This one upset me. The client has come in with a vision, we nail it, they are so happy—then at the BBQ on the weekend, the family members or friends who don’t like change or have no idea about what is fashionable share their opinions that no one asked for. Now the client is second-guessing their beautiful new look.

I approach this one differently. I am their official hype girl now! The family or friends were not there at our consultation, they did not see the excitement when the client showed me their photos. Nor were they there when the client said, “This is amazing.” It makes me sad when this happens.

I will literally build that confidence back up, so the client struts out of Bond Hair Religion like a boss.

The Serial Colour Chameleon

You know the type: platinum one visit, copper the next, then bam! Wants to go brunette “just for winter” but might go back to blonde for summer.

With these clients, it’s all about laying out the colour history and long-term consequences. I’ll say something like, “We can do this—but just so you know, going back blonde might not be as simple next time.” I also have them sign off on our colour consultation agreement form, just to keep things crystal clear.

Sometimes, I have to say no. Kindly, but firmly. “I want you to love your hair, not hate it.” These clients—I’ve usually been doing their colour for years. They know me, I know them, and we’ve been over this a million times. So, when they ask, they always do it with a squinty face, knowing I might say no—haha.

“This particular change isn’t safe for your hair health right now—but here’s a plan to get you there gradually.” I’ll always offer options if what they want just isn’t achievable.

When It Gets Too Hard...

Not every client is your client. That took me a long time to learn. If someone is constantly pushing boundaries, disrespecting time, or undermining my expertise, I’ve learned how to set loving but firm boundaries.

It’s not worth the anxiety every time you see their name.

Final Thoughts

Difficult clients aren’t the end of the world— they’re opportunities to grow, educate, and occasionally practise your deep-breathing exercises. Every one of them has taught me something, and some have even turned into my most loyal supporters (once we got through the initial chaos).

At the end of the day, your chair, your time, and your expertise are valuable. Trust your gut, lead with kindness, and never be afraid to stand your ground—with a smile.

Amber Bullock

Building Confident Hairdressers: The Power of Presentation Skills

By Bernadette Beswick

I want to share something with you all… At the beginning of my career, I never felt confident during the consultation process. I felt unsure how to lead conversations with confidence, nervous that I might not get things right... One day I noticed something powerful: when I sounded and presented myself with confidence, everything shifted — for me and the client. Was I faking it? Maybe, a little. But I realised it wasn’t about pretending — it was about learning through the power of education on how to present myself with clarity, purpose, and presence. How we show up — how we stand, speak, listen, and lead — affects how others feel around us. That’s why I don’t believe in “fake it till you make it.” I believe in education to increase the power of presentation skills. LET’S BUILD IT UP!

When you present well, you build trust. Clients feel reassured. You feel more in control. You deliver better results. That’s what I want for you — not just to be skilled, but to be confident, compelling, and trusted.

Confidence isn’t something we’re born with — it’s something we build. In this industry, it grows in the doing. It strengthens every time we take a step forward, show up even when unsure, and lean into learning. Whether you want to lead better consultations, make bold suggestions, or feel more at ease — confidence is key. And it starts with action.

7 ways to build real confidence in the salon:

1. Understand Your Why Confidence begins with clarity. What does it mean for you? Speaking up? Leading a consultation without hesitation? Trusting your decisions? Be specific. Maybe it’s mastering styling, colour, or communication. For me, it was presenting to a group and leading a demonstration. When you know why you want confidence, you can move towards it more clearly.

2. Shift Your Self-Talk

What you say to yourself matters. Confidence often fades under harsh self-talk. Replace “I’m not good enough” with “I’m learning and growing.” One of my favourite mottos is: Learn the skill, create the will. The skill is the “how,” the will is your determination. Be your own hype person — your inner voice leads the way.

3. Activate Action – Even Small Steps Count

Confidence grows through action. Start small: eye contact, smiling, adjusting your tone, or giving a confident recommendation. Practise a service with a teammate and reflect on what felt good. Celebrate it. Every small win builds belief in yourself.

4. Learn from Mistakes

Mistakes don’t define you — they grow you. Every confident stylist has had them. What matters is how you respond. Use mistakes to build resilience and communication. Handling setbacks well can actually build client trust and show your professionalism.

5. Surround Yourself with the Right People

Your environment matters. Spend time with people who lift you up and push you forward. Avoid energy that drags you down. You rise faster when you’re around those who believe in you — especially when you’re still learning to believe in yourself.

6. Keep Promises to Yourself

Every time you follow through, you build self-trust. That trust becomes your confidence base. Whether it’s showing up to practise or learning something new — keep promises to yourself. It matters more than you think.

7. Celebrate Progress

Don’t wait for perfection. Confidence grows in the journey. Celebrate effort, courage, and growth. Every step forward, every new skill, every brave conversation is shaping the stylist you’re becoming.

The Power of Interpersonal Skills

Confidence and communication go hand in hand. When you know how to present yourself with warmth and clarity, clients relax. They trust you. And most importantly — you begin to trust yourself more.

Here are 7 interpersonal presentation skills you can practise now:

1. Eye Contact

It’s simple but powerful. Eye contact shows you’re present, engaged, and listening — and it builds instant trust.

2. Body Language

Posture speaks first. Stand tall, shoulders back, and smile. Strong body language makes clients feel safe and supported.

3. Voice Tone

Speak calmly and clearly. A steady, warm tone is reassuring and gives your words strength.

4. Active Listening

Really listen — don’t just wait to talk. Reflect back what the client says. This builds connection and loyalty.

5. Positive Language

Use words that uplift. Say, “Here’s a great option,” instead of “I’m not sure.” Your words shape the experience — choose them wisely.

6. Ask Empowering Questions

Don’t just ask what they want. Ask how they want to feel. “What are you loving right now?” or “What’s something you’ve always wanted to try?” These questions lead to better consultations.

7. Give Confident Recommendations

Clients come to you for guidance. Lead them. Offer your suggestions clearly. When you believe in your skills, they will too.

Confidence isn’t about perfection. It’s about showing up, learning, and backing yourself. You don’t need to be the most experienced stylist to lead with confidence. You just need to keep growing, keep showing up, and trust that you are absolutely capable.

You’ve got this.

LOVE Bernadette

#be the exceptional hairdresser

Join the Rebellion

Scalp Wellness

A scalp massage in a brush! Brushworx Scalp Wellness Collection invigorates the scalp with the cooling sensation of metal bristles. Select from Cushion Brush, Paddle Brush and AntiStatic Detangler to stimulate circulation in the scalp. Anti-static for sensationally silky, smooth hair.

Not like other trimmers. StyleCraft by Silver Bullet Rebel Trimmer is powered by super-torque 7,500 spm motor, open skeleton 360° design and 3 hours cordless runtime. Lightweight and ergonomic. Includes three interchangeable bodies for customisation.

The

New Keratin Colour

Keratin Colour is transformation. With new formula and packaging, Keratin Colour delivers vivid, long-lasting colour while renewing hair from within — all in an incredible value 140g tube. Enriched with advanced Keraveg, softening Tsubaki oil, refreshing lotus flower, glycolic extract and luminous diamond powder.

Lovely Lilac

A hair dryer in full bloom. Parlux Alyon Hair Dryer is now available in special edition Lilac. Don’t let the pretty shade fool you, this is a hair dryer with maximum performance, extremely lightweight and advanced Air Ionizer Tech.

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.

Control Your Ions

You’re in control! Turn ions on or off for MAXIMUM styling flexibility.

BaBylissPRO Nano Titanium Dual Ionic Hair Dryer features dual ionic technology for incredible versatility. 2x the ions! On: smoothness and shine. Off: body and volume. Lightweight, ultra-quiet.

Effortless Style, Total Control

Smooth, style and control frizz for up to 24 hours. Infused with argan oil and apricot oil, DESIGNME HOLD.ME Styling Cream is a multitasking styling cream which offers incredible humidity defence and thermal protection. Soft hold with a non-greasy finish.

Travel Better

Use better products. Get better hair. Theorie Travel Kits take great hair on the road. Each mini kit comes in a durable, reusable hard case for optimal travel protection. Includes Hydrating & Nourishing, Restoring & Nourishing, and Ultra Gentle Hypoallergenic hair and body products.

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.

Designer Collection Mannequins

Dateline Professional Designer Collection Mannequins are the perfect combination of premium quality and economical pricing. Introducing Amber, Mia and Amy, your new training companions with AAA grade Indian hair and long, increased layers. Choose from 16”, 18” or 20” lengths.

Clean Beauty Glossing Treatment

Introducing Aluram High Shine Glossing Treatment for shine with a conscience. Instantly gloss hair with a mirror-like shine in just 5 minutes while locking in moisture. Aluram’s exclusive Tri-Gloss Shine Complex, plus marula oil, leaves hair irresistibly soft, silky and frizz-free.

Smart Choice for Scales

Take the guesswork out of measuring hair colour. Salon

Smart Wooden Digital Scales precisely measure colour formulas for consistent colour control and less product waste. Super sleek digital scale is battery-operated with LCD display.

Superior Humidity Shield

Sublime levels of shine while shielding against humidity. Shibui Peptide Polish Anti-Humidity Treatment adds thermal protection, seals the hair cuticle and eliminates frizz. Protects colour and boosts softness for up to three washes. Botanically-rich, clean beauty.

Even More Bond Repair

Your go-to bond repair shampoo and conditioner just got better! epres Healthy Hair Shampoo and Conditioner are now available in 950ml pump bottles. Perfect for any backbar area, as well as retail for upsized epres home care.

Intelligent Styling

Faster, easier, smarter

styling. Designed to help prevent damage to hair, Silver Bullet Asteria Hair

Straightener features intelligent sensing technology which automatically adjusts the temperature of the plates while styling. 32mm titanium plates. Heat up to 230°C.

Hair SHOP

Hot Towel Cabinet in matte black, warms and then maintains the temperature of moist towels for use in facial and body treatments or for traditional hot towel shaves. The cabinet features an Ultra-Violet light globe (Ozone) inside which can be turned on or off independently from the warming function. The UV light (Ozone) may help prevent the damp towels becoming stale or getting a musty odour while being stored in the cabinet. www.comfortel.com.au

ELEVATE YOUR WASH LOUNGE WITH THESE NEW LUXE ADDITIONS BY COMFORTEL

Comfortel Head Spa is the ultimate basin upgrade–luxe, calming, and easy to add. Designed to fit seamlessly into your current wash lounge basin, it switches between a soothing waterfall rinse and standard showerhead–turning everyday washes into spa-like rituals. *Tap set is Australian Watermark Approved. Comfortel Salon Mist Hair Treatment Processor Unlock the power of micro mist for healthier, shinier hair–right at the basin. Comfortel Salon Mist deeply nourishes hair and boosts treatment results using ultra-fine mist to open the cuticle—for softer, shinier, stronger hair. Perfect post-colour, during deep conditioning, or for elevating everyday services— it’s the hair spa tool your basin needs. Shop now at www.comfortel.com.au

INTRODUCING COLORBOND® BY SALON PROFESSIONAL

Color Accelerator offers multiple benefits to the professional colouring service. Accelerates processing time when used with or without heat, protecting the hair during the colouring process. Works with permanent, semi-permanent and demi colours. Organic blend of oils opens the cuticle faster, allowing the deposit of colour molecules deep within the www.muimports.com.au

INTRODUCING C-SPRAY, DRY CONDITIONER SPRAY - BY O&M

The ultimate day 2 rescue remedy! Dry shampoo has become a go-to hair staple. Now, O&M is taking it a step further with the launch of their first-ever Dry Conditioner. Refresh, Boost & Plump! Lock in moisture and improve texture with O&M C-Spray Dry Conditioner for effortlessly flawless second-day hair. Perfect for extending time between washes, this must-have take-home essential enhances softness and pairs beautifully with the existing O&M styling range. www.originalmineral.com.au

A NEW LOOK FOR INNOVATIVE

New look Innovative with the same great formula. Made in Australia.

- GEL WAX Volumising Look - gives volume and support whilst leaving hair non-greasy, soft and shining

- HAIR SHAPER Styled Look - mould it, scrunch it, comb it or simply brush it through

- WET LOOK GREASE Wet look - you can add gloss, shine and control to any hair type

www.muimports.com.au

The Lollipop Scented Detangle Hair Brush brings a fun twist to everyday hair care. Designed with flexible bristles that glide smoothly through all hair types, it painlessly tackles knots and minimises breakage. What makes it truly unique? Delightful lollipop scents are infused into the brush, offering a nostalgic aroma that turns brushing into a sensory treat, especially appealing for kids and parents alike.

Perfect for wet or dry hair, this brush is both gentle and effective, making detangling easier and more enjoyable. Plus, with its colourful, candy-inspired look and ecoconscious design, it’s as kind to the planet as it is to your hair. Great as a gift or retail hit, this brush combines style, scent, and performance in one irresistible package. www.chbw.com.au

INTRODUCING ETERNATEK HYBRID COLOURING CREME BY MATTHEW JAMES

Hybrid Colouring Creme for flexible coverage options! Formula incorporates EternaTek to create an unprecedented colour experience. EternaTek works to deliver superior uniformity of colour from root to tip, colour brilliance, shimmering reflects and superior coverage on grey hair whilst respecting hair integrity. EternaTek also reduces colour fading by up to 15%*

*Laboratory spectrophotometer test comparisons

Generous sized tubes, 180ml! which is three times larger than the industry standard size offering exceptional value for all your colouring needs. Proudly made in Italy

Mixing ratios: Demi 1:2, Toning 1:2, Permanent 1:1.5, Super lift 1:2.5 www.glama.co

THE NEW HERA WHITELINE BY JAGUAR

Features a smart click screw system with fine pitch for easy and precise movement. Rounded dogger shape on the upper blade delivers high stability and extremely smooth cutting action. The flat lower blade allows the stylist to work close to the skin www.muimports.com.au

SIX NEW SHADES FOR TONAL CONTROL BY MATRIX

Blonde Max – offering levels 10 and 11 toning shades in cool, warm, and neutral reflects, empowering stylists to create the perfect platinum blonde.

The new Blonde Max shades expand the existing Tonal Control family, providing stylists with an extended palette of options for creating customised blonde looks.

www.matrixprofessional.com.au

A Month in Motion...

By Shae Tsiknaris, 3X AHIA Creative Master Cutter of the Year

April is here, and I can’t believe how quickly time is flying! Everywhere I turn, I see hot cross buns, chocolate bunnies, and all things Easter, and I’m so excited to get into the holiday spirit. If you’ve read my first blog, you already know I love any excuse to decorate the house and yes, that includes matching PJs for the kids (and sometimes even Milo, my adorable poodle Maltese mix). For those wondering, I believe his official breed name is a “MaltiPoo” but to me, he’s just my fluffy little sidekick!

Salon News: Exciting New Products!

There’s something fresh in the salon, and I couldn’t be more excited! We’ve just received the brand new Alfaparf Milano Semi di Lino Style & Care range, and let me tell you it’s gorgeous. The scent alone is pure happiness, with top notes of pink peppercorn, pear, and blackcurrant, heart notes of rose, jasmine, and heliotrope, and a warm base of cedarwood and vanilla. Every time I use it, I feel instantly uplifted!

So far, my absolute favourites are:

• Flexible Mousse – Perfect for soft, bouncy hold.

• Blow-Dry Cream – Smooths, speeds up drying, and fights frizz what more could you want?

It had been a while, so I thought it was time to treat myself! I’ve just ordered a few new scissors from Excellent Edges including the 6.5-inch Phantom. I can’t wait to try them out I’ll let you know how they go!

Education & Creativity: A Busy Month Ahead

I’m heading west again soon, thanks to Alfaparf, where I’ll be showcasing four models using the new Semi di Lino Style & Care range. I’ll be demonstrating how to get the best results with these products, and I can’t wait to share my tips and tricks. I love opportunities like this getting hands on with new products, refining techniques, and bringing fresh inspiration back to the salon.

And by now, all submissions for our latest collection should be in! For the AHIA Awards. As always, my husband Chris and I work closely on these projects he’s the colour expert, I handle the cutting, styling, and fashion direction, and of course, we have our incredible mentor, photographer, and boss (who also happens to be our brother/brother in law) Bill Tsiknaris (Billy) guiding us along the way. Choosing the right models is always a challenge since every collection has a unique vision. It’s a mix of excitement, stress, and creativity all rolled into one!

Some of my favourite moments are when my three are at the salon on prep days, watching the whole creative process unfold . Who knows maybe one day, they’ll be following in our footsteps!

Until next time, Shae x @hairbyshaetsiknaris

Shae Tsiknaris

SHOWING UP! A Different Perspective

By Sami J. 2024 AHIA Creative Australian Hairdresser of the Year

Hi, my name is Sami J, and I’m a raging hairaholicMy last colour was yesterday…. in New York!

In an incredibly busy, hectic, fast paced life, showing up is definitely one of the biggest things that I am focused on.

I know SHOWING UP that old chestnut lol.

But I’m going to break this down from a different POV.

I truly believe this has heavily contributed to how I’ve achieved everything I have, why I’m living my absolute dream life, and how the people around me show up for me too!

There was a time when my parents separated and I had to show up for my clients, a time I got divorced and had to show up for my team, and clients.

A time that I had a baby struggling to breathe in hospital, and another baby growing inside me, and I had to show up for my son, partner, team and clients.

We’ve all got these stories and moments in our life where even when we don’t feel like it…. We have to SHOW UP! And you all know I don’t mean just physically…. I mean like you mean it!

Those moments, those really hard ones that test us, they are how we grow and learn to be stronger personally, better leaders, mothers, friends. It’s how we raise the standard in our businesses, set the tone amongst our team, And build a safe, confident place for our families.

If you choose the hard option, to still show up, even when it feels like you don’t know how, watch what happens to those around you. In their hard moments, People remember your example, they remember you still showed up and it gives them strength and confidence to do the same.

So, as a Boss that SHOWS UP in those times, your team will mostly always follow your lead when they have a bad morning, broken down car, personal issues, and your clients will form stronger relationships with you, feeling all the VIP feels.

As a partner, that makes the effort to talk, spend quality time together, concentrate on your relationship, the results speak volumes. They will definitely want to return that energy after feeling appreciated, especially when you make the effort at 10pm at night after standing, working and talking all day.

As a mother, this is the biggest example of this. In my experience, if I show up for my kids UNDISTRACTED, fully attentive, good ol fashion quality time, they are like putty in my hands, and want to behave exceptionally all day! It’s not realistic for a whole day, but ensuring I show up for them, means they show up for me when mummy needs quiet because I have a zoom meeting, hehe.

This perspective helps me show up. Empathy resonates with most people, and is often remembered.

MY POINT IS …. You can influence how people show up for you, by making sure you show up for them first.

SO, ARE YOU SHOWING UP FOR ALL THE IMPORTANT PEOPLE IN YOUR LIFE?

@samij_hair

Sami J

Consistency: The Quiet Power Behind AwardWinning Customer Care

By Samantha Jones

When people ask how I’ve won back-to-back awards for customer care, they often expect a secret hack or a flashy strategy. But the truth is simpler—and far more powerful. Consistency is the heartbeat of world-class service.

In a luxury salon, clients don’t just expect excellence—they expect it every single time. It’s not enough to impress them once. We need to meet (and exceed) their expectations at every appointment, with every team member, and across every touchpoint. That’s where consistency becomes your greatest asset.

Consistency Builds Trust

Trust isn’t built in a single moment—it’s earned through repetition. When clients know what to expect, and they experience the same high standard every visit, it creates a sense of safety. They relax. They return. They tell their friends.

Inconsistent service, on the other hand, causes doubt. If one visit is fabulous and the next is just okay, you’re rolling the dice with your brand reputation.

How to Create Consistent Excellence

1. Define Your Standard of Care

At Ms Monaco, we have a clearly documented client journey. From the way we greet clients, to the type of refreshments offered, to how we consult and follow up—every step is intentional. If your team doesn’t know exactly what “great” looks like, how can they deliver it?

2. Train Relentlessly

Even the most talented stylists need to be aligned on service standards. We invest in both technical and customer experience training, because client care is everyone’s responsibility. We role-play, we coach, we give feedback. It’s not a one-off—it’s ongoing. The best thing I ever did was to empower my team to create the system! We identify a gap or something that isn’t working and as a group we create a new way. This way the whole team is connected and commits to ensuring the follow the system.

3. Use Systems to Support Service Automated booking confirmations, personalized appointment notes, and CRM tools help us maintain the little details that make a big impact. Technology should enhance—not replace—the human touch.

4. Empower Your Team to Deliver

Give your team the tools and confidence to handle service issues or client needs without always asking for permission. When they’re empowered to act, consistency becomes a collective mission.

5. Lead By Example

If you want your team to deliver exceptional care every day, you have to model it. Be present. Show appreciation. Handle challenges with grace. Culture starts at the top—and your leadership sets the tone. We have a saying - no repercussions just lessons. We all know things go wrong daily, as a salon wonder we are always putting out another fire but when you commit to using every fail to create new way you will grow as a team faster than you could imagine!

Consistency Creates Magic

When consistency is baked into your culture, your salon becomes more than a place for a hair service —it becomes a sanctuary. Clients feel

seen, valued, and cared for. That’s what keeps them coming back. That’s what turns them into raving fans.

Awards are a lovely recognition—but they’re simply the result of what we do, day in and day out. And at the core of it all? Consistency.

@msmonacohairsociety

Is Imitation the Best Form of Flattery... or Something more Sinister?

By Emily Ciardiello

We’ve all heard it, right? ‘Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery,’ but if you’ve ever been copied - especially in business - you know that flattery often comes with a catch and maybe a slight sour taste in your mouth.

At Foil Me, imitation has become so common it’s now part and parcel of being a trailblazing brand. Still, wrapped up in that parcel is a deeper question: Is imitation truly a compliment, or is it actually something more threatening?

When Innovation Becomes the Blueprint

When we introduced our pre-cut foils – with our pioneering sizes Wide, Extra Wide, Long, and Long Wide - our mission was clear: Empower hairdressers. Support creativity. Provide tools that actually improve and simplify their work. And it worked. These innovations aren’t just convenient - they have changed the game. BUT…

Success often draws imitation. We started seeing (and still see) our carefully crafted ideas replicated by others. It is disheartening and honestly - it felt and feels personal. I don’t care about those who say you should keep emotions out of business - Foil Me is not just a business, it’s a being; an entity that lives and breathes from collaboration, passion, and purpose. Our foils weren’t created randomly - they were shaped by years of listening to colourists, testing, refining, and investing our time, energy and creativity into every product.

Yet, lately, I have realised something important: even if others are copying us, they are also spreading the standard we have set. The industry is rising - and part of that rise is because of us. Our vision to elevate hairdressers in society’s eyes has come to fruition.

The Rise of the Pink Take, for example, the launch of our pastel pink foil released in 2017The Knobel.

It wasn’t just about aesthetics - it was about emotion. We wanted hairdressers to feel inspired, elegant, and elevated. And we wanted their guests to feel like their experience mattered - even in the “processing” stage.

It quickly became one of our most recognisable and loved foils. But not long after, similar shades of pink began showing up everywhere - with similar packaging and font, even our messaging was palmed off as their own.

And yes – it is still happening.

It’s disappointing. Not because we don’t want others to succeed, but because many of these brands pretend it was their idea. That makes my blood boil - because when others benefit from someone else’s vision without credit, it’s not flattery, it’s theft.

But here’s the thing - like with our sizes and embossing, there’s been an unexpected upside: our innovation has elevated the experience for both hairdressers and clients.

All over the world, guests with a head of foils were no longer hiding under capes or feeling awkward in the “in-between” stage of their appointment. Pink in that shade made the process feel beautiful, intentional, and ‘Instagram-able’. The Knobel collection helped shift foiling from something clinical, to something joyful.

So, even if others jumped on the wave, I know that under the surface - it was our energy, our intention, and our connection with the hairdressing community that started it.

Imitation in History

So, in that case, is copying a good thing? Well, if we turn to history and seek out where imitation has played a major role in shaping society, you may think so. For example: Henry Ford didn’t invent the car, but his assembly line changed the world. Apple’s iPhone sparked a revolution - and soon, everyone followed. Gutenberg’s printing press was copied rapidly, leading to mass literacy and global progress.

And within hairdressing?

In the 1960s, Vidal Sassoon’s precision cutting changed everything. His five-point cut and modern shapes were copied across the world. And rightfully so - they became the foundation of haircutting education today.

Fast forward to the 2010s with Olaplex. The first real bond-builder that made bleaching safer. It didn’t take long for copycat “plex” products to appear. And while many weren’t as effective, they did help push the industry toward better hair health standards. They were copied - but it only amplified their legacy and improved the industry.

Copying with Consequences

Still, not all imitation is deemed positive - where it gets murky is when competitors copy a product, then claim the narrative as their own. Acting like they, too, spent years consulting with colourists and crafting the solution. That they developed the idea because they are hairdressers and know what hairdressers want. No. They blatantly copied a good idea and passed it off as their own. Let’s be honest here.

That’s not flattery. That’s fabrication. It confuses the market, erodes trust, and disrespects the hard work that real innovation requires.

So, where to from here? Imitation can push industries forward. It proves an idea has value - enough to be copied and adapted.

But recognition matters.

Creators deserve to be acknowledged. Because when innovation is recognised, it fuels more creativity. When it’s not, it can be frustrating and impede future projects from fear of being copied.

Where Do You Stand?

I’d love to hear your perspective. Have you ever had your work, ideas, or vision copied? Did it inspire you to grow - or did it demotivate you? Should we celebrate originality more and who is responsible for doing that?

Something for us to think about.

As always, be kind during your grind and keep re-evaluating what we want and need from our industry.

The Power Of Hair: Crafting Identity, Confidence & Creativity

By Andrew Cobeldick

Hair is more than just strands of keratin—it’s storytelling. It’s rebellion. It’s identity. Whether you’re working behind the chair, creating magic on a shoot, or stepping onto a stage to educate and inspire, hair is a language. And in this industry, we’re the translators.

In a world that moves fast and celebrates trends one minute and reinvents them the next, what remains timeless is the way hair makes people feel. Hairdressing is one of the rare careers where art meets human connection. A haircut can shift someone’s energy. A colour transformation can spark selfbelief. A wave or fringe or fade can tell the world exactly who you are without saying a word.

This is why we do what we do.

As creatives in this industry, we often work long hours, juggle clients, push boundaries, and try to stay ahead of the curve. It’s easy to forget the impact we have—until you see someone look in the mirror and stand taller, smile wider, or even tear up because they feel like themselves again. That’s not just hair. That’s healing.

THE ART OF THE CRAFT

Hairdressing is evolving. More than ever, it’s being recognised as a form of high-level artistry. From session styling and editorial work to salon transformations and barbering culture, the craft is having a moment. And we’re here for it.

But being great behind the chair is more than technique. It’s the way you read your client’s energy. It’s knowing when to talk and when to just listen. It’s attention to detail, and it’s the gut instinct to take a little risk when the moment’s right.

Whether you’re building a brand, an education platform, or just refining your fades and foil placement, the root of it all is passion. Passion for people. Passion for hair. Passion for what it means to create.

COMMUNITY OVER COMPETITION

One of the most powerful shifts happening in the industry right now is the move from competition to collaboration. We’ve seen this in movements like The Bootleg Project—spaces where education is raw, real, and rooted in community. No stages. No egos. Just artists sharing what they love with each other.

We need more of that.

More rooms where barbers sit alongside colourists. Where stylists and students learn from one another. Where creativity is currency, and authenticity is the standard.

The industry is stronger when we lift each other up. There’s space for all of us. In fact, the more you find your unique voice and style, the more you attract the right clients, the right opportunities, and the right community.

INSPIRATION IS EVERYWHERE

Feeling burnt out? Stuck in the same old routine? Step outside your comfort zone. Attend an education event. Try a new cutting technique. Shoot some content. Collaborate with a makeup artist or photographer. Watch someone else work, not to compare—but to be inspired.

Remember: inspiration isn’t a lightning bolt. It’s a daily practice. It’s in the way light hits someone’s fringe. It’s in the confidence of a big chop. It’s in the silence of a late-night scroll through editorial work that lights a fire in your gut.

The best stylists are always students. Stay curious. Stay open. Stay excited.

THE LEGACY WE BUILD

Hairdressing might not always get the credit it deserves, but make no mistake—it changes lives. It creates careers. It pays rent. It builds brands. It shapes culture. We are creatives. We are caretakers. We are changemakers.

So, whether you’re new to the industry or two decades in, this is your reminder: what you do matters. Keep learning. Keep pushing. Keep showing up fully and unapologetically as yourself.

Because when we create from a place of purpose, passion, and community— We don’t just change hair. We change people. And that is powerful.

@andrew.cobeldick

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Is Price Really the Problem — Or Is Your Guest Experience Unremarkable?

By Kym Krey

As salon business owners, especially in challenging economic times, we’ve all wrestled with the nerve-wracking decision to raise our prices. The fear is real — What if my clients leave? What if they say it’s too expensive and go elsewhere? What if my income suffers because of it?

But what if the problem isn’t actually the price? What if the real issue is that the experience we’re offering isn’t remarkable enough to command the price we’re asking for?

For most clients, price is a question of valuewhat do I get for that price?

So, from our client’s perspective, the question we need to clearly answer for our guests is “Why should I dive past dozens of other salons to get to you? And why should I drive past cheaper salons to get to you?

When we’ve spent our entire career perfecting our hands-on technical skills, we revert to thinking that the answer to that is because we do a better haircut or balayage, but when you speak to clients in the quality market segment, this is rarely their response.

They aren’t wowed by great skills- they expect great skills as a given and their perception is that there are many salons that offer great hair…. So why you?

And if we don’t have a clear answer to that, of course they’ll compare us on price, because it’s become a transaction not an experience.

The key to confidently raising your prices (to not only support your profit and future growth, but also the higher wages your staff are asking for) is to craft a guest experience that is unmatched by any other salon and clearly positions you as the only place to go.

You must walk in your client’s shoes, understanding how she feels and what she experiences when she walks into a new salon and trusts a complete stranger with scissors (having also had multiple poor experiences in the past) and from this place of understanding, craft your step-by-step, moment-by-moment Client Journey blueprint that leaves them thinking; “Well, that wasn’t cheap but WOW! It was worth every cent”

You see, when you promote your business whether on socials or your website, you are making prospective clients a promise: “If you trust us, you will receive only THIS level of experience and care” If your clients trust you and make that appointment, you have a duty of care to deliver on that promise and ensure that they receive exactly that experience, no matter which stylist looks after them, every time.

But how can you ensure that? Through expectations and accountability.

Your clear expectation of your staff is your documented Client Journey process that you have trained and immersed your team in until they know it inside out. Your accountability is your continual tracking and measuring of that client experience to ensure that you promise is being kept and your clients are being wowed.

Using familiar KPIs, you can monitor how thoroughly each team member is delivering your promised guest experience:

• Av $ per Client: The ultimate measure of client response. It measures that Stylists’ ability to inspire their client with new tailored ideas and expand the conversation well beyond “What are we doing today? Or Same as last time, Margeret?

• Retail: Measures Stylist’s ability to identify and understand challenges the client struggles with around their hair or things that can be improved, and then use their knowledge and training to share ideal solutions to ensure that those clients don’t go home with the same problems they came to you with (just minus the regrowth!)

• Rebooking: Measures their ability to turn one-off transactions (first appointment)

into exciting, long-term profitable relationships by wowing and retaining those clients through many years of fabulous hair adventures.

• Retention: The gauge of client satisfaction. This is a great indicator of why you’re the busiest person in the salon when your staff have gaps, and why your clients will wait 2 weeks to see you, rather than get in with another Stylist tomorrow. It shows that how you look after them is very different to how your staff look after them- usually because you just assume that they should know what to do (because it’s just common sense) but you have not captured it, documented it, trained it and continually required it of your staff. Until you do, they’ll just keep ‘doing hair’. That’s a transaction and that’s very easily compared on price.

When clients resist a price correction, it often isn’t because they don’t have the money. It’s because they don’t perceive the value they receive to match the new price. In today’s marketplace, customers aren’t just buying a service — they’re buying an experience; and they’re constantly comparing that experience to what they can get elsewhere.

2. Attention to Detail

It’s never about being the cheapest (no one wants to be the cheapest salon around given what you would need to leave out of your experience to do it). What matters is being absolutely worth it. The brands and businesses that thrive aren’t the ones that cost the least — they’re the ones that leave customers feeling like they got far more than what they paid for.

If your prices increase, your experience needs to increase with them. That means being intentional about every touchpoint, every interaction, every detail that shapes how your guest feels when they do business with you.

Why Experience Beats Price

Your clients don’t just want a haircut, a colour, or a blowdry; they want to feel something — confident, relaxed, attractive, understood, important, uplifted. The better you deliver that feeling, the less your price becomes the focus.

What Makes an Experience “Remarkable”?

A remarkable experience isn’t about a fabulous scalp massage or a great latte. It’s about thoughtful, consistent, and emotionally intelligent details that turn the ordinary into something worth talking about.

1. Personalization

The belief that consultation is about finding out what the client wants done will keep you locked in low-level transaction mode. ‘You tell me what you want, and I’ll just do it. Don’t expect ME to be creative or inspirational… I’m busy!’ The belief that consultation is a cocreation where you also bring your thoughts, ideas and prescription to help her achieve a result far beyond anything she’d have known to request because, remember, she wants a highlevel professional not a cheap hairdresser and looks to you for leadership and guidance on her appearance.

The little things matter more than you think. If you discussed how she wears her fringe last time, but didn’t write it down so you ask again this time, she’ll be quickly annoyed. If you recommend one product this time but a different product next time without explaining why, you’ll lose her trust. Is your space clean, inviting, and thoughtfully presented? Are you running on time and respecting her schedule or keeping her waiting for 20 minutes every time?

3. Surprise and Delight

Adding unexpected moments of delight can turn an ordinary visit into a memorable one. Yes, this might include a little treat, a small complimentary upgrade, or their favourite sweet treat, but it could also be “Steph, I was excited to see that you were coming in today. I have a few ideas ready for you if you’re up for a bit of a play!”. That preparation will beat “What are we doing today, Steph?” every time

4. Consistency

No matter who does my shampoo or colour removal or finishes my blowdry, the experience should be excellent. Staff must slip seamlessly into your Client Journey process, delivering every element of that step like an absolute pro. Clients often complain that their scalp massage (their high point) just wasn’t the same when their senior no longer did it as a new apprentice had started, or they don’t want ‘the new girl’ doing their colour because they leave colour stain on my hairline”

Guests must know what to expect when they choose you — and that expectation should be excellent. An inconsistent experience is confusing, annoying and undermines trust.

When you‘re getting the experience right:

• The right clients will stay. Not every client is your client forever — and that’s okay. We’re all ‘D’ clients (price focused) to some other business if it’s something we don’t prioritise. Focus on attracting and keeping quality clients who do value your care, expertise and wow experiences.

• Experience justifies investment. When people feel amazing during and after a visit to your business, they’re not just paying for a service — they’re investing in how you make them feel.

Price resistance is rarely about the number. If your experience is bland, forgettable, or transactional, any price increase will feel unjustified. But if your experience is outstanding, impressive, thoughtful, and remarkable, clients will happily pay a premium for clearly a premium experience.

In a world where people are craving meaningful, human experiences more than ever, we have a powerful advantage. Who else can literally transform a client’s self-esteem in a few hours? When we master our high-level experience- we don’t have to compete on price — we compete on connection.

So if you’re hesitating about raising your prices, ask yourself: Is price really the problem? Or is my guest experience unremarkable? Because when your guests leave saying “Wow, that was worth every cent,” the price becomes irrelevant.

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. If you’re ready to turn your business around, become a better leader, take that next big leap, or scale to a million-dollar turnover and beyond, get in touch: kym@kymkrey.com.au; @kymkrey or www.kymkrey.com.au

The Power of Product

SO. MANY. SALONS. are missing out on the power of product in their businesses. Like, I am not going to sit here and tell you that “every client must buy 7 products each” or gaslight my clients with “this is the insurance policy for your hair” but I can definitely teach you how to cash in on products, and why you should – it’s literal money for nothing!

Here’s where I believe most people f it up…

One – YOU AREN’T BUILDING VALUE IN THE PRODUCTS

Any of us could have a client in our chair, look at them, and know five plus products that would literally change their life… but here’s the thing –if your clients don’t know why they need them, or how they will make their hair better, they’re not going to see the value in those products and they won’t want to buy them.

If you’re just telling them that they need them, but making them understand why, then you’re really not doing the work in building the value and helping them – you’re just another shitty salesman looking for a quick cash grab in the eyes of your client.

Two – YOU AREN’T SOLVING THEIR PROBLEMS

Fun fact: your clients don’t visit you because you’re awesome (maybe a handful of legends –but not the majority ha ha) they visit you because you are fixing a problem for them. Greys, regrowth, too long, weird shape, brassy, frizzy, flat, greasy, split ends – the list goes on. If their hair was perfect, why would they come in?

You want another fun fact? Your services don’t fix all of their issues, your clients need products to help to support their services after they leave (hence the terminology “aftercare”), and they need products to fix the problems that the services can’t.

How do you know what their problems are? You ASK THEM, you probe them and prompt them until they spill all and you know how to really help them.

By Cait Muir

Three – YOU ONLY TALK “AFTERCARE” AT THE POINT OF SALE (IF AT ALL)

This can stem from many things really…

- You may be fearful of being “too salesy”,

- You may not understand how to ask the right questions that lead you into the right product conversations,

- You completely miss all the correct touchpoints during an appointment,

- You are scared of rejection,

- You don’t like the products you have insalon, and/or

- You are focused on the target or the $ sale.

All of them are a problem, and all of them are more common than you think. And one doesn’t have to be specific to you, you could be suffering with a well-rounded combination of all of them! How would you feel if you get to the end of an appointment and you’re getting a handful of products you know nothing about shoved in your face? Ick? Me too – because this is so outside of integrity!

Four – YOU AREN’T IMPROVING THEIR LIFE

Lemme explain this – how do you know what your clients are doing wrong if you don’t know what they’re doing in their day-to-day?

Do you know how many people don’t know how to shampoo their hair properly? Or how many don’t know how to section their hair properly to be able to blow wave or straighten it? Or even that they need to properly blow wave their hair, and that blow waving will give them longevity with their heat styling? Or that they need to use a heat protectant before heat styling? The list goes on…

These aren’t rocket-science to us, but they can be profound for clients who don’t do this job for a living. The smallest assistance to their lives can be enough to keep them loyal for life! In saying that though – this isn’t a once off convo. It needs to happen at every visit. For example - we live in one of the most volatile and extreme weather climates in the world, you really think their hair is going to stay exactly the same

for years on end? Unlikely. Ask more questions, spend a little more time on the deep dive. And that leads perfectly into my last point today…

Five – YOU ARE COMPLAISANT WITH YOUR CLIENTS

Look, correctly consulting for your services opposed to your aftercare is an article for another issue, but in short – why are you not giving every client the same level of questioning and care and interest as you do with your newbies?

I get it, we get to know our clients so well that we catch up on life, their saucy weekends, and their European holidays, and we also know what they do and don’t like with their hair, so we skim over the details and just crack in… right? It should not be this way.

Friendliness is fine, I hope you love the shit out of all of your clients, but this shouldn’t be at the expense of deep and meaningful consultations, where you get to the root of their problems, learn more about their daily and weekly hair routines, and find solutions for both with products and services.

I could spend hours on this topic, not only telling you “what not to do” but also giving you the “how” – and I am later this year, in my team friendly: THE HUSTLE [LIVE] in Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane. If you want to improve your client experience and sales process, then you should be there!

Head to iconiccoaching.com.au > EVENTS for tickets and deets.

XO Cait, Iconic Coaching

The Salon Owner’s Shortcut to a Team that Performs (Without the Push)

By Dwight Hodge

There’s a moment almost every salon owner hits — when you wonder, “Why am I working harder than everyone else?” You’re showing up early, fixing problems, smoothing over tension, trying to motivate the team, and still not seeing the results you want.

’Here’s the truth no one tells you: it’s not your work ethic that gets your team to perform. It’s your leadership.

And not just any leadership — confident leadership.

The Myth of “Being a Good Boss”

Too many salon owners are stuck trying to be the “good boss”—liked, helpful, and accommodating. And let’s be honest, you probably are a great boss. You care, give second chances, and pitch in when things get busy. But over time, that kind of leadership can actually hurt your business. Why? Because if you’re always stepping in, smoothing things over, and avoiding hard conversations… your team learns to lean on you, not lead themselves. Confident leadership is different. It’s not about control or being the loudest in the room—it’s about being clear, consistent, and calm. This is the key to building a team that actually shows up, steps up, and sticks around.

What Confident Leadership Looks Like

Confident leadership is made up of three simple things — and when you start doing them consistently, your entire salon shifts.

1. You Say What You Expect — Clearly

If your team seems unsure about what’s expected or doesn’t follow through, there’s usually a gap in clarity. Confident leaders don’t assume people “should just know.” They communicate in a way that leaves no room for confusion.

• “Our target is 70% rebooking. Let’s look at how you’re tracking and talk about how to lift it.”

• “It’s important that we’re all setting up 15 minutes before the first client. That’s nonnegotiable.”

• “This is what success looks like in this role let’s work toward that together.”

Clarity creates confidence — for you and your team.

2. You Follow Through — Consistently

The quickest way to lose a team’s respect? Say one thing and do another.

Confident leadership isn’t about having the perfect plan — it’s about following through on the one you do have.

That means:

• Having the check-in, you said you would.

• Giving feedback when it’s needed, not just when you feel brave enough.

• Holding your standards even when it’s uncomfortable.

Your team learns more from what you follow through on than what you say.

Consistency builds trust. And trust builds momentum.

3. You Lead the Energy — Without the Drama

You don’t need to be the “hype boss” or pretend everything’s fine all the time.

But your energy matters. Teams look to their leader as an emotional barometer.

If you’re panicked, scattered, or short-tempered — it spreads.

If you’re grounded, honest, and focused — that spreads too.

Confident leaders don’t fake it. But they manage their state, set the tone, and choose to respond instead of react. They ask themselves, “What does my team need from me right now?” and lead from that place.

Try This This Week

Here’s something simple that can help you shift into confident leadership straight away: Pick one team expectation you’ve been unclear or inconsistent about.

Then do this:

1. Say it clearly. Tell your team exactly what you expect moving forward.

2. Explain the “why.” Help them understand why it matters to the guest, the team, and the business.

3. Hold it. If needed, follow through with a check-in or feedback conversation — kindly but firmly.

Even one moment of clarity backed by followthrough builds leadership strength. And that strength compounds.

What Confident Leadership Isn’t

This isn’t about being harsh, rigid, or emotionally distant.

It’s not about turning into a “my way or the highway” boss.

And it’s definitely not about doing it all alone. Confident leadership is about being grounded in your values, standards, and beliefs and knowing that your team can and should rise to meet those standards.

You don’t need to be perfect. You just need to be consistent enough to create safety, structure, and belief.

Final Thoughts

Running a salon will always have its moments of chaos — that’s part of the industry. But you shouldn’t feel like chaos is an all-day everyday part of life.

The moment you step into confident leadership, everything starts to shift:

• Team performance improves.

• Conversations get easier.

• The emotional load gets lighter.

• And you get to run your business with more energy, clarity, and freedom.

This is one of the core shifts we help salon owners make in the Freedom & Profit program. Once confident leadership clicks into place, everything else gets easier.

So, the question is: where could you lead more confidently this week?

Dwight Hodge is a salon owner, leadership coach, and creative powerhouse on a mission to help stylists and salon owners build profitable businesses they love. With over 20 years of experience as a business owner, director, and mentor, Dwight blends industry insight with deep coaching expertise to unlock lasting momentum. Through his coaching practice, The Creative Leader, he helps ambitious salon pros boost profit, sharpen leadership, and create more freedom behind—and beyond—the chair. Dwight is an ICF-accredited coach, a Master Practitioner of NLP, and holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts from the Victorian College of the Arts.

@dwighthodge_leadership_coach

25 Years of Fashion and Creativity.

By Scott Sloan, Sloans

When I opened the doors to Sloans 25 years ago, I never imagined the journey that lay ahead. The industry has changed in ways we couldn’t have predicted, trends have come and gone, and yet my passion for hairdressing has never faded. What has been one of the driving factors that has keep me motivated? Fashion.

For me, staying motivated has always been about pushing beyond the walls of the salon and immersing myself in the global fashion world. Fashion is where art, beauty, and innovation collide, and I’ve been fortunate enough to take my craft all the way from Lane Cove to the runways of Paris, New York, and Milan, and work alongside the most legendary industry names.

These experiences have kept my love of hairdressing alive and allowed me to bring that energy back to my team, my clients, and the Australian industry as a whole.

Finding Fresh Energy on the Global Stage

There’s something electric about being backstage at Fashion Week - the controlled chaos, the creative problem-solving, the demand for perfection under pressure. Every show is different, and every fashion designer brings a unique vision that we, as hairstylists, help bring to life. In 2019, I was reading the latest Vogue fashion show coverage and realised that I hadn’t felt that buzz in some time. I was feeling very safe and comfortable in the work I was doing, so it was time to push myself again and experience unknown places, people and situations. I decided to put myself out there and contacted some of the industry’s biggest icons to offer my services for assisting at Fashion Weeks around Europe. As someone who had been a Hair Director nationally for many years, this was a huge shift, but honestly, it has proven to be utterly transformative.

Travelling overseas every year now to work with legends like Guido Paolo, Damien Boissinot and Sam McKnight has been nothing short of incredible. To watch them create and see their thought process, their precision, and their ability to push boundaries - it’s like getting a front-row seat to a masterclass in innovation.

The art of collaboration backstage at international fashion weeks under their guidance has made

me feel like an apprentice again. It’s reminded me of why I started this journey in the first place - because hairdressing is not just about cutting and colouring, it’s about artistry. Now I’m able to bring this refreshed energy to my roles closer to home when I’m called on as a Hair Director for local events.

Bringing Global Inspiration Back Home

One of the things I also love about working in fashion is the ripple effect it has on my team and the salon. I’ve always believed that opportunities should be shared, and I make it a priority to include them wherever I can. In fact, when I was over in Europe recently, I was able to have a few of the team assist with prepping hair back in the salon for Melbourne Fashion Festival.

There’s nothing more rewarding than watching the next generation of hairdressers experience the fashion world. It challenges them, sharpens their skills, and shows them just how far this career can take them. I’m passionate about giving my team those opportunities. At Sloans, we’ve had stylists assist on local and global runways and the energy they bring back is infectious. Being in that high-pressure, creative environment pushes them out of their comfort zone and completely shifts how they see their craft. It’s an education platform that inspires and elevates our whole team.

Fashion as a Lifeline for Creativity

For me, stepping into a high-pressure, highfashion environment is a way to stay sharp. It forces me to think on my feet, to collaborate, to adapt quickly. And most importantly, it brings fresh energy to my work at Sloans.

Clients want to feel like they’re getting the latest trends, the freshest techniques, and a salon experience that feels ahead of the curve. By keeping one foot in the fashion world, I ensure that Sloans is always at the forefront of what’s happening globally. Not every client wants a blunt pixie cut straight from the Paris runway, but my team can then tailor that concept to suit them and their style and that is where the magic is.

Leveraging Business Partnerships

Partnering with a brand like L’Oréal Professionnel isn’t just about using great products, it’s about opening doors to once-in-a-lifetime opportunities.

A few recent highlights were being named Hair Director for Christopher Esber’s first-ever Paris Fashion Week, leading a team of some of Australia’s best stylists, as well as more recently, Hair Director for two shows at Melbourne Fashion Festival 2025.

For both these opportunities I was also able to engage my sloans team in the process- sharing my prep process in the salon, having some of them with me behind-the-scenes, and demonstrating firsthand what’s possible with meaningful brand alignments. These collaborations don’t just elevate our individual careers, they elevate the entire salon, inspiring everyone to reach for bigger and better things.

In fact, some of the team have already put this into action by sourcing their own opportunities. I’ve been so proud to watch as they have independently connected with designers, photographers and fashion titles to create editorial work born out of this confidence.

Looking Ahead: The Next 25 Years

The fashion industry is constantly evolving, and that’s what makes it so exciting to continue to explore new opportunities. I don’t ever want to stop learning, creating, or challenging myself.

I’m so excited to head back to the Paris, Milan and London circuit next season, but first I’ll be headed there for my big 50 bash!

Wherever I find myself though, my goal is simple: to stay inspired and to inspire others along the way.

How You Can Deliver Fashion Magic to Your Own Salon

• Offer to assist your icons– If you admire someone in the industry, reach out and volunteer to help them on shoots, events, or shows. The experience and connections will be invaluable.

• Network at industry events – Attend hair expos, fashion weeks, and industry workshops to meet key players and stay informed on new opportunities.

• Keep an eye on who’s doing what – Follow hairstylists, creative directors, and fashion brands on social media, engage with their content, and make yourself known.

• Collaborate with other creatives – Connect with and work with your local photographers, makeup artists, and stylists to build a fashion-forward portfolio together that gets noticed.

• Bring fashion trends to your clients – Stay ahead by translating runway trends into wearable styles your clients will love and feature these on social media.

• Choose the right partners – Working with brands that have fashion links ensures you have access to cutting-edge products, education, and opportunities to be part of fashion-driven initiatives.

• Keep learning and evolving – Enrol in masterclasses, watch tutorials from the best in the business, and always look for ways to refine your skills specific to fashion shows and editorial styling.

• Create your own internal campaign shootFlex your creative fashion muscles and inspire your team by creating your own reasons to explore trend creation. Work with an experienced photographer to really fast

track that growth.

• Get involved with local college fashion shows – Approaching local colleges to do hair is such a great way to meet new collaborators and put creating and delivering a brief into action.

Fashion is about innovation—embrace it, and watch your skills and passion grow!

SSXX

@sloanssalons

Master Team Motivation to Build a Thriving Salon Culture!

By Jess Marie Del-Borrello, Circles of Hair

As a Co-Salon Owner and Creative Director at Circles of Hair, one of the most fulfilling aspects of my career has been building and supporting a team that is passionate, driven, and consistently evolving. At Circles we know that motivation isn’t just about the occasional bonus or free coffee, it’s about creating real incentives that reward hard work while simultaneously boosting our salon success.

In this article, I’ll share some of the strategies we’ve implemented to not only motivate our team but also foster a strong salon culture and ensure the sustainability of our industry through dedicated apprentice training.

REAL INCENTIVES THAT DRIVE SUCCESS

While passion fuels our creativity, at the end of the day, we all show up to work to earn a living and there’s absolutely nothing wrong with that. That’s why we’ve structured financial incentives that directly impact both individual stylists and profitability.

Use the power of social media

Our industry is more digital than ever and social media plays an increasingly critical role in client acquisition, so we’ve developed a cash incentive program to encourage the creation of engaging content.

To ensure high-quality content that will convert, we provide training for those not familiar with filming, posting and creating content ideas and have a tiered incentive system which ensures everyone has the opportunity to participate, even those not as comfortable in front of the camera.

Tier 1 includes face-to-face consultations and major transformations, while Tier 2 allows stylists to share before-and-after shots. Senior Stylists can earn up to $150 per week by posting three times per week, while Junior Stylists receive up to $75 per week.

Get competitive

We believe in uncapped earning potential so our four-tier sales commission structure allows stylists to maximise their earnings through selling retail, upselling treatments and generating repeat business. This structure has been instrumental in helping our team members stay motivated and reach some pretty ambitious takehome goals.

Additionally, we also run big seasonal incentives to drive engagement. Last year, while Sharlene and I were away in Europe, we launched a three-month growth challenge. We wanted an incentive which would encourage personal growth, but importantly also increase the salon’s overall revenue.

Every team member was encouraged to grow their Total Sales % and the top three performers won incredible prizes - including our 3rd Year Apprentice Dakota who, as the winner, won business class flights around the world!

Promote your superstars

One of our proudest initiatives is supporting our team in award submissions to raise their profiles. Recognition in industry awards not only boosts a stylist’s profile but also enhances the salon’s credibility. Actively mentoring your team through the submission process can also be a powerful complement to the KPI process though goal setting as well as reflection. Our team member Ben

How to maximise your salon incentives

If you don’t currently offer incentives, start small- simple rewards such as gift cards under $250 or flight vouchers can go a long way. However, the priority should always be increasing revenue before scaling incentives and analysing which incentives can drive you towards that. When I first started at Circles we had much smaller incentives and they have continued to grow.

Your revenue isn’t high enough? Focus on client acquisition first through social media exposure, stylist branding, and strategic marketing. Once your revenue stabilises, implement targeted incentives that drive continued growth in areas which are lacking.

THE UNIQUE CIRCLES CULTURE

Culture is everything at Circles of Hair, and with 52 staff spanning ages from 15 to 57 across our two locations at Subiaco and Fitzgerald, we don’t take that statement lightly.

Although each salon has their own dynamic, at the heart of it all is a deep-rooted commitment to growth, mentorship, and teamwork.

Build from the top, down

Sharlene and I strongly believe that owners must be present in the salon to cultivate a strong culture. We don’t just work on the business, we work in the business. Practically every day. You just can’t direct from afar and get the feel for the salon atmosphere and vibe, as much as we may feel the endless pull of admin and other work. This hands-on approach, although challenging, fosters a deep sense of community and trust among our team as they watch us walking the walk alongside them.

Cultivate your environment and talent

At Circles we nurture our talent from the very beginning with many of our team

Semple saw this in action when he was named AHIA Salon Team Member of the Year 2024 as well L’Oréal Colour Trophy winner for 2024!

members starting with us as ‘baby apprentices’ and growing into confident, highly skilled senior stylists. We’re big believers in honest, open communication, and if Circles isn’t the right fit for someone, we create space for respectful conversations and clear direction.

We also place strong emphasis on helping our team build a solid sense of professional identity. This means consistently investing in extensive trend forecasting, brand evolution, and insalon education to keep our people inspired, empowered, and ahead of the curve.

Keep it fresh

We’ve rebranded and evolved our salon identity multiple times to reflect our culture and to keep the team engaged and connected to who we are. Every brand evolves and we should always look at this as an exciting opportunity, not a scary change! This consistent revision ensures that Circles remains a trend-driven, forwardthinking salon while always maintaining our strong foundation in our core values.

How to create your own unique culture If you take one piece of advice- you have to be in it. Culture doesn’t happen from the sidelines. Not every stylist will be the right fit, and that’s okay. What matters is that your team feels seen, supported, and clear on who you are as a salon. Don’t shy away from the changes involved. We’ve refreshed our brand and culture more than once, and every time, it’s re-energised the team and brought us closer. Culture isn’t a one-and-done thing, it’s something you keep building, together.

INVEST IN YOUR APPRENTICES, NO MATTER HOW CHALLENGING

The future of the hair industry depends on strong apprentice programs. There is no other way around it. As we watch people around the country struggling with finding apprentices and staff in general, we are receiving an increasing

number of unsolicited applications per week.

Apprenticeship programs are critical to the sustainability of our industry. Many salons are shifting to freelance models, but without structured training programs, the industry won’t have a future generation of skilled stylists.

At Circles, we take this responsibility ridiculously seriously and I’m so proud to have developed one of the most comprehensive training programs in Australia.

Work with them, not against them

Let’s be real, Gen Z and Alpha don’t learn the same way we did, and frankly it isn’t their fault. They’re navigating constant noise from social media, struggling with focus, are hesitant to fully commit and are facing an uncertain future. We need to stop seeing that as a flaw and accept it as the reality of the environment they’ve grown up in. They’ve had to adapt to a fastpaced, overstimulated world, and that means we, as salon leaders, need to adapt too.

Not all learning is created equal

At Circles, we take a flexible, human approach to training. Every apprentice learns differently, so while some get the most out of the structured environment at TAFE, others thrive when they’re handson and immersed in the salon floor. So, we offer both.

Each week, our apprentices have the opportunity to take part in in-salon training sessions with modules focused on specific subjects that are crucial to their development & career standards. They also are able to shadow senior stylists every day to learn in real-time. Across our two salons, we currently have 19 apprentices, all of whom receive dedicated, paid training time each week. It’s not about forcing them into a rigid system, it’s about meeting them where they’re at, supporting their growth, and giving them every opportunity to find their feet and thrive.

Your clients can feel invested too

Our clients love seeing our apprentices grow and often become their biggest advocates. Because of the continued daily shadowing with our senior and master stylists, they watch our apprentices improve and take on the characteristic of their favourite hairdressers.

We’ve introduced an “Emerging Artist” price tier, where clients can book discounted services with apprentices under the guidance of

one of these senior stylists. This not only builds client trust but also helps apprentices transition into fully booked stylists more quickly.

How to manage your apprentices effectively

When I speak to other owners, so often they tell me how difficult it is to manage apprentices and how much they are struggling, as though I have the magic answer or ended up with a dream set of trainees! But that’s not the case. It’s hard. It is the most time-consuming and stressful element of my role but it is so worth it if you are willing to be patient.

In fact, some of the recent apprentices I’ve signed off have been the quickest we’ve ever had. Their worldliness and access to education via social media has fast-tracked their skillset and understanding in a way that’s exciting.

Our industry has evolved significantly over the years. Where hairdressing was once seen as a low-paying, undervalued profession, we are all now actively working to redefine its perception. At Circles of Hair, we strive to build a strong, well-compensated, and highly skilled team that will set the standard for the future, no matter which salon they end up in.

Let’s build and motivate the next generation of industry leaders- together.

@circlesofhair

Making the most of your Taxes for Hairdressers

By Mark Chapman - H&R Block Director of Tax Communications.

Nobody wants to pay more tax that they have to and the key to minimising your taxes is to ensure that you claim all the tax deductions you’re entitled to. If you’re a hairdresser there’s a long list of potential tax claims that might apply to you. Not all of them will apply to everyone but it will pay to spend a bit of time running your eyes down this list to see which of them apply to you.

The Golden Rules of Tax Deductions

If you want to make a claim for work-related expenses, you need to follow the three golden rules:

• The expense must relate to your work

• You mustn’t have been reimbursed by your employer

• You must be able to prove that you spent the money. That means that you must keep receipts, invoices or statements to demonstrate that you actually incurred the expense.

H&R Block’s tip is to keep electronic copies of all documentation relating to expenses. Paper receipts get lost or fade, so keeping everything together on your phone or computer will save time and effort when you come to complete next year’s tax return.

Get Help

There’s a reason why 65% of people use a tax agent to help them do their taxes. Tax is complicated and stressful and if you do it yourself, you’re likely to make a mistake. You might claim something you weren’t entitled to and find yourself audited by the ATO or you might miss out on a deduction you could have claimed but didn’t realise was available to you; the result is a lower refund than you could have got. Using a tax agent like H&R Block takes away the stress and opens up a whole world of expertise to guide you through the process, so you can be sure you’re claiming everything you’re entitled to. You wouldn’t generally choose to treat a medical condition yourself, you’d see a doctor so why should tax be different? Get expert advice and the fee will generally be more than covered by the bigger refund and the peace of mind.

Using your car

If you use your car as part of your work, for instance to travel to clients, between jobs, to expos or to collect supplies, you can claim the costs of your work-related journeys. If you use your own car, either claim 88 cents per kilometre up to a maximum 5,000 kms or keep a logbook and claim your actual expenses. You can also claim for parking, tolls and public transport if you don’t use your car.

You can’t claim the costs of traveling to and from work (the daily commute) though you might be able to make a claim if you’re required to transport bully equipment which you can’t safely store at work (TIP: the ATO checks such claims closely so make sure you can prove your claim).

Equipment

You can claim the cost of buying tools and equipment that you use in your job or business. If the item costs $300 or less, you can claim it straight away and if the cost is more than $300, the cost is depreciated over several years.

If you’re in business on your own account, rather than being employed by someone else, you can immediately write off all items of equipment costing less than $20,000. The item must be in use or available for use by 30 June 2025 to qualify for the deduction this financial year.

This could include hair-cutting and hair-styling tools, mobile phones, laptops and bags or briefcases.

You can also claim the cost of insuring workrelated equipment.

Self-Education

You can claim the cost of any work-related courses that you undertake, provided that they relate directly to your current role and aren’t intended to boost your skills into a promotion or another role entirely. That could include courses on hair styling techniques. It could also include management training if you supervise staff. Courses run by a university or TAFE such as a Cert IV or Diploma in Hairdressing, or Diploma in Salon Management could also be relevant. In addition to the cost of the course, you can claim travel costs to and from the course, accommodation and meals if you’re required to sleep away from home, books, stationery and depreciation on computer equipment used in your study.

Clothing

If you’re required to wear a uniform at your workplace, the cost of purchasing the uniform is claimable and you can also claim for the cost of cleaning the uniform. Conventional clothing doesn’t count as a uniform so ideally any garment you claim for should have the business logo on it.

You can also claim for protective items such as gloves, aprons, hats or hair nets, goggles and non-slip shoes.

Other deductions

Don’t forget to claim these costs if they are relevant to you:

• If you work from home (at weekends or in the evenings for instance) you can claim a deduction for home office expenses. Either

claim 67 cents per hour or claim a proportion of your actual costs, based on a diary of work use.

• Claim for professional subscriptions, whether to a professional body or to a trade union.

• The cost of work-related magazines and journals

• The cost of work-related books (for instance, books focussing on styling, colour, beauty, or management)

• If you’re required to work overtime, you can claim for the cost of buying meals provided you have been paid an allowance by your employer.

• Agency costs: if you get your work through an agency, the cost is claimable.

• The cost of using a tax agent is itself tax deductible, including costs incurred in travelling to see the tax agent.

• If you use your mobile phone for work purposes, you can claim a proportion of both the cost of the phone and the monthly bill, to the extent that the costs relate to work or business.

• If you attend exhibitions, competitions or other events in a professional capacity, the costs are claimable.

• Claim for conference expenses. As well as the cost of the conference itself, that can also include travel, meals and accommodation costs – even where the conference is overseas, though you might need to apportion the costs (and disallow the private bit) if you spent some downtime on the beach afterwards!

• You can claim a deduction for charitable donations provided the amount is $2 or more and you have a receipt.

And what can’t I claim?

Whilst you might be obliged to look your best at the saloon, sadly personal grooming costs are not deductible, and nor are the costs of “normal” clothing that you might wear to work.

In addition, if you’re required to test possible products for use in the salon, those costs won’t be allowable either. That could include hairdressing, cosmetics, hair and skin care products.

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IT’S A BOLD STATEMENT… But is the Australian Hairdressing industry back in GROWTH mode?

By Hayley Mears

It’s the vibe, it’s the feeling, and over the next few months, the data is going to back this up.

Hasn’t it been a WILD few years of complete uncertainty? The decline in apprentices, the shift to solo operators, the cost of living crisis, the desire for work-life balance, and the absolute stress of the unknown.

The last couple of years, many of us have been “hanging on” to our businesses. In my view, the most comforting and authentic thing to come out of this is how many of us put our hands up and said, “It’s not easy, and I am struggling.” That brought our sense of community together. GUYS! I really think we are going to come out the other side. Sadly, some businesses just didn’t make it. I always look at that as a redirection. The universe pre-emptively putting you on a path to something new, something you didn’t know you needed.

If you haven’t seen the shift yet, take peace in the news that IT IS COMING. Everything in business and life is cyclical. It’s hard to see when you’re in it. Every recession in history has eventually ended. All periods of economic growth have also ended; we move around in circles.

So here are the lessons as the clouds part and we can breathe a little easier. SAVE. YOUR. MONEY. We all need a cash safety net. What that looks like is different for every business, but my look on this is your safety net of savings should be around three months of ALL business expenses. Wages, stock, insurance, rent, and

most importantly, ALL TAXES. If you have this put away, it will ease the load of stress for the unpredictable times. The floods, the pandemics, and the business curve balls you never see coming.

Here is what I want all of my clients to do…

Start tracking your key performance indicators (KPIs) religiously. Now is the time to get forensic about your numbers. Understand your client retention rate, your average service value, your retail sales per client, and your staff productivity. Knowing these figures inside out will allow you to identify areas for improvement and capitalise on the upcoming growth. Don’t just look at turnover; focus on profitability.

Review your pricing strategy. The cost of everything has gone up. Are your prices reflecting this? Don’t be afraid to implement a modest price increase, ensuring you communicate the value you provide to your clients. Research your local market, understand what your competitors are charging, and position yourself accordingly. Value your expertise and the quality of your services. Break the rules of pricing if you think you can find an alternate way to structure what you charge. Remember, we have entered a new era, the old rules no longer apply.

Invest in your team as individuals. Rather than giving everyone the exact same training and development, look

at each individuals weaknesses and strengths. Celebrate what they are great at and elevate them. Refine what they could work on because this will be different for everyone. Incentivise them based on what really drives each person. We all have different motivators. Happy staff equals happy clients and a thriving business.

Refine your client experience. In a competitive market, the overall experience you offer can be a major differentiator. From the moment a client books an appointment to the follow-up after their service, ensure every touchpoint is exceptional. Reverse engineer the most amazing service you have ever had and work out how to create a feeling as well as an experience.

Embrace digital marketing strategically. Use out-of-home marketing but convert it digitally. What I mean is to use QR codes and mirror decals in partnership with your local cocktail bar. Partner with your coffee shop to cross-promote and utilise each other’s audiences. The ultimate secret to social success. Make every reel video interesting. Not just another wavy hair look or consult. Create content that sparks curiosity. The cliffhangers are what make you go viral.

Get back out there and breathe a little easier knowing that we are entering a new chapter and that the future is bright!

Hayley Mears @sixundergroundmedia @cuttingthroughthenoise.podcast

How to Create Killer Content Without Adding More to Your To-Do List.

By Belinda Haigh, Founder of Social Standards

Let’s be real — you didn’t open your salon to become a full-time content creator. But in today’s world, having a strong social media presence isn’t optional — it’s how your dream clients find you, trust you, and book with you.

The good news? You don’t need to spend your Sunday batch filming or hire a full-time videographer to make great content. You’re already doing the content-worthy things every single day in your salon — you just need to capture it.

Here are 5 simple, time-saving ways to create content that actually connects (without adding more to your plate):

1. Turn “Just Another Day” Into a Day in the Life

Your clients are nosy (in the best way). They love seeing what goes on behind the chair — the morning coffee, the team banter, your styling stations, even a peek into your lunch break. Have your stylists or team film little snippets throughout their day: a time-lapse of the first client, mixing a toner, folding towels. Add a trending sound and boom — you’ve got a “Day in the Life of a Stylist” video that humanises your salon and builds connection.

2. Film Your Consultations (With Permission)

You already spend 5–10 minutes at the start of every appointment talking through your client’s hair goals. Pop your phone on a tripod, press record, and capture the process. It’s raw, it’s real, and it shows potential clients what to expect when they sit in your chair. Pro tip: Later, you can overlay the video with

text like “What we discussed for this blonde transformation” and share the after photo for a powerful storytelling post.

3. Use Voiceovers to Bring Content to Life

No need to talk to the camera mid-service. Record your service as usual, then add a voiceover later explaining what you’re doing. It keeps things authentic and educational — which your audience loves. This works especially well for colour corrections, extensions, and skin treatments.

4. Reuse What You Already Have

That text you sent a client to explain aftercareturn it into an Instagram tip post. The video you took of your client’s bouncy blow wave - use it for a reel with the caption: “POV: You leave the salon feeling like this....” You don’t need to reinvent the wheel — just repurpose what you already do.

5. Make It a Team Effort

Content creation doesn’t have to fall on you alone. Encourage your team to contribute short clips throughout the week — product recs, transformations, even favourite Spotify playlists. Have fun with it. The more real, the better. Creating great content doesn’t mean stepping out of your zone — it means pressing record while you’re in it. The best-performing posts are often the most natural, behind-the-scenes

moments.

So next time you feel too busy for your salon’s socials, remember you don’t need more time — just a new way of looking at your day.

Are you looking for some help to create content or stay consistent with your salon’s social media marketing? Say goodbye to the guesswork and let our expert team of hairdressers and social media managers support your salon’s growth. Book a free 30-minute chat by scanning the QR code below. Limited spots available.

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The Power of Knowing Your Worth!

By Angeli Marie Shaw

As a stylist, one of the most powerful things you can do for yourself, and your business is to know your worth. Not just in terms of self-esteem or mindset (although those are incredibly important), but in the literal sense, your pricing. Yes, we’re talking dollars. Charging appropriately for your services isn’t just a business move, it’s a declaration that your time, talent and training matter. And trust me, they do.

Too often I see stylists, especially those newer in the industry, undervalue themselves, whether it’s out of fear of losing clients, not wanting to seem “too expensive”, or just not knowing where to begin when it comes to pricing. But here’s the truth: pricing isn’t just about numbers. It’s about respect. Respect for your craft, your journey, your skills, and the incredible value you bring to each client that sits in your chair.

Let’s break it down and explore how you can confidently charge your worth, and most importantly, WHY you should.

You’re not just “Doing Hair”, You’re Changing Lives

Think about the last time a client left your chair beaming, standing taller, glowing with confidence. That’s not “just a haircut.” That’s transformation! Whether you’re creating a signature blonde, taming curls, or giving someone the fresh look they’ve been longing for, you are using years of training, instinct, and technical skill to deliver something powerful. When you undercharge, you diminish the magic in that moment. And it’s not just the service you’re offering, it’s the energy, creativity, and care that you pour into every appointment. That is not something to be discounted!

Pricing reflects your experience and expertiseThe truth is your pricing should reflect your journey. Whether you’ve been in the industry for two years or twenty, your prices should grow with you. Have you done additional training? Specialised courses? Built a loyal clientele? Created a signature style or service? Those things matter.

Years in the industry = wisdom. And wisdom = value

Just as a doctor or lawyer wouldn’t charge the same rate fresh out of university as they would 10 years into their profession, neither should you. As your skills sharpen, your pricing should adjust accordingly. This isn’t arrogance, it’s growth! Skill has value, so price accordingly. One thing I always say: charge based on your skill, not your fear. It’s easy to second-guess yourself when

you’re raising prices or launching a new service. But if you’ve invested time, money, and energy into becoming exceptional at what you do, then own it. A high-skill stylist delivers consistency, solves complex problems, and knows how to make magic happen under pressure. These aren’t beginner-level capabilities. Clients are not just paying for the hour you spend on their hair. They’re paying for everything you’ve learned to be able to perform at that level.

The cost of doing business (Literally)

Let’s be real, running a business or being self-employed comes with real costs. From products and tools to rent, utilities, education, and insurance, your pricing needs to cover more than just your time. When you undercharge, you’re eating into your profit margin, and often your own wellbeing. This leads to burnout, resentment, and financial stress. You deserve to be compensated fairly and feel financially secure in your business. Work backwards if you need to. Calculate your business expenses, desired income, hours worked and break it down into what you actually need to be charging per service. Numbers don’t lie! Once you understand them, you’ll price with confidence.

It’s not just business, It’s boundaries

Knowing your worth is also about setting boundaries with clients. You’re not available 24/7. You don’t “squeeze in” last-minute requests if it compromises your day. And you don’t give discounts just because someone asks or puts the pressure on. Boundaries are part of your pricing too. They’re the invisible line that says, “I value my time, and you should too”. The clients who respect those boundaries are the ones who stick around long term.

Communicate with Confidence

If you’re planning to raise your prices or restructure your services, communicate it with professionalism and confidence. You don’t need to justify or apologise for it. A simple, clear message is enough:

“To reflect my continued training, years of experience, and rising operational costs, my pricing will be updated from [date]. I’m so grateful for your continued support and can’t

wait to keep creating magic with you.”

Remember, people pay for what they value. Your dream clients want quality and consistency, not cheap shortcuts. Don’t be afraid to lose a few who don’t align, because you’ll gain the right ones in return.

You Set the Standard

When you stand firm in your worth, you give others permission to do the same. You raise the standard, not just for yourself, but for the industry as a whole. Imagine a world where every stylist felt empowered to charge appropriately, without guilt or fear. That’s the kind of industry we should all want to be part of. One built on respect, self-value, and real recognition of our craft.

So, if you’ve been second-guessing yourself, let this be your sign! It’s time to charge your worth. Not just because you deserve it, but because you’ve earned it!

As always, I believe in you. Love & Bliss, Angeli xxoo

Angeli is a former salon owner and Holistic Empowerment Coach, Mindset Mentor/ Trainer and founder of The Bliss Coach. www.theblisscoach.com.au @theblisscoach