mochahair Year 19 Issue 5 by mochagroup

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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, Zoe Richards, Mari Canton, Kimmy O’Brien, Kristie Kesic, Kerry Mather, Mark van Westerop, Shae Tsiknaris, Emily Ciardiello, Amber Bullock, Domi Cherie, Hayley Mears, Scott Sloan, Liz McKeon, Declhan Lee, Kym Krey, Belinda Haigh, Keira Maloney, Angeli Shaw

OFFICE

PO BOX 252

Helensvale Plaza Qld 4212 P: 07 5580 5155 mail@mochagroup.com.au www.mochagroup.com.au

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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.

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editors letter.

Excellence. It’s a word we hear a lot, but in our industry it’s not just something to aspire to, it’s who we are. It’s not about being perfect or getting it right every time. Excellence is about showing up, giving your best, and holding yourself to a standard that says, this matters. It’s in the way we turn up for ourselves, for our teams, for our clients, and for each other.

Excellence isn’t only found in the big or obvious things like awards, major achievements, or high-profile work. It shows up in the ordinary, day to day actions and decisions that often go unnoticed. It’s in the stylist who takes the time to give a proper consultation, really listening to what a client needs, problem solving, and going beyond what’s expected. It’s in the pride you feel when you know you’ve delivered your very best. It’s in the owner who invests in education when budgets are tight because they know knowledge is power. It’s in the stylist who chooses patience and kindness when they could just as easily rush. And it’s in the educator who pours themselves into helping others succeed. Excellence, to me, is not just about skill, it’s about integrity, consistency, and heart.

At Mocha Group, we see this spirit shine every single day. We see it in the stories we share in these pages, in the work we celebrate on stage, and in the communities we’re proud to support. This October, we’ll see it come to life in two very special ways.

First, Hot Shots House returns to Melbourne, where our four AHIA Creative 2025 Hot Shots winners will spend four days together being mentored, inspired, and challenged to grow. Watching the next generation step into their power is one of the most rewarding parts of what we do. It’s not just about celebrating talent, it’s about creating an environment where they’re encouraged, lifted, and supported. Because excellence isn’t just individual, it’s shared, and it’s strengthened when we choose to raise each other up.

Just a week later, we’ll gather in Brisbane for the 2025 AHIA Business Gala on October 19. This event is always such a powerful reminder of what our industry is capable of. Running a salon is not easy. It takes courage, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to excellence not only in the way you run your business, but in the way you lead people, serve clients, and contribute to the broader community. The gala is our chance to honour that hard work, to celebrate the people who embody excellence in business, and to connect as an industry that is stronger together.

Excellence is also about kindness. It’s about choosing to support rather than compete, to collaborate rather than criticise. It’s about remembering that behind

every award, every photo, every brand launch, and every client transformation, there’s a human being who is doing their best. When we choose kindness, when we show up for each other, we lift the whole industry.

So as you read through this issue, I encourage you to pause and reflect. Where do you see excellence in your own work? How do you embody it, not just in your skills, but in the way you show up for yourself, your clients, your colleagues, your business, and your industry? Excellence isn’t reserved for the big moments. It’s in the daily decisions, the consistent effort, and the quiet integrity that makes us proud of what we do.

As we step into one of the most exciting times of the year, with Hot Shots House and the AHIA Business Gala just around the corner, I feel so proud of what this industry stands for. Proud of the talent, the resilience, the innovation, and above all, the heart. Excellence isn’t something we talk about lightly at Mocha, it’s something we see lived out across our community every single day.

Here’s to excellence, not sometimes, not only when it’s easy, but always.

Love & hugs, Lou x

Louise May Editor – Mocha Hair Editor in Chief – Mocha Group

louise@mochgroup.com.au

@louise_mochagroup @mochahairmedia www.mochagroup.com.au

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Kitch Perfect.

By Zoe Richards - UK

Starting its own quiet revolution, Kitch stands out as a salon rewriting the rules - blending creativity, inclusive values, and retro design to create a space where everyone is genuinely welcome.

Perched confidently somewhere between a 1950s dream kitchen and a scene from a Tim Burton daydream, Kitch isn’t just a salon - it’s a full-blown experience. At the heart of it all are two very different but perfectly balanced forces: Luca Jones and Scott Humphreys.

Luca - a session and TV stylist with razor-sharp creative vision and Scott a tailor-turned barber with branding running through his veins are one of the UK’s most dynamic hair combos. Together, they’ve created what is now considered one of the UK’s most progressive, inclusive and innovative salon spaces. But don’t be fooled into thinking it’s all pastel gloss and Instaworthy corners - Kitch was built on purpose and passion, not just aesthetics.

“We never set out to just do hair,” says Luca. “We wanted to create a space where absolutely everyone feels like they belong - somewhere that was designed to recreate the nostalgia of having your hair done in the kitchen, surrounded by your best friends.”

And they really mean everyone. From the very beginning, Kitch was imagined as a gender-neutral, identity-affirming space. There’s no ‘ladies’ cuts’ or ‘gents’ trims’ here - just personalised services based on the hair itself, not the person’s gender. Pricing is fair, consultations are thorough, and the whole atmosphere is about comfort, not conformity.

“I’ve always worked in hair,” says Luca, “so I’ve never really experienced what it’s like being a client. But when I started asking friends about their salon experiences, I was shocked. People had felt judged, excluded, even refused service. That was never going to happen at Kitch.”

Scott agrees. “I’ve had my own moments of discomfort in overly macho barbershops - and I present pretty masculine. So, if I’m feeling that, imagine what it’s like for someone who doesn’t feel safe in those environments. We wanted to rip up that rulebook.”

The Power Couple That Built a Movement

It helps, of course, that Luca and Scott are partners in life as well as in business. “Scott started working in a barbershop near my salon and we got set up on a date,” laughs Luca. “I figured if it didn’t work out, I’d just walk a different way to work. Seven years later, here we are - still together, and co-owners of Kitch.”

Their dynamic is electric. Luca brings the big-picture thinking, calm leadership and creative direction; Scott injects the energy, ideas and flair. They’re opposites in all the right ways, and it works.

“If there were two of me, it would be chaos,” says Scott. “Luca is calm, thoughtful and strategic - he’s the one with the spreadsheets and the serious voice when needed. I’m more about vibes and instinct. We’ve always been clear on our roles. I work more on the brand and visuals, and Luca’s the brains behind the business. That clarity has saved us a lot of rows!”

Still, working and living together isn’t without its challenges. “The thing we argue most about is music,” Luca admits. “Scott’s in charge of the salon playlists and I swear, he’s got Saturday night bangers blasting at 10am on a Wednesday. I have to rein it in sometimes!”

A Salon Like No Other

Walk into Kitch and you’ll immediately see - and feel - what sets it apart. Think retro Americana - sugary pastel pinks and blues, vintage kitchen cabinets, and bespoke stations designed to look like 1950s cookers - complete with fridge and tumble dryer doors that double as storage. It’s clever, creative and bursting with personality.

“We designed everything ourselves,” says Scott. “And then we had it made by a company that usually builds festival sets. It’s not off-the-shelf stuff. Our mirror units have secret cupboards behind them, our benches double up as storage, and even the trolleys slot in like kitchen appliances.”

But beyond the aesthetic joy, Kitch is practical too. A recent renovation saw the addition of an upstairs space and a proper boiler (a big upgrade from the temperamental electric shower setup that ran cold whenever someone flushed the loo next door). “Honestly, being able to use both backwash basins at the same time now? Game-changing!” laughs Luca.

Leading with Heart

Perhaps the most powerful thing about Kitch is the feeling it gives clients - many of whom say it’s the first salon where they’ve felt truly comfortable.

“We’ve had clients tell us it’s the only place they’ve been gendered correctly,” says Luca. “We don’t use badges or pronoun pins; we just use names. It’s simple and respectful.”

And their inclusive ethos doesn’t stop at the client experience. Behind the scenes, Kitch is a place where team members are celebrated for who they are, where creativity is nurtured, and where community matters. “We’ve learned loads from friends who run LGBTQ+ charities,” adds Scott. “We’re always growing, always listening. It’s not about ticking boxes. It’s about doing what’s right.”

That approach has paid off. The salon recently won top slot at the Creative HEAD Most Wanted Awards for Client Experience - a moment Luca describes as hugely validating. “It felt like a big pat on the back,” he says. “It proved that we’re doing something meaningful. That our ethos isn’t just a nice idea, it’s working.”

What’s Next for Kitch?

With one wildly successful site under their belts, Luca and Scott aren’t slowing down any time soon. “We’re definitely looking at opening another site,” says Scott. “And then who knows? A little collective of Kitch salons maybe. That’s the dream.”

But for now, the pair are focused on keeping Kitch exactly what it’s always been - a one-of-a-kind, heart-led salon where everyone is welcome, celebrated, and made to feel a foot taller by the time they leave. “Hairdressing is about confidence, connection and creativity,” says Luca. “And when all three come together? That’s magic. That’s Kitch.”

@kitchhair

minutes with

Jake

Putan

By Louise May

Jake Putan was born and grew up in Taree (Biripi Country). At the time his mum was working closely with animals and his dad was in the military. With both parents having grown up mostly in the country, early life for him felt pretty grounded.

His first introduction to hair came at home when his dad, who wasn’t trained but was handy across many sets of tools, used to cut his hair. Inspired by a couple of footy players and their beloved Bulldogs, they even started getting into small zigzags. Later on, Jake began cutting his own hair after visiting a local salon. With barbering and social media being incredibly discreet back then, he didn’t know anyone else cutting hair professionally except for two friends, and they would exchange “home jobs.”

After school, Jake missed out on the marks to get into uni, so his mum sent him out handing out resumes. Forty-plus applications later he got one response – a hairdressing salon offering an apprenticeship. Having already built a level of experience and a small clientele, it was a good deal for both sides and marked the start of his career.

Editor of Mocha Hair, Louise May, recently spent 10 minutes with Jake to hear more about his journey, his work today, and how wellness has become an integral part of his career.

What do you do in the industry today?

Currently, once a fortnight I provide mobile cuts in Sydney which gives me 13 days off in between. Along with occasional trips for community haircuts with a friend’s business out in regional areas. I’m using the time between to assess, study, design and deliver innovative programs including wellness sessions in hair salons, or men’s wellness programs in existing barbershops for their teams and clients (I want to highlight these are quite collaborative of nature, working in partnership with respected peers/mentors I have relationships within and outside of the industry)

What do you love most about the industry?

The responsibility - To recognise our greater role as hair people and our spaces as the central pillar for community. I believe we can find a greater sense of purpose when we begin to know ourselves and how we can use this role more effectively.

Who inspires you?

This is a big question to answer and needs a lot of context - I will do my best to give it justice here, but I’ve found that when I’ve looked up to someone else’s work, I often found myself feeling compelled to copy them, and as a result losing my own authenticity and becoming lost. This is almost guaranteed to happen when we rely on following trends - we depend on the trend provider and lose the wisdom of our own experience. When relying on individuals for inspiration in the past I also found that it created a sense of idolisation, and with that came the subconscious desire to find reasons to doubt them and resent them. This is due to an experience of separateness which is often the byproduct of competitive natured work. So, I believe we can enquire a little further as to where we establish our own compass for inspiration - Values inspire me; things that are done with heart and integrity, a focus on promoting connection, authenticity, harmonising with nature and our innate biology.

How do you keep inspired outside of work?

If I notice myself lost for inspiration, it’s usually coincided with over stimulation, excessive screen time, addictive behaviours, numbing and avoidance - this is all rooted in an internal experience of disconnection. So, I ask myself what do I need to feel connected again? Generally, this comes through slowing down, having time in nature, around the fire, resetting my sleep routine, hydrating, discipline with eating, training, spending, and making time to be presentinspiration follows. I use my own experience as inspiration to tell my story, not something I think people will like - the latter can be quite a detrimental source.

What role does breath-work and mindfulness play in your life?

To be quite frank most of our lives are spent in an agreed sense of illusion that we will not recognise until after having some kind of breakthrough moment that cracks us free from the spell. Breath-work has been one tool that helped me see clearly, observing the patterns of my mind that kept me following a dangling carrot while I disregarded my heart and those closest to me. I work to train myself to be as present as possible to be available for my future family, and to be considerate of the byproducts of my actions. Both breath-work and mindfulness have allowed a better opportunity to do just that - Along with a deeper sense of acceptance of who I am. I’m not perfect and still have work to do. And I think that’s the best part.

Can you tell us about your journey with breath-work and mindfulness etc and how you started?

In 2018 I was working full-time, away on weekends doing education, coming back home to a relationship I wasn’t present in, and absolutely wasn’t creating time for myself to even consider how I wanted to show up in all these events. It catalysed through substance abuse where I blacked out and was arrested. This experience taught me a lot and made me reflect on why I was trying to escape. I walked away from all of it, took 7 weeks off, started meditating and listening to Wim Hoff (a renowned figure for bringing breath work mainstream), before attending a retreat in 2019 where I first experienced a ‘breakthrough moment’ in a deep breath-work journey that completely shifted my career path, walking away entirely from what I thought to be the pinnacle of my journey that far (brand educator, stage presentations, film work, and so on).

FEW FAST FAVES...

Is this something you teach others? Can you talk us through this and what that looks like?

Yeah - I’ve been holding private sessions for individuals at their private request in the comfort of their own homes to gain tailored clarity and direction for their own situation as well as group experiences for teams in their workplace... and I mean, use this moment now - take a slow inhale through the nose for 4 seconds, exhale slowly through the nose for 6 seconds - repeat 2-3 times and tell me how you feel? That’s just 20 seconds, now imagine after 30-40 minutes guided.

What’s next for you?

I’m now running wellness workshops for groups of men, as well as discussing with hairdressers how to introduce and integrate wellness practices into their salons/barbershops, not just for themselves but to also increase the service quality and capacity for their clients. My dream is to build a men’s wellness centre - a legacy for my grandfather I may share about in time. In the meantime, I’m connecting with those who have networks of men (barbershops are a great start) to host sessions for their teams and communities, it’s generally a 2-3 hour session and caters 4-8 people.

The perfect Sunday. Describe it? Most days feel like Sunday - but a restful morning, waking up in nature with a view, phone on airplane mode, prep a fire, make a coffee, journal or a good book, bush walk and a dip in a creek or waterfall. Sunset, music, a glass of red, hot bath and sleep.

Favourite Spotify playlist? What vibe is it? I’ve made a few (“jakeputan soundscape”) - very dependent on the mood/moment - lately life has been quite noisy and so I’m valuing a lot of silence.

Favourite drink? Agua de la vida

Favourite Meal/food? Outside simple mince and eggs lately I’ve been hitting a nice comfort meal throughout winter - warm oats, peanut butter, cinnamon and rock salt.

Favourite place to visit? I’ve travelled quite a bit, all have their unique things I have loved, most of these places are desirable for escaping, but nothing will ever compare to being right here in this moment.

@whoisjakeputan

Four Decades of with Lorna Evans

Styling, Education and Evolution

By Louise May

In 1985, a teenage apprentice named Lorna Evans began a career in hairdressing that would span four decades, three salons, countless workshops and stages globally, and thousands of stylists trained. In 2025, she marks 40 years in the industry with the same drive that pushed her as a young stylist: a determination to lift others through education and practical tools.

Early Influences

Hairdressing was never far from Lorna’s world. Her mother, Alice Schofield, still works part-time and will celebrate 65 years in hairdressing this year. Watching Alice build a life around her salon gave Lorna both the work ethic and the insight to see hairdressing as a career that could evolve with her.

Encouraged by mentor Ruth Browne, Lorna enrolled in a ten-week competition styling course during her first year as an apprentice. It set the tone for everything that followed. The discipline of preparing models, the pressure of competing, and the satisfaction of building technical strength gave her the confidence to move quickly into her own business.

Salon Life and Business Lessons

By 21, Lorna owned her first salon on Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula. Over the next 32 years she grew her business presence while raising her profile in long hair styling. Bridal work became a significant part of her career, and competitions gave her the platform to showcase technical skill and creativity.

Running salons gave Lorna a deep understanding of the commercial realities of hairdressing, staffing, training, marketing, and building a loyal client base. This combination of artistry and business capability caught the attention of many major brands. She worked with several global haircare brands in both styling and business education roles, and presenting on stage both here and internationally also.

Her work took her beyond the salon to fashion weeks, photo shoots in New York, presentations in Las Vegas and London, and director roles for Australian fashion festivals.

Recognition Along the Way

Industry recognition followed. Lorna was named AHFA 2011 Victorian Hairdresser of the Year, won AHFA Salon Manager of the Year, and received Hair Expo’s Excellence in Marketing award. Between 2013 and 2015 she was a Hair Expo Educator of the Year finalist. While awards were not the goal, they validated the combination of creative work and business strategy that became her hallmark.

Shifting Focus to Education

After decades of salon ownership, Lorna made the decision to step out from behind the chair and focus entirely on education. Long hair styling was often seen as a niche, sometimes intimidating for stylists who hadn’t had the training. Lorna wanted to change that. Her philosophy - “find the problem, fix the problem”, shaped her approach. She identified the stumbling blocks stylists faced when tackling long hair work and developed both tools and training to remove those barriers.

Lorna Evans Education

Today, Lorna Evans Education is established as one of the leading providers of styling education in Australia and New Zealand. The business is structured around multiple entry points:

• School Program: mapped to government units “Create Classic Hair Up” and “Braiding,” with every student receiving a kit of Evans’s tools and lifetime access to step-by-step online training.

• The Collective: an online membership offering more than 70 hours of tutorials, business resources, downloadable head sheets, and guest artist sessions.

• Beginners Guide to Styling: an eight-module program for emerging stylists or makeup artists, teaching foundation techniques from chignons to Hollywood waves, complete with a free toolkit.

• Workshops: immersive, in-person training across the country, where stylists refine skills under Lorna’s guidance. •

• cont’d from page 15

“Working alongside educators and students is still a highlight,” Lorna says. “Seeing our resources used in classrooms across Australia and New Zealand is something I don’t take for granted.”

Her teaching, however, doesn’t stop at the border. With online learning now embedded in the industry, Evans regularly runs webinars and programs for stylists from Germany, the UK, Canada, New Zealand and beyond. This international reach has broadened her influence, positioning her as a global resource for long hair education while still maintaining the intimacy and accessibility that her teaching style is known for.

Tools That Solve Problems

Alongside education, Lorna has built a line of styling tools designed to address everyday challenges faced by professionals. Brushes, combs, pins, rollers, padding and bungees, each has been developed through years of practical experience and tested with working stylists before release.

The best-known of these is her TIMESAVER brushes , but her range has grown to include a full ecosystem of products that allow stylists to create polished looks efficiently. For Lorna, tool development is not about chasing trends but about filling genuine gaps in the stylist’s kit. “If a stylist is struggling, I want to design something that takes away the roadblock,” she explains.

Her e-commerce business now serves more than 10,000 customers, and her tools are found in classrooms, salons and backstage kits across the country. For more than seven years she has also worked with UNITE hair care , ensuring students and stylists are equipped with high-quality products to support their styling. “Quality tools and products are where great styling starts,” she says.

A Family Business

What makes the milestone even more meaningful is the team behind it. Lorna runs the business with her husband Russell, while her daughters play key roles. Holly splits her time between the business and her role at Respekt Your Hair, while Kaity manages operations behind the scenes. Holly also was awarded the AHIA Creative 2025 Emerging Stylist of the Year!

“It’s a privilege to have my family involved,” Lorna says. “They each bring different strengths, and it means the business is genuinely built on trust and support.”

This industry has given me everything - creativity, purpose, lifelong friendships, and the chance to pass on my knowledge. I’m beyond grateful,” says Lorna

Lorna Evans Education has something NEW on the way, and it’s seriously exciting! Soon, stylists everywhere will have a powerful new tool to help take control of hair like never before. Stay tuned… this game-changer is almost here!

Shown in this feature are images from 2 of Lorna’s Collections: Eclipse and 37 Degrees.

Eclipse Collection

Hair: Lorna Evans

Photography: Nadia Sliwka

Make-up: Julie Provis

Stylist: Sarah Banger

37 Degrees

Hair: Lorna Evans

Make-up: Victoria Hull

Stylist: Georgina O

Photographer: Peter Coulson

The precision hair dryer. For professional styling and finish.

1. vs. Dyson Supersonic Nural™ hair dryer. 2. vs. Dyson Supersonic™ hair dryer. Based on body weight.

Industry News.

The New Omega™ Nourishing Range by Dyson Dyson is entering a new era of beauty with the latest launch of the Dyson Omega™ Nourishing Range, including the Omega™ leave-in conditioning spray and Omega™ hydrating hair oil, the brand’s first step into hair health and restoration formulations.

Unlike Dyson’s previous launches focused on styling and hold, Omega™ is engineered to actively restore and deliver long-lasting nourishment, targeting the visible signs of hair damage such as dryness, dullness, breakage and frizz.

Developed using 12 years of hair science and 13 years of agricultural research, the Omega™ Range combines high-performance technology with sustainably farmed ingredients, including sunflower oil harvested on Dyson’s own UK farms.

At the heart of the range is Dyson’s new Oli7™ blend, a proprietary mix of seven omega-rich oils engineered to deeply hydrate, smooth the cuticle and reduce breakage, without weight or build-up.

The results speak for themselves: up to 94% stronger hair, 261% more shine, and 54% less breakage, all achieved without any silicones. www.dyson.com

Timely launches financial course to bridge hair and beauty’s $8.3 billion gap

With the average hair and beauty business surviving just three to four years, Timely and The Curve have launched a new course designed to build the financial confidence of industry professionals – and increase their longevity and business success.

The hair and beauty industry is projected to bring in as much as AUD $8.3 billion across Australia and New Zealand this year alone. But while business appears booming, Australasian salon owners continue to face low profit margins, financial strain, and uncertain futures.

As a booking and payment system for hair and beauty businesses, Timely has a deep understanding of the challenges they face, and is driven to lead industry-wide change to solve them.

“In an industry survey, we found nearly a third of all hair and beauty business owners ranked financial security as their top business goal, so we know this issue is a high priority for our customers,” says Fallon Savery, Timely’s SVP of Revenue.

“We wanted to give hair and beauty professionals a course that goes deep enough to boost financial confidence, but is simple enough to learn over lunch.”

Created in partnership with The Curve – a financial education platform for women – the Mastering Money For Small Business course delivers the fundamentals that hair and beauty businesses need to run sustainably and successfully.

“The industry thrives on a high-trust community where people learn from and look up to one another, and while this creates a powerful and supportive environment, it often lacks the grounding of expert financial knowledge,” Savery explains.

“By partnering with The Curve, we’re filling a clear gap in the market, combining the strength of peer-to-peer trust with expert financial guidance that’s practical and easy to apply.”

For thousands of owner-operators behind the salon chairs, underpriced services can come at a high cost. When profit margins fall below 10%,

even small financial missteps can trigger serious cash flow and financial challenges – and with the average Australian salon profit margin sitting at just 8.5%, many are operating on a razor-thin buffer.

This pressure was reflected in Timely’s industry survey, in which 1 in 7 hair and beauty professionals pointed to pricing as a key pain point. Respondents spoke of the need to increase prices industry-wide, and the difficulties of setting prices that cover their actual costs, and reflect their true value.

“Setting prices is one of the single most challenging parts of owning a business,” says Angelie Tuazon, Timely customer and founder of Melbourne’s House of Sana. “Not only covering all the hard costs, but also the intangible things like the years of experience and skill, and balancing all that with client expectations... it’s something I know so many of us in the industry struggle with.”

To help solve the issue of pricing for profit, Timely and The Curve have included a free salon pricing calculator with the course. Business-owners can use this must have pricing tool to plug in their real numbers, stress test their pricing, and identify red flags before they can affect their bank balance.

Hair and beauty’s financial literacy gap spans far beyond Australasia. In the US, 50% of small business owners are reportedly struggling due to a lack of financial understanding. While in the UK, the NHBF has found that an alarming 21% of salons are currently operating at a loss.

“Small businesses have an average survival rate of five years, and in the hair and beauty industry that drops even lower to just three or four,” says Savery. “We exist to improve that stat, and this confidence-building course is one way we hope to do just that.”

Timely’s two lessons from the course are free and available to watch now, and Timely customers are also eligible for 50% off the rest of the course. To learn more about how Timely is helping hair and beauty professionals manage their businesses.

www.gettimely.com

EdwardsAndCo Opens Boutique Concept Salon in Teneriffe, Brisbane

EdwardsAndCo, Australia’s leading hair agency, is proud to announce the opening of its brand-new boutique salon in Teneriffe, Brisbane. Designed as an intimate, luxury space right on the water, this new concept salon offers a more personal experience while still delivering the signature “future proof” EdwardsAndCo touch clients know and love.

EdwardsAndCo salons have become renowned for their expansive warehouse-style spaces filled with buzzing creatives and clients. The Fortitude Valley salon, for example, boasts seven basins and 36 chairs, a true creative hub. By contrast, the Teneriffe concept space features just four basins and 10 chairs, deliberately designed to offer a slower-paced, more peaceful, and highly personalised experience.

Over the past year, EdwardsAndCo has been deliberately downsizing its footprint, refining its concept and focusing on quality over quantity. The new Teneriffe salon is a testament to that evolution.

“Our salons have become famous for their huge warehouse spaces filled with energy, creatives and community,” says Jaye Edwards, Founder, Owner and Colourist.

“With Teneriffe, I wanted to take a different approach, to create a serene, intimate environment right on the water. This space is about slowing down, enjoying a more personal experience, while still receiving the EdwardsAndCo signature service our clients know and love,” he concluded.

Industry News.

Winner of 2025 L’Oréal Style & Colour Trophy Announced

The highly anticipated finale of the L’Oréal Pro Style & Colour Trophy 2025 has crowned its winner, with Karlie Roberts of LNDN, Victoria, taking out 1st place in the world’s longest running, most prestigious hairdressing competition.

Held at the L’Oréal Melbourne Academy and broadcast virtually nationwide, this year’s grand final brought together the country’s most creative and talented stylists. Karlie, who is currently completing the esteemed L’Oréal Professionnel Colour Specialist course, impressed the judges with her exceptional vision, artistry, and technical skill.

As part of her victory, Karlie will be jetting off to Paris, the global epicentre of fashion and beauty, for an exclusive industry experience as part of her prize pool.

Karlie represents LNDN, the acclaimed Victoria-based salon owned by Jamie Furlan and Danni Solier—both L’Oréal Professionnel Artistic Team members and Global Educators.

Her winning look exemplified the innovation and excellence that LNDN is known for. This is the third time Karlie entered L’Oreal Colour Trophy, and clearly, third time’s the charm!

In 2nd Place is Lauriane Schuler of Nancymai, VIC, whose achievement was made even more special as she marked 20 years in hairdressing on the first day of the competition. And in 3rd Place came Loren Polidori, an independent stylist from Ensemble Salon, SA, who made an impressive return to the podium after also placing 3rd in last year’s competition. The Newcomer Award was presented to rising talent Mikayla Robertson from Hairloom Collective, recognising her exceptional potential and fresh creative approach.

The Artist’s Choice Award winner is Natasha Monastra from Koko Blaq Hair. Natasha came second in our SCT competition last year and is a truly remarkable talent. The L’Oréal Style & Colour Trophy continues to celebrate innovation, technical excellence, and boundary-pushing creativity in Australian hairdressing. This year’s event was a testament to the strength and passion of the industry nationwide.

Jenni Tarrant OAM Finished ‘100KM in 24 Hours’ Walk

Helping People in Need

Multi-award-winning hairdresser, owner of Bond Hair Religion (Canberra) and all-round legend, Jenni Tarrant OAM completed her 100Km within 24 hours raising more than $30,000, so far.

At 6:31am on Wednesday 27 August, in rainy Tuggeranong, Jenni completed her mammoth walking marathon exhausted and relieved but happy.

A charity challenge is completed by Jenni every year, but this one dug deep, as it was dedicated to her late Dad.

Departing on 26 August, the first anniversary of her Dad Bobby’s passing,

• cont’d over page

Industry News.

Jenni made the finish line at his home the next day, which would have been his 80th Birthday.

Jenni thanked her team of supporters and co-walkers and everyone who has donated to make the effort such a big success.

“Donations are still gratefully accepted, and we are thrilled to have way exceeded our $20,000 target with 100% of funds going to help people facing domestic violence, sexual abuse, homelessness, and mental health challenges through The Tarrant Foundation,” Jenni said as she headed off for yet another ‘cup of tea and a little lie down’.

AS part of the Alliance between mocha group and the Tarrant Foundation for for our 20 year anniversary, anyone wishing to support Jenni’s remarkable walk, is welcome to donate on The Tarrant Foundation website: https://www.thetarrantfoundation.org/ mocha-donations

All donations of $2 or more are tax deductible.

One more great piece of news, whilst Jenni was walking, it was announced that she made the Top 5 in an international award, #OneShot Best Editorial Collection. The Forge collection also won the 2024 AHIA Creative NSW/ ACT Hairdresser of the Year and the 2024 AHIA Creative Master Colourist of the Year for team member Amber Bullock.

Dream In Color With Aveda’s Revolutionary New Full Spectrum Demi-Permanent™ Vegan Treatment Hair Color

Featuring a first-to-market patent-pending hair technology, Full Spectrum Demi-Permanent™ Vegan Treatment Hair Color provides long lasting vibrancy without compromising hair health

Aveda, the purpose-driven pioneer of plant-powered, high-performance hair care has launched its new Full Spectrum Demi- Permanent™ Vegan Treatment Hair Color with patent- pending, breakthrough TRIS Color Integrity Technology. A first in haircare, this technology features precise molecular targeting that optimises color deposition for enhanced, longlasting vibrancy without compromising hair health. The result is more radiant, healthier hair every time you color, leaving it up to 3x smoother and up to 5x shinier.

“After more than six years of research, we uncovered an alkalizer technology never-before used in hair color. TRIS is an ingredient known for its gentleness and effectiveness as a pH adjuster, most commonly found in mascara—until now,” shared Darcy Prater, Executive Fellow, Professional Hair Care Research & Development. “Our patent-pending TRIS ColorIntegrity Technology is engineered to intelligently target and react

exclusively with color molecules while avoiding keratin, a protein in hair that contributes to strength and health. This allows for powerful color performance while being gentler on hair than traditional color alkalizers. As a first in hair color, this will revolutionise the demi permanent hair color market, as we’re advancing past the current alkalizer technologies that have been used for the last 20 years,” she explained.

Aveda’s Full Spectrum DemiPermanent™ Vegan Treatment Hair Color was co-created with the expertise of Aveda Artists, salon owners and educators across the globe to ensure it met the needs of industry professionals and colorists while maintaining Aveda’s nocompromise formulation standards.

This range offers unlimited, customisable shade possibilities with an expanded color palette, including a new natural sheer series and precustomised blonde toners that are easy to use and deliver consistently stunning results every time. Plus, it’s infused with a weightless blend of plant lipids including certified organic moringa, tamanu and kukui oils for rich conditioning benefits and light-reflecting shine.

Aveda’s Full Spectrum Demi-Permanent™ Vegan Treatment Hair Color features 34 shades that are 100% customizable for unlimited color possibilities.

In line with Aveda’s mission, Full Spectrum Demi- Permanent™ Vegan Treatment Hair Color is 96% naturally derived4 on average, and 100% vegan, formulated in our in- house hair color lab and manufactured with 100% renewable energy through Aveda’s onsite solar array, plus wind power purchases. It is housed in a 100% recycled aluminium tube, which helps save 60 tons of virgin aluminium from being produced.

If you can dream it, you can create it with Aveda Full Spectrum DemiPermanent™ Vegan Treatment Hair Color— color without compromise. www.aveda.com.au

2025 saw KMS HAIR debut a new fashion partnership with global streetwear label KSUBI. A collaboration between two brands that set their own agenda, with style at the absolute forefront

Following the appointment of Pip Edwards as KSUBI’s Creative Director, KMS was personally selected by Edwards to continue their partnership, having worked closely with her over the past three years at her iconic activewear label, P.E Nation.

The partnership uses the award-winning Wild Life Hair SoGo team of KMS Lead Stylists across campaign, look book and collab shoots.

In May, Piet Pantano directed the hair on the Pre-Fall 25 ‘No Vacancy Nirvana Collection’ shot by Georges Antoni in Sydney at a Darling Point mansion.

KMS Partners With KSUBI For 2025

Industry News.

“KSUBI is such a standout label – not just for their fashion, but for their ability to consistently collaborate with cool and creative talent. Their casting always brings a natural edge, which made my job on the shoot all about enhancing what was already there. We worked with the model’s natural style, KMS HAIRPLAY Beach Style Cream was perfect for amplifying natural texture and I always rely on KMS HAIRSTAY Anti- Humidity Seal and KMS HAIRSTAY Working Hairspray to keep looks intact. “ Piet Pantano.

August saw the Fall 25 Season drop ‘Neo Nostalgia’ classic silhouettes with luxe craftsmanship, fusing varsity inspiration, Western grit, and rebellious edge with hair by Sienna Greene.

On set the NEW KMS HAIRSTAY Dry Oil Hairspray and the entire HAIRSTAY range was used, recently upgraded with upcycled tomatoes as a core antioxidant ingredient, and featuring improved sustainability across its packaging.

The NEW KMS HairStay Dry Oil Hairspray is the ultimate finishing product, for touchable hold and hydration. Soft texture and a flexible light hold with lasting humidity and frizz protection for up to 72 hours.

@kmshairanz @ksubi

So Hot. So Iconic. So Paul Mitchell.

Paul Mitchell is proud to announce Paris Hiltonentrepreneur, global icon, and philanthropist, as new Global Ambassador.

This powerhouse partnership launches with an unapologetically glam, multichannel campaign that merges two cultural forces into one unforgettable collaboration.

The Campaign  Spanning digital, social, and in-salon activations, the Paul Mitchell x Paris Hilton campaign is a bold celebration of beauty, confidence, and reinvention. Expect dazzling visuals, exclusive content, and step-by-step tutorials that showcase Paris’ signature luxe-meets-playful style.

Styled by celebrity hairstylist and Paul Mitchell School alum Sienree Du, each look brings fresh editorial energy to everyday haircare— highlighting the innovation, artistry, and professional performance at the heart of Paul Mitchell.

Giving Back

More than just glam, this partnership is rooted in purpose. Together, Paul Mitchell and Paris Hilton are supporting the LA Wildfire Relief Fund, proving that real beauty goes deeper than great hair.

XO Your Pro

At the heart of the campaign is a tribute to the professionals behind every transformation. Through the XO Your Pro initiative, Paul Mitchell celebrates the artistry, creativity, and human connection that happen behind the chair.

Paris Hilton on the Partnership

“I’ve used Paul Mitchell products throughout the years, and their products leave you feeling empowered and glamorous. This campaign is all about giving back to causes that are close to my heart, celebrating confidence, and having fun with your look!” — Paris Hilton

Follow the Glam

Throughout the next 12 months, follow @paulmitchellaus to get exclusive tips and product recommendations straight from Paris Hilton’s campaign, along with insider styling secrets from her pro, Sienree Du. • cont’d

Industry News. WHERE ARTISTRY MEETS EDUCATION

Introducing Paul Mitchells Newest Haircare Innovation

ELEVATE YOUR CRAFT WITH EXPLORE OUR SHORT COURSES EDUCATION

From one of the most trusted names in professional hair care comes a groundbreaking new category: Paul Mitchell’s Clear

Formulated with under 10 purposeful ingredients, Clear delivers professional results while meeting the needs of an underserved client base—those with sensitivities or those seeking a simple, gentle regimen. This is salon-quality care with a modern, minimalist approach.

What Clear Means for Your Salon

Expand Your Client Reach – Attract new customers who may not have considered Paul Mitchell before.  Boost Take-Home Sales – Clear offers a strong first moment of truth, making it easier for clients to commit to retail purchases.  Differentiate Your Services – Position your salon as the go-to for clients seeking simple, dermatologist-tested care.

Be First. Be Clear.

Step into this new category and grow your business with Paul Mitchell Clear. www.365salongroup.com

Productivity Commission proposal could undermine Australia’s hairdressing industry In response to the Productivity Commission’s proposal to remove mandatory hairdressing qualifications, the Australian Hairdressing Council (AHC) warns that such a move would damage the credibility, safety, and future of one of Australia’s most trusted professions.

AHC CEO Fiona Beamish said qualifications are the foundation of professionalism in the industry and protect both hairdressers and clients.

“Hairdressers work every day with chemicals, electrical tools, and sharp instruments. Mandatory qualifications are not optional – they are essential to ensure safety, skill, and public confidence in our profession,” Ms Beamish said.

The AHC argues that removing qualifications would:

• Jeopardise work health and safety for both clients and workers.

• Suppress wages and undermine career pathways.

• Increase insurance and WorkCover risks, with higher premiums and disputed claims.

• Weaken training pathways at TAFE and private colleges.

• Devalue a profession that plays a vital role in mental health, self-confidence, and community wellbeing.

The AHC also stressed that removing qualifications would create further complications for migration and training providers.

“Twenty-five years ago, hairdressing was used as a back door visa pathway,

Industry News.

bringing unskilled workers into the country and encouraging cowboy training operations,” Ms Beamish added. “Since then, ASQA has closed over 200 low-quality RTOs. The AHC has fought for years to keep hairdressing on the Skilled Occupation List for genuinely skilled professionals only, and neither government nor industry wants to repeat the mistakes of the past,”

The AHC also rejected commentary that hairdressing services should be made cheaper.

“Salon prices already reflect the rising costs of wages, rent, products, insurance, and compliance. Like most small businesses, salons operate with narrow profit margins. The Productivity Commission has no mandate to tell an industry of skilled professionals that their services should be devalued,” Ms Beamish said.

During the pandemic, Australians experienced firsthand the value of their hairdresser. The absence of salon visits impacted mental health, selfesteem, and social connection, proving the profession is far more than a cosmetic service.

The AHC is calling on government and regulators to:

1. Uphold mandatory qualifications to protect safety, wages, and industry standards.

2. Recognise the social and economic value of the profession.

3. Respect small business realities, ensuring fair pricing that reflects skills, training, and rising costs.

4. Protect skilled migration integrity by ensuring only qualified professionals enter the workforce.

“Hairdressing is a proud and professional trade. It supports small business, provides critical skills, and contributes to the wellbeing of millions of Australians. We cannot afford to see it undermined,” Ms Beamish said. www.theahc.org.au

Introducing PlasmaAIR by EVY PROFESSIONAL.

Elevate your styling game with the latest breakthrough from EVY PROFESSIONAL.

Powered by advanced Plasma Ion Technology, emitting over 4 million super hydrating Ions, this high- performance dryer delivers salon quality results for shinier, softer, and healthier hair. With dual voltage and self-cleaning technology, it’s the ultimate hairdryer for professional results—at home or on the go.

Key Features

• Compact and lightweight only 290 gms

• Plasma Ion + Mineral Infused Technology – boosts hydration  and shine

• Dual Voltage – ready for worldwide travel

• Folding Handle – perfect for travel and precision styling

• Lumin mode – gently infuses skin treatments

• LED display – precise heat and fan control for smarter styling

• Self-cleaning in 20 seconds

• Up to 85% faster drying with less heat damage

• Reduces static and flyaways

• Includes magnetic diffuser, 2 nozzles and travel bag

• 3-metre professional cord www.evyprofessional.com

• cont’d over page

Industry News. Industry News.

Foil Me Launches the “Foil Me Community” - Celebrating Industry Connection, Inclusivity & Uplifting Others.

Always evolving and innovating, and holding communication, collaboration and connection within the hairdressing industry at the heart of their business, Foil Me has launched the ‘Foil Me Community’ – the brand’s official online space offering support for hairdressers and salon owners where they can connect, grow and be seen – no matter their salon size or social media following.

In a world/industry where comparison is heightened, and pressure on performance creates so much noise, Foil Me Owners, Emily & Ili Ciardiello, were intent on creating an uplifting space where artists are supported & uplifted, learning from others, sharing knowledge about business, hair & life and most importantly, being unfiltered in this connection.

Says Emily, “The idea was born from years of listening to our Foil Me artists. Time and time again, we heard how much they value genuine connection – not just with us, but with each other – and how difficult that can be in an industry where many feel judged or even bullied for what they share on social media.”

“We wanted to create an online space where our artists, our ‘community’ can feel supported no matter what they post – where you can learn from others, share your knowledge, and explore not just hair-related topics, but also business and mindset strategies that helps them thrive in work and life.”

Acknowledging that what many in the industry are craving is real connection, the Foil Me Community embraces you as yourself - ask questions without judgment, celebrate wins, and also say when things feel hard. There’s a need for more spaces that are inclusive, thoughtful, and focused on people, not just popularity. The FM Community is designed to be that – a safe place to recharge, learn, and uplift each other. It’s also proving to be an invaluable resource space where community members can truly have a voice – to contribute to how Foil Me shapes education, product design, and even the industry at large. You’re not just a number or a customer here – you’re part of the evolution.

“We hope you gain connection, confidence, clarity – and maybe even some unexpected friendships. Whether it’s through live events like our Metamorphosis education day – Monday 9th March 2026 - online live sessions and webinars, industry insights, exclusive content, or simply chatting with someone who gets it, we want you to feel inspired and energised, not drained,” says Emily

The evolution of the FM Community is a love letter from Foil Me to say thank you to their unofficial community. You’ve helped shape this group just by being a part of the Foil Me world – whether that’s been through a DM, a review, your engagement on socials, or using Foil Me’s foils, brushes and boards in your salon.

Says Emily & Ili, “The FM Community is our way of giving back – to say, “We see you; we value you, and you belong here.” Let’s create something special together. Let’s make it official.”

The Foil Me Community is free to join! With four levels to explore, the more you engage, the more you’ll enjoy perks like product discounts, early access to launches, chances to be featured on socials, online education sessions, and exclusive product development insights.

“The FM Community is our way of saying thank you. It’s a space built to honour the support, creativity, and loyalty you’ve shown us – like a loyalty program, but one that recognises your contribution and engagement, not your spend,” says Emily.

To join the Foil Me Community simply visit: www.foilme.com.au/ pages/join-the-community to sign up!

L’Oréal PPD Launches Exclusive “Multi-Million Dollar Moves” Business Roadshow For Salon Partners Across Anz

L’Oréal Professional Products Division (PPD) proudly is about to tour with its latest business education offering “Multi-Million Dollar Moves” Business Roadshow, an exclusive initiative under the Pro.Connect Business Acceleration program. This transformative roadshow, featuring industry titans Sharleen Lee and Jessica Del Borrello from “Circles of Hair,” aims to empower over 600 L’Oréal PPD salon owners across Australia and New Zealand.

L’Oréal PPD is dedicated to true sustainable business partnership, bringing globally led trends and insights to its salon community. This roadshow delivers real-world strategies for business elevation, inspired by the “Circles of Hair” team’s proven success (52 staff, 6x “Salon of the Year,” 150+ new clients weekly).

The 4-hour “The Business of Salon” workshop, led by these leading business and social media speakers, will provide actionable insights on:

• Growing earnings though services

• Retaining and enriching stylist careers

• Powerful brand building & marketing

• Leveraging technology for efficiency

“This roadshow taking place throughout September, underscores our unwavering dedication to our L’Oréal PPD partners,” said Jordan Kidner, Business Education Manager of L’Oreal PPD. “We’re equipping them to make ‘multi-million dollar moves’ by fostering exceptional client experiences and consistent growth, reinforcing our commitment to their success.”

This exclusive opportunity allows L’Oréal PPD salons to gain invaluable business expertise and connect within a dynamic community.

About L’Oréal Professional Products Division: L’Oréal PPD empowers salon professionals through leading brands, innovative products, education, and business support, fostering industry growth and artistry.

FINALISTS ANNOUNCED FOR 12TH ANNUAL ANZ HAIR INDUSTRY AWARDS 2025 // BUSINESS

The Australian and New Zealand finalists have been announced for the AHIA Business Awards 2025, presented by mocha group. Since 2014, these awards have recognised business excellence across salons, educators, specialist businesses and professional brands, and this year proudly welcome New Zealand.

With over 300 entries, a record achievement, the AHIA Business Awards continue to set the benchmark for success. In mocha group’s 20th anniversary year, the gala event moves from the Gold Coast to The Star, Brisbane on Sunday 19 October, with creative direction by Adam Williams and an official after party sponsored by Angel Extensions.

Integrity remains central, with the Care, Treat and Style categories judged blind over six weeks to ensure impartiality. The addition of the AHIA NZ Salon of the Year reflects mocha group’s commitment to celebrating the industry across both nations. Judging is handled by more than 30 experts in media, PR, business and hair, with new additions including Tabatha Coffey and Sandy Chong.

Proud sponsors include: Alfaparf Milano, Goldwell, Revlon, Wella Company, Rogue, CPR, Dyson, Salon Lane, Redken, Matrix, Kitomba, Angel Extensions, Shortcuts, Comfortel, Schwarzkopf Professional, Gamma+, DNA Organics, DP Exo Grow, Goddess, Sustainable Salons, L’Oréal Professional, plus Official Media Partner Mocha Hair.

Linda Woodhead, mocha group Founder, said: “The quality of entries this year has been extremely impressive, showcasing what an exciting era we’re experiencing as salon owners, hairdressers and brands. We’re incredibly proud to have been supporting the industry we love for 20 years, and this recognition celebrates those who continue to have life-changing impacts on their clients and communities.”

CARE TREAT STYLE ELECTRICAL

Georgia hotshots team members

By Louise May

Meet the AHIA 2025 Maguire

In the next few issues of mocha hair we will be introducing you to the 4 members of the Hot Shots Team for 2025/6.

This issue - Meet Georgia Maguire

Originally from Coleraine in Northern Ireland, Georgia Maguire moved to Australia with her family at the age of seven. By thirteen she was already immersed in salon life, working Saturdays and after school, and it quickly became clear that hairdressing was the path she wanted to follow. At eighteen, straight out of school, Georgia began her apprenticeship at Pierrots Hair and Brow Studio in Perth, a salon she has proudly called home ever since.

Now 26, Georgia’s passion and drive are stronger than ever. Her commitment to growth, both professionally and personally, has seen her named as one of the four winners of the AHIA 2025 Hotshots Team, recognition that marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter in her career.

Editor of Mocha Hair, Louise May, had the pleasure of catching up with Georgia to talk about her journey so far, her inspirations, and what being part of the Hotshots Team means to her.

What Made You Want To Be A Hairdresser?

As long as I can remember, all I wanted to be when I grew up was a hairdresser. My mom’s friend was a hairdresser, and I always remember how glamorous she always looked and wanted to be just like her. No Barbie or Bratz doll was safe when I was around, because they would always have a fresh cut or some crazy hairstyle.

What Kind Of Hair Work Is Your Favourite And Why?

In the salon I am a colourist at heart. I love the ability to create custom colours for every guest. Out of the salon I’ve found my passion and thrive of the process of making and creating a collection. I love being able to push the boundaries of hair and get to be as creative as possible. And nothing can beat the feeling of seeing your collection and vision come together and see the finished product.

How Do You Manage Work/Life Balance?

I absolutely live and breathe hair. Work doesn’t feel like work because I love what I do so much. But I’m very lucky to have amazing people in my life that help me switch off, as well as a little fur baby that takes up plenty of my spare time. I also like to ensure I always have a holiday booked, to ensure I’ve got something outside of work to look forward to.

Who Inspires You In the Industry, and Why?

My biggest inspiration when it comes to hairdressing would have to be my boss, Julie Mahony. I started working for Julie as a fresh 18 year old, and she has not only helped shape me into the hairdresser I am today but has also helped me make a better version of myself. Over the past 8 years Julie’s mentorship, guidance and support has made the craziness of hairdressing all the much easier. After over 50 years in the industry, Julie’s love and passion for hair is as strong as ever. And I hope over my career I can have the same drive and passion she’s always had.

If You Could Spend The Day With Someone in the Industry, Who Would It Be?

If I could spend the day with someone in the industry it would have to be Danny Pato. Danny has been an idol of mine for many years, and it was actually his work that inspired me to start collection and competition work. I would know this thought and creative process and how he plans out his creative process. But most of all I would love to know how he makes and creates such beautiful masterpieces. I would honestly just love to be a fly on the wall!

How Important Are Competitions And Awards Too You?

Competitions and awards are extremely important to me. Creating a collection allows you to be your most creative and allows you to push the boundaries of hair. From having an idea to seeing the finished collection is so rewarding and hard to describe the feeling of pride and joy you feel. Entering competitions for me was a massive step to further my career, I pushed myself out of my comfort zone and threw myself into something that I wasn’t familiar with, but it put me in the position I am in now, and I couldn’t be more proud or grateful.

Most Looking Forward Too As A Hotshot Member?

I am extremely grateful and proud to be a hotshot member this year. This year as a hotshot is going to be absolutely life changing. I am most looking forward to absorbing and learning as much as possible, this year I’m looking forward to seeing how much I can grow not only as a stylist but also on a personal level. I’m excited for all the opportunities and amazing experiences we will receive. And of course, I am very excited to get to know all the hotshots.

Where Do You See Yourself In 10 Years?

In 10 years’, time, I still see myself being absolutely obsessed with hair. I hope to have made my career as an editorial stylist, travel the world with hairdressing, create some more collections and of course hopefully a few more wards.

FAST FUN FAVES....

Favourite holiday destination: Koh Samui

Favourite drink: Tommy’s margarita.

Favourite meal: My dad’s sweet and sour chicken.

Favourite song: Breathless by the Corrs.

Celebrity high school crush: Big One Direction fan in my teenage years, so obviously Harry Styles.

If you weren’t a hairdresser, what would you do: Interior designer.

@georgie.pierrots

Three Generations Strong! Meet AHIA 2025 Creative

Emerging Stylist of the Year

Holly Evans

When Holly Evans first stepped into her mums (Lorna Evans) salon after lockdowns, she never imagined that week of helping out would change the course of her life.

A third-generation hairdresser who once swore she’d never follow the family trade; Holly discovered a spark that quickly ignited into passion. Four years on, that passion has transformed into a career marked by bold artistry, fearless experimentation, and now, national recognition as an AHIA Creative 2025 winner.

A Whirlwind Beginning

Holly’s journey into hairdressing has been anything but ordinary. Within just a few years, she has already worked on photoshoots with names like Bernadette Beswick and Stevie English, assisted industry icons including Kristina Russell and Natalie Anne, and even prepped backstage at Hair Festival for Danger Jones.

Most recently, she joined her dream salon, Respekt Your Hair, under the mentorship of Julia Stevens, someone Holly credits as a guiding force in her confidence to compete and push her creativity. “Julia has been one of my greatest supporters,” Holly says, “she made me feel ready to step into competitions, which has been a dream of mine from the start.”

Beyond the salon, Holly’s commitment extends to giving back. Inspired by volunteering at Sage’s Cottage for their Glamable Day, she joined HairAid, opening another chapter of impact through her craft.

The Collection: Punk Meets Feminine Power

For her winning AHIA Creative collection, Holly turned to punk rebellion as her muse, but with a twist... fusing its raw, edgy attitude with traditionally feminine colour palettes. Her vision challenged the notion that softness or vibrancy undermines strength, particularly for women and LGBTQ+ voices in professional and political spaces.

The result? A collection that radiates bold confidence while celebrating unapologetic femininity.

Technical Brilliance

Each of Holly’s four looks pushed the boundaries of technique and artistry: • Look 1: A short, chipped-in cut styled into spiky defiance, finished with safety pins for a rebellious edge.

• Look 2: A solid base with an exaggerated curtain fringe, looped extensions secured with carabiners, bands, and thread—a true hybrid of craft and punk hardware.

• Look 3: Wispy, layered softness balanced with padding and intricate braids, merging delicacy with structure.

• Look 4: A sleek, blunt bob enhanced with subtle extensions and face-framing layers, balancing minimalism with intensity.

Styling, Fashion & Attitude

To complete the vision, Holly paired her hair artistry with Birdskin fashion pieces, delivering a “girly grunge” aesthetic, colourful but laced with attitude. Makeup was designed around vivid eye palettes and dramatic eyeliner, while photography stripped back distractions with plain backgrounds to let the colours, shapes, and attitude shine.

Every element was curated to evoke what Holly describes as “aggressive, attitude-driven vibes that feel confident and bold.”

Looking Ahead

Winning at the 2025 AHIA Creative Awards is only the beginning for Holly Evans. With her fearless approach to hairdressing, deep respect for her mentors, and a heart committed to both artistry and community, she’s a rising force destined to shape the next chapter of Australian hair.

“I love this industry, and I can’t wait to see what it holds for me next,” she says.

One thing is certain: Holly Evans has only just begun making her mark, and the future of hair looks a whole lot bolder with her in it.

@hair_by_hollyevans

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Miracle Bond3 Building Mask 89ml

Aimee Egan: The Colour of Confidence!

There’s a quiet force behind Aimee Egan’s rise - her layered colour work, striking editorial eye, and an unshakable humility. In the past year alone, she’s taken home The Mane Event Total Look Award, landed two AHIA finalist positions, and is set to work the runways in Milan, Paris, and New York.

“I’m still in shock,” she says. “Seeing my name alongside artists I’ve admired for years and winning The Mane Event trophy… it honestly feels like a dream.”

Her winning look didn’t come easy. After scrapping her first concept, fresh inspiration struck during CPR’s I Made the Change campaign. “One image stopped me in my tracks. I just knew, that’s it.”

That blend of intuition and grit defines Aimee’s work, from high-stakes shoots to quiet salon moments. “Even after 19 years, watching someone walk out glowing never gets old.”

Her salon, like her style, is warm and inclusive. Clients come not just for colour, but to feel seen - and have embraced her creative journey completely. “I was nervous posting my first competition entry, but now they’re invested. They want to know everything.”

Now a CPR Hair Ambassador, Aimee values the brand’s commitment to authenticity. “They’ve built a community that truly lifts people up. It’s an honour to be part of that.”

At Hair Festival, that spirit was undeniable. “It wasn’t just the talent - it was the energy. Good people doing great things. That’s what inspires me.”

With fashion weeks ahead and dreams of education in her future, Aimee’s path is only widening. But her focus stays clear: keep creating, stay grounded, and never stop growing.

“Success? It’s not a final goal,” she says. “It’s feeling inspired, having fun, and evolving. And right now? I’m right where I’m meant to be.”

@aimeeeganhair

TOTAL LOOK HAIR AWARDS

The Mane Event returns in 2026 - bigger, bolder, and ready to push creative boundaries.

Presented by The Circle, these industry-leading awards are your chance to flex your artistry, unlock your colour brilliance, and show the world what you, as a stylist are made of.

From the iconic Mane Event category to the ROAR! Emerging Talent award, this is your stage to turn heads.

New for 2026: The Digital Entry category - celebrating transformation in motion with bold makeovers, CPR colour, and storytelling that slays on screen.

Are you ready to step into your creative power?

Entries now open until 31 May 2026

Winner crowned June 2026 at Hair Fest weekend

Visit the-circle.cprhair.com/the-mane-event

Aimee Egan, The Mane Event winner 2025

MIG Day Out 2025 A Celebration of

Community, Creativity & Connection

.

MIG Day Out 2025 was more than an event, it was a full-scale celebration of hairdressing culture, creativity, and connection. On Monday 21st July, the MIG campus came alive with over 130 people from across our incredible community, from Curate Award finalists to salon owners, company representatives, apprentices, and senior stylists.

This was a day to gather, learn, and be inspired, but more than that, it was a reminder of the joy and energy that flows when our industry comes together. For many, it was a chance to reconnect with familiar faces, meet new ones, and walk away buzzing with fresh ideas and renewed passion for their craft.

THE WELCOME

The moment guests walked through the doors, they stepped into a space alive with colour, music, and movement. There was a true festival feel, bright styling zones, the hum of conversation, the scent of great food in the air, and a soundtrack from our resident DJ that set the tone for the entire day.

Everyone was greeted with a goodie tote bag packed with surprises, setting the scene for a day where every detail was designed to make people feel welcome and inspired. The coffee cart was in full swing from the first arrival, ensuring everyone was fuelled for the creativity ahead.

A Trade Area Full of Ideas

The trade area quickly became a social and learning hub. Here, our incredible sponsors, L’Oréal, Showpony, and Sustainable Salons, Barber Temple and Becky B Education — showcased their latest innovations and connected directly with the community.

• L’Oréal brought their global prestige to the floor, sharing their latest product developments and colour technologies.

• Showpony offered insight into the power and versatility of premium hair extensions, inspiring guests to explore new ways of enhancing their work.

• Sustainable Salons reminded everyone of the importance of environmental responsibility, showing practical ways salons can reduce waste and give back to the community.

• Barber Temple – Showcasing their innovative one stop barber education and supply hub.

One of the most talked-about stops in the trade area was the interactive trichology zone by @becky_b_education. The Becky B team were scanning scalps, sharing personalised hair science insights, and offering expert trichology tips. For many guests, this was an eye-opening experience, adding a new layer of understanding to the link between scalp health and creative results.

A Creative Line-Up to Remember

MIG Day Out’s stage program was an inspiring showcase of artistry in motion. From the first demo to the final act, the audience was treated to techniques, ideas, and approaches that spoke to every corner of our craft. Concurrent sessions allowed those who attended to choose their own adventure from an incredible line-up that included:

• The Rixon Hair Crew: Brad, Chloe, Imogen and Lilly – kicked off the day in style, showcasing cutting and dressing hair techniques with their trademark elegance. Known for their collaborations with L’Oréal, the team also highlighted their education platform for cutting and styling — a valuable resource for salon training that brings high-end skills into everyday salon life.

• Ella & Jade – Anna & Alanah: Specialists in curly and Afro hair, Anna and Alanah demonstrated precision cutting and styling techniques for textured hair. Their session celebrated diversity in hairdressing and promoted their education platform dedicated to curly and coily hair professionals, shining a spotlight on the beauty and complexity of natural texture.

• Matt Clarke: Newly minted ANZ AMBA of the year for 2025, Matt delivered a brace of sharp, edgy cuts packed with heavy texture and clipper work. His demo bridged the worlds of barbering and hairdressing, offering techniques that were both commercially relevant and creatively daring.

• Kristie Kesic: Wonderfully supported by Nathan Yip, Kristie provided the only live colour demonstration of the day. Kristie wowed the audience with her freehand and lived-in colour techniques. Widely recognised as one of Australia’s top colourists, her expertise and calm, confident approach inspired both emerging colourists and seasoned professionals to experiment and refine their craft.

• Barber Temple Crew: Kat and Kristian from the Barber Temple were locked in an energetic and entertaining- this or that challenge, the Barber Temple team showcased their barbering skills in a format that was as inspiring as it was fun. The friendly rivalry, quick banter, and technical precision made it a highlight for many.

• Justin Pace: 2023 Hairdresser of the Year Justin Pace brought the day to a fitting finale with a live demo incorporating a timeless curly shape reimagined through progressive, creative, and outside-the-box cutting techniques. Combined with wig creativity and delivering standout colour work, Justin’s artistry and showmanship ended the event on an absolute high.

If the creative line up was not enough Showpony GM Nadine Johns-Alcock provided a thought-provoking education session on ethics and sustainability of the extension industry. Nadine’s presentation even had a cameo from Sustainable Salons one and only Paul Frasca.

What made MIG Day Out so special was the way it blended high-level education with genuine community spirit. It wasn’t just about watching hair being cut, coloured, or styled — it was about the conversations between demos, the laughter in the crowd, and the spontaneous “wow” moments when a technique clicked.

People weren’t just inspired by the presenters; they were inspired by each other. Apprentices stood shoulder-to-shoulder with award-winning stylists. Salon owners shared tips with students. Everyone, regardless of experience level, left with something new to bring back to their chair.

MIG Day Out 2025 simply wouldn’t have been possible without the generous support of sponsors: L’Oréal, Showpony, Sustainable Salons, Becky B, Barber Temple and Curate. Their contributions helped create a space where artistry could shine and our community could come together in such a meaningful way.

The incredible energy and success of the day meant that MIG Day Out 2026 is a distinct possibility. Stay Tuned!

@mig_training @anthonygray_mig

Revlon Professional

Revlon Professional brought salon owners and stylists together in August for the second Empowered Salons Client Conference. The location was Hamilton Island. The purpose was connection, education and community.

Over four days, salon owners from each state took part in a program that mixed serious learning with time out to connect and recharge.

With mocha group being the official media partner, Jarred Stedman, GM, was there to join in the fun, representing through an insightful keynote as well as his usual flair and fun!

Education That Matters

The education sessions were designed to give attendees something they could take back and implement in their salons.

Geoffrey Herberg drew on decades of industry experience to share insights into product development. His session gave salon owners a chance to understand what goes into the professional products they rely on every day and how those innovations can shape their client offerings. And Revlon’s Senior Brand Manager Monica Costello did a keynote on new products,

what activations Revlon has done over the year (Australian Fashion Week Show) and the activations with Empowered Salons during the year.

Mocha Group GM Jarred Stedman followed with a deep dive into all things branding. Jarred has built a reputation for cutting through the noise and breaking down digital strategies into language salon owners can actually use. His session wasn’t about trends or chasing likes. It was about showing up consistently, telling your story with confidence and using social media as a genuine business tool. And the amazing Julie Cross was another keynote speaker, who spoke about bringing your sparkle to everything you do, beating diversity and having a winning spirit. After this amazing session then came the surprise of the conference. Attendees were introduced to Samantha Bloom, whose personal story of resilience and transformation has inspired people around the world. Samantha’s session wasn’t polished or packaged. It was

raw and honest, and it had every person in the room on their feet by the end. The themes of authenticity and empowerment that ran through the event all came together in that moment.

Connection in Every Corner

As important as the sessions were, the conference was just as much about what happened in between. From poolside cocktails to beachfront dinners, there was plenty of space for salon owners and stylists to come together, share stories and build relationships.

These moments matter. Running a salon can be isolating, and the chance to step away, talk openly with peers and realise that others are facing the same challenges is powerful. The connections made at events like this often last long after the last dinner is cleared away.

The lighter side of the program also stood out. A Hamilton Island buggy race saw teams of salon owners take to the wheel in a competition that

Empowers Salons on Hamilton Island

had everyone laughing and cheering. The event was captured across social reels and became one of the most talked about highlights of the week.

Revlon Professional also added a social media competition into the mix, which was judged by senior Brand Manager for Revlon professional, Monica Costello and GM of Mocha Group, Jarred Stedman, encouraging delegates to share their conference experience online. It wasn’t just about posting content. It was about giving owners the confidence to show their personality and creativity in the same way they should be doing for their own salons. The prize was $1000 gift from Angel Hair Extensions.

The Program Behind the Event

The Empowered Salons program is Revlon Professional’s national loyalty and leadership initiative. It is built to support salon owners and managers year-round, not just during the annual conference. The program combines education, business tools and mentoring with shared experiences that help owners grow personally and professionally.

In an industry that is constantly evolving, with

new products, client demands and market pressures, having that support network is essential. Empowered Salons creates a community where owners can learn from experts but also from each other. The message is clear: you don’t have to do it alone.

Why It Resonates

What set this event apart was balance. The mix of business education, personal inspiration, downtime and fun meant every part of the program had a role to play. It wasn’t about overloading delegates with information. It was about creating an environment where they could learn, connect and step back into their salons with renewed energy.

For salon owners who spend most of their time looking after others, having the chance to be looked after themselves was a reminder of why they do what they do. The conference delivered that in spades.

Lasting Impact

As the event wrapped up and attendees boarded flights back to their states, they weren’t just leaving with notebooks full of ideas. They left with stronger networks, practical strategies

and a fresh sense of confidence. The value of events like this is measured not just in the days spent together but in the ripple effect that carries back into salons, teams and client experiences.

The 2025 Empowered Salons Client Conference showed again that education, connection and community are at the heart of Revlon Professional’s approach. By investing in salon owners and giving them a platform to grow, the brand is helping shape a stronger future for the industry.

Hamilton Island was the backdrop, but the real story was in the conversations, the laughter, the learning and the shared belief that together, salons can thrive.

@revlonprofessionalaustralia

CONFAB 2025

The W Brisbane: A Celebratory Spark

With a theme to re-establish, re-spark and reignite, in early August, Conceptual Brands hosted their annual event CONFAB 2025, a two-day odyssey of inspiration, connection, and innovation at the W Hotel. The event was fun, informative, celebratory and packed full of new learnings that left attendees reinvigorated.

DAY ONE: Erika Kramer’s Full-Day Revelation & Studio 54 Night

The kickoff on Day One was nothing short of spectacular, anchored by Erika Kramer, whose full-day session provided immersive inspiration, techniques, and behind-the-chair wisdom. The energy she injected was tangible—fuel for the creative fire of every stylist in the room. Not to mention mindset mentorship and a road map to business success. As evening fell, the W transformed into a nostalgic, glittering dance floor: a Studio 54–style extravaganza celebrating 15 phenomenal years of Penny Bebb (co founder of Conceptual Brands) alongside the CB family. Picture mirrored disco balls, pulsating lights, and decades of friendship, creativity, and achievement swirling in rhythm.

DAY TWO: Hosted with Flair by Jarred Stedman

The second day was masterfully MC’d by Offical Media partner, Mocha Group’s General Manager Jarred Stedman, whose presence bridged high energy with polished leadership and fun! The day unfolded with remarkable speakers:

• Dario Cotroneo

• Natalie Ann

• Linda Woodhead, conducting a spirited interview with Sam Jones of Mrs Monico Hair Society—offering rich perspectives on styling, society, and salon artistry. Adding dimension was Sara van Daalen, National Educator & Sales Support Manager, who guided attendees through a visionary “look at products and what’s to come”, teasing future-forward launches and evolving brand aesthetics

The crescendo? A stunning launch of all-new eLearning offerings and a revamped website, led by Conceptual Brands’ Education Manager Hayley Pullyn—a clear signal of their future-forward commitment to accessible, smart education.

In the Spirit of CONFAB

The atmosphere clearly aligned with Conceptual Brands’ values: family-led innovation, artistic excellence, and education-driven empowerment

CONFAB 2025 wasn’t merely an event—it was a statement: Conceptual Brands is rooted in family, elevated through education, and propelled by creativity. It exemplified the brand’s keen understanding that the salon world thrives on both technique and imagination—and that the best artistry is continually evolving.

Joico Celebrates 10 Years Partnering with

Breast Cancer Cure NZ

Joico, in proud partnership with Breast Cancer Cure, is delighted to announce the resounding success of the Breast Cancer Cure Designer Showcase, held on Friday, August 29th, at Shed 10 on Auckland’s waterfront as part of New Zealand Fashion Week.

The event brought together the worlds of fashion and philanthropy, raising vital awareness for breast cancer research while highlighting 8 of the country’s most iconic designers - STORM, TRELISE, Kathyn Wilson, moochi, NOM*d, Hailwood, Tuesday, and Federation. As part of its ongoing commitment to the Fashion for a Cure series, JOICO’s artistry was a highlight, with stunning hair direction led by Sabre Haircare Guest Artists Felicity Collier and Andrew Cobeldick

Guests were treated to a spectacular runway presentation where hair artistry perfectly complemented each designer’s vision, reinforcing Joico’s reputation for creating trend-forward yet wearable looks that shine on and off the runway.

Co-Hair Director Felicity Collier shared:

This is my 10th year styling for Breast Cancer Cure! Working with JOICO teams all over Aotearoa has been an incredible opportunity to collaborate with some really talented people. It’s also a cause that is very close to my heart, I lost my mum to breast cancer when she was only 40! She loved fashion, makeup & hair. She would’ve loved the Fashion For Cure events!

Watching the positive advances in breast cancer research from the wings of a fashion event has been truly fulfilling.

Choosing a look to work with 8 very unique fashion designers can be a challenge. It needs to be adaptable to tweak to suit the outfits. Collaborating with Andrew we chose a look for the BCC Designer Showcase that is full of texture and movement. Depending on the garments it will give ethereal and floaty or retro drama!

Co-Hair Director Andrew Cobeldick (2024 AHIA NZ Hairdresser of the year) added:

On the looks: “For this show, I really wanted the hair to feel effortless yet refined... something that elevated the fashion while still being very wearable. It’s about striking that balance between strength and softness so the models look confident but still natural.”

On working with BCC / Fashion for a Cure: “It’s always such a privilege to work with BCC on Fashion for a Cure. Being able to contribute my craft to a cause that makes a real impact in people’s lives gives the work so much more meaning. The energy backstage is always inspiring, and it’s an honour to be part of it.”

“In JOICO’S 50th anniversary year, with 10 years partnering NZ’s Breast Cancer Cure dream team, this extra special showcase was a true celebration of creativity, collaboration, and compassion,” said Kylie McLeod, Marketing Director of Sabre Haircare, the distributor of Joico in New Zealand. “We are so proud to continue our partnership with Breast Cancer Cure and contribute to such an important cause through the power of our craft. Huge thanks to the supporting JOICO hair team who worked together like a dream!”

With the sold-out waterfront venue, the showcase played to a full and captivated audience, proving once again that when the beauty industry comes together for a cause, the results are nothing short of extraordinary.

@joicoaustralianz @sabre_haircare @breastcancercure @nzfashionwk @fissity @andrew.cobeldick @kyliegmcleod @dylan_joico

Image by Hope Patterson for Remix Magazine

Credit: Redlab

Image by Hope Patterson for Remix Magazine

Plasma AIR - Where innovation meets PROFESSIONAL styling.

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• Includes magnetic diffuser, 2 nozzles and travel bag

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DUAL VOLTAGE

Meet 2025

Curate

Winner Kobi Lee

With an uncompromising vision and fearless approach to creativity, Kobi Lee is rapidly establishing herself as one of the industry’s most compelling emerging talents. Winner of the 2025 CURATE Urban Australia Cut & Colour category, this Melbourne-based stylist brings a refreshing blend of technical precision and artistic exploration that sets her apart in today’s competitive landscape.

Currently working at The Factory 3013, Melbourne’s renowned creative hub, Kobi joined the team in April 2024 after honing her skills at both Flipped Hair and the iconic Biba Salon. This diverse foundation gave her exposure to technical excellence and creative freedom, two elements that continue to fuel her distinctive approach to hairdressing.

For Kobi, her craft extends far beyond traditional cuts and colour. She views hairdressing as a powerful medium for identity, transformation, and community connection. Her artistic vision has already gained impressive recognition, with publications in both Lucy’s Magazine and C41 Magazine, remarkable achievements for someone still in the early stages of her career.

Always committed to growth and evolution, Kobi has sought education from industry luminaries including Sheridan Rose Shaw, Jules Tognini, Nicole Kae and Bel Mills, building an impressive foundation of knowledge and technique.

Already recognized as Finalist for AHIA Creative Apprentice of the Year 2023, Kobi embodies a new generation of stylists who are actively redefining what the future of hair can look like. Here we discover more about this rising star’s journey and philosophy.

What does winning the CURATE Urban Australia Cut & Colour category mean to you?

Honestly, it’s still pretty surreal! It feels amazing to have my work recognised like this.

I think winning gives me the confidence to keep experimenting and trying new things without second-guessing myself so much. It’s also opened up opportunities I never thought would happen this early on. But what I love most is that hopefully it shows other young stylists that you don’t have to follow the traditional path to succeed. We can all bring something different to the table.

How do your varied interests influence your approach to hairdressing?

I’m literally obsessed with everything! I’ll be randomly watching videos about various fabric manipulation techniques and suddenly see

As seen in LUCY’S MAGAZINE

Hair: Kobi Lee, assisted by Hayley Lewis

Photography: Rebecca Tang

Makeup: Tayla Alexander

Wardrobe: Jing Wen

Talent: Renata Liu

Retouching: Kristina Simakova

Location: Tamale Studios

something that sparks an idea for a haircut. Psychology fascinates me because it helps me understand how people view themselves what they’re trying to express. I think when you’re curious about the world, it all feeds back into your work somehow. Each client becomes this amazing opportunity to create something that’s uniquely them.

What advice would you give to other emerging stylists?

Don’t try to be someone you’re not! The best stylists I know are the ones who embrace their weird quirks and unique perspectives. Find mentors who get excited about your ideas, even the crazy ones. And honestly, inspiration is everywhere. Art, music, nature, random conversations with strangers. The more you refrain from being boxed in, the more interesting your work becomes.

What’s next for you?

I’m excited to keep learning and trying new things! There are so many techniques I want to dive deeper into, and I’d love to do more editorial work, enter more competitions and maybe do some collaborations with other artists. I’m also really passionate about helping other young stylists find their voice in this industry. I want to be part of making hairdressing feel more inclusive and creative for everyone coming up behind me.

Scalp Range.

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Blondee

Raising the Standard of

Blonde Hairdressing

By Anthony Gray

Whether you’re seeking subtle maintenance, a fresh new look, or a complete transformation, Blondee is where blonde dreams come to life. Founded in 2019 by Faith Williams, Blondee was created with a clear purpose, to redefine the standard of blonde hairdressing. From the very beginning, the mission was to deliver WOW-worthy magical moments and offer a service experience unlike any other.

Faith’s vision was clear: every guest should leave Blondee feeling confident, cared for, and absolutely in love with their hair. This commitment to excellence has shaped everything about the business, from the way clients are greeted to the meticulous approach taken with every colour, cut, and extension application.

A Journey of Growth

In 2021, Faith welcomed Co-Director Holly Calligaro, whose leadership and creative expertise further strengthened the Blondee brand. Together, they expanded the business with a second Brisbane location in Morningside, before taking the leap to the Gold Coast in late 2024 with the opening of the Burleigh salon. Each space has been thoughtfully designed to reflect the Blondee ethos, warm, inviting, and effortlessly stylish. Light-filled interiors, curved mirrors, textured walls, and a palette of soft nudes and blush tones create a luxurious yet calming environment. The moment clients step inside, they feel they’ve entered a sanctuary dedicated to beauty and transformation.

This expansion hasn’t diluted their standard, it’s amplified it. Across all three locations, the same collaborative approach drives results: stylists and colourists working together to help each guest achieve their ultimate hair goals with precision, passion, and expertise.

Industry Recognition

Blondee’s reputation for excellence has been recognised far beyond their client base. They’ve been featured in publications such as Refinery29 and Style Magazines, cementing their place as one of Queensland’s most trusted names for blondes, balayage, lived-in colour, and premium extensions. Their dedication to training and business excellence has also been rewarded on the awards stage. Blondee has been a finalist in the Queensland Training Awards (Metro Region) for two consecutive years, and in 2025 proudly took home Small Employer of the Year. This recognition shines a light on their in-house education program, which is integral to shaping emerging stylists into confident professionals.

From Chair Rental to Salon Group Faith’s journey is one of vision and determination. Starting with a single chair rental, she saw a gap in the market, a space where blonde hair wasn’t just offered, but mastered. What began as a personal mission has grown into a fully functioning business with three thriving salons, a leadership team, and a close-knit crew of 23 talented stylists. Watching each stylist grow, evolve, and climb the “Blondee ladder”, from emerging apprentice to senior creative, is one of the most rewarding parts of Faith and Holly’s work. It’s a culture of progress, where every win is shared and celebrated.

Commitment to Apprenticeship Training

One of the strongest pillars of Blondee’s success is its deep commitment to nurturing the next generation of hairdressers. Since 2019, Blondee has partnered with MIG Training to deliver high-quality, nationally recognised apprenticeship programs. They currently have five apprentices training with MIG and have proudly graduated 5 senior hairdressers. Apprentices at Blondee benefit from a structured, hands-on education model. Every second Monday is dedicated to full-day in-salon training sessions, where emerging stylists refine techniques, build speed, and develop the signature Blondee standard in real time. On alternate weeks, they attend MIG College to balance formal study with practical application. From the very start, they work on real models and clients, gaining the confidence to deliver outstanding results early in their careers. It’s not just about teaching technical skills, it’s about fostering confidence, professionalism, and a love for the craft. By investing in apprentices, Blondee is actively raising industry standards and creating career pathways that keep talented stylists in the profession long-term.

The Blondee Experience

Blondee is best known for:

Culture at the Core

Ask anyone in the Blondee team what makes their workplace special, and the answer won’t just be about hair, it’s the culture. Blondee lives by four core values: Excellence, Heart & Soul, Integrity, and Inspire. These values aren’t just written on the wall; they’re woven into daily life.

From midweek shoutouts to surprise celebrations, the team makes time to acknowledge and uplift each other. Wins are shared loudly, challenges are tackled together, and successes are celebrated in style, including the legendary Blondee Christmas party. It’s a culture that attracts stylists from across the country and even overseas.

Faith and Holly believe that culture matters just as much as skill. In hiring, they look for kindness, energy, and alignment with values first, skills can always be taught. When a stylist feels supported and inspired, that energy flows straight to the client experience.

Education as a Lifelong Pursuit

• Signature blonde transformations that turn heads

• Effortless balayage and lived-in looks that last

• Premium hair extensions with ethically sourced Great Lengths hair

• Healthy, glossy finishes using the world’s best products

Clients can expect Wella Professionals colour for its performance and reliability, Kérastase and Kevin Murphy care products for that luxe finish, and K18 treatments to protect and repair hair throughout the colouring journey. Every detail is considered to ensure the end result is as healthy as it is beautiful.

Education isn’t a one-off training day at Blondee, it’s a career-long journey. The team regularly hosts guest artists, brand-led masterclasses, and internal workshops. Since the Burleigh salon opened, they’ve introduced quarterly full-day development sessions across all locations, focusing on both personal and professional growth. These sessions give the team space to reflect, realign, and recharge together.

This commitment to constant improvement ensures Blondee stays ahead of trends while maintaining the highest technical standards. It’s also what makes clients keep coming back, they know their stylist is at the top of their game

@blondee_salon

M & Co Hair

20 Years of Passion, People and Purpose!

By Louise May

This year marks an extraordinary milestone for M & Co Hair in Atherton, QLD, with owner Marie Villella celebrating 20 years in business. What began as the dream of an eight-year-old girl has grown into a thriving salon built on passion, perseverance, and people.

“I always knew hairdressing was my calling,” Marie shares. “I even told my Grade 4 teacher I didn’t need school because I was going to be a hairdresser. I would spend any spare time in salons, just so I could be surrounded by the craft I loved.”

By 2002, Marie had left school to begin her apprenticeship. When the salon she worked in unexpectedly closed, she almost bought it, but the timing wasn’t right. She moved to Cairns to complete her training, and in 2005, spotted a salon for sale in the local Atherton paper. “I just knew it was meant to be,” she recalls. At just 20 years old, she purchased the business under its original name, On the Kutting Edge. In 2021, she rebranded to M & Co Hair, giving the salon a fresh, modern identity that reflected who they had become.

Alongside running the business, Marie has built a family life she treasures, she has been married for 17 years, is mum to three children, and lives on her property in Tolga. “It’s not just my career,” she says. “It’s my passion and my purpose.”

Staying True to Values

Two decades in business is no small feat, but for Marie the key has been focus and integrity. “I’ve never been one to compare myself to others or chase trends. I stay in my own lane and hold onto the values of consistency, integrity, and creating a positive, down-toearth salon culture.”

That culture is built on connection. Marie encourages her team to learn, shadow each other, and experiment creatively. Achievements, big or small, are always celebrated. “Collaboration and support are part of our everyday life. I want my team to feel proud of what they bring to the table,” she says.

The Team That Brings It to Life

Dani, senior stylist and salon manager, has been part of the M & Co family for eight years and says she couldn’t imagine being anywhere else. “I’m obsessed with all things hair, from livedin blondes to rich, dimensional brunettes, but curly hair has my heart,” she shares.

The introduction of Pure Haircare was a turning point for her. “It’s such a clean, natural range that works for every hair type, but for curls it’s incredible. My curly clients finally have products that give their hair the love it deserves! soft, defined, bouncy goodness.”

Dani is committed to staying inspired, whether through hands-on classes with top educators or diving deep into the online world of hair. She draws particular inspiration from Emma at House of Vakai. “Her work is next-level, and her grey blending is chef’s kiss! especially now that more people are embracing their natural greys. Her creativity really stands out.”

For Dani, bringing that energy into the salon is what it’s all about. “Every appointment matters. I want clients to feel that passion from me, because their hair deserves nothing less.”

Tash, now 20, first joined the salon at 15, sweeping floors and making coffees in 2020. By 2021 she had started a school-based apprenticeship with the team and proudly completed it by 2024. “For a while, I thought uni was the only ‘real’ option, because that’s what we’re all told. But deep down, I knew I was wired for something more hands-on and creative,” she says.

Never one to “stick to the script,” Tash thrives on adding her own twist. “I can’t even follow a recipe without changing it. That same curiosity runs through my hairdressing. Curiosity fuels creativity, and that’s what keeps this job fresh.”

Her work spans dimensional colours, bright blondes, grey blending, colour corrections, and statement cuts that are lowmaintenance but impactful. Inspired by stylists like Amelia Jane Hextell, she believes big dreams can grow from small towns.

Lara, the newest school-based apprentice, is just beginning her career. “I fell in love with hairdressing because it’s the perfect way to channel my creativity,” she says. “I’m obsessed with fashion and trends, and hair is such a big part of that. I can’t wait to learn from the M & Co team and grow into a confident stylist.”

Why Pure Haircare Fits

For Marie, bringing Pure Haircare into the salon wasn’t just about adding another product line, it was about finding a brand that spoke the same language as M & Co. “Their commitment to sustainability, ethical practices, and being proudly Australianowned and made fits perfectly with what we stand for, caring for our clients, our community, and the planet,” she says.

Pure’s range has quickly become part of the way the team works day to day. Clients love that it’s clean, vegan and organic, while the stylists love the results it delivers. “I absolutely love the Walnut Scalp Scrub and the Lamellar range, they’re beautiful,” Marie adds. “But honestly, there isn’t a single Pure product I don’t enjoy using. The quality, feel, and results speak for themselves.”

By choosing a brand that aligns with their mission, M & Co is able to offer clients more than a service, it’s a salon experience that reflects care, integrity, and responsibility at every level.

More Than Just Hair

For Marie, success isn’t measured only in transformations at the chair, but in how people feel when they leave. “I want every client to walk out feeling seen, valued, and more confident, not just because of how they look, but because of how we made them feel.”

That sense of care extends beyond the salon walls. “When people feel good about themselves, it ripples out into their families, workplaces, and communities. My hope is that our salon uplifts people and sets a standard for kindness, connection, and genuine care.”

From the little girl who declared her destiny in Grade 4, to the woman who has led a thriving salon for two decades, Marie Villella has created more than a business, she has built a legacy.

Twenty years is a remarkable achievement, but for Marie, Dani, Tash, and Lara, it feels like just the beginning. With a culture grounded in values, a team driven by passion, and a shared commitment to care, M & Co Hair is ready for whatever the next chapter brings.

@m_and_co_hair_salon

Celebrating Texture! The Passionate Journey of Jonina Menzies

By Louise May

Curls aren’t just a trend for Jonina Menzies, they’re a lifelong passion. As the founder of LOYH and owner of Maiden Hair Salon on the NSW South Coast, Jonina has built her career around celebrating texture and giving curls the care they deserve. With more than two decades in the industry, she has become a trusted voice in curl education, sharing her knowledge with both clients and fellow stylists, and creating products that make textured hair easier to love at home.

Editor of Mocha Hair, Louise May, chats with Jonina about her journey, the evolution of LOYH, and how she’s changing the way salons and clients approach curls.

Can you share your personal journey in hairdressing and what inspired you to specialise in curls?

I started working in salons when I was 13 and instantly fell in love with the laughter and joy we shared at “work” – it was epic! I worked in three salons in my hometown and truly thought I knew how to cut curls… but when it came to using a diffuser? No chance, just fluffy frizz.

When I opened Maiden Hair in October 2013, I had no idea what kind of journey I was about to step into. It wasn’t until one of my most loyal clients said she wanted to embrace her white girl afro that I realised I needed to level up seriously. That moment lit a fire – I sought out education, mentors, and found a whole new love for our industry and also a huge gap. And that’s when everything changed. My ideal clients started finding me… because I’d finally found my lane. (Insert squeal)

What was the turning point that made you decide to create your own product line rather than simply working with what was already on the market?

At Maiden Hair, we’d always supported Aussieowned brands – and suddenly, I couldn’t find one that ticked all the boxes: clean, simple to use, curly-specific, and locally made. I was having a whinge to a friend one day, and she just said, “Well, make your own then!” I laughed and reminded her I left school in Year 10… but she slapped that doubt right out of me.

That moment sparked it all. I knew there was a gap in the market for a professional range that actually worked – for salons and for clients.

What does LOHY stand for? And since launching LOHY, how has the brand evolved, from the first few products to the community you’ve built today?

LOve & HYdration – that’s where it all started. We actually had to rebrand in our first 12months due to a trademark issue, and while it cost us a bomb, it turned out to be a defining moment. It helped centre our values and gave us the clarity to evolve into a brand that could reach and serve more textured hair.

We launched with 5 products and 3 accessories. Today? We’ve got 10 products, 7 accessories, and a complete refill system that removes the heavy lifting for salons while reducing our carbon footprint. Over 150 salons across Australia and NZ now stock LOHY. – and we’re just getting started.

A big part of LOHY. seems to be about education as much as products. Why was it important for you to include that element?

My favourite quote is: “Whether it’s a $5 liquid eyeliner from Kmart or a $100 one from Mecca –if you can’t do wings, THAT’s the problem!” Education is everything. We want our clients to feel empowered, supported, and confident when they purchase LOHY. Whether it’s a quick how-to or a deep dive tutorial, we’ve created resources for every type of learner – because not everything can (or should!) be taught in a 5-minute salon conversation.

Jonina Menzies

Buying another curl cream is great, but if you apply it the same way you’ve always done, you’ll get the same results. Empowering change and building belief in yourself has to be at the heart of it all.

What are your thoughts on the current hairdressing training curriculum in Australia? Do you feel it equips stylists well enough to work confidently with curls and textured hair?

I’ve been at all the AHC industry days, standing alongside others lobbying for change – and I’m thrilled to say, it is coming.

Right now? No, it doesn’t equip stylists to confidently work with textured hair. It’s treated like an afterthought, squeezed in during blowdry training. We need a proper foundation that dives into the why – why frizz happens, why textured hair is dry, and how to begin quenching thirsty, frizzy, unmanageable curls.

Do you believe textured hair training should be a mandatory part of all hairdressing education, and if so, what would you like to see included?

YES, YES, YES.

We need to simplify the science and make it relatable – so that a 16-year-old apprentice can understand how frizz forms, then they’re already halfway there.

Some core elements I’d love to see included:

• Understanding what frizz actually is

• Key differences between straight and textured hair

• Basic product application and drying techniques

• The foundations of cutting textured hair –and why it must be done dry

Looking back, what’s been the most rewarding part of building LOHY., and what’s been your biggest challenge?

Without a doubt – helping people, especially hairdressers, to understand how to work with natural texture. Whether it’s a soft wave or tight coils, we need to offer our clients proper styling support. We are the professionals – if we don’t step up, they’ll go straight to YouTube, TikTok or Priceline… and that’s a no from me!

One of the biggest challenges has been ‘me’. I’ve learned that we’re often our own biggest limitation – the internal dialogue we carry can be the thing that holds us back. Learning to shift that voice to “yes, you can”, to a place of belief and adaptability, has been a powerful part of my growth.

The other major challenge has been within the industry. While leading stylists like Mousey Brown, Jules Tognini, and Bel Mills are paving the way forward, the majority of salons – around 98% – are still hesitant to evolve. Many are holding onto traditional styling like bouncy blowouts and session looks that aren’t realistic

or sustainable for clients at home.

It raises the question: why are we still resisting the shift toward embracing natural texture? Why aren’t we confidently sending our clients out with their real curls – and celebrating that work on our socials?

I believe in authentic, lived-in hair. Let’s stop chasing perfect and start showcasing real –because that’s what truly connects with people.

What’s next for LOHY.? Can you share what’s on the horizon in terms of new products, education initiatives, or your vision for the brand’s future?

We’re about to launch our Pro Curls 8 Step Online Training Course – designed for everyone from Cert II students to senior stylists. It’s a weekly step-by-step journey with video uploads and approval checkpoints, ensuring confidence is built at every stage. We’re working towards making this available to SaCSA as a foundational industry training tool.

We’ve also got three new products in the works and – get ready – we’re dreaming up a CURLS + PERMS + CHAOS Tour! No one in Australia is really educating on modern perms and how to create texture, and we’re ready to change that. Watch this space...

@lohy.curls. @maidenhair_ @joninamenzieshair

The Topper Queen

How Amy

Armstrong

is Redefining Confidence for Women with Hair Loss.

It was the kind of comment no woman wants to hear: “Have you had chemo?” Amy Armstrong had grown used to the whispers, the assumptions, and the well-meaning but cutting questions about her thinning hair. But as a hairdresser, the experience cut even deeper.

Amy has always had fine hair, but in her late teens and early 20s, her crown started to thin. “I felt like I was the only one my age going through this,” she says. “I’d try everything... backcombing, clever colouring, extensions, but nothing really helped.”

Then, a casual chat with her IT guy about online ads introduced Amy to something she’d never heard of, hair toppers. “The moment I saw them, I knew. That was it. Not just for me, for my clients, too.”

From Insecurity to Industry Icon

Amy didn’t launch Gold Hair Collection to go viral. In fact, the early days were slow. “Most people didn’t even know what a topper was,” she recalls. But she knew she was onto something special. Each night, she stayed up researching until midnight, figuring out how to source human hair toppers, customise colours, and bring something to Australia that had never existed here before.

“Synthetic wasn’t an option, I was a hairdresser. It had to look and feel like real hair.”

Over time, she developed her own range; lightweight, breathable, hand-tied pieces that blended seamlessly with clients’ natural hair. Foil blends with soft root shadows. Greys with dimension. Natural brunettes with subtle toning. All designed to reflect what women really wear — not just what factories produce.

The Debbie Effect

Amy’s first client, Debbie, remains one of her most treasured memories. “She had melanoma, scarring alopecia, health issues, and thought there was nothing left for her hair-wise,” Amy shares.

“Debbie was the first person I contacted when I found out about toppers - in fact Debbie got her topper before I got my own!”

After fitting Debbie with a customised topper, everything changed. “She smiled, wanted to be in family photos, felt professional again. Her husband even said she was happier, more confident. It was lifechanging, for her, and for me.”

It was a turning point. “I realised this isn’t about selling hair. It’s about giving women a part of themselves back.”

What Sets Gold Hair Apart

Gold Hair Collection isn’t just a brand. It’s a movement. Amy and her team — all qualified hairdressers, don’t just sell toppers; they offer expert consultations, fittings, custom cuts, colours, and aftercare advice.

Gold Hair Collection is no longer a one-woman mission. Amy is building a national team of passionate professionals to help expand access to toppers and fibres across Australia. The Brisbane salon serves as the flagship, while a growing network of stockists and educators brings expert support into more areas.

Clients can try pieces on, bring a friend, and take photos to compare styles. Even when Amy travels for pop-up fittings around the country, from Brisbane to Tassie to Perth and even regional areas, she makes time to experiment, listen, and educate and give women back the confidence they deserve.

“It’s not just about matching colour — it’s matching confidence. Some women want a piece no one can spot. Others want a full transformation. We help them choose what feels right.”

Real Hair. Real Women. Real Change.

Toppers are not wigs. They’re lighter, cooler, and more breathable, like a quarter wig or a clip-in for the crown. They sit at the balance point of the head, not behind the ears, and can be styled into updos or everyday looks without bulk or discomfort.

“A lot of people hold an outdated misconception they’re obvious or fake,” Amy explains. “But when they’re blended properly, cut in by a professional, and matched to the wearer’s lifestyle — they’re incredibly natural.”

And you don’t need hair loss to wear one. Many of Amy’s clients — including highprofile women and TV personalities — wear toppers for convenience, volume, or to skip the blow-dry.

“You’d be surprised how many women are quietly toppering,” she laughs.

Amy’s Own Tipping Point

Like many of her clients, Amy’s own journey with toppers didn’t start smoothly. “When I first popped one on, I took it off straight away,” she admits. “I was hyper-aware of it. But then I realised—I actually felt so much better with it on than off.”  She wore it quietly at first, unsure if others would notice. “But no one ever did. It was in my head. My family actually found out I was wearing a topper via a Facebook post!”  That moment changed everything. “If I could feel that different with just one clip, imagine how many other women could too?” she says. “That’s when I knew—this wasn’t a trend. This was a lifeline.”

Breaking the Stigma, One Clip at a Time

Amy is proudly open about her own journey. “At first, I was terrified to take my hair off in front of clients. Now, I do it all the time. It helps them feel safe. Like they’re not alone.”

That vulnerability has helped build a community. At pop-ups, women meet others on the same journey. Friendships form. Tears are shed. “It’s a shared experience — and it’s powerful.”

For the Industry: Why Salons Should Pay Attention

Hair loss affects more than 50% of women — and yet it’s still taboo. By offering toppers in salon, stylists can provide practical, non-medical solutions that restore confidence and build deep client loyalty.

“We’re now expanding into salon wholesale and training,” says Amy. “Because this isn’t just about retail. It’s about education. About helping stylists recognise different types of hair loss and know what to offer.”

Sales representative and technical advisor Mel plays a key role in supporting stockists and salons with topper education, — and as a topper wearer herself, she brings lived experience and genuine empathy to every client interaction.

Certified trichologist Sally provides hair fibre training and personalised hair loss advice through her role as a Thickin representative. Thickin — Amy’s sister brand to Gold Hair Collection, offers professional-grade hair fibres that instantly conceal thinning and complement toppers for clients wanting fuller coverage and a seamless blend...

“We’re always looking for like-minded hairdressers and salons to join us,” says Amy. “This is about more than hair — it’s about giving women real solutions and helping them feel like themselves again.”

“There’s no cost to try and no obligation to buy,” she says. “We want women to feel seen, supported, and celebrated — not sold to.”

Up to 50% of women will experience hair loss in their lives. If you aren’t helping your clients navigate the lifestyle change of hair thinning and hair loss, then who is?

As hairdressers we know how we feel when our hair is on point - It’s time to give every single client back that same feeling.

Gold Hair Collection offers trichology-informed support and education— another way salons can build trust with clients who may feel vulnerable or confused about what’s happening to their hair.

The Message Amy Wants Every Woman to Hear

“It’s never about what you wear. It’s how you wear it. And it’s never about how you look — it’s how you feel.”

That’s the heart of Gold Hair Collection — and the reason it’s become a quiet revolution in the hair world.

@gold_hair_collection

30 Years Strong

Education at the Heart of TONI&GUY.

By Louise May

TONI&GUY Australia was launched in 1995 by the late Dennis Langford, a respected leader in the hair industry who is greatly missed. Today, under the dynamic leadership of CEO Sara Langford, TONI&GUY Australia continues to thrive and has maintained status as a leader in Education. As they approach their 30th anniversary this November, with 19 salons nationwide, their focus is firmly on future-proofing the business, driving innovation and evolution through education.

Sonia Lyon’s 11-yr history with TONI&GUY isn’t just part of her career, it is her greatest professional achievement. Spending 6yrs with the Australian team, she had the privilege of leading the team as the National Artistic Director heading all education and events, before relocating to London. Sonia joined the global team as an International Artistic Director/LABEL.M ambassador in 2008, an experience that transformed her and made her ultimate hair dream a reality. Working full-time educating at the Flagship Academy, running the gauntlet of London Fashion Week for 10 seasons and representing the brand globally in over 10 countries at hair shows cemented her unshakeable love for the industry. After over a decade of giving her all, a wrist injury cut the journey short.

Returning to Australia, Sonia spent 8yrs in the commercial space with luxury brands, further developing her skill set and gaining a deeper understanding of the business and haircare sectors.

Now, she is proud to return to TONI&GUY Australia and LABEL.M as National Education Manager, and she looks forward to leading the team to continued success as they navigate the evolving hairdressing landscape together.

Louise May, Editor of Mocha Hair, chats with Sonia...

How has TONI&GUY’s education philosophy evolved over the years, and what sets it apart from other education providers in the industry today?

For over 60 years, TONI&GUY has built its legacy on a philosophy where learning is not just part of our foundation - it is the foundation, driving everything we do. Here in Australia, that philosophy is embraced and delivered

with dedication, ensuring the legacy is not only represented while continually evolving to the unique needs of our industry. Those needs are met through our education portfolio, which offers the full spectrum - from styling, editorial, and avant-garde to advanced colour techniques and barbering. The platforms through which these programs are delivered are key to fulfilling the demand for bespoke education our industry requires. From online demonstrations and webinars to insalon tailored programs designed to meet every skill level, we ensure flexibility and relevance. As a salon-based company, our educators are highly skilled, delivering education that remains salon-relevant, consultation-driven, and always with client-focused intention. Our internal education, combined with the ability to tap into industry evolution as part of a global company, sets us apart from other providers. From apprentices to our Artistic Team, upskilling never stops - driven by both internal programs and the encouragement to engage in external education. With a large team of expert educators to draw from, we harness their diverse strengths to ensure every external student experiences the very best our industry has to offer across every pillar

What does internal education look like for TONI&GUY salon teams in Australia?

The foundation of TONI&GUY’s education lies in our internal Vardering Program. Derived from the word ‘Varder’ - meaning to watch carefully with intent - it is an intensive immersion in either styling or colour, undertaken by every team member

when joining the company or transitioning from apprentice to senior hairdresser. Participants can choose styling, technical, or both, with the structure designed to ensure mastery in one craft — cutting or colouring — before adding the other discipline to their skill set. In recent years, the program has evolved, becoming more personalised to each individual and embracing the demands of multi-skilling across all facets of hairdressing.

Once Vardered, our team members become eligible to attend Art Team, a bi-monthly program offering advanced education across technique, presentation skills, and product innovation, designed to refine both artistry and educator excellence.

Each year, our Artistic Team attends an accelerated bootcamp at our Flagship Academy in London. Over the course of a week, the team absorbs updates to education delivery, hones presentation skills, aligns with the company’s direction for the year ahead, and showcases our annual collection in cut, colour, and editorial - shaped by Fashion Week and global trend influences. This commitment not only sets our education apart but ensures our offerings go above and beyond industry standards.

Sonia Lyon

What role does ongoing education play for established TONI&GUY stylists, are there clear pathways for career progression, from apprentice to leadership roles, education roles, and even business ownership?

The Varder framework creates a progressive roadmap for our Education Team, offering career pathways to become Varder Educators and progress through our in-salon tier system - from Stylist/Technician to Art Director/ Technical Director. For those with ambitions to become Academy Art Directors (platform artists) and represent our brand nationally and internationally, opportunities span Fashion Weeks, editorial shoots, hair shows, facilitating external education and the ability to mentor within our 19 salons alongside educators of that calibre.

For stylists who are more business-driven, there is a defined pathway into assistant management, salon management, or even salon ownership, supported by our internal Management Program.

Can you tell us about the external education offerings, what kinds of courses and workshops are available to stylists outside the TONI&GUY network?

With the demands of our industry and an ever-evolving landscape, we review and refine our education offerings each year to align with requests and deliver a clear, accessible education calendar.

Our program includes a range of pre-planned courses covering classic cut and colour, texture and curl, editorial, and barbering. Each course combines live model demonstrations with interactive workshops, adaptable on the day to meet the specific learning needs of participants. For a more personalised approach, we offer private, bespoke courses that are fully customisable in both length and content. Prior to booking, we conduct a thorough consultation to identify key focus areas, ensuring the right educator is matched to the skillset required. Demonstrations, workshops, and theory can be blended as needed to create a tailored learning experience for salons and stylists.

For those ready to push boundaries and unleash their creativity, we also offer specialised courses in avant-garde, backstage at Fashion Week, and photo shoot insights - designed to inspire, challenge, and take your craft to the next level.

How has TONI&GUY embraced digital or blended learning in education, and how do you see technology shaping the future of training?

Internally, our digital adaptation within education is strong, allowing us to share information instantly across the globe. This is centralised in our online portal, the Learning Hub, which all team members have unlimited access to. Here they can explore step-by-step techniques, indepth education across cut, colour, and product knowledge, along with the latest updates on our LABEL.M haircare. A favourite feature is the collection of tips and tricks on using our products to create a variety of looks - both in-salon and backstage.

For external students, online education is currently available on request. This enables us to connect with regional areas and support busy salons where time constraints make bite-sized, tailored education essential. Looking ahead, this will become a stronger focus in 2026 and beyond, as the demand for flexible, blended learning continues to grow.

One of the most significant technological advances has been in utilising digital record keeping - from reporting to capturing live and pre-recorded educational content. This enables a single education session to be repurposed and shared repeatedly, exponentially extending its reach and influence.

Additionally, collaborations with our colour partner, Wella Professionals have been greatly enhanced through digital platforms, enabling education sessions to be hosted simultaneously across states. This approach allows for seamless product launches and artist-led sessions that are more interactive for our team, while also ensuring consistency of information - whether experienced live or through recorded playback. It will continue to evolve alongside ongoing advancements in technology.

Technology will play an even greater role in shaping the future of education, redefining some of the traditional staples of kinaesthetic learning. That said, no matter how advanced technology becomes, nothing can replace the power and impact of in-person education.

Looking ahead, what is TONI&GUY’s vision for education in Australia, what innovations, partnerships, or new directions can we expect to see in 2026 and beyond?

TONI&GUY Australia is built on reinvention and relentless evolution. Being a heritage brand and going from strength to strength, we continue to innovate, strengthen both existing and new partnerships, and expand our scope year after year. While education remains at the core of everything we do, as of late, we have also placed a strong focus on elevating our salon partners’ businesses - with outstanding results.

Next year, as we celebrate our 30th anniversary, we have an exciting calendar ahead: collaborations with international talent, LABEL.M expanding its haircare presence, and an elevated transformation of our Education and Artistic team. So many exciting projects are on the horizon, and we look forward to sharing more following our upcoming bootcamp in London next month.

@toniandguyau

Leading haircare brand Revlon Professional has redefined the haircare game with their Color Excel Gloss acidic treatmentthe best toning option post lightening service to treat and colour hair gently. Achieving optimum results in just 10 minutes, this revolutionary formula is also powered by a glow-in -system that works to reverse the damage from chemical processes and rebuild structure to recover hair’s natural quality.

Engineered for those who aspire to go further with acidic colour without compromising hair health, this treatment has been formulated to neutralise cystic acid while working to glaze, tone, correct and enhance shine within one application. What’s more, with luminous results achieved from just 10 minutes of processing, less oxidation time is required which allows the opportunity for professionals to offer a quicker colour service.

Featuring a 41 shimmering shade palette, as of November 1st, Radiant Glow, is the new collection of 6 shades inspired by the shifting light from dusk to dawn.

These radiant shades evoke neutral luminosity for a healthy-looking colour.

This vegan formula is based on lipids and a naturally sourced emollient without any alcohols - which are notorious for stripping the hair’s natural lipidic layer. Based on a low alkalinity formula with high performing technology, this treatment has been clinically proven to achieve 2x less breakage, 6x smoother hair and 4x optimum shine that lasts up to 8 weeks.

DISCOVER WHY 9 OUT OF10

ACIDIC CREAM

BY

REVERSE DAMAGE & RECOVER HAIR’S NATURAL CONDITION FROM THE 1ST APPLICATION

This patent pending technology reverses damage from chemical processes & rebuilds structure to recover natural hair quality.

NATURAL HAIR

DAMAGED HAIR

WITH COLOR EXCEL GLOSS

CARE ONLY THIS CREAM CAN DELIVER IN HALF THE TIME**

Vegan cream avoids alcohols commonly found in other liquid acidic hair coloration that can strip hair’s natural lipidic layer, leaving it unprotected.

- NOT ALCOHOL BASED - LOW ALKALINITY

- HIGH PERFORMANCE

Stylists seeking to go further with acidic color that delivers incomparable care, color & shine in a damage-reversing demi-permanent hair gloss treatment to glaze, tone, correct, refresh, enhance & neutralize in just 10 minutes… this is for you!

These 6 new Color Excel Gloss shades by Revlon Professional with just 10 min processing time are launching November 1st.

Natural hair contains cysteine, an amino acid essential to the disulfide bonds in keratin, giving strength & elasticity

Chemical aggressors oxidize natural cysteine into cysteic acid, weakening hair structure

Natural hair contains cysteine, an amino acid essential to the disulfide bonds in keratin, giving strength & elasticity. Chemical aggressors oxidize natural cysteine into cysteic acid, weakening the hair structure. Color Excel Gloss rebuilds & repairs the hair structure, neutralizing cysteic acid contents & returning hair to its natural state.

Patent-pending technology rebuilds & repairs the hair structure, neutralizing cysteic acid contents & returning hair to its natural state

Patent-pending technology rebuilds & repairs the hair structure, neutralizing cysteic acid contents & returning hair

WITH COLOR EXCEL GLOSS Patent-pending technology rebuilds & repairs the hair structure, neutralizing cysteic acid contents & returning hair to its natural state

NATURAL HAIR DAMAGED HAIR COLOR EXCEL GLOSS

Empowering the

Solo Salon Owner!

By Louise May

For solo salon owners, independence is liberating and demanding. You’re the colourist, stylist, receptionist, social media manager. That’s why having a brand partner that delivers exceptional results and understands your unique business model is crucial. JOICO has stepped into this space, offering tailored support, premium products, and education that makes solo ownership feel less like going it alone.

Opening Doors for Solo Operators

Recognising the challenges of stepping into business without the buying power of a large salon, JOICO has exclusive opening packages designed specifically for solo operators. These collections remove pressure from minimum orders while giving independents access to the same professional-grade colour, lightening systems, and aftercare trusted by top salons. The offers are thoughtfully structured: start with the colour essentials, then expand into blonde services and backbar care with simple addons. For a solo operator, that means setting up a complete salon service menu in stages that are manageable and backed by quality from the start.

What stands out is the value built into these deals. Each package goes beyond the basics, including professional tools, accessories, and bonus gift bags. These aren’t just “nice extras” - they’re thoughtful touches that help solo owners present themselves with confidence and professionalism. JOICO isn’t just putting product on your shelves, they’re investing in the way you show up to your clients.

Colour That Performs Beyond Expectations

JOICO has long been recognised as a global leader in professional hair colour. Their portfolio is built on innovation and artistry, offering solo operators the ability to say yes to every client request.

• Vero K-PAK delivers versatile, reliable colour while rebuilding the hair.

• LumiShine ensures luminous shine with conditioning technology.

• Lumi10 offers full coverage in just 10 minutes — a game-changer for time-pressed operators.

• Color Intensity unlocks bold creative expression with vibrant, long-lasting shades. The common thread across JOICO’s colour systems is science-driven care. Infused with bond-strengthening complexes and advanced technology, JOICO shades don’t just transform hair, they protect and restore it. For a solo owner without a team of assistants, that reliability means everything: faster services, healthier hair, and clients who keep coming back.

It’s not just colour; it’s peace of mind. Knowing that every tube is backed by science and performance allows independents to work confidently, even on their busiest days.

Retail That Works For You

For solo operators, retail isn’t about shelves of products; it’s about adding value to the client experience and creating a steady revenue stream that works quietly in the background. JOICO retail collections, from the Defy Damage range to Blonde Life, Moisture Recovery, and K-PAK Reconstructive Care, are designed to extend salon results at home.

This means every service can be supported by a tailored recommendation that helps clients maintain their hair between visits while boosting the salon’s bottom line. For an independent operator, retail becomes a simple, powerful way to increase income without adding more hours to the day.

What’s more, JOICO packaging and brand recognition work in your favour. Clients trust the name, they love the results, and they’re more likely to purchase again, strengthening loyalty and reinforcing the professionalism of your salon space.

Beyond the Chair - Education for Growth

Working solo doesn’t mean working without guidance. JOICO’s education programs bring learning directly to solo owners, wherever they are.

Education is delivered in two key ways:

• Technical mastery, covering everything from advanced blonde work to corrective colour, product knowledge, and creative inspiration.

• Business development, offering insights on client management, retailing, and building a profitable, balanced business as a team of one.

JOICO’s education stands out for accessibility. With online tutorials,

step-by-step resources and live sessions, solo owners can learn at their own pace while still connected to a global professional education community. This flexibility means you never miss out, even if you can’t leave the salon.

Importantly, JOICO’s educators aren’t just product specialists, they’re industry professionals who understand salon life. The guidance feels practical, relevant, and immediately useful.

Building Confidence, Not Just Colour

Running solo can feel isolating, but JOICO is building a culture where independent operators feel part of something bigger. The opening offers are more than starter packs, they’re a statement that solo operators matter, and that they deserve the same opportunities for growth and excellence as larger salons.

For many independents, the difference comes down to confidence. With JOICO, you know you’re working with products that deliver every time, education that keeps you sharp, and a brand that treats you like a partner, not just a number.

That kind of support doesn’t just improve the services you provide, it shapes the way you feel about your business. It’s knowing you have a brand that sees your potential and equips you to thrive.

A Partner for the Solo Journey

As one of the industry’s most trusted professional brands, JOICO isn’t just about great hair; it’s about great partnerships. For solo salon owners, that partnership means feeling seen, supported, and equipped with the tools, knowledge, and confidence to deliver their best work.

Because when you’re standing behind the chair alone, it helps to know you have a partner invested in your success. And that’s exactly what JOICO delivers: brilliant hair, unwavering support, and a promise that solo salon owners will never have to feel like they’re going it alone.

www.sabrehaircare.com.au

The Secret to Scalp Health? A BALANCED MICROBIOME

Inspired by the latest in skincare, this barrier care routine features clinically tested formulas designed to preserve the delicate balance of the scalp barrier, ensuring optimal scalp and hair health.

Scalp Health

New Salon Standard.

Scalp health has moved from being a niche wellness interest to a mainstream beauty priority. Clients are no longer satisfied with quick fixes that mask the problem. They want real solutions; ones that address the root cause, restore balance, and help them feel confident about their hair again. This presents a major opportunity for salons to lead the conversation, offering treatments that blend professional expertise with science-backed results.

Range.

The results speak for themselves. Clinical testing has shown a 46.28% reduction in hair loss and a 19.81% increase in hair density after just 45 days when the Revitalizing Shampoo and TricoActive Ampoules are used together. For salon professionals, that kind of measurable data makes it easier to build trust with clients who are often looking for hope as much as they are for solutions.

Of course, today’s clients are also thinking beyond performance. They want products that reflect their values, and KINACTIF™ No. 8 doesn’t disappoint. The formulas are vegan-friendly, contain a high percentage of naturally derived ingredients, and are packaged in recyclable bottles that use less plastic. Combined with KIN’s clean beauty standards, developed in Europe and trusted by professionals around the world, the range delivers on both ethics and value.

Formulas enriched with prebiotics and high-performance actives that target the main scalp concerns: hair loss, dandruff, excess oil and sensitivity.

For Australian salons, this launch couldn’t be more timely. Hair loss and scalp concerns are not passing trends. They are long-term issues affecting clients of every age and stage. By introducing KINACTIF™ No. 8, salons can expand their service menus, strengthen retail offerings, and most importantly, provide meaningful solutions that go far beyond styling.

With the arrival of KINACTIF™ No. 8 in Australia, salons have access to a world-class range that places scalp health firmly at the centre of modern haircare. It’s an evolution that ensures both clients and professionals are looking at hair differently — starting from the scalp.

KINACTIF™ No. 8 is now available. To stock the range in your salon, contact Conceptual Brands at admin@conceptualbrands.com.au or call 1300 110 032.

Haircare. Goddess-Level Protection.

Introducing BIOPROTECTION™ — the future of hair maintenance. Powered by our proprietary molecule, a dual-action blend of Micropeptides and Macropeptides, BioTech Blowout™ goes beyond the surface level of hair to protect, hydrate, and strengthen hair from the inside out.

See stronger, shinier, healthier hair with every blowout. Heat defense, volume-boosting, frizz control, and long-lasting style. All in one lightweight formula.

Why Stylists Love It

Simple to use. Powerful to experience. BioTech Blowout™ fits seamlessly into your service routine, providing both treatment and styling benefits, and replacing the need for multiple products.

No mixing. No wait time. No extra steps. Simply apply to damp hair before styling. BioTech Blowout™ gets to work instantly, whether you’re blow-drying or air-drying.

Protection your clients will feel - and see.

One product. Every client. Every appointment. From natural to color-treated to textured hair, this treatment mask strengthens and shields every strand, no matter the type.

BioTech Blowout™ defends against heat, pollution, and frizz while enhancing style memory and curl retention. Hair stays smoother, longer.

High-Impact, low-effort add-on.

Use as an add-on service to boost shine, strength, and your bottom line. Bundle it with retail for at-home maintenance and an easy upsell.

A new era of

Styling with Dyson

The Dyson Supersonic™ r isn’t just another hairdryer; it’s a tool that’s changing the way professionals work. Smaller, lighter, and smarter, it gives stylists more control, more comfort, and more precision, without compromising on power. With intelligent heat control, ergonomic design, and a suite of attachments to suit every hair type, this next-generation innovation has

We asked Dyson’s Styling Ambassadors, Peter Thomsen, Monique McMahon, Michael Beel, and Gabrielle Roccuzo, to share how the Supersonic™ r is transforming their craft, the expert tips and tricks they rely on, and the feedback they’re hearing straight from the chair. The verdict? A tool that’s as powerful as it is protective, designed to deliver flawless results while keeping hair healthy.

GABRIELLE ROCCUZO, DYSON STYLING AMBASSADOR @gabrielleroccuzzo

What do you like about the Dyson Supersonic™ r?

The fact that it’s super lightweight makes it comfortable to use all day behind the chair and its compact design makes it easy to move around!

What’s different about it: The ergonomic shape is a game-changer for me, with less strain on my wrists and shoulders. It feels quieter than most dryers, so our salon experience is calmer. I also love the even airflow and wider nozzle, which gives me more control over my styling!

How I like to use it: I love it for many different reasons; I’ve listed some points below.

-The Pro Concentrator is perfect for creating smooth, polished blowouts.

-I love the diffuser for enhancing natural waves and curls without disturbing the pattern.

-Especially love the Flyway attachment to perfect my styling by removing flyways

Expert tips & tricks: The Flyaway attachment is my go-to for finishing sleek buns and ponytails or even polishing the top of a blow-dry. It smooths everything without needing too much product, which has been a game changer for red carpet events and being on set.

Always recommend drying hair 80% with the Gentle Air attachment before switching to the styling Pro Concentrator – it cuts down time and reduces frizz.

Feedback from the chair: Clients always comment on how light and quiet it feels compared to their dryer at home. Many say their hair feels less damaged since swapping to Dyson.

MICHAEL BEEL, DYSON STYLING AMBASSADOR

@michaelbeelhair

What do you like about the Dyson Supersonic™ r?

I adore how much smaller and lighter it is, but it offers the same power that we’ve always loved Dyson for! When you do 8-10 blow-dries a day, I no longer get the tension I used to get in my forearms.

What’s different about it?

The most obvious one is the shape, in all honesty it took me a day or so to get used to it, but now it feels like an extension of my arm, I know that sounds a little hippy, but it’s true lol.

How I like to use it: I love the different attachments, which they have for all hair types, especially the Gentle Air attachment for people with sensitive scalps after a bleach or great for short hair/male clients for using your fingers and

What do you like about the Dyson Supersonic™ r?

This feels like the next movement in how we style hair. I’m obsessed with two things: how lightweight it is and the precision styling it gives me. The finish is gorgeous - smooth, shiny, and healthy-looking. It just makes hair glow.

What’s different about it?

Beyond the shine and finish, the hair still feels alive, full of movement and elasticity. It never looks or feels over-dried or stressed, which is such a game-changer.

How I like to use it : I start with the Powerful Air attachment to quickly remove excess moisture, it’s so fast and sets me up perfectly for styling. Then I switch to the Pro Concentrator to create that precise, polished finish. It’s become my go-to way of working with the Supersonic r.

manipulating the texture in with your fingers! But I adore how the attachments stay cool so you can get right in at the hairline when doing a big blowout to make sure you get all those little pesky flyaways.

Experts Tips & tricks: The Flyaway attachment is amazing to run over your sleek hairs to push all those little hairs underneath to give you the most beautiful shine!

Feedback from the chair: Clients are amazed at how little and quiet it is … which does mean you need to talk to them while blow-drying now hahaha.

Expert tips & tricks:  The Flyaway attachment is brilliant for slick styles; it smooths everything down without flattening the look. I also love showing clients how to swap attachments depending on the style they want, it makes the tool feel really personal to them.

Feedback from the chair : The first reaction is always the same: “OMG what is that? Can I hold it?” Clients are blown away by how light it feels and how easy it is to handle. They can’t believe something so lightweight packs that much power, it’s always a fun moment to see their surprise.

PETER THOMSEN, DYSON GLOBAL STYLING AMBASSADOR

@ PJThomsen

What do you like about the Dyson Supersonic™ r?

Dyson Supersonic r. Its lightweight design makes it easy to handle during long styling sessions, while the fast-drying technology minimises heat exposure, protecting hair health. The intelligent heat control ensures I can style without worrying about damage. Plus, the variety of settings and attachments allow me to customise the experience for different hair types. Overall, it’s a fantastic tool that elevates the drying and styling process.

What’s different about it?

The difference definitely is the design of the lightweight machine and the intelligent heat control protecting the hair, but also still allowing it to dry quite quickly. There’s nothing else like it on the market.

How I like to use it: Depending on the hair type for the day, I find the attachments, like the Smoothing Nozzle, perfect for achieving that polished finish. It has truly transformed my styling experience and finish result. The shine is definitely a big factor, allowing the cuticle to smooth, which reflects healthy hair.

Experts Tips & tricks: I would definitely say use a variety of the nozzles depending on your finish you are after. A great one is the Flyaway attachment. This is also great for ponytails up-styles to give you a smoother, more polished finish.

Feedback from the chair: The first response from clients when using the Dyson Supersonic r is definitely the design and how small it is. They noticed the power and how fast the tool dries without their scalp feeling too hot and of course, the attachments, all the different attachments available for different finishes.

by the latest in skincare, this barrier care routine features tested formulas designed to preserve the delicate balance the scalp barrier, ensuring optimal scalp and hair health.

Where Hair and Skin Meet in the

Salon Experience

Great salons have always been about more than just hair; they’re about creating an experience where clients feel completely cared for from the moment they walk in. That’s where skincare comes naturally into the conversation. Distributed in Australia by Salon Pro Aus, MATTER OF FACT offers hair salons the opportunity to extend that sense of care with a simple, science-backed skincare solution that fits seamlessly into the salon environment.

Rather than overwhelming clients with endless choices, MATTER OF FACT keeps everything intentional and uncomplicated, a philosophy that mirrors the salon experience itself.

Just as clients trust their hairdresser to cut through the noise and deliver results, they can now trust their salon to guide them toward skincare that is elegant, effective, and easy to use. It’s not about adding complexity, but about offering a more holistic journey where skin and hair are both supported with the same professionalism and attention to detail.

Skincare Redefined

Founded by Paul Baek, the brand is built around Actisolv™, a patent-pending technology that stabilises and delivers active ingredients like Vitamin C and Azelaic Acid at optimal concentrations, with minimal irritation and proven results.

Each product undergoes rigorous testing through independent, third-party labs and is assessed across three methods: dermatologist and expert grading, instrumental measurements, and consumer self-assessments. Clinical trials are conducted across a wide range of skin tones and age groups, ensuring the results are reflective of real-world users.

Rather than overwhelming users with extensive product ranges, MATTER OF FACT keeps its offering focused and deliberate. Every formula is minimal, intentional, and designed for maximum performance, with elegant textures and real, measurable outcomes.

Backed by Professionals, Distributed by Salon Pro Aus

MATTER OF FACT is distributed in Australia by Salon Pro Aus, a boutique supplier of forward-thinking professional brands. While Director Simon Pitt is known in the industry for his decades of leadership across global salon manufacturers, it’s Educator and Beauty Therapist Megan Pitt who leads the professional education and hands-on support for the brand.

With over 30 years in the beauty industry, Megan’s experience spans roles with Steiner (onboard cruise ships), Elemis UK, Guinot UK & Australia, and work in top-tier retail environments including Harrods, Selfridges, and David Jones, with brands such as La Prairie and Decléor. For the past 13 years, she has balanced her realworld experience with a strong commitment to education through her longstanding role as a Beauty Educator at Bendigo TAFE.

To provide an independent expert perspective on the MATTER OF FACT range, Megan sat down with one of the Beauty industry’s most trusted voices in dermal therapy and education, Gay Wardle.

Gay, where did you first meet Simon Pitt and how did you first hear about MATTER OF FACT?

I first met Simon Pitt at an industry event where innovation and skin science were the key focus... We immediately connected through our shared passion for evidence-based skincare and education. When Simon introduced me to MATTER OF FACT, I was intrigued by the brand’s strong scientific foundation and commitment to high-performance formulations. As someone who values integrity and innovation in skincare, I was naturally curious to explore the

There’s a lot of buzz about the skincare brand MATTER OF FACT. What’s your expert opinion?

As someone who’s spent decades studying skin biology and working with clients and clinicians, I can say MATTER OF FACT stands out for all the right reasons. What impresses me most is the brand’s unwavering focus on stability, efficacy, and skin compatibility. Their formulations aren’t just trendy; they’re built on robust scientific research. The thoughtful combination of

ingredients, especially the stability of vitamin C in their products, shows a deep understanding of what the skin truly needs to thrive. It’s a brand that aligns with modern skincare values: results without compromise.

Thoughts on their L-ascorbic acid, encapsulated retinol, and azelaic formulations?

MATTER OF FACT’s formulations reflect an exceptional understanding of both skin physiology and ingredient chemistry. Their L-ascorbic acid stands out due to its unique waterless delivery system, which helps maintain stability, a known challenge with vitamin C. This ensures the skin receives consistent antioxidant protection and collagen support without the irritation that can sometimes occur with unstable formulas.

Gay Wardle

The encapsulated retinol is equally impressive. It offers a controlled release, minimising the common side effects associated with retinol while still delivering visible improvements in skin texture, tone, and firmness. It’s gentle yet effective, something I always look for, especially when treating sensitive or compromised skin. As for their azelaic formulation, it’s beautifully balanced. Azelaic acid is a quiet achiever in clinical skincare, known for addressing inflammation, pigmentation, and breakouts. MATTER OF FACT’s version is elegant in texture and highly tolerable, which is crucial for consistent use and long-term results.

How do their formulations compare to other clinical-grade brands?

What sets MATTER OF FACT apart is the synergy between scientific precision and user experience. Many clinical-grade brands lean heavily on strong actives, which can sometimes compromise barrier function or cause sensitisation. MATTER OF FACT takes a different path: they deliver high-performance ingredients in sophisticated, well-tolerated vehicles that prioritise skin health. Their minimalist yet potent ingredient decks avoid unnecessary fillers, fragrances, and irritants. It’s clear that every formulation has been meticulously crafted with stability, bioavailability, and real-world results in mind. Compared to other clinical-grade lines, MATTER OF FACT strikes a rare balance: science-led without being aggressive, luxurious without being superficial. It’s a brand I trust, both professionally and personally.

Would you recommend MATTER OF FACT for sensitive or acne-prone skin?

Yes, MATTER OF FACT has done a beautiful job formulating products that meet the needs of both sensitive and acne-prone skin. Their Resurfacing + Hydrating Serum is a standout: it combines gentle yet effective exfoliation with deep hydration. For acne-prone skin, this balance is critical. The inclusion of glycolic acid and gluconolactone helps to refine pores and smooth texture without stripping the skin or disrupting its natural barrier.

For sensitised or reactive skin types, the Barrier + Antioxidant Treatment and Minimalist Hydrating Moisturiser are ideal. Both are fragrance-free and formulated with barriersupportive ingredients like squalane, glycerin, and antioxidants. They’re non-comedogenic, calming, and help restore the skin’s natural resilience — making them excellent for daily use, even on compromised skin.

Would you recommend it for rosacea or eczema sufferers?

Yes, particularly the Barrier + Antioxidant Treatment and the Minimalist Hydrating Moisturiser. These products are exceptionally well-suited to skin affected by rosacea or eczema. They’re free of known irritants, fragrance, and harsh actives, and they focus on soothing, hydrating, and restoring the skin barrier.

The antioxidant blend in the Barrier + Antioxidant Treatment helps neutralise free radical damage and calm inflammation, both of which are key in managing rosacea. The Minimalist Hydrating Moisturiser offers rich hydration without heaviness or occlusion, which can sometimes exacerbate eczema flare-ups. These formulations allow compromised skin to repair itself in a calm and supportive environment, which is exactly what these conditions need.

They emphasise science-backed skincare. Do their claims stand up?

Absolutely. What I admire about MATTER OF FACT is that their claims are not just marketing, they’re substantiated by meticulous formulation science. Each product is designed with ingredient stability, bioavailability, and clinical effectiveness in mind. Their waterless vitamin C delivery system, for example, directly addresses the instability issues that have long challenged traditional L-ascorbic acid products.

This commitment to science is further reflected in their transparent communication and clinicalgrade testing. It’s rare to see this level of research paired with such elegant, tolerable formulations. In my view, they’ve set a new standard for what science-backed skincare should look like.

Your thoughts on their minimalist skincare philosophy?

I find their minimalist skincare philosophy incredibly refreshing and much needed in today’s crowded beauty market. MATTER OF FACT isn’t about chasing trends or overwhelming the skin with multiple actives. Instead, they focus on formulating with intention, using fewer, clinically proven ingredients in optimal concentrations. This approach supports the skin’s natural function, reduces the risk of irritation, and helps clients build a skincare routine that is effective, sustainable, and gentle. It’s smart skincare rooted in science, not hype.

How transparent are they about clinical testing and results?

MATTER OF FACT is one of the few brands I’ve seen that truly embraces transparency. They’re open about their formulation challenges, ingredient choices, and the data behind their results. You can clearly see the brand’s scientific rigour, not just in their ingredients, but in how they communicate with professionals and consumers alike. Their clinical testing is thorough, peer-informed, and shared in a way that helps you make informed decisions. In an industry where marketing often overshadows substance, this level of honesty is both rare and commendable.

What’s your personal favourite MATTER OF FACT product?

It’s hard to choose just one, but if I had to, I’d say the Barrier + Antioxidant Treatment is my current favourite. It’s a product I can confidently use on sensitised or post-treatment skin, and it delivers on every front - hydration, protection, and repair. The antioxidant blend is incredibly well-thoughtout, and the texture is luxurious yet lightweight. It’s a staple in my own routine and something I regularly recommend to clients recovering from clinical treatments or dealing with inflammation.

www.salonproaus.com.au @salonproaus | @matteroffact | @gaywardle

EXO-GROW Grows!

Adds Powerhouse Line-Up of Brand Ambassadors

EXO-GROW is rewriting the rules of hair restoration. Just three months since launch, it’s already making waves in over 80 countries. The global response has been phenomenal. And now, the brand is turning it up even more.

DermapenWorld proudly introduces its new ANZ Ambassador team: a powerhouse team of salon leaders who are respected across the industry and deeply passionate about transforming the way we approach hair loss and scalp health.

At the forefront is the iconic Tracey Hughes, Global General Manager of EXO-GROW. Tracey’s leadership and vision have helped shape the brand’s rapid rise.

She’s joined by four of the most influential names in hair: Helen Owens, Paul Dare, Mary Alamine, and Mana Dave. Together, they bring decades of experience, innovation, and heart to the EXO-GROW mission.

Each Ambassador shares a powerful belief. That hair loss is not just a cosmetic concern. It’s personal. It can shake confidence, alter identity and impact self-esteem. And while traditional drug therapies exist, they often plateau or come with unwanted side effects. That’s where EXOGROW steps in.

“We’re seeing more and more clients come in worried about hair loss,” says Helen Owens, Owner of Tigerlamb Salons. “It’s a deeply personal issue, and it can hit confidence hard. At Tigerlamb, we’ve always believed in going beyond the surface to help people feel their best. EXO-GROW has honestly blown me away. It’s smart, it works, and it gives our clients real results. We’re proud to be at the forefront of this evolving space, offering clients results and a pathway back to feeling like themselves.”

At the heart of EXO-GROW is cutting-edge Exosome technology. These nano-carriers act as messengers, extending the anagen (growth) phase of the hair cycle. They penetrate deep into the scalp, stimulating dormant follicles and encouraging renewal. The proprietary HLA-G COMPLEXA™ ensures the body doesn’t reject these biomimetic Exosomes, extending their longevity and effectiveness. This breakthrough helps overcome the stagnation often seen with other treatments.

Mary Alamine, Director of Royals Hair, brings both professional and personal insight to the table. “I’m so excited to be an EXO-GROW Ambassador because it aligns perfectly with everything I believe in—innovation, integrity and delivering real results. As someone who has personally experienced the challenges of fine and thinning hair, discovering a range that

supports scalp health and encourages growth is a game changer. EXO-GROW is not just another product line, it’s a solution I can confidently offer my clients. I know it’s going to transform my business and the way we treat hair and scalp concerns in-salon.”

Paul Dare, a name synonymous with excellence in Australian hairdressing, echoes the sentiment. “This revolutionary range is a game changer. It allows me to truly make a difference in my clients’ lives by addressing hair thinning with innovative Exosome technology. It boosts their confidence and it’s growing my business too. That’s the kind of impact every stylist dreams of.”

And from across the Tasman, Mana Dave—one of New Zealand’s most respected stylists—adds his voice to the movement. “DermapenWorld is such an innovative company. They’ve led the way in microneedling and skincare, and now they’re bringing that same revolutionary thinking to haircare. EXO-GROW is a niche range and the perfect retail solution to support clients with hair loss concerns. Not only does it deliver results, but what I love most is the incredible culture within the DermapenWorld team. It’s a brand with heart.”

EXO-GROW is more than a product. It’s a movement. It’s about restoring confidence, delivering visible results, and giving clients a reason to believe again. In a world where wellbeing is everything, EXO-GROW offers more than just great hair, it offers transformation.

“I’m so grateful for all our salons, clinics, and our incredible Ambassadors for believing,” says Tracey Hughes. “Together, we’re changing lives one scalp at a time.”

EXO-GROW is the latest bioscience defence against hair loss. With patented Exosome technology backed by clinical data, this is a scalp-first system that delivers visible, measurable results your clients will come back for.

Meet the MOD Squad: The Next-Gen Creative Force!

Ambitious. Fearless. Bursting with creative fire. The MOD Squad is here, and they’re ready to shake up the hairdressing game like never before.

In 2026, The Salon Forum is calling the industry to courage in the untamed heart of Tasmania. And for the first time, a new wave of boundary-pushing creatives will be stepping onto the stage to showcase their raw talent, bold artistry, and unshakable vision.

The MOD Squad Line-Up

Harrison Sansom

Fresh off a history-making year, Harrison is the AHIA NSW Hairdresser of the Year 2025 and Master Cutter of the Year 2025. Add to that his spot on the iconic FAME Team 2025, and it’s clear: Harrison is carving a new era of excellence.

Aimee Egan

A true creative force, Aimee’s striking artistic eye has already turned heads across the globe. From winning The Mane Event crown, to two AHIA finalist nods, to hitting the runway at New York Fashion Week — she’s rewriting the rules and bringing Australian artistry to the world stage.

Demelza Button

Vibrant, bold, and unapologetically eclectic, Demelza is redefining colour. With back-to-back AUS Gold wins in global creative awards and dual finalist spots for SA/TAS Hairdresser of the Year at both the AHFAs and AHIAs, she’s cementing her place as one of the industry’s most exciting colour visionaries.

The Fourth Spot: It Could Be You.

That’s right — CPR Hair are opening the final place in the MOD Squad to the fearless creatives of the hair world. If you’re ready to step up, push boundaries, and showcase your artistry at Salon Forum 2026, this is your moment.

The winner will join Harrison, Aimee, and Demelza on stage in Tasmania — with an all-expenses-paid trip by CPR Hair and the chance to present your craft in front of our community at The Salon Forum.

The Salon Forum will be held in Tasmania Sunday 15th – Monday 16th February at Spring Mill Bay and is an annual transformative experience, brought to you by CPR, designed to empower salon owners and their teams. This unique event goes beyond the art form of hairdressing, focusing on essential aspects that contribute to a fulfilling and successful daily life.

One of the key highlights of The Salon Forum is the chance to create a vision for the future. The event encourages you and your salon team to dream big, think outside the box, and craft a 12-month roadmap to success.

Goal Setting and Mindset: Learn how to set ambitious, yet achievable, goals and cultivate a winning mindset to reach new heights in your salon journey.

Confidence and Creativity: Nourish your creative spirit and boost your confidence in experimenting with new trends and techniques. Embrace inspiration that keeps you at the fore front of the industry.

Holistic Salon Service©: Empowers you to implement efficient salon systems that ensure a consistently high level of service for every client in the salon, and between visits.

Salon Branding and Social Media: Enhance your social media game and harness its power to attract and engage clients. Learn from experts in digital marketing and expand your salon’s online presence.

Health and Well-Being: Amid the bustling salon life, we mustn’t forget to prioritize our health and wellbeing. Discover strategies to maintain balance and foster a positive work-life relationship.

With Guest Presenters Sophia Hilton & The Salon Dr, more exciting announcements are coming soon!

HOW TO ENTER THE MOD SQUAD

Scan the QR code and complete the short form for your chance to claim the final MOD Squad spot.

Entries close: Friday October 10, 5pm AEST

The winner will be announced on social media and directly contacted by the CPR Hair team.

Thank you to the official media partners - Mocha Hair. www.cprhair.com

From TikTok to Fades

How the future of barber training is being rewritten!

By Jimmy O’Brien

Meet Natalie Turmine, the CEO of Service and Creative Skills Australia (SaCSA). SaCSA is the Jobs and Skills Council for the Arts, Personal Services, Retail, Tourism and Hospitality sectors.

Working within a tripartite approach, SaCSA is the critical link between industry stakeholders, government and unions and aims to provide a stronger, more strategic voice in ensuring Australia’s Vocational Education and Training sector delivers stronger outcomes for employers, workers, learners, trainers and educators.

SaCSA is currently undertaking a full review and update of Hairdressing and Barbering Qualifications, which includes the Certificate III in Barbering. We caught up with Natalie to learn more about this project and the implications it will have for the Barbering industry.

SaCSA has been leading the Review of Hairdressing and Barbering Qualifications, which includes the CERTIFICATE III IN BARBERING. What’s driving this review, and why now?

The Hairdressing and Barbering industries have seen massive change in recent years, from evolving client expectations and emerging business models to the influence of social media and digital platforms. However, what we’ve consistently heard through deep engagement with industry is that the current training qualifications haven’t kept up with this pace of change.

That’s why SaCSA is leading a full review of the core qualifications in Hairdressing and Barbering, including the Certificate III in Barbering. We’re looking at everything from foundational training right through to the Diploma level. The aim is to ensure that training is practical, relevant, and reflects what barbers and hairdressers need in today’s real-world environments.

What are some of the key issues or challenges the industry has raised about the current qualification?

One of the key concerns is that the current qualification doesn’t reflect how barbering actually works in practice.

The language in the training package doesn’t use barber-specific industry terms, which creates confusion between what’s taught and what’s done on the job.

Another issue is that the structure and content of the qualification still follow a salon-based service model, but barbershops tend to be much faster-paced. They’re often walk-in based, with shorter service times and a higher client turnover, which is something the current training approach doesn’t really support.

There’s also a mismatch in skills. Some units include things like basin

services that don’t align with what barbers require. At the same time, the technical skills that are vital, like clipper work, fades and beard sculpting, aren’t always being taught to the standard expected by industry. That’s partly because many RTOs struggle to find trainers with current, specialist barbering experience.

We’re also hearing that apprenticeships, as they currently stand, aren’t always sustainable for employers, particularly smaller barbershops that need someone on the floor quickly. And because there’s no requirement to be qualified to work as a barber in most states, there’s not a strong incentive for learners to complete their training. Dropout rates remain high, often driven by poor experiences with RTOs, low learner engagement, or the extended duration of the formal Certificate III pathway.

What does a “fit for purpose” qualification look like in today’s barbering industry?

A fit-for-purpose qualification in barbering should reflect the real needs of the industry from day one. That means learners are acquiring the appropriate skills and knowledge needed by industry and are being taught by experienced barbers who can deliver contemporary, technical skills like skin fades, scissor work, beard sculpting and razor techniques.

It also needs to be hands-on and relevant to how barbershops operate, which is fast-paced, walk-in based and focused on job-ready skills. Real client interaction and real-world experience should be built into the training from the outset.

Flexibility is another key factor. We’re hearing strong support for modular or staged pathways that get learners onto the floor quickly, support sustainable employment, and still allow them to work towards a full Certificate III over time.

The qualification should also offer opportunities to extend into advanced skills, from colouring and longer hair styling to grooming and waxing, to reflect evolving services offered by modern barbershops. It should support business readiness too, with elective units in branding, social media and client retention to help barbers move into self-employment or freelance work.

Training should embed professionalism and customer experience, including building the interpersonal and cultural skills needed to offer inclusive services and build client trust.

Ultimately, a fit-for-purpose qualification is one that motivates learners to stay engaged, builds their confidence, and prepares them for a long, successful career in the barbering industry.

Beyond technical skills, what other capabilities are becoming essential for barbers today? How might these be reflected in training?

While technical ability is core, today’s barbers also need a broad set of professional and personal capabilities to succeed.

Strong client communication is essential to build rapport, manage expectations, and create a welcoming, inclusive environment for all clients. Training should help learners develop these interpersonal skills and cultural awareness from the start.

Time management is also critical in a fast-paced, walk-in barbershop. Barbers need to work efficiently while maintaining quality. This means training should mirror that pace and help learners build confidence in working to time.

Professional presentation and hygiene remain non-negotiable. A fit-forpurpose qualification should reinforce high standards in personal grooming and maintaining a clean, safe workspace.

Digital skills are also increasingly important. Many barbers build their client base through social media and use booking platforms to manage their business. Training could offer optional units or exposure to tools like Instagram, TikTok and digital booking systems.

There’s also value in developing basic commercial awareness. Understanding things like pricing, customer loyalty, and rent-a-chair or commission models can support learners in real-word career success.

Finally, confidence and resilience are vital in a hands-on, client-facing job. Training should support learners to build self-assurance, receive and act on feedback, and develop a strong professional mindset.

By embedding these capabilities into the qualification, we’re preparing wellrounded professionals ready to succeed in today’s evolving industry.

With an evolving workforce, what do you see as the biggest opportunity for attracting and retaining new talent in barbering?

One of the biggest opportunities lies in how we promote the career pathway. Young people want to see where barbering can take them, not just the entry point. That could be mastering advanced fades and grooming, competing at a national level, or eventually opening their own barbershop. Making that progression visible and achievable is key to sparking long-term interest.

Training also needs to be fast, hands-on and job ready. Learners want to build skills quickly and start working. Modular or skill-set-based entry options can help keep them engaged and employed, while still supporting a full qualification pathway over time.

Telling real success stories from within the industry can also be powerful. When learners see barbers who’ve built strong personal brands, loyal client bases or successful businesses, it shifts the perception of barbering from a short-term option to a career with real potential.

Another big factor is the quality of the training experience. Trainers with recent, real-world barbering experience who are passionate and connected to industry make a huge difference. Investing in this workforce will help students feel seen, supported, and inspired to stay the course. Lastly, the industry has an opportunity to focus on inclusion. Today’s learners are looking for workplaces and training environments that reflect modern value, inclusive of all genders, backgrounds and identities. That sense of belonging needs to be built into both the culture and the curriculum if we want people to stay and thrive.

SaCSA will be undertaking more consultations across Australia. What can barbers expect from this process, and how can they get involved?

Barbers can expect a genuine opportunity to help shape the future of their industry. SaCSA is running barber-specific consultations to better understand what’s working, what’s not, and what needs to change in the current Certificate III in Barbering. This is your chance to make sure the next version of the qualification truly reflects the realities of barbering today.

Our nation-wide roundtables will commence this September. We want to hear directly from barbers. Whether you’re a shop owner, rent-a-chair operator, apprentice, or trainer, your lived experience matters. Your insights into training, workforce needs and career pathways will help guide the reforms.

We’ll be sharing what we’ve heard and showing how it’s being used, so you can see your voice is being heard and making an impact.

To get involved, keep an eye on our website and LinkedIn. You can submit an enquiry on our website or sign up for our monthly newsletter to stay in the loop.

www.sacsa.org.au

The Journey Behind

The Awards

By Kristie Kesic

2025 AHIA Master Colourist of the Year, 2025 AHIA Collective Team of the Year with Dee Parker Attwood, and 2025 AHIA BTS Dream Team with Andrew O’Toole, Kylie O’Toole, and Catherine V.

When I was asked to write about awards submissions and the creative process, my first thought wasn’t the “how-to” of entering. For me, creating a collection has never been about following a particular strategy—it’s a journey. And every creative’s journey is unique.

This is mine. It won’t look like anyone else’s, and that’s the beauty of creativity. If we all tried to copy each other, there would be nothing original left. I was talking to Sheridan Rose Shaw recently about the creative processes, and I said at the end, “Not many people would get what I just said.” She completely got it. IYKYK! Some will relate to this story, others won’t—and that’s okay.

I could break down my collection, point out where the inspiration came from, explain how I approached the colour, but I don’t want my process to steer someone off their own path. Every creative has their ideas, and outside influence can be overwhelming. Trust your team. Trust your vision. Let the collection evolve. Where my ideas started and where the collection ended up was very different— There were moments of doubt: Followed by bursts of excitement: That rollercoaster is part of the journey.

Remember, everyone sees the world differently. What inspires me won’t inspire others.

Why do we do it?

Every creative should ask themselves: Why am I entering awards? Is it for the title, brand deals, guest artist roles? Maybe for some it’s ego. For me, it’s my creative outlet and I love it. The day I stop loving it, is the day I will stop doing it.

My salon work fills me with pride—providing employment, career opportunities for my team, and helping clients look and feel their best. But photoshoots are my personal creative release

Seven finals, one night of three wins, with one collection.

I entered Colourist of the Year at the AHIA (previously Hair Expo) and for seven years in a row, I was a finalist. Then, BOOM this year I won three awards in one night with a single collection: Master Colourist of the Year, Collective Team of the Year with Dee Parker Attwood, and BTS Dream Team with Andrew O’Toole, Kylie O’Toole, and Catherine V. Some people may think it’s crazy to keep entering without winning, but I never saw it that way. In those seven years, Justin Pace won twice, Stevie English won four times , and Amber Bullock won last year. Honestly did I think in any of those 7 years my collection should have won? No! This year did I think my collection should have won? For the first time, yes, I felt deep down that my collection should win. Now I don’t say that from a place of arrogance—it comes from being humble enough and respectful enough to those previous winners, to know that for seven years I knew my collection wasn’t the best there was.

As creatives, putting your work forward means accepting when someone else’s work is stronger. Collections are subjective. One judge might love it, another might not. You have to be okay with that. If we put our work forward to be judged, we must also accept that people aren’t going to like it or accept when someone else’s work is stronger. Yes, there will be times when you look at a collection and think, “How did that win”, you are allowed think that, you

are allowed be pissed off but there’s also a humility required in this space. One of my collections was only a finalist for colour but won Master cutter of the year. Another collection didn’t win Australian Master Colourist but did win International Colourist of the year. Each competition and category have their own criteria, how each collection is viewed and what resonates with one judge will be different to the next.

The Changing Landscape of Awards

The awards process has shifted over time. Until last year, the Colourist category was unique: no extensions, no wigs— everything had to be on the model’s real hair. Submissions were weighted 50/50 between photographs and a written resume outlining industry contributions. Last year, the written component was removed, wigs and extensions were allowed, but the rule against digital colour manipulation remained. For me, sharing behind-the-scenes shots, especially of colour, is important. I want people to see the reality of the colour work— no editing trickery.

The Importance of Team

I’ve been asked if there was anything I did differently this year that led to these wins. The truth is this year I went all in — but I didn’t go in alone. I went in with a team that, for the first time in my career, I finally felt worthy of collaborating with. I know my strengths. Having the right team elevates everything, and this year I was lucky enough to work alongside Dee Parker- Attwood and Andrew O’Toole, as well as Catherine V and Kylie O’Toole.

But here’s the thing: it wasn’t just about asking them or paying their fee. A collection is never one person’s achievement — it’s always a team effort. You can’t just hire great people and expect them to create a winning collection for you. When creatives of this calibre put their name to a project, they’re investing themselves too. That means you have to show up, build trust, and be creatively aligned with them because this is when you will get the best and most out of it. For me, it was less about whether they would say yes, it was about could I contribute something of value alongside them. This year, I finally felt that sense of worthiness, and I think that’s what made all the difference. I am without a doubt a better creative because of this journey I went on this year.

A Journey Full of Obstacles

This year’s collection was far from smooth. I had everything organised—hair, prep, timing. Then Cyclone Alfred hit. Three massive trees fell on my house and property, forcing my family to leave. We had to close the salon and reschedule clients for four days, then day one of prep the salon had no power all which resulted in my prep time being slashed from seven days to two. I also had to post hair to Dee before airports closed. Most people would’ve cancelled. That wasn’t an option for me. Money can be made back—but people’s time, energy, and belief in you cannot. With some very wise words of — “I just need you to get your head in the game because we’ve got this” and “You just need to get on the plane”—I did.

Shoot day was the most fun I’ve ever had. Previous collections were amazing, but this was next level. Brilliant, generous humans collaborating, laughing, and creating— bucket-list moment.

What Winning Really Means

A trophy is beautiful, and yes, I wanted it. But the real reward is the relationships, connections, and trust built along the way. Winning can open doors—brand deals, guest artist opportunities, ambassador roles—but I had already built all of that without winning. By consistently showing my work, entering competitions, and contributing to the industry, I earned respect and opportunity. Perseverance builds respect. Showing up year after year—even without a win— demonstrates resilience and commitment. That’s what makes people want to work with you.

Winning as a team is another level entirely. Collections don’t happen alone. Having a collection recognised individually, as a collective, and as a team—this is unforgettable.

The people that have wanted to help me along the way is unbelievable. On awards night, the people by my side cheering me on and celebrating were there because of years of connection. That’s something you can’t buy, fake, or tell someone how to achieve.

Advice for Other Creatives

If I could offer guidance to anyone considering entering awards:

• Find your own process. Don’t copy someone else. Discover what inspires you and follow it.

• Respect the journey. You may not win the first time, or the seventh. That doesn’t mean failure. Every year is growth, every collection a stepping stone.

• Choose your team. Work with people who inspire, challenge, and elevate you.

• Stay humble. Respect when others’ work is stronger. Learn from it—it will strengthen you.

• Persevere. Trophies gather dust. What lasts is reputation, relationships, and the impact you make.

@kristiekesic_colourist

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O B R A UC S

Created by the 2025 winners of the CURATE Awards, Jess Wilson, Kynan Booty, Elisha Forgione, Kealey-Grace Harkins and Kobi Lee, ‘Obscura’ explores the tension between what is revealed and what remains hidden.

The word obscura comes from the Latin for “darkened,” and evokes both mystery and concealment. It recalls the camera obscura, an ancient device where light enters a dark space to reveal hidden images, and is a fitting metaphor for this collection, where darkness becomes a lens, a filter that changes what we see and what we imagine.

This exciting next-gen team worked on the shoot together under the expert guidance of CURATE Founder and Mentor Justin Pace as part of the overall CURATE prize package valued at over $51k. This huge list of prizes also included Excellent Edges Scissors, ghd Electrical Tools, ELEVEN Australia Styling Products and exclusive L’Oréal ACCESS education vouchers.

With the winners coming from all across Australia and New Zealand, the team workshopped together to create the looks through a series of Zoom sessions alongside Justin, all collaborating creatively from start to finish. Their ‘Obscura’ is a visual symphony of colour, form, and texture. It demonstrates how hair can become a medium for light itself, reflecting, absorbing, and refracting in ways that draw the viewer in.

Look One – Hair is reimagined as sculpture with copper strands meticulously woven into an intricate headpiece that encases the head like armour. The structure is at once regal and protective, balancing strength with fragility.

Look Two – A crown of intricate curls rises dramatically, dusted with gradients of smoky lilac. The play of light across its peaks and troughs enhances the sense of height and dimension, like a sculpted column.

Look Three – Rich crimson tendrils are sculpted into fluid, lacquer-like waves that seem to melt and reform. With light grazing across its surface, the hair appears alive and liquid.

Look Four – Platinum blonde is cut into clean, geometric planes, fractured with panels of deep violet. Under the shifting shadows, the blunt lines become sharper, revealing the precision cutting layered with the softness of colour.

Look Five – Volume soars upward in a towering form, streaked with an electric flash of cobalt blue. This look embodies the collections theatrical nature, bold, exaggerated, and unapologetically commanding.

Look Six – Sleek strands fall with razor-sharp precision, the neutral tones ignited by a vertical blaze of neon yellow. Concealed angles and revealed textures shift depending on where the shadow cuts.

Look Seven - Woven copper reveals its true intensity with intense shine and vibrancy. Light and shadow divide the face, while the textured weave conceals as much as it reveals.

The strength of ‘Obscura’ lies not only in its technical execution but in its conceptual layering. The collection asks the viewer to see hair not as static, but as ever-changing, the mood altered by a flicker of shadow, colour transformed by a shard of light. Each image is an invitation to question what is being revealed and what remains hidden.

Special thanks go to the CURATE 2025 Collaborators who are supporting this dynamic talent including Official Media Partner Mocha Group, Major Partner L’Oréal Access, Prize Partners Excellent Edges, ghd and ELEVEN Australia, Sustainability Partner Sustainable Salons, and Proud Supporters MIG Training, the AHC and Jadore Hair who also supplied all hair for the shoot.

Collection Credits

Hair & Fashion: CURATE Team 2025 Jess Wilson, Kynan Booty, Elisha Forgione, Kealey-Grace Harkins and Kobi Lee, mentored by CURATE Founder Justin Pace

Photography: Jarred Stedman

Makeup: Brinley Parigi and Felicity Smith

Freedom

“My inspiration came from the supermodels in the George Michael video and their beauty, coolness and sophistication, all in one shot.”

Kerry Mather

Hair by Kerry Mather at KJM salons, Fleet, Hampshire

Make-up: Lauren Mathias

Styling: Clare Frith Photographer: Richard Miles

DAZZLING ESSENCE II

By Mark van Westerop

Dazzling Essence, created by Keune Global Ambassador Colour & Style Mark van Westerop, features bold, iridescent colours and unique details that make a statement. This collection is designed for style icons, showcasing sleek lines and dynamic shapes that grab attention. Each look offers refined nuances for a modern, luxurious feel, while the vibrant colours radiate energy and confidence. Dazzling Essence pushes boundaries and brings creativity to a whole new level.

@markvanwesterop

Make-up: Angelique Stapelbroek

Styling: Ed Noijons

Photographer: Studio IvodeKok

Mark van Westerop

Hair by Mark van Westerop at Pro Solo, Alkmaar, The Netherlands

From My Chair to Your Heart.

By Shae Tsiknaris

Wow… what a whirlwind these past few months have been! So much has happened since the AHIA Awards have come and gone. Time really flies when you’re doing what you love.

We kicked off the weekend at Hair Festival, and what an experience! It gets bigger and better every year. My brother in law Dimitri and I had the honour of being interviewed on the Hair Stage, where we shared the beautiful connection between our salon and Alfaparf. Being brand ambassadors for a brand we truly believe in is such a privilege, and sharing that moment together was incredibly special.

This year, my son Harry came along and soaked it all in. Seeing everything through his eyes made it even more magical.

To wrap up the weekend, the AHIA Awards were a true showstopper. It was their 20th anniversary, and I was incredibly honoured to be invited by Linda Woodhead to be part of the Masters and Mavericks show an experience I’ll carry with me forever. Standing on stage alongside industry icons like Caterina Di Biase, Benny Tognini, Shane Henning, Joey Scandizzo, Danny Pato, and Stevie English (who was sadly away) felt surreal. And Jane Wild’s iconic bobble heads just wow. I’d never seen anything like them!

Another highlight was meeting the legendary Adam Williams. His energy, creativity, and stage presence were nothing short of electric a true masterclass in performance and passion.

I never imagined moments like this in my life. Being part of the show came from winning Master Cutter of the Year three times an honour I still find humbling. That recognition led to receiving the Medal of Honour, alongside others who’ve made their mark in the industry. It was overwhelming and unforgettable.

What made it even more meaningful was having my mum there to witness it. She flew all the way from Perth to meet me and Harry in Sydney. My mum is my life coach always by my side. Her support is constant and having her in the room meant everything. Sharing that moment with her is a memory I’ll treasure forever.

Sadly, my husband Chris couldn’t be there, he was recovering from an operation. Even more bittersweet, he was also a finalist for Creative Colourist of the Year. Not having him there was tough, but I carried him with me in spirit. I’m so proud of all he’s achieved, and I know we’ll have many more moments to celebrate together.

The Next Generation

Another emotional high point was watching my brother-in-law, mentor, and boss, Bill Tsiknaris, be inducted into the Hall of Fame, receiving the Dennis Langford Award. Sharing that moment with him gave me goosebumps. And to top it off, our salon team took home Salon Team of the Year! Although we didn’t win in our other categories, I want to sincerely congratulate all the winners. Your passion is so inspiring.

As I always say just because we didn’t win them doesn’t mean we’re done. Being finalists is a huge achievement. It pushes us to grow, take risks, and stay curious. And being uncomfortable? That’s where the magic happens.

Life Behind the Chair

Back in the salon, I was reminded that hairdressing is so much more than just hair. A long-time client shared that her son had passed from cancer. I held her no words, just presence. Later, she said, “I’m so glad I came in. I really needed that.”

This is why we do what we do. It’s not just hair. It’s heart. A privilege to hold space through life’s highs and lows.

Watching our juniors grow has been a joy. From nervous beginners to confident stylists they’re stepping up every day. I recently did a Milano wave and let one of them take over the neutralising process. They nailed it! I’m still working on convincing them that perming is fun (they’re not quite there yet).

Style wise, big bouncy blowouts are still in, but I’m loving the shift toward undone, beachy waves. With the new GHD curl tongs and the GHD Duet, we’ve been creating long-lasting, effortless looks our guests love and can recreate at home.

A Little Life Outside the Salon

On a lighter note I’ve become oddly obsessed with pulling weeds lately. The grass isn’t growing much this winter, but the weeds? Thriving. There’s something oddly satisfying about clearing them, even knowing they’ll be back. It reminds me of split ends always returning and thank goodness they do… or we’d be out of a job!

Until next time, my beautiful people keep showing up as you are, stay inspired, and never underestimate the power of simply being there for someone.

With love, Shae xx

EDUCATION

EDUCATION EPIC BARBER BATTLE

Apprentices - are they becoming extinct?

By Emily Ciardiello

If we listen carefully, we can almost hear them...the eager young apprentice, stepping into the salon ecosystem for the first time. Wide-eyed, full of promise, and ready to learn…

But these once-abundant creatures are becoming increasingly rare. Once thriving in salons across the country, apprentices are now at risk of becoming an endangered species.

After attending Industry Day (an Australian Hairdressing Council event), it has become even more apparent that a concerning number of young people are choosing not to enter an apprenticeship in hairdressing or if they have, they soon disappear never to be found again.

Other worrying stats? Formal training in salons is happening a little under 60% of the time and only 5% are receiving more than 5 hours a week. Many apprentices aren’t receiving weekly training at all. When they do, they often describe it as too slow and repetitive. Like animals in captivity, their natural curiosity and drive are nullified when they’re not stimulated and challenged.

In the wild, apprentices thrive from hands-on experience and dynamic learning. Their favourite part of the day? Working on clients - feeling the excitement of real-life transformation and this is closely followed by training and learning new things.

But there’s a new predator in the ecosystem: fear.

As both creators and consumers on social media, many apprentices are terrified of being judged by their peers. Instead of exploring, experimenting, and boldly sharing their creations, they hide in the shadows - fearful of attack from critics.

What can we, as the guardians of this habitat, do to help this species not only survive, but flourish?

1. Rethink training: Apprentices need stimulating, engaging, and fastpaced learning. Repetition without purpose dampens their spirit. Let’s keep training relevant, exciting, and reflective of the world they have observed.

2. Create safe spaces: Social media should be a place to showcase, not shame. Support apprentices publicly, encourage them to share, and celebrate their growth without fear.

3. Show them the way: Young apprentices need clear pathways. Share success stories of those who started in the same chair and are now thriving as salon owners, educators, and/or international artists.

4. Value them as future leaders: Apprentices aren’t just spare hands to fold towels. They’re the next generation of creators, innovators, and industry voices.

5. Celebrate daily wins: A quick “well done” after a blow-dry, a shoutout on Instagram, or a simple thank you can build confidence and loyalty stronger than any pay check.

6. Connect with them in their natural habitat: One wise salon leader shared that they invite their apprentices to take turns blow-drying her hair each day. It’s a moment of close connection - like grooming rituals seen in the wild - allowing apprentices to bond with their leader while honing their skills. Another leader flips this dynamic, gently blow-drying the apprentice’s hair instead - a nurturing gesture that builds trust and reminds them they’re part of the same pack.

We all need to understand what this species needs to thrive: purpose, flexibility, connection, and recognition. Without these vital elements, they’ll continue to disappear, seeking greener pastures in other industries or leaving altogether.

At Industry Day, I felt the collective heartbeat of an industry that deeply cares. But if we don’t take urgent action, we risk losing these incredible young talents forever.

Imagine a future where apprentices thrive - bold, creative, and confident, moving freely and joyfully through the salon floor. A future where more salons buzz with energy, mentorship, and innovation, rather than echoing with the silence of empty chairs.

We have the power to restore balance. To protect, nurture, and empower these magnificent creatures.

Because if we don’t - who will foil or hold the scissors next? AI? I doubt it.

It’s time to act now before apprentices become extinct and then eventually, the industry.

As always, be kind during your grind - and remember, we’re here to thrive, not just survive.

@foilmefoils @foilme.thedressinggownceo www.foilme.com.au

IMPORTANT DATES:

PRODUCT ENTRY DEADLINE 2 nd FEBUARY ‘26

GENERAL ENTRY DEADLINE 20 th FEBUARY ‘26

FINALISTS ANNOUNCED 23 rd MARCH ‘26

AWARDS NIGHT 20 th APRIL 2026 GOLD COAST, QLD

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

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 longterm 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 x

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Reflection, Rejection, Redirection

By Domi Cherie

This year has been filled with moments I’ll never forget. But I’d be lying if I said I haven’t felt alone in some of them — even in the middle of the action, the lights, the stage.

It’s strange, isn’t it? How you can be surrounded and still feel like you’re on the outside looking in. Like there’s a part of you nobody quite sees or understands.

For a long time, I thought those parts made me broken. Now I know they’re what make me an artist. A dreamer. A leader. And sharing them is often how you find the people who truly get it — and get you.

I’ve been told “no” more times than I can count. Told who I should be, how to act, and where my limits were. The AHIA stage was never supposed to be one of them. Definitely not in multiple categories, across multiple years. And yet, here I am.

The Myth of the Win

In our industry, it’s easy to look at trophies as a finish line. But let’s be honest: the moment your name is called doesn’t suddenly make you excellent. Awards don’t create excellence; they spotlight the years of invisible discipline, mistakes, and resilience it takes to get there. They are mirrors of the journey, not destinations. Every “no” I’ve ever received was really a redirection. Every failure was a lesson disguised as rejection. And when I stood on stage with an award in my hand, it wasn’t validation, it was reflection. Proof that I kept showing up, even when I didn’t want to.

Because this isn’t just about trophies. It’s about turning every time a boss or a mentor laughed at me, told me “no,” called me obsessed and transformed it into a quiet watch me.

It’s about having enough self-belief to take what is real influence, learn from it, and drown out everything that doesn’t serve you in becoming the artist, the leader, the dreamer, the person you want to be.

People see the winning shot, the polished collection, the final trophy moment. Truthfully, I don’t like a large majority of the shots I’ve produced. But here’s the difference: I keep making them anyway. Because art is a subjective evolution — a never-ending pursuit of creative excellence. Just like you’ll change as a person, so will your art and what you create.

Rejection as Redirection

Every stylist, colourist, and educator knows rejection. A collection that doesn’t finalise. An opportunity that goes to someone else. A client who doesn’t rebook. A client who doesn’t like your work.

It hurts in the moment. But in hindsight, those moments are often redirections. They push us to sharpen our craft, rethink our approach, or double down on our vision.

The truth? I’ve learned far more from the “no’s” than I ever have from the “yes’s.”

And when you embrace rejection as redirection, you build something far more powerful than confidence: resilience. Because you can shine bright for a year — or you can become strong enough to remain in the room through all of life’s seasons.

Survival to Thriving

The truth is, I was built in survival.

My early years in hair, much like my early years in life, were about endurance. About adapting, pleasing, performing. Learning to read the room before I read a book.

But today, I have the privilege of thriving.

That doesn’t mean the journey has been clean or linear. Nor have I “arrived.” I’ve simply moved into a new season of growth. Growth is messy. Courage is quiet. Success is layered in mistakes,

resilience, and choosing to show up — even when it isn’t perfect. Every trophy on a shelf is the visible tip of an iceberg. Beneath it is a body of work most people will never see: the failures, the pivots, the discipline to keep creating.

The beauty of that work is what brings my art to life — and what I’m fortunate enough to share with the world. The internal work, the journey, the way you look at the world — all of it shapes what you produce. Moments in life that live forever in six images.

What Awards Really Mean

Winning isn’t about perfection. It’s about persistence. It’s about staying the course when it would’ve been easier to give up. Elevating yourself and your craft even when you’re tired, disheartened, or misunderstood. Awards don’t make you excellent. They reveal the excellence you’ve already built in the dark.

Winning isn’t validation. It’s reflection.

And if you’re brave enough to see rejection as redirection, you’ll always keep moving forward — with or without the trophy.

Because at the end of the day, the trophy isn’t the win. The win is the courage to keep creating, even when no one’s watching. One day if you keep that path, you’ll hold an award to reflect that journey.

@domi.cherie

100ml Tube

From Calm to Comeback: Hairdressing Culture Reimagined

By Hayley Mears

It’s official, peeps! Hairdressing culture is not just back; it’s ready to take charge, and honestly, the energy buzzing through the industry right now is A TOTAL VIBE!. After a few years of what felt like a collective deep breath, we’re seeing a reawakening, and I’ve been lucky enough to witness it firsthand.

Back in June, my Cutting Through The Noise podcast partner, Stephanie Mason, and I headed to Manchester. Why, you ask? Because we had the incredible opportunity to be the official podcast partners for HAIR CON, and let me tell you, it was an experience unlike any other. Imagine the Coachella of hair events – a massive warehouse brimming with artists, stages, and activations.

The brand experiences were so immersive, they practically pulled you in and took you on a brand journey. It was vibrant, new, refreshing, and genuinely innovative. It wasn’t just an event; it was a jolt of innovation that made me feel like our industry was truly alive again. One thing I couldn’t help but notice was the huge groundswell around tech and hair loss, with these sectors really dominating the exhibition hall. It’s clear where some of the biggest innovations are brewing!

Just a few short days later, I was at it again, this time at Hair Festival, touching down with just enough time to get full night’s sleep before going at it again. Seeing the crowds pouring in on day one felt like a throwback to my heyday in the early 2000s, when Hair Expo was at its peak and our industry harmoniously celebrated our craft for an entire weekend. Hair Festival was a powerful visual reminder that even though our industry has shifted and, let’s be honest, completely turned on its head, it hasn’t been abandoned. It simply needed a few years to recalibrate so we could regroup and reset.

What’s become crystal clear is that education will always be at the heart and soul of the hair community. The renewed focus and fresh perspectives on education have left anyone who attended feeling truly inspired and revitalised. It’s a testament to our collective passion for learning and growing.

I’m beyond excited to see how 2026 unfolds and how we can all collaborate to be the connected community that has elevated us throughout our careers. A personal highlight for me was seeing the AHIA Maestros and Mavericks show, where new talent and legacy talent seamlessly combined to break down the barriers of hair generations. It was a beautiful display of unity and progress.

The future of hairdressing is looking bright, bold, and more collaborative than ever. Here’s to the birth of a new era where we can embrace change, enjoy the pivots and learn from past challenges.

Hayley Mears @haylsmears @sixundergroundmedia @cuttingthroughthenoise.podcast Event imagery - credit Joshua Mason

25 Years of Motivation: Becoming a Super Salon Brand

By Scott Sloan, Sloans

After 25 years in this industry, I can tell you one thing with absolute certainty- running a super salon is a unique challenge. When the ATO judges the average salon as having 2.2 staff members, and I’m looking at around 30 team members walking through the doors each day, I know we’re operating in a different universe.

When we’re talking super salon, we aren’t talking the big salon groups and franchises with multiple businesses, we’re talking salons with one or two businesses, but with each of them huge in size and scale.

If you’re thinking about scaling up, or you’re curious about what it takes to stay motivated when you’re managing what essentially amounts to a small army of hairdressers, support staff, and everything in between, let me share some hard-won insights from the floor.

The Numbers Game

Let’s start with the sheer scale. We have three dishwashers. Three! That’s more dishwashers than most salons have total staff members. We’re part of a rare breed in today’s industry and when people visit Sloans for the first time, they’re often shocked by our size and energy. Part of a small group of fellow super salons alongside Circles, Woohoo, Buoy Salon and Rokstar to name a few, we are constantly juggling big pressure.

The financial reality is stark. Our wages percentage versus the industry average is significantly higher because when you scale to our size, you need support staff. Lots of them. Plus, Sloans advertising and marketing spend sits well above the industry average percentage because we have so many more columns to fill every single day. Every empty chair represents a much bigger impact on the bottom line than it would in a smaller operation, so you really need

to know your numbers and be well prepared before you look to expand.

Building Your Village

Among our staff members, not all are revenuegenerating stylists and that’s exactly how it should be. The larger your salon gets, the more you realise that support staff aren’t just helpful, they’re fundamental. That’s why, in addition to 3 Apprentices and 2 Salon Managers, we employ 4 Salon Assistants and 2 Salon Co-ordinators. Most of their tasks might seem menial, but they’re vital for the salon to run smoothly, especially on days when we have limited apprentices which, let’s face it, is a growing problem across our industry.

I employ local university students who are more than happy to sweep hair, clean, make coffee, unload those dishwashers, and handle washes at the basin. Many stay with us for four or five years while they complete their studies and it’s a win-win situation. They get flexible work that fits around their academic schedule, and I get reliable support staff. More importantly, we’re supporting our local community, giving young people work experience and a steady income during their university years.

We also employ people with disabilities, recognising that diversity isn’t just good for society, it’s good for business as different perspectives and experiences make us stronger as a team.

One of our salon receptionists is even an old client which was such a coup for us. She understands our culture intimately because she

lived it as a customer first and that kind of deep understanding of what we’re about is invaluable when you’re trying to maintain consistency across such a large operation.

The People Puzzle

Managing 30 staff members means 30 different personalities, 30 different motivations, and 30 different ways of doing things. A big team requires processes, more comprehensive training programs, regular staff meetings, and above all, leadership by example. I need to show up and demonstrate the standards we expect and support my managers to deliver. This is fundamental to maintaining consistency, which becomes exponentially harder as you scale up. The reality is that staff join our team with vastly different core skills and techniques. While it’s fantastic to support diversity and individuality, and that’s very much the Sloans way, our clients need consistency for the greater good of the brand. This creates a constant balancing act between empowering individual team members and ensuring everyone delivers the Sloans experience our clients deserve and expect. Implementing cultural changes also becomes a massive undertaking when you’re not just changing a few team members’ ways of working, but shifting multiple mindsets simultaneously. This is where cultivating a positive personality mix in your team becomes crucial as you can’t have everyone wanting to be rockstars – you need people who are happy to play supporting roles and do it brilliantly.

We’ve invested in team psychology training to

identify different personality types within the current team to help me understand how to work with each individual, and to help team members understand how they can best contribute to our collective success. Understanding whether someone is naturally a leader, a supporter, a creative, or a process-driven individual helps you put them in positions where they’ll thrive and better understand how to motivate them.

Brand-First Strategy

One of the key advantages of our scale is flexibility as we can move guests between stylists to accommodate schedules and preferences. However, this flexibility only works with a strong brand foundation and consistently excellent service standards across all team members, so it’s particularly important for us to lead with a brand-first marketing approach. This builds loyalty to Sloans as a whole by emphasising team achievements, salon accolades, and our collective expertise, alongside any individual profiles, to maintain a consistent flow of new clients.

This is where I’ve learned the value of outsourcing to experts. I’ve been working with Jo Coles from Lily Blue, our marketing specialist, for 15 years now. She understands the industry, our brand, our challenges, and our goals better than anyone and has become an unofficial 2IC guiding us on the right path behind the scenes. We also outsource our accounts, bookkeeping, and payroll.

While I still keep my hand in everything and stay on top of the details, recognising what you should delegate versus what you need to control directly is crucial for sanity and success.

Saying Yes to Support

One of the trickiest parts of running a super salon is that most of the resources available to salon owners simply aren’t relevant to operations our size. The challenges we face, the solutions we need, the scale of our problems, it’s all different and that can feel, at times, isolating.

This is where building strong relationships with industry partners becomes invaluable. I lean heavily on our Business Development Manager from L’Oréal to help analyse and drive salon performance and ensure accountability. They understand our scale and can provide relevant guidance on team member training, sales performance, and operational efficiency that actually applies to our situation.

I also look directly to my fellow super salon owners for advice. I think people expect that there is so much competition, but in fact they are some of my biggest supporters. Take my friend Kirstie Stafford, former owner of Woohoo as an example. She and I were building scale in our businesses at the same time, so we often leaned on each other for honest conversations and sanity checks.

These partnerships have become important sounding boards over the years. When you’re facing challenges that feel unique to your situation, having industry professionals who can offer practical solutions makes all the difference.

The Motivation That Endures

After 25 years, what keeps me motivated isn’t just our business success, though that’s certainly satisfying. It’s the community we’ve built. Every day brings new challenges when you’re managing this scale of operation, but it also brings new opportunities to make a positive impact. Whether it’s watching dozens of staff working together on the floor, an apprentice who develops all the way into a senior team member, or a long-time client who still walks in and says it feels like home, these moments remind me why I chose to build something bigger than the average salon.

The super salon path isn’t for everyone, and it certainly isn’t easy. But for those of us who’ve chosen it, the key is remembering that we’re not just running salons, we’re building communities, creating opportunities, and making a difference on a scale that goes far beyond great hair.

2.2 staff members might be average, but I’d argue that sometimes, being extraordinary means being willing to take on the challenges that come with being anything but average.

HOW YOU CAN DREAM BIG TOWARDS A SUPER SALON

Master the people puzzle early: Implement team psychology training to understand different personality types and create processes that balance individual strengths with brand consistency.

Shift your marketing mindset: Move from individual stylist marketing to brand-focused strategies that fill multiple columns consistently and build client loyalty to your salon.

Outsource strategically: Partner with specialists in marketing, accounting etc. who understand your scale and can provide relevant guidance.

Build industry partnerships: Leverage relationships with supplier business development managers who can offer practical solutions and accountability at your operational level.

Plan for higher operational costs: Budget for aboveaverage wages and marketing percentages that come with super salon scale, and understand the financial impact of empty chairs.

Focus on community impact: Remember that scaling up means creating more opportunities for team members, clients, and your local community, so let this bigger purpose drive your motivation through challenging growth phases.

The Importance of being CONSISTENT in Salon Business

By Liz McKeon

Consistency is a great characteristic to build in your life and implement in business to help achieve even greater success. To get started figure out how you want to be more consistent and practice with small goals to begin with. Over time as you become more consistent, you will automatically be more motivated and have an improved sense of accountability.

To develop consistency in life and in business, you must decide that firstly that this is an important value to you. Secondly, start making a list and prioritise what you want to be more consistent about. Don’t set yourself up to fail by making promises to yourself that you can’t keep, keep it realistic and achievable.

When a person is consistent, they follow through on promises, commitments and appointments. It then becomes the tendency to do this on most occasions. Consistency when managing a team will generate greater respect, as staff know where they stand. When it comes to quality of work and providing excellent customer service, consistency is a must with your clientele.

Consistency in Business:

1. Create realistic, simple and specific goals. Become very clear on what you are aiming to achieve. Once you have identified your goal, break it down into smaller steps to help achieve your goal and stay on track.

2. Create a schedule for yourself, as this will help you plan your days, so you get everything done on time. A plan also helps you to see what your total commitments are. Allocate realistic amounts of time for all your business tasks. For larger, more long-term goals set small, daily tasks, that you can do to work towards this goal. Remember to plan for downtime and breaks.

3. Place reminders around your workspace, as sometimes it is easy to forget new goals and habits, commitments and promises when we make them to ourselves

4. Consistency often involves making commitments and keeping them. When running a salon, it is very easy to get overwhelmed if you make too many promises. If you think a request is too difficult, remember it is ok to say ‘no’. This includes making promises to yourself.

5. Reward yourself when you accomplish goals, no matter how small. Give yourself a reward! To help keep yourself motivated, recognise that even small goals deserve to be acknowledged. As salon owner or manager, it is part of your job to keep your

team motivated. However, you also have to keep yourself highly motivated

6. Start again, keep going if you make a mistake. Plan for potential failure, and don’t be too hard on yourself when. Consistency is effort, not perfection. In fact, plan for setbacks – that’s life. The key to consistency is to pick yourself up and keep going.

7. Take time off to recharge your batteries. Consistency does not mean you have to be at work non-stop. In fact, it is the reverse. By giving yourself time off, you avoid burnout and productivity improves. In your diary schedule in time for yourself and refuse to let work or other people’s demands get in your way of your precious downtime.

8. Use accountability and motivational tools to keep going even when you don’t feel like it. For example, when you are tired or stressed, it can be so easy to let your important goals slide, causing you to go completely off track. Therefore, you have to find ways to stay motivated. Maybe, remind yourself of your long-term goals. When you are faced with a difficult day, learn to compromise with yourself instead.

9. Accountability is vital! To be more consistent and disciplined, you have to be honest with yourself, recognising when you don’t reach the standards and goals that you have set. Reconsider if your goals are realistic and decide how best to improve. If possible, ask a colleague or friend to be your accountability partner. And maybe you could do the same for them? Check in with one another weekly. If they see you dropping your consistency levels, give them permission to call you out. And vice versa.

10. Give yourself time to see changes. New habits take time. It generally takes at least 21 days doing something for it to become a new habit. Don’t tackle too much, start with small steps and build your way up.

11. Set boundaries for your commitments and relationships. Boundaries make it easier to implement commitments because you then have a specific limit in which to function. Before taking on new tasks, establish what you are willing and able to do, as well as what you know you realistically cannot do.

12. Build your willpower, because consistency tends to lean towards performing even when you don’t feel like it. Avoid temptation if possible. Take care of yourself, as exhaustion and burn out are the enemies of consistency.

13. Practice positive thinking and work towards eliminating negative thinking as much as possible. When you think negatively you are making yourself less likely to be able to hold on to your new consistent actions.Positive thinking brings inner peace, success, improved relationships, better health, happiness and satisfaction. It also helps the daily affairs of life move more smoothly, and makes life look bright and promising.

When you learn how to think positively, you gain the key to changing and improving your life. It is easier to keep a positive frame of mind when things go well. It’s tougher to do so when in the midst of problems, difficulties or obstacles. In such times you will need more effort, attention and patience. It you learn how to think positively when not under pressure, stress or strain, it will be easier to do so when things are tough. Don’t ever beat yourself up when you don’t hit the mark. What matters is that you keep working towards your personal and salon goals, and consistency will follow.

@lizmckeonbizliz

From Chaos to Clarity: How Automation Can Transform Your Salon Operations.

By Declhan Lee, Circles of Hair

I’ve spent the last few years watching salon owners drown in admin work while their passion for hairdressing gets buried under endless paperwork, followups, and reactive problem-solving. As Director of Operations at Circles of Hair, I’ve made it my mission to change that narrative entirely.

When people hear “ automation,” they often think it’s about replacing human connection, but that just isn’t true. Automation isn’t about cutting corners, it’s about reclaiming your time so you can focus on what actually matters: growing your business strategically, supporting your team, and reconnecting with the reasons you opened a salon in the first place.

The Reality Check

Let me paint a picture that’s probably familiar to many of you. It’s 8PM, the salon closed an hour ago, and you’re still there dealing with staff scheduling conflicts, chasing up suppliers, responding to client messages, and the frustration of being stuck manually calculating and entering hours into different systems. This reactive cycle is exhausting, and more importantly, it’s preventing you from operating with intention. Instead of strategically planning your next quarter or investing time in team development, you’re constantly putting out fires. The irony is that many salon owners entered this industry because they’re passionate about creativity and people, yet they spend most of their time buried in administrative tasks that drain that passion.

This is exactly why we are so focused developing and sharing automation systems that work specifically for the hair industry. At Circles, we’re not just implementing these systems for ourselves, we’re pioneering them and then teaching other owners how to transform their operations.

Education Through Real-World Application

My approach to sharing automation expertise goes far beyond theoretical workshops or generic software tutorials. Through our Circles Shadowing Program, we invite salon owners into our space to see these systems working in real-time within a successful operation. There’s something powerful about watching automation handle your new staff onboarding while you’re having a coffee and planning your next marketing campaign instead of scrambling to find contracts and chase signatures. My focus is always on practical implementation. I’m not interested in impressing people with complex tech talk, I want to show them exactly how to set up systems that will save them hours every week and eliminate the manual errors that cost time and money.

Here are three suggestions to start exploring;

ManyChat

A simple starting point for salon owners exploring automation that I recommend is ManyChat. This is a user-friendly tool for automating social media responses and client communication, and something which you can learn about online and start playing with to familiarise yourself with similar applications. The more you become accustomed to the language and functionality, the more this world opens up to you.

Zapier

One of the core tools I teach and rely on is Zapier, which acts as the automation engine connecting all your everyday platforms. Think of it as the invisible assistant that makes your CRM talk to your payroll system, ensures your online forms automatically update your staff database,

and triggers follow-up messages without you lifting a finger.

Zapier doesn’t update or store anything on its own, rather, it’s an example of middleware, a connector that links your apps together using “triggers” and “actions.” It simply tells one tool to respond in a specific way when something happens in another.

The beauty is that you don’t need to be a tech expert to create powerful automations. I help salon owners set up workflows that automatically:

• Add new client inquiries to their CRM and send personalised welcome sequences

• Update staff schedules across multiple platforms when changes are made

• Generate reports and send them to managers at predetermined intervals

• Create tasks and assign them to appropriate team members based on specific triggers

These aren’t just time-savers, they’re mistakepreventers. When systems handle routine tasks consistently, you eliminate the human error that leads to double bookings, missed follow-ups, and frustrated clients.

Slack

While many salons rely on a chaotic mix of text messages, emails, sticky notes, and verbal updates, I’ve implemented Slack as our single source of truth for all salon communication. This isn’t just about having another messaging platform, it’s about creating a centralised hub where all critical information flows seamlessly. Here’s how it works in practice: when a staff member submits a leave request, it doesn’t just sit in someone’s email inbox hoping to be noticed. It automatically posts to the appropriate Slack channel with all relevant details, tags the right managers, and creates a thread for easy approval tracking. Similarly, voicemail notifications, online order updates, and client reviews all filter through Slack channels, ensuring nothing falls through the cracks. This systematic approach prevents the doublehandling that wastes so much time in traditional salon operations. Instead of information living in multiple places and requiring constant follow-up, everything has a clear path and accountability built in.

The Onboarding Revolution

One of my favourite automation success stories that perfectly illustrates the transformative power of systematic thinking is our new staff onboarding process. This used to be the typical nightmare of scattered paperwork, forgotten steps, and inconsistent information sharing, but not anymore.

Now, the moment a new team member is added to our Slack workspace, they automatically receive a welcome message containing a comprehensive onboarding form. This isn’t just basic contact details, it’s everything we need to create their complete profile in our systems. Once they submit that form, the magic really begins. Zapier automatically creates their profile in Xero, our accounting system, with all the correct details and tax information. Simultaneously, it generates a personalised employment contract using their specific details and role requirements, then sends it directly to them via DocuSign for electronic signing. When the new team member signs that contract, it’s automatically filed in the correct Google Drive folder with proper naming conventions, and they begin receiving a series of carefully timed messages with essential information: when they’ll be paid, what the dress code expectations are, how to request leave through our system, and step-by-step guides for using our in-house booking software. This entire process, which used to take hours of back-and-forth emails, phone calls, and manual data entry, now happens seamlessly while we focus on more strategic priorities. More importantly, every new team member receives the same comprehensive, professional onboarding experience, regardless of how busy we are or who’s handling their start date.

Start Here, Start Now

One of the most powerful steps a salon owner can take today, without spending a cent or investing in education or shadowing is to get clear on your backend systems. The truth is that most salon owners don’t even know what

platform their website is built on and that opens the door for all kinds of problems. If you don’t understand how your own tech stack functions, you’re at the mercy of developers and digital marketers who can spot that gap in knowledge and take advantage.

Start by asking yourself: What platform is my website built on? Can it integrate with my CRM, booking system, or marketing tools? Does it have API capabilities? If you’re unsure, find out. This simple awareness unlocks smarter decisions and protects your business from overspending or being misled. Nobody will ever give your business the same care, attention, or passion that you will. If you don’t understand how your digital systems work, even at a basic level, you’ll always be reliant on someone else to tell you what’s possible. True freedom comes from owning that knowledge.

From Reactive to Strategic

The shift that happens when salon owners implement automation systems goes far beyond just saving time on admin tasks. What I consistently see is a fundamental change in how people operate and lead their business.

Instead of starting each day by reacting to whatever urgent issues have piled up overnight, you can begin with clarity about your priorities and the mental space to work on strategic growth initiatives. You can set meaningful goals because you have the systems in place to track progress automatically, and invest time in your team because you’re not constantly interrupted by routine tasks that should be handled systematically.

Team accountability improves dramatically when everyone understands the systems and knows exactly where to find information or submit requests. Productivity increases not just because processes are more efficient, but because team members feel supported by clear, reliable systems rather than frustrated by chaos.

Perhaps most importantly, you can rediscover the joy in your work! When you’re not drowning in administrative chaos, you can reconnect with the creative and interpersonal aspects of running a salon that drew you to this industry in the first place.

Leading the Industry Forward

At Circles we see ourselves as trailblazers in salon automation, but our goal isn’t to hoard these innovations. We’re committed to sharing our expertise because we believe the entire Australian hair industry benefits when salon owners can operate more strategically and sustainably.

The future of salon management isn’t about working harder or longer hours, it’s about working smarter

with systems that support your vision rather than constrain it. Automation gives you the freedom to lead with intention, invest in your team’s development, and build the salon culture you’ve always envisioned.

If you’re ready to shift from chaos to clarity, the tools and systems exist right now. The question isn’t whether automation can transform your salon operations it’s how long you’ll wait until you’re ready to jump in!

@circlesofhair

Beyond Survival: The Critical Shifts that Transform Small Salons into Big Businesses

By Kym Krey

When we first go into business, we think it’s all about the hair. After years of honing our craft on someone else’s payroll, we’re finally ready to create fabulous hair on our own terms.

In our minds, it seems simple: post on socials, run a few ads, wow clients with our skills, and watch the referrals (and cash) roll in. Easy, right?

Reality soon hits - running a profitable salon is very different from being a great stylist! Talent alone doesn’t guarantee profit. Yes, the early focus is on getting busy and building a team, but if you want to scale without burning out, two key shifts must occur.

Shift 1: From Great Hair to Great Experiences

Stage 2 of my Path to Profit© framework is where stylists must evolve beyond “I do great hair” to “I create transformational, confidence-building, 5-star experiences.”

If clients only see you as hair-for-money, you’ll be judged on price and constantly compared to cheaper competitors. But if you’re asking clients to drive past dozens of closer, cheaper salons and pay more for you, it can’t just be for slightly neater foils. What they truly value is the experience: your prescriptive expertise, leadership, and ability to deliver an incredible outcome they didn’t even know to ask for.

Here’s the problem: our industry training emphasises technical skill while leaving diagnostic consultation, prescriptive advice, and problem-solving as afterthoughts. Yet quality-focused clients (i.e. those who’ll happily pay more for quality) are telling us - loudly - that great skills alone aren’t enough.

The solution is your signature Client Journey: a step-by-step process that ensures every service inspires and delights your clients, delivering on your marketing promise to clients, every time. It should be designed from the client’s perspective (to support their needs, not our comfort zone or convenience), then measured against their response constantly:

• Average Client Spend shows whether consultations go beyond “Same again?” to inspire and expand, bringing personalised recommendations and current trends/ technique to discover what could be possible for them.

• Retail % (Care Factor) shows whether staff actively identify and solve client problems with prescriptive solutions, rather than just making hair look good for a day (which they can get for far less). If you hear clients say, ‘It never looks like that when I do it’, pay attention. Your responsibility doesn’t end

when they tap their card and leave the salon, and all of your knowledge is useless to a client until you freely give it away to help and educate them. This is an act of GIVING and responsibility, never SELLING.

• Rebooking % (Continuity of Care) measures their ability to wow and win a client- turning a one-off transaction into a long-term, trusting, profitable relationship through exciting forward planning (in the chair, cape on… NEVER at the desk!).

• Target achievement- is the outcome of doing each of the above things well. It’s never about working faster to ‘squeeze’ in more clients- it’s always about deepening the level of experience delivered to each client. (i.e. 25 clients a week with an av. $ spend of $360 is far superior to 40 clients a week with an av. $ spend of $120).

When your whole team consistently delivers the Client Journey (as evidenced by consistent target achievement, and solid KPIs) you’re ready to progress to the next key transition point.

Shift #2: From Stylist to CEO

The next leap is yours: from overworked Stylist to CEO – you must become the President of People & Performance- because that is

You have a kick-ass, documented onboarding program, are actively coaching & reviewing throughout probation and manage a consistent coaching routine of daily, weekly monthly and quarterly progress conversations that keep your team clear, focused, engaged and on-track to their goals.

But you’re also no longer hanging on to underperforming/unsuitable staff for fear of not finding anyone else; you’re coaching up or coaching out, knowing that not everyone is going to fit. You may have a little staff turnover but the staff you keep are profitable and excellent ambassadors for your brand. (And nothing is more demotivating for a high performer than working next to someone who just doesn’t care and seeing it tolerated)

If you just said, ‘I don’t have time for that’ and, instead, insist on remaining the main income generator on the floor, clinging to the identity of a Stylist, then be warned, because four problematic things will happen:

1. You become a bottleneck. Growth stagnates because you refuse to delegate tasks others could handle, creating frustrating holding patterns where everyone waits for your decisions or permission. Your limited bandwidth/availability suffocates growth opportunities.

2. Burnout becomes inevitable. Attempting to operate on the floor at full capacity while running the business means neither role receives adequate attention. Tasks slip through cracks, opportunities are missed, and your declining patience and enthusiasm fail to inspire your team. In fact, they’re walking on eggshells around you.

3. You destroy your exit value. High-revenue businesses that depend entirely on working owners aren’t attractive to buyers. Remove yourself, and everything collapses. Purchasers pay for reliable, consistent income that doesn’t rely on them having to do it all themselves. No buyer pays for your past effort or future potential (i.e. work they have to do). Learn to achieve results through others and you’ve built something of real value.

4. You lose top talent. Great people need growth pathways - or they’ll leave for other businesses that provide them- often just when they become consistently profitable. That means you need to be actively creating progression pathways and progressive income structures that give your best people opportunities to grow and to continually increase their income.

• Would they make a good future manager/2IC because they crave responsibility and are willing to manage the behaviour and performance of team members?

• Would they make an excellent Head of Education, not just delivering your training, but actively managing the progression of your pipeline of emerging talent to ensure that you’re growing the fabulous new senior/s you’re going to need in 18 months’ time. They track the progression milestones of all staff to ensure everyone is on-track and they prevent those disastrous problems of a 3rd year wage with a 1st year skillset, or a newly qualified senior who is unable to carry

a full column and a senior’s responsibilities but is paid a qualified wage. All of these are preventable but if no one is paying attention, they can easily slip through the cracks.

• Do they have a clear pathway for building the capabilities required to join the 4% of employed Australian hairdressers earning >$100,000 per year, rather than remaining one of the 96% who earn barely $50,000$55,000 per year.

Build clear career paths and income structures so your best people stay challenged and rewarded inside your business - not someone else’s.

This process also means you’re building a support team that begins to lighten your load, getting important things done without you having to do them, while accelerating growth and increasing the value of your business.

The Bigger Picture

Our industry trains us to be skilled hairdressers with full books, not leaders of scalable, profitable businesses. But if your goal is to earn more and work less, you must evolve. This means reviewing and changing your approach when necessary, learning new business skills and

abandoning the trap of “how we’ve always done it” thinking.

A business can only grow to the extent that the person running it grows.

And two key areas of growth that can completely change your business are shifting focus from delivering hair services to crafting exceptional experiences and evolving from busy Stylist to capable CEO.

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 milliondollar turnover and beyond, get in touch: kym@kymkrey.com.au; @kymkrey or www. kymkrey.com.au

Why Video Content is No Longer Optional for Your Salon’s Social Media

By Belinda Haigh, Founder of Social Standardsthe social media agency for hair & beauty pros.

Once upon a time, posting a perfectly styled “after” shot on Instagram was enough to get likes, a few comments, and maybe even a new booking or two. But in 2025, the rules have changed. Social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok are putting video content front and centre, and your clients are consuming it faster than ever.

If you’ve been avoiding video because you hate being on camera or showing your face, you’re not alone. Many salon owners and stylists feel that same discomfort. But here’s the truth: video is no longer a “nice to have”, it’s essential. It’s the fastest, most powerful way to connect with potential clients, stand out from the competition, and turn casual scrollers into paying clients.

Why Pretty Pictures Alone Don’t Cut It Anymore

We all love a gorgeous hair transformation photo. It’s satisfying, it’s clean, and it shows off your work. But the challenge is that every salon is posting those same types of images. The feed is flooded with polished ‘after’ shots, and while they’re beautiful, they don’t necessarily make someone choose you over the salon down the street.

Video allows you to connect more with your audience, which turns into conversion (aka bookings) for your salon business.

Video works because it goes beyond the surface. Here’s why it’s so powerful for salons:

It tells a story. Instead of a single snapshot, video lets you share the whole journey. Think: the “before,” the consultation, the energy of your salon, and the big reveal. You’re not just showing the end result; you’re sharing the whole experience.

It builds trust. When people can see your face, hear your voice, and watch how you interact with clients, it feels authentic. That familiarity makes them more comfortable booking with you, especially if they’ve never met you before. It makes you stand out. In a sea of static images, a fun, engaging video showcasing your personality, your team, and your salon’s atmosphere will grab attention. It increases your reach. Social media algorithms are pushing video content to the top of feeds, meaning more potential clients see your work without you spending a cent on ads. It drives bookings. When your dream client can visualise themselves in your chair, hear your expertise, and feel your vibe through a screen, they’re far more likely to click that “Book Now” button.

So, where can you start?

If creating video content feels overwhelming, start small. You don’t need professional

equipment or a perfectly scripted plan. Your smartphone is more than enough. Capture behind-the-scenes moments, quick hair tips, or client reactions. The more real and relatable, the better.

Most importantly, make it part of your weekly routine. Consistency is key. Just like you wouldn’t cancel a client appointment, don’t skip your video content “appointments” with your audience.

The salons that embrace video now are the ones that will stay visible, relevant, and fully booked in the months and years to come. If you want to grow your business in today’s social media landscape, video isn’t optional; it’s your most valuable marketing tool.

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.

AI has the creative world on edge right now -

here’s why salons & clinics need to pay attention.

By Keira Maloney

I’ll be honest, when AI first crept into my world as a photographer, I panicked. Not the “end of days” kind of panic, but the uneasy feeling of seeing an image appear in seconds that would’ve taken me hours of planning, shooting, and editing.

Then came the Super Bowl ads: cinematic, 4K, real-life looking commercials that used to cost millions suddenly being made with AI for a fraction of the price. If it could happen to them, what about me?

And I know I’m not alone. Many industries are wrestling with this right now. But here’s where I’ve landed: I trust my creativity and humanity. You should trust yours. Our ability to connect, read nuance, and inject personality into our work is the bit AI can’t take (...yet).

The danger isn’t AI “taking” the job. It’s businesses refusing to adapt while competitors lean in.

Why hair and beauty need to pay attention right now

I photograph specifically in the hair and beauty world, and I hear the same reassurance at your expos and conferences: “Don’t worry, human touch can’t be replaced.” And yes, that’s true. For now, no robot will ever replace a basin head massage, the confidence of a therapist’s advice, or the banter in the chair that makes you feel like family.

But running your salon with analogue systems, wasted product, missed calls, and clunky bookings? That’s where the risk lies. Not adopting AI in the business side of your salon or clinic is what will leave people behind.

What’s already happening?

It’s no longer just hype, it’s reality, and close to being normality: AI is already weaving its way into salons and beauty businesses across the globe.

AI receptionists will make salons money while they sleep

Soon, owners won’t be tied to phones or scrambling to return calls between clients.

AI bots and virtual receptionists will handle it all, answering questions instantly, booking appointments, even upselling products. It’ll feel like talking to a real person, even at 3am.

Instead of losing leads after hours, salons will be “open” 24/7 without anyone working. For solo operators, that could mean dozens of extra bookings a month. For multi-location salons, it could be the equivalent of adding another stylist worth of revenue without hiring. This isn’t a maybe, it’s already starting, and within a year or two I believe it will be standard.

AI will slash colour/product waste and boost profit

The colour bowl is one of the most expensive places salons lose money. Systems like Vish are already showing what’s possible, with enormous savings and less waste.

The future is precision colour mixing as the norm. Every gram tracked, every formula recorded, guesswork removed. Salons adopting this tech will reinvest their savings into staff training, marketing, or equipment. Those who don’t will keep washing money down the drain – literally. In just a few years, waste-heavy salons won’t just look unsustainable, they’ll look outdated.

Radical change services will surge with very realistic AI try-ons

Clients will soon expect to preview hair colour or makeup digitally before stepping into your space. I tried it myself, uploading a selfie and a Pinterest inspo pic into AI to see the same copper tones on me, as if it was a real photo... I sent the result to my hairdresser the night before my appointment, and it was done 12 hours later. AI-powered consultations will cut down costly re-dos, help salons close bigger bookings/ transformations, and give clients the confidence that they’ll get exactly what they want.

AI opens the door for growth

The real power of AI isn’t just cost savings or efficiency. It’s the mental load it removes from business owners. When bookings, reminders, or even colour measurements are handled for you, you finally have the headspace to move out of survival mode.

Instead of pouring all your energy into keeping the wheels turning, you can ask bigger questions: How do I expand? What new services could I add? Who could I collaborate with? AI doesn’t just give you time back, it gives you the brain space to reinvent and grow.

The reality check

The divide won’t be “AI versus humans.” It’ll be AI-powered salons and clinics versus those stuck doing everything the old way.

And the pace is fast. Five years ago, I’d have laughed at the idea of a bot creating images, commercials, and pulling insane amounts of data and research in seconds. Now, it’s just normal. Photographers who ignored digital were wiped out 9 out of 10 times. Those ignoring AIpowered business (and creative) strategies in the photography world are already falling behind.

Don’t let the same happen in hair and beauty. If you don’t have the energy to stay across the tech, fine. But at least partner with brands and suppliers who do. Because in the next twelve months, not having AI stitched into your business won’t just be inconvenient – it’ll make keeping up harder and harder.

Yours truly,

The oddly specific and very niche combination of hair/beauty photographer and AI fangirl, Keira x

Your Salon Doesn’t Need Another Motivational Quote. It Needs This...

Angeli Shaw is no longer The Bliss Coach. Not because bliss wasn’t meaningful, but because it was no longer enough. For the last two decades, Angeli has worked at the intersection of salon culture, team dynamics, and leadership. She’s worn the salon owner hat, felt the weight, and seen the impact — both the magic and the burnout. Lately, something has shifted.

Enter, Angeli Shaw Mentoring. A name change, but more than that, a resurgence.

“I’ve evolved and so has the kind of support I want to offer,” Angeli shares. “Salon owners don’t need more surface-level motivation. They need to feel seen. They need space to think clearly. They need grounded leadership, not pressure dressed up as purpose.”

Angeli’s not afraid to call out what’s no longer working.

The top-down, ‘hustle harder’ mentality that has dominated salon leadership for decades is crumbling. Teams are walking away from environments that praise overworking and punish vulnerability. Owners are burning out under the weight of unclear boundaries and constant urgency. The culture that once celebrated twelve-hour days as a badge of honour? It’s being questioned… loudly.

“We’ve been conditioned to think leadership has to look like strength at all costs,” Angeli says. “What I’m seeing now is a new wave of salon owners who want something different. Who are building businesses that prioritise people, not just profit, and are willing to go inwards first, even when it’s uncomfortable.”

That’s where Angeli’s mentoring begins: not with KPIs or marketing strategies, but with selfawareness. By asking the confronting questions most owners have been too flat-out (or too afraid) to ask:

What kind of leader do I actually want to be?

What patterns am I repeating?

What do I need in order to lead well?

“Leadership often breaks down in the spaces we avoid,” she explains. “In the unspoken tension. In the conversations we delay, the nervous systems running in overdrive, and most of the time, before we rebuild the team, we need to rebuild the leader.”

That means getting clear on your energy, your voice, and your boundaries. Mindset weaves through every part of your culture, whether you’re aware of it or not.

“You can have the best strategy in the world, but if you’re leading from fear or burnout, your team will feel it,” she says. “You’re not just influencing results; you’re modelling what’s possible.”

Through individual and team mentoring, Angeli is helping salon owners distinguish between

control and clarity. She teaches them how to lead without guilt, how to have the conversations that matter, and how to create environments where teams genuinely feel safe to thrive, not just perform.

Angeli brings together neuroscience-informed tools and the kind of lived experience that only comes from experiencing ‘life in the trenches’ herself, right where many salon owners find themselves today. The over-functioning, the people-pleasing, the endless overthinking before a team meeting. She knows what it’s like to hit goals and still feel unfulfilled, and to love your business and resent it at the same time.

That’s why so much of her work is centred around nervous system regulation, clear communication, and value-aligned decisionmaking, because when those things shift, culture stops being a vibe and becomes something you can feel.

That’s when the real work gets easier. Retention rises, trust deepens, and your team becomes a place people want to stay, not escape.

Angeli’s message isn’t reserved for new salon owners. It’s also a call to those who’ve built the business, led the team, and are now starting to wonder if there’s a better way.

“You’ve done the hard work. You’ve ticked all the boxes, but if it came at the cost of your wellbeing or your sense of self, it’s okay to pause,” Angeli shares. “Fulfilment doesn’t come from a full appointment book. It comes from feeling proud of how you’re showing up, even when no one’s watching.”

So, what does she want to see more of in 2025?

Less urgency, more reflection, and space for honest conversations, with salon owners who are willing to evolve, even if it means doing things differently than they have in the past.

Because effective leadership doesn’t begin with a quote on your wall. It starts with you.

@angelishawmentoring

Angeli Shaw