buildable + lightweight formula won’t weigh down hair*
touchable volume + bounce for up to 2 days* humidity resistant
*k18hair.com/disclaimers
24 K18 Unveils Astro LiftTM
REGULARS
10 Editors Letter 18-21 Industry News
80 Hair Shop
FEATURE
12-14 A life in Creativity – Darren Ambrose By Zoe Richards 16 A Moment with Dane Wakefield By Louise May
46 Spotlight on Kirby Lago By Louise May
EVENTS
26-29 MochaElite – A Legacy Refined 30 -31 The CPR Salon
32 Elevating Salon Excellence: 2025 Phorest Salon Owners Summit By Jarred Stedman 36 Hair The Movement – Bringing Hairdressing Education Back to Greatness
42 Plan your visit to Hair Festival 2025
64 2025 Curate Awards announce most exciting apprentices across Australia & New Zealand
66-68 Back for it’s 2nd Big Year EXPO4BARBERS Hit’s Australia
72 Why you can’t afford to miss the AHC 2025 Events
AHIA PROFILE
38 Krystle Tokunai – 2024 AHIA Creative QLD Hairdresser of the Year
40 2024 AHIA QLD Salon Business of the Year - Rokstar Salon
44 Meet the AHIA 2024 Hotshots Team Winner – Ella Stewart By Louise May
MEDIA PARTNER PROFILE
50 Heavenly Hair – The Angel Extensions Story
52 Revlon Professional – Empowered Salons, A Spotlight on Success
54 R+Co Education – Your Next-Level Experience
56 milk_shake – Incredible Collection
58 Breaking New Grounds – Shortcuts Launches Game-Changing Software
62 Leading the Way with Dermapen World Exo-Grow
70 Gamma+ Leads the way in Baarbering
SALON PROFILE
60 Di Mattia & Co’s New Head Spa Experience
EDUCATION
74 Against the Odds: The Mastery of Growth By Bernadette Beswick
76 How to Nail the Perfect Consultation By Amber Bullock
78 Bridging the Gap: How Barber Education is Reshaping the Hair Industry By Gareth Philpott
BLOGS
84 Hiring! I’m Making a Stand By Sam James
86 Fresh Starts By Shae Tsiknaris
88 Has the Big Influencer Model Run its Course in the Hairdressing Industry By Emily Ciardiello
90 Exceptional Customer Care By Samantha Jones
92 Community Over Competition By Andrew Cobeldick
BUSINESS
94 The Salon Success Formula: It’s Easier Than You Think!
96 Marketing is Not Always about Selling Cait Muir
98 Why Giving Back is the most Powerful Tool in every Hairdressers Toolbelt By Sharlene Lee
100 25 Years of Sloans: Creativity, Dedication & Love of Hair By Scott Sloan
102 Rent Logic By Your Leasing Co.
MARKETING
104 Maintaining your ‘You-New’ in a Robot World By Keira Maloney
105 The Rise of Employee-Generated Content By Belinda Haigh
106 Are you in Alignment with your Values By Angeli Maria Shaw
PROUDLY NOW B CORP CERTIFIED
PROFESSIONAL HAIR CARE IN A FRIENDLY, CURIOUS AND HONEST WAY
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.
THE POWER OF CHANGE
Change. It’s a word that can spark excitement or instil fear, depending on how we look at it. But one thing is certain: if nothing changes, nothing changes.
This truth was front and centre at our Mocha Elite event earlier this month, where some of the most brilliant minds in our industry came together to share, inspire, and challenge the way we think about business. If there was one standout theme from the event, it was this: Change is inevitable, but growth is a choice.
I sat and listened to the stories of salon owners, creatives, and business leaders who have built incredible careers by embracing change, whether that was adapting to new ways of working, evolving their brands, or stepping outside their comfort zones. It was a powerful reminder that the businesses and people who thrive are the ones who are willing to evolve, take action, and keep moving forward.
But here’s the thing. Change doesn’t have to be massive to make a difference. It’s not about tearing everything down and starting from scratch. The most powerful shifts happen when we commit to being just 1% better today than we were yesterday. Small, consistent improvements that, over time, create a ripple effect of success.
And that’s the key: consistency. One small change won’t transform everything overnight, but showing up every day and taking action, even in the smallest way, is what leads to real progress. Success isn’t about big leaps; it’s about steady steps forward. The people who get the best results in business, in leadership, in life, are the ones who commit to doing the work, not just once, but day after day.
It’s easy to stay where things feel familiar, to keep doing what we’ve always done because it’s safe. But real success doesn’t come from standing still. It comes from having the courage to make adjustments, to take risks, and to step into the unknown, even if it’s just one step at a time.
If you feel like you’re stuck in a cycle, whether it’s in business or life, maybe it’s time to ask yourself: What am I willing to change? Because without action, without a shift, without a decision to move forward, nothing changes.
As you turn the pages of this issue, I hope it ignites something within you... a spark of inspiration, a fresh perspective, or the motivation to make a change you’ve been putting off. Because the truth is, you have the power to create the life and business you want. You just have to decide and then stay consistent.
Love & hugs,
Lou x Louise May Editor – Mocha Hair Editor in Chief – Mocha Group louise@mochgroup.com.au
@louise_mochagroup
By Zoe RichardsUK
Darren Ambrose A LIFE IN CREATIVITY
In the ever-evolving world of hairdressing, where artistry meets innovation, few names shine as brightly as Darren Ambrose. An undisputed creative force, Darren’s work has left an indelible mark on the industry, not just in the UK but globally.
From avant-garde collections to his deep-rooted passion for fashion, music, and art, Darren Ambrose’s inspirations are as eclectic as they are profound. But what has shaped the creative powerhouse he is today? Let’s take a deep dive into Darren Ambrose’s world – his journey, influences, and what makes him tick as an artist.
Creativity, it seems, was always in Darren’s DNA. Growing up in a family with a strong connection to hairdressing, he was surrounded by the craft from an early age. His mother trained in London, his uncle owned a salon, and his cousin was also a hairdresser. But despite this lineage, Darren initially envisioned a future in design and graphics.
“I was really into art and technical drawing at school,” he recalls. “I thought that would be my career path. But then, I had a week’s work experience in a salon, and that was the game-changer. I realised that hairdressing is an art form in itself – full of freedom and uniqueness.”
That moment of epiphany set Darren on his path, one where creativity knew no limits, and the hairdressing community became his destiny.
No artist exists in a vacuum, and Darren’s career has been shaped by some of the biggest names in and outside the industry. “Vidal Sassoon is an obvious one,” he says. “He didn’t just define an era – he changed the way we think about hair. The precision, the structure, the way hair moves; his influence is still everywhere today.” Beyond hair, Darren finds inspiration in unexpected places. Tech visionary Elon Musk makes his list, not for his controversies but for his daring approach to pushing boundaries. “I admire his entrepreneurial spirit – you only live once, right?”
Then there’s art. A Jackson Pollock exhibition in London left a lasting impact on him. “It was immersive, 3D, and pure colour and texture. That kind of artistic freedom influences the way I think about hair.” Music-wise, Eminem’s storytelling through rap resonates, while gothic literature’s dark romanticism fuels his love for the dramatic and unexpected.
Darren’s career has taken him all over the world, and each destination leaves its mark. Having lived in Australia for two years, he developed an appreciation for different perspectives and cultures. But one city that has stayed with him is Mexico City. “The architecture, the culture, the people – it was incredible. There’s a rawness and realness to it that really inspired me. And if I had to choose somewhere to live? Barcelona. It’s got everything – fashion, history, art – it’s just endlessly inspiring.”
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Darren Ambrose
As someone always looking ahead, Darren embraces change while staying true to craftsmanship. AI and digital artistry are shaping the industry, but he firmly believes in the irreplaceable magic of human hands. “You can’t replicate the feel of an artist’s touch,” he says. at the end of the day, beauty is about realness. It’s about pushing yourself, thinking outside the box, but always keeping the hairdressing an art.”
For Darren Ambrose, creativity is a never-ending journey. Whether through fashion, music, travel, or even a random inspiration is everywhere. His advice to fellow creatives? “Do your thing. Don’t worry about trends or fitting in. Push the importantly, have fun with it. We’re all artists at the end of the day – let’s make something incredible.”
And with that philosophy, Darren continues to push the boundaries of hairdressing, one breathtaking creation at a time.
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A moment with
Dane Wakefield
By Louise May
Dane Wakefield is a celebrated Sydney hairdresser and the visionary owner of Wakefields Salon in Surry Hills. With over a decade of industry experience, Dane has established himself as one of Sydney’s leading hairdressers. His passion for transforming hair into a canvas for personal expression is evident in every cut, colour, and style he creates.
Wakefields hosts some of Sydney’s most experienced and favourite hair artists, come and feel super relaxed while we give you the hair of your dreams!
With 20 chairs and 6 basins, Wakefields is a calm and welcoming salon offering all things hair, complimentary cocktails and a salon soundtrack from heaven!
Mocha Hair Editor Louise May, chats with Dane...
Can you tell us about your journey in the hairdressing industry? What inspired you to become a hairstylist?
I kind of fell into the industry by accident. My sister was working at a salon and when she resigned, she told them I would take over her position without asking me and I was too nervous to quit a job I hadn’t even started so I just stuck it out, and look at me
You’ve worked all over the world—how has that experience shaped your career?
Seeing that there are so many different ways to do hair and run a salon in other countries really opened my eyes and gave me even more hunger to seek education in different places and absorb as much as I can, which has pushed me to create a salon experience different to anything here in Australia.
Why did you choose O&M, and what drew you to join the team as an ambassador?
I chose O&M as I love that it’s a home grown brand and I love supporting Australian business. I also love the clean and kind foundation that the brand is built on, it aligns with my values, and I love having a clean colour to provide a better working environment for my team, my clients and myself, so it’s a no brainer.
How does O&M align with your philosophy as a hairstylist?
Hairdressing these days isn’t just about the hair, it’s an experience, and O&M fits perfectly into the experience that we provide at Wakefields. That is, being a kind, welcoming place to relax.
What are your top 3 favourite O&M products, and why?
I’m in love with the new PS range. The PS Spray is essential for everyone as everyone needs a heat protector.
The Seven Day Miracle is the perfect treatment for anyone with dry hair. Thirdly, I love Style Guru, it’s such a versatile product and one I use in my own hair every day.
What can we expect from you as an O&M educator? Any exciting techniques or trends you’ll be focusing on?
I have a pretty relaxed education style that makes it easy for people to relate to, and comfortable enough to ask questions they usually wouldn’t.
I pride myself on passing on techniques that have helped me so much in my career and things that hairdressers can use straight away in the salon.
What do you find most rewarding about teaching and mentoring other stylists?
What I find most rewarding is seeing people succeed from using the techniques I have taught them. I have hairdressers come up to me in the streets saying they came to a class or have seen my online education, and they used my techniques, and their work has been elevated.
As an educator, we put ourselves in the position for people to learn from us, so I truly believe I’m here to give as much back to the industry as I have gotten from it.
What’s your go-to playlist when creating those iconic wavy blowouts?
The Wakefields playlist OBVIOUSLY! We have a carefully curated Playlist at Wakefields by our resident DJ Red, with the likes of Mariah, Beyonce, George Michael and of course, the Spice Girls
What are you most looking forward to with your O&M role?
I am most looking forward to meeting more amazing hair artists on my travels and being part of such an amazing community.
@danewakefieldhair @wakefields._
Industry News.
INNOVATION MEETS PRACTICALITY
Introducing the Gamma+ X-Hybrid Compact Dryer, an ultra- lightweight powerhouse delivering Professional performance. Meticulously crafted to exceed the boundaries of traditional styling with its high-speed motor X Hybrid Compact Dryer caters to the need for comfort and innovative technology. Weighing in at just 480g, this lightweight performance blow dryer effortlessly combines power and precision.
The X-Hybrid Compact also offers a Tourmaline coated grill to enhance ionic performance, reducing frizz for smoother, shinier hair, while its low noise operation creates a serene salon environment.
The X-Hybrid Compact Dryer has a maximum temperature of 140 C, and a clever cold air shot embedded for a more comfortable grip. Complete with two nozzles and a diffuser, this compact dryer is designed to empower stylists with unmatched versatility and control and home users with an exceptional tool.
Hair will be softer, silkier and easier to manage.
The X-Hybrid Compact Dryer is your go-to tool for innovative, high quality, and reliable performance in the salon. Crafted with professionals in mind, it combines power, comfortable ergonomic design to elevate your styling experience. All of this in a compact format, with a choice of 4 colours: Matte Black, Gold Rose, Matcha Green and Blue Avio. COMING SOON! www.gammaplus.com.au
L’OREAL PROFESSIONNEL WELCOMES THEIR NEW EDUCATION AND ADVOCACY MANAGER, SYMBOLISING A NEW ERA FOR THE BRAND IN
L’Oréal Professionnel is thrilled to announce the appointment of Katrina Brieschke as the new Education and Advocacy Manager. With an extensive background of over 20 years in the hairdressing industry and a passion for empowering professionals, Katrina brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her new role.
THE AUSTRALIAN HAIRDRESSING COUNCIL APPOINTS FIONA BEAMISH AS INTERIM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
With three decades of experience, Fiona has a distinguished career in the global hair product industry, spanning Australia, Ireland, the UK, and Asia. She has also gained extensive expertise in education, training, and sales, owning and operating the national distribution of a UK-based hair brand.
Fiona’s leadership at the AHC is driven by her deep passion for the industry.
“The past decade has brought significant market shifts, highlighting the growing need for community support and connection in business,” she says.
“From the start of my career as an apprentice hairdresser, I have been driven by the combination of creativity, people skills, and practical business strategies necessary to succeed in the hairdressing industry.” Known for her ability to identify trends, streamline operations, and implement innovative solutions, Fiona has also coached businesses in the hairdressing sector, and is committed to elevating professional standards and supporting business success through education, mentorship, and strategic solutions. “I’m thrilled to return to the AHC as CEO,” Fiona shares, reflecting on her past involvement as an AHC member and also as part of the member support team with the organisation. “It’s exciting to lead such a passionate and dedicated community that makes this industry so special.
“Fiona’s extensive knowledge and business expertise will be pivotal in guiding the AHC’s continued growth. “We are delighted to welcome Fiona as our new interim CEO,” says AHC Chair Luca DeLorenzo. “Her extensive hairdressing experience will be invaluable in supporting our members and advocating for the wider hair industry.”
At the age of 15 years old, Katrina began cutting & colouring on the salon floor in her small town of Rosewood, Queensland. She then went onto completing her apprenticeship while managing a small salon, then moving overseas to Canada where her love for education truly ignited. While living in a small village in the Arctic, Katrina taught young children the skills of hairdressing. This is where teaching and educating became not only her livelihood, but also her true passion. In returning home, Katrina made the bold move to email her connection at L’Oreal head office, and promptly asked for a job in education. So, for the past 10 years, Katrina has been an integral part of the education team both in-field and in head office. Her ability to connect with people and share her knowledge in a relatable, inspiring manner earned her widespread recognition within the hairdressing community and amongst her peers. In her new role as Education and Advocacy Manager at L’Oréal Professionnel, Katrina will lead the brand’s efforts to provide cutting-edge education to our stylists, salon owners, and L’Oreal Pro community across ANZ.
Katrina vows to create a space where hairdressers can learn from each other, challenge each other, and celebrate each other’s successes. Together with the brand team, Katrina promises to continue to raise the bar for the entire industry, ensuring that every L’Oréal Professionnel stylist has the skills, knowledge, and unwavering confidence to not just thrive, but to truly shine.
Fresha the world’s leading marketplace and business management platform for the hair, beauty, wellness and self-care industry, is accelerating its global expansion while reinforcing its position as the safest and most secure platform on the market.
In just six months, Fresha’s proprietary AI and Machine Learning technology has reduced fraud by an incredible 99%, preventing fraudulent transactions from affecting businesses and clients. This milestone sets a new benchmark for security in the industry, showcasing Fresha’s commitment to staying ahead of evolving cyber threats and ensuring unparalleled protection for businesses and clients worldwide.
To achieve this, Fresha combines advanced AI-driven fraud prevention with a comprehensive layered security program. By leveraging frameworks like ISO 27001, HIPAA, and GDPR, Fresha ensures that data is protected, vulnerabilities are identified in real time, and all system access is tightly controlled. Zero-trust access management, continuous automated compliance monitoring, and secure vendor protocols further minimize
FRESHA’S AI-POWERED DEFENSE REDUCES FRAUD BY 99%
Industry News.
risks, ensuring both proactive and reactive defences are in place. Fresha’s AI-powered fraud detection system uses predictive analytics to identify suspicious patterns before they cause harm—going beyond traditional, reactive methods. Advanced transaction scoring monitors multiple parameters to detect fraudulent activity, while automated systems flag and block payment fraud attempts—such as stolen card transactions—before they happen. Furthermore, Fresha’s secure messaging infrastructure proactively combats SMS and email phishing scams, ensuring that clients and businesses remain protected across every interaction.
To further strengthen its security posture, Fresha invites skilled security researchers and ethical hackers to partner in enhancing the platform’s security infrastructure. Through a comprehensive bug bounty program, Fresha fosters collaboration with the cybersecurity community to proactively identify and address potential vulnerabilities. The focus is on discovering high-impact security findings that help maintain the robust protection Fresha users expect and deserve. Qualified security researchers interested in participating in the bug bounty program can reach out to security@fresha.com for detailed program guidelines, scope, and reward information.
“As we continue to grow, our responsibility to safeguard businesses and clients grows with us,” said William Zeqiri, Founder & CEO at Fresha. “Fraudsters are becoming increasingly sophisticated, but so are we. With our proprietary AI and Machine Learning systems, we don’t just react to fraud—we stop it before it even starts. Combined with our robust compliance and security frameworks, this ensures that Fresha remains the safest and most reliable platform in the industry.”
With fraud on the rise globally—including £571 million in card payment fraud in the UK in 2023 and projected $91 billion in e-commerce payment fraud losses by 2028—Fresha’s AI-driven security measures have never been more essential. As cybercriminals evolve, Fresha continues to lead the industry in setting new security benchmarks for trust and reliability. www.fresha.com
SMITHS COLLECTIVE BRANDS INVITES YOU TO POWER UP IN BALI WITH SHARLENE LEE & SOPHIA HILTON.
This May, Smiths Collective Brands & INNOluxe presents Power-up In Bali with Sharlene Lee & Sophia Hilton - a ‘once in a lifetime’ salon owners business retreat in beautiful Bali, promising to deliver amazing business sessions, mindful self-development and time out for you - it’s the reset you’ve been craving!
If you find you’ve been hustling non-stop, forgetting to indulge in your own self-development or even wondering what’s next for your business, over the weekend of May 18-21 2025 at Bali’s stunning Tanadewa Resort, you’ll have the chance to enjoy an unforgettable experience with two of the international hairdressing industry’s top business gurus, where you will gain clarity, boost your confidence and realign your goals to elevate your business.
“Our primary goals with this once in a lifetime retreat is to showcase Smiths Collective brands and the incomparable INNOluxe brand, and by bringing together Sophia & Sharlene, dynamic business owners & educators who share their knowledge and passion on the world stage, we aim to inspire and empower salon owners to achieve their business goals and dreams,” says Brian & Jane Smith, Co-founders of Smiths Collective Brands.
• cont’d over page
Sharlene Lee
Sophia Hilton
Industry News.
“Harnessing Sophia’s & Sharlene’s uniquely different approaches to business, we believe that attendees will leave the retreat with a clear focus and direction for their business, inspired by two truly successful and powerful salon owners. Sharing days & nights together at an amazing resort, this business owners’ retreat will allow attendees to focus on themselves, their goals and their future business directions.”
Says Sharlene, “Join myself and Sophia in Bali for an exclusive small group experience, where we’ll dive deep into everything salon business. This is your chance to breakthrough and finally become the salon owner you have always dreamed of becoming.”
“No fluff, no secrets, just raw honest conversations about every challenge you’re facing; let’s breakthrough the fear and make changes that will transform your business. We look forward to seeing you in Bali this Maylet’s do this together!”
Says Sophia, “Sharlene and I both bring something different and big to the table for this retreat, and I am so grateful that Smiths Collective Brands & INNOluxe are supporting the industry in this way.”
“This retreat will allow you to reflect on yourself and your business, in both a beautiful and intense way. This will be the ultimate experience for salon owners - if you haven’t treated yourself or invested in yourself to this extent, maybe it’s time to do that - I would love you to join us. This will be one of the most special things I’ve done in my career.” With only 35 PLACES available this will be a business-changing, once in a lifetime opportunity not to be missed!
• A one-hour massage to relax your mind, body and soul
• Two days of easy-to-follow workshops with Sophia & Sharlene
• Plenty of time to chill by the pool, relax and network/socialise
• PLEASE NOTE: Flights not included For more information on Power-up In Bali please visit: www.smithscollectivebrands.com.au/pages/professional-salonowners-retreat-bali www.smithscollectivebrands.com.au
CUTTING THROUGH THE NOISE UK LIVE DEBUT AT HAIRCON, MANCHESTER
@CuttingThroughTheNoise is proud to announce they will be a podcast partner at HairCon for this year’s event. Hosted by the dynamic duo Stephanie Mason and Hayley Mears, the podcast is known for its no-nonsense, insightful discussions on the everevolving hair and beauty industry. Their combined experience in the hair sector, business strategy, marketing, and digital content ensures that their contributions to HairCon will be both invaluable and inspiring.
With an acute understanding of industry challenges and trends, Cutting Through the Noise will provide real-time, thoughtprovoking conversations with key players in the market. No commercial topic is off-limits, as Stephanie and Hayley dissect crucial issues such as:
• The impact of current supply chain disruptions
• The latest e-commerce trends and their influence on the beauty market
• The shifting landscape of salon culture and workplace flexibility
• Strategies for brands that launched during economic downturns and those that have successfully navigated market challenges
At HairCon, the podcast will deliver exclusive interviews with top industry leaders, emerging brands, and pioneering entrepreneurs who have adapted and thrived in uncertain times. Attendees can expect in-depth discussions on business-to-business operations, salon sustainability, digital transformation, and education-driven solutions to the industry’s most pressing concerns.
“Our vision is to unite the hairdressing industry through real-time conversations about the economic and business changes shaping our sector,” says Hayley Mears. “HairCon provides the perfect platform for these crucial discussions.”
@CuttingThroughTheNoise aims to empower salon professionals, educators, and business owners with the knowledge they need to stay ahead in this competitive landscape.
For ticket information and event details, visit haircon.co.uk
O&M APPOINTS NEW CEO AS FOUNDER JOSÉ BRYCE SMITH TAKES ON VISIONARY ROLE
JOICO PROUDLY WELCOMES THEIR NEW GLOBAL CELEBRITY SPOKESPERSON…KATE
HUDSON (@katehudson)
Get ready for a year of sparkle and excitement as this iconic actress, singer, and entrepreneur joins Joico in celebrating their milestone 50th Anniversary with a tantalizing glimpse into her joifilled world!
They’ll be redefining healthy hair with Kate’s infectious positivity and playful spirit — front and centre all year long.
@joicoaustraliaanz
Ludovic Dellazzeri has been appointed as CEO of O&M, while Jose Bryce Smith, who founded the business in 2007, will take on the role of Founder & Chief Visionary Officer (CVO).
O&M has always been a brand built for the hairdresser and under Jose’s leadership, it has redefined clean haircare and colour.
“This transition allows me to stay focused on our original vision— creating the highest-performing clean colour and kind haircare in the world. O&M has always been about pushing boundaries, proving that hair colour can be both clean and high performing. With Ludovic’s expertise and support, we are in the strongest position yet to bring this vision to life on an even larger scale. This next chapter is all about innovation and education to
Industry News.
support the growing global O&M community, which currently spans 18 countries,” – Jose Bryce Smith.
Ludovic is a highly regarded leader in the professional hair and beauty industry, bringing more than 25 years of experience across multiple countries. He has managed several brands within the L’Oréal Group and, more recently, served as Managing Director of GHD ANZ. Ludovic’s ability to transform businesses, develop teams, and accelerate growth makes his appointment an exciting new chapter in O&M’s development. “I am excited to join the O&M family, which under Jose’s vision, has pioneered a new, dynamic, and inclusive approach to the professional hairdressing industry—built on clean, kind, and high-performing products that resonate with the demands of today’s hairdressers and consumers. From a local business that has grown into a global brand, I look forward to working with the O&M team and our hairdresser partner community to further scale up the incredible brand, products, and support it offers,” –Ludovic Dellazzeri.
MOCHA CELEBRATES 20 YEARS WITH A COMMITMENT TO RAISE MONEY FOR THE TARRANT FOUNDATION
With mocha group turning 20 this year, we are conducting various fundraising throughout the year with support from our clients and the hair, beauty and barber industries. All monies raised will be donated at the end of the year to the Tarrant Foundation, led by Jenni Tarrant, OAM. 2024 marked an incredible milestone for Jenni by celebrating 20 years of success with her business Bond Hair Religion, and in 2024 she launched the Tarrant Foundation to support various charitable organisations that support all humans (from children to the elderly) suffering from all forms of abuse - physical, mental and sexual. The foundation’s main objective will be to raise funds for goods and services to directly provide resources to help those in need and is a not for profit with all administrative fees, wages or costs incurred funded by Jenni Tarrant OAM. The foundation’s launch at the 20th Anniversary Gala Ball raised $45,000 for children at risk in Australia. It will continue helping those affected by family violence and sexual abuse, aligning with Jenni Tarrant’s plans for retirement after 41 years in the hair and beauty industry, where she will focus on combating sex trafficking in Cambodia. Jenni was named Inspiring Woman of the Year in 2024 and emphasized the salon’s dedication to caring for its team, clients, and community, aiming to make the world a better place. Linda Woodhead, owner of Mocha Group is proud to partner with longtime friend and industry associate Jenni Tarrant, in what will result in many charitable initiatives throughout the year, and together, raising money to make a difference in the life of those that have suffered abuse at the hands of others.
PLEASE HELP IF YOU CAN. NO DOANTION IS TOO SMALL. ALL PROCEEDS GO TO THOSE THAT NEED IT. www.mochagroup.com.au
Industry News.
BARBER TO THE STARS FRANK CICCONE IS MAKING A BUZZ FOR AUSTRALIANS LIVING WITH BLOOD CANCER
The Leukaemia Foundation is thrilled to announce internationally acclaimed barber and men’s hairdresser Frank Ciccone as an official Hair Ambassador of its iconic World’s Greatest Shave campaign for 2025.
The Melbourne salon owner, who was recently inducted into the Australian Modern Barber Awards Hall of Fame, is set to bring plenty of style to this year’s campaign, with his business Hair by Ciccone crowned International Salon of the Year at the 2024 Social Media Hair and Beauty Awards.
With 30 years of industry experience under his belt – including working with a star-studded list of clientele, from beloved bands like INXS to sporting legends like Tim Cahill – this year, Frank is volunteering his razor-sharp skills to shave, cut and colour participants’ hair and raise critical funds for the 150,000 Australians living with blood cancer. “Many people have sadly been affected or know someone who has had cancer,” Frank Ciccone said.
“My aim is to get more exposure in my community and help create awareness about blood cancer, and the World’s Greatest Shave, whilst encouraging people to sign up to shave, cut, or colour this year, or donate to someone who is.”
Meeting new people, building relationships and welcoming returning clients to his salon every day, are aspects of his job that Frank thoroughly enjoys. But over the course of his career, it’s also meant he’s felt the devastating impact of blood cancer in his community. “I’ve had friends and clients who have sadly passed away from blood cancer, in particular leukaemia,” Mr Ciccone said.
“So, to put my hands up and help out in this way to raise awareness and funds for families affected by this disease, that’s what it’s all about.”
In his role as Hair Ambassador, Frank was proud to kick off this year’s World’s Greatest Shave by delivering the first shave of the campaign season. Melbourne father David Leslie teamed up with Frank who shaved his entire head in support of David’s 13-year-old stepdaughter Maisy who was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia in June and is currently receiving treatment.
With Australia experiencing a 40 per cent increase in blood cancer incidence in children in the past two decades, and with blood cancers set to become the most prevalent cancer in all age groups by 2035, Leukaemia Foundation CEO Chris Tanti said the organisation was calling on Australians like Frank and David to throw their support behind this year’s World’s Greatest Shave. “Every day, 55 Australians will hear the devastating words ‘you have blood cancer’,” Mr Tanti said. “A further 17 people will lose their life to blood cancer every day in this country. That’s 17 mothers, fathers, sons, daughters, siblings and grandparents. Seventeen families that lose a loved one.
“By signing up to this year’s World’s Greatest Shave, you can choose to shave, cut or colour your hair in support of Australians impacted by blood cancer with every dollar you raise helping to provide much-needed support and services to patients and their loved ones”.
Funds raised by generous fundraisers will also help to make significant strides towards finding more targeted treatment options for Australians with a blood cancer diagnosis, and fund game-changing research and advocacy, with the goal of achieving zero lives lost to blood cancer by 2035.
Sign up to shave, cut or colour your hair in support of Australians facing blood cancer, or donate directly to the World’s Greatest Shave campaign, at worldsgreatestshave.com Alternatively, if you would like to support Frank’s World’s Greatest Shave you can donate by scanning the QR Code! www.worldsgreatestshave.com
THE 2024 NEW ZEALAND HAIR AWARDS (NZHA)
The 2024 New Zealand Hair Awards were held at Te Pae Convention Centre, Christchurch, on Sunday 3rd November. This glitzy Awards Gala Dinner event was hosted by Hair & Barber New Zealand with MC Patrick Cameron MBE, officiating the awards. The evening was a wonderful celebration of excellence in Hairdressing and Barbering across Aotearoa! Congratulations to the winners!
CREATIVE AWARDS WINNERS
Winner of 2024 NZHA - Editorial Barber of the Year
BUSINESS AWARDS WINNERS
Winner of 2024 NZHA Professional Barbering Business
Winner of 2024 NZHA Professional Barber – Next Generation
Benji Lawrence, Smoke & Mirrors Hair Lounge
Muhammad Shabari - Kirkwoods Barbers
Winner of 2024 NZHA - New Talent and Next Generation: Rita Hitaua
Mancraft Barbers -- Rotorua
A Game-Changing Reparative Volumizing UNVEILS
K18 is thrilled to proudly launch the brand’s newest innovation - AstroLift™, a revolutionary volumizing spray designed to deliver fuller, healthier hair while repairing it from within. This breakthrough product promises K18’s community not just instant, touchable body and bounce but also long-term benefits for fine, aging, and damage-prone hair—all powered by the patented K18PEPTIDE™.
AstroLift™ isn’t just another styling spray—it’s a problem solver. Stylists and consumers alike can now achieve natural-looking volume that lasts up to two days with a single application. This lightweight, buildable formula gets to the root of volume loss, leaving hair visibly stronger, softer, and more resilient to humidity without weighing it down or leaving a residue. It’s clinically proven to deliver up to 2.5x more volume, giving users the confidence of hair that’s both stunning and strong.
What sets AstroLift™ apart is its innovative blend of ingredients. The K18PEPTIDE™ repairs protein loss and chemical damage in all hair types, while a naturally derived seaweed and amino acid complex boosts volume without compromise. The result? Hair that feels weightless yet full, clean yet bouncy—just the way stylists and clients dream it should be.
A Stylist-Approved Revolution
To celebrate the launch, K18 is proud to partner with renowned celebrity colorist Jack Martin as its brand ambassador. Known for his transformative work with gray hair, Jack endorses AstroLift™ as the ultimate go-to for delivering weightless, reparative volume while addressing the challenges of fine and aging hair.
“AstroLift™ is more than a styling product—it’s a game-changer for anyone seeking hair that looks and feels alive,” says Suveen Sahib, CoFounder and CEO of K18. “This launch marks another milestone in our commitment to delivering high-performance, reparative solutions that benefit both stylists and their clients.”
Where healthier, touchable volume meets innovative haircare. For stylists, for consumers, for everyone.
“ ”
Innovation That Leads the Industry
K18 continues to push boundaries in haircare innovation. From its patented odorBIND™ technology in the AirWash™ dry shampoo to the transformative power of AstroLift™, the brand takes a biologyfirst approach to solving hair challenges. With this launch, K18 addresses the needs of hair types most susceptible to damage and volume loss, ensuring longlasting, touchable volume that stylists can trust and clients will adore.
K18 is a next generation, biology-first haircare brand co-founded by Suveen Sahib that is transforming the haircare industry with advanced biotechnology. At the heart of K18’s innovation is the patented K18PEPTIDE™, a high-performance ingredient that reverses hair damage in just four minutes. This revolutionary peptide, developed using computational biology, mimics the molecular structure of human hair to reconnect broken bonds and repair damage at the core.
The brand has revamped what was once known as “repair” with the re-introduction of its K18REPAIR™ Service, a 2-step salon-exclusive damage repair service that protects, strengthens, and preserves hair health through even extreme salon services - offered at select salons that can be found through the brand’s website.
Since its launch during the pandemic, K18 has skyrocketed to viral fame, earning over 20 billion TikTok views and 30+ prestigious awards, including WWD Product of the Year and Fast Company’s Most Innovative. K18 now reaches customers in over 90 countries, with a growing global community of users and professionals alike. In 2024, K18 was acquired by Unilever, accelerating its mission to deliver nextgeneration haircare.
As a leader in synthetic biology within the beauty industry, K18 continues to innovate, creating more reliable, sustainable, and effective ingredients that redefine the future of haircare.
AstroLift™ Reparative Volume Spray will be available for salons to purchase exclusively via Ozdare and will be sold through salons, selected retailers and via K18hair.com.au
For more information, visit k18hair.com.au or follow @K18Hair_Australia on Instagram.
Success is not just what you accomplish in your life, but what you inspire others to do. Legacy is not built in the moment; it is forged in the impact you leave behind.
For the first time in the History of the Mocha Group, a select group of personally invited esteemed leaders, gathered for an exclusive event like no other - Mocha Elite.
Designed to inspire, elevate, and transform, this sixday journey redefined what it means to be a trailblazer in the hair, beauty, and barbering industries. Hosted at the luxurious Langham Hotel on the breathtaking Gold Coast, Mocha Elite was more than an event; it was an experience that will be etched in the hearts and minds of its attendees forever.
Day One: The Arrival
From the moment our esteemed guests stepped onto the sun-kissed shores of the Gold Coast, they were welcomed with open arms into a world of luxury and exclusivity. Personal concierge service ensured a seamless check-in, and each delegate was gifted a bespoke luxury welcome pack - a curated collection of surprises reflecting the essence of Mocha Elite.
As the evening unfolded, the Clarity Room set the stage for an intimate welcome cocktail party. Amidst the clinking of glasses and laughter, connections were formed, stories were shared, and the tone was set for the transformational days ahead. Guests enjoyed remarkable roving canapés and lychee spritz cocktails while being mesmerised by a surprise magician who left everyone in awe with his mindblowing illusions.
Day Two: The Journey
The first full day of Mocha Elite began with a breakfast overlooking the ocean at the award-winning Akoya Restaurant. With minds open and hearts ready, delegates embarked on a conference day designed to challenge, uplift, and inspire.
Kurek Ashley, a globally renowned peak performance coach, took centre stage, leading a powerful session on mindset, success, and breaking barriers. His raw energy and unparalleled wisdom left delegates deeply engaged. Dr. Cheri Sotelo, flown in for the USA, followed, bringing her expertise in holistic wellness to the forefront, weaving together the eight dimensions of well-being to empower each individual in their personal and professional lives.
The afternoon was a deeply personal and transformative experience, centred around selflove, reinvention, and the power of self-belief. As Kurek Ashley so powerfully put it, ‘You either evolve or dissolve.’ Delegates were guided through a journey of introspection, peeling back the layers of doubt and limitation to reveal the most powerful version of themselves. Through moving discussions and powerful exercises, they were encouraged to embrace their worth, challenge old narratives, and step into their true potential. This was a defining moment of Mocha Elite—a time to reconnect, rediscover, and redefine who they were meant to be. The day concluded with an unforgettable dinner at Akoya, where conversations flourished over delicious food, fine wine and a shared sense of inspiration.
Day Three: The Downtime
The morning of Day Three began with a deeply restorative sound healing session led by Dr. Cheri Sotelo. This soul-stirring experience allowed delegates to centre themselves, recalibrate their energy, and embrace the stillness before the day unfolded. Mocha Elite was not just about learning—it was about balance. A day of leisure allowed our guests to unwind and rejuvenate. Some chose to indulge in spa treatments that were a signature part of the Mocha Elite experience,
while others soaked in the magnesium pool or explored the stunning Gold Coast surroundings. Pre-booked one-on-one sessions with our elite speakers provided personalised guidance, ensuring every attendee gained tailored insights.
Day Four: The Destination
A day of discovery awaited as delegates dived into branding and culture with Mocha Group’s General Manager, Jarred Stedman, followed by a session with business strategist Don Robertson. With over five decades of experience in business transformation, Don shared game-changing strategies on scaling businesses to unprecedented heights.
As the afternoon unfolded, Kurek Ashley led an unforgettable glass walk experience—a powerful exercise in overcoming fear, harnessing inner strength, and proving that the mind is far more powerful than we often believe. Delegates took each step with intention, learning firsthand that the barriers we perceive are often the ones we place upon ourselves. This was a defining moment of the Mocha Elite experience, where self-doubt was replaced with unwavering confidence and a renewed sense of purpose. The evening’s private dining experience at Akoya provided the perfect setting for deep reflection and meaningful discussions.
Day Five: The Reward
A true celebration of achievement awaited on Day Five—a moment to reflect on the journey so far and embrace the joy of success. The anticipation built as delegates gathered for what would be one of the most memorable experiences of Mocha Elite. The afternoon unfolded aboard a private luxury yacht, where the shimmering waters of the Gold Coast set the perfect backdrop for a day of pure indulgence and connection. Guests indulged in a carefully curated selection of roving gourmet dishes, including fresh oysters, perfectly prepared scallops, and delicious lobster rolls, all enjoyed in an atmosphere of relaxed sophistication as they sailed through breathtaking scenery. The experience was further elevated by a gin masterclass, hosted by Kellie Woodhead, art director for mocha group and her partner, in both business and life, Cuba Krzyzanowski, showcasing their exceptional brand, Imperfect Spirits. A private DJ set the tone, blending relaxation with celebration as delegates danced, laughed, and embraced the moment.
Throughout the afternoon, laughter and meaningful conversations strengthened connections among delegates. The yacht experience embodied the essence of Mocha Elite—a perfect blend of celebration, reflection, and shared success, with every detail designed to create an atmosphere of relaxed sophistication.
Day Six: The Farewell
The final morning brought reflection, gratitude, and powerful takeaways. Linda Woodhead, mocha group owner, led the recap, ensuring that every delegate walked away with not only knowledge but also actionable strategies to implement in their businesses and lives.
Dr. Cheri Sotelo delivered her final session on practical well-being, followed by a closing session with Kurek Ashley that left an indelible mark on all who attended. As guests departed, bound for home yet forever changed, one thing was certain—Mocha Elite was more than an event. It was a movement, a transformation, and a legacy in the making.
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A Legacy Redefined
Mocha Elite was not just about learning; it was about stepping into a space where inspiration meets relaxation, where luxury and wisdom converge, and where established leaders refined their vision and elevated their impact. It was so much more than just legacy—deep friendships were formed, bonds that will last a lifetime, built on shared experiences, growth, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. As the inaugural Mocha Elite event came to a close, one undeniable truth remained: success is not measured by what we achieve but by the legacy we leave behind.
To the already accomplished and extraordinary individuals who embarked on this journey—this is just the beginning. You are the pioneers of a new era in the industry. You are the elites!
The impact of Mocha Elite will not end here; it will ripple outward, shaping the future for generations to come.
Special Thanks to Louise May, editor in chief of mocha group for assisting the delegates on their journey and Brittany Murton, mocha group EA for her organisational excellence!
A word from the Mocha Elite Delegates...
It was so lovely getting to spend time with Linda and the Mocha team on the Gold Coast at the first “mocha elite”. It was really obvious that you’d all worked so hard putting on such an exceptional event, as it was absolutely flawless, minus Cyclone Albert! I was so humbled to have been invited. The speakers were awesome, and the networking was incredible and all in such a luxurious environment as The Langham. I feel I’ve come away with great memories and new friends for life, all from the industry that we love, Hair & Beauty.
– Clare Castles, Vitaman Professional.
From the moment we arrived, mocha elite retreat felt different. The calibre of speakers and exceptional content was outstanding, but when likeminded entrepreneurs & creatives come together magic happens. Linda & the mocha group created an incredible experience with so much attention to detail , the beautiful hotel , the food & divine dining experiences , the opportunities to connect in a relaxed and friendly environment , having one on one time with each of the speakers were invaluable. So much gratitude for this opportunity, it was life changing.
– Michelle McCubbin-Gannon, Hair Body & Soul
Mocha Elite inspired us to inspire on the glittering Gold Coast, with zero personal sacrifices made for this extraordinary event. Being invited into the Mocha Elite delegacy was exciting at the time, but upon reflection, it was truly the greatest gift. As business leaders, legacy is everything to us, and here, we learned to bring that vision to life with a level of high-end detail that’s rare to experience in a learning environment. I felt, I knew, I grew— laughing loudly, forging friendships, and experiencing awe, fun, luxury, and dynamism. From world-class speakers and Super yachts to mastering new entrepreneurial skills and even walking on glass, the experience was unlike any other. Mocha Elite seamlessly blended health, business, and metaphysics, forging connections that will never be broken. It was an extraordinary privilege to be part of this. Thank you, Linda, Jarred, Lou and the Mocha team. You truly exceeded all expectations.
- Helen Owens, Tigerlamb
I have just attended the Mocha Elite Conference at the beautiful Langham Hotel, and to say it was transformative would be an understatement. I found myself in a room filled with extraordinary individuals—people I may never have crossed paths with if not for this event. From the very first moment, the atmosphere was electric with support, love, and genuine connection. The friendships formed were instant, deep, and truly inspiring. It’s difficult to put into words just how much this experience has shifted my perspective and ignited a new level of motivation within me. The speakers were beyond exceptional—not only did they share their knowledge and wisdom from the stage, but they were with us throughout the entire event, offering personal insights and one-on-one guidance that was truly invaluable. To have that level of access to such accomplished professionals was a privilege I won’t soon forget. I walked away on the final day with an energy and mindset unlike anything I have ever felt after a conference. I am more determined than ever to achieve my goals—and go beyond them. I was challenged, pushed outside my comfort zone in ways I never expected (yes, I even walked on glass!), and came out stronger for it. A heartfelt thank you to Linda, Jarred, and Louise—your dedication, passion, and generosity made this an unforgettable experience. This conference wasn’t just about learning; it was about transformation, and I am forever grateful for the impact it has had on me.
- Gay Wardle, Gay Wardle Education.
A perfectly and professionally curated symposium of like-minded people from the hair and beauty industry which included salon owners and suppliers. The guest speakers stayed with us for the duration of the trip so they, and us could fully immerse ourselves into the near weeklong programme and build a trust and understanding of the complexities of our daily business lives. The friendship and camaraderie that was shared and displayed by all opened up the honesty and professional growth that we are all craving as we strive to be the best we can be within our own businesses. New professional and personal skills were brought to the fore, coupled with much needed ‘down time’ where there was opportunity for more relaxed open discussion on the highs and lows of our business, plus new opportunities for the future. Personally, for me? Probably one of the most valuable weeks of my professional career. Great people; newfound friendships; new business opportunities.
- Simon Pitt, Orange Tree Consulting
Wow, Mocha Team—you’ve done it again! The MOCHA ELITE Congress was an incredible experience, delivering real value not just for our business but for us personally as well. Stene and I are truly grateful for the insights, connections, and inspiration we gained. Ironically, you even got me to step outside my comfort zone and engage with social media—and, more importantly, you equipped us with the right tools to do it successfully. That alone is a huge win! This program was more than just professional development—it was about building lasting friendships and a supportive community that will continue for years to come. A huge thank you to Linda and the entire Mocha team—your passion and dedication shine through in everything you do. Being among the first MOCHA ELITES is an honour, and it’s a true reflection of our absolute belief in this incredible team. Congratulations on a phenomenal event!
– Corri and Stene Marshall, Dermapenworld
I was blessed to be invited to take up a space at the attended the first ever Mocha Elite event—a powerful gathering of self-made founders and CEO’s from the hair, skin, and body industries. With just twelve of us in attendance, the intimate setting allowed for deep forever connections and invaluable insights. The motivational speakers and discussions on business modelling and marketing were truly uplifting, leaving me feeling reinvigorated and ready to take on new challenges. It was an experience that perfectly aligned with my drive and aspirations and one that I will cherish on my business journey.
– Tony Awad, Lux Brands Australia
My experience with Mocha Elite was a time surrounded by positive, motivated, like-minded business owners. The opportunity to learn and share experiences in a safe and constructive space was invaluable. The relationships formed will last a lifetime and the experience has empowered me to be a stronger, more confident version of myself. In the words of the closing song for Mocha Elite…I’ve had the time of my life
– Penny Bebb, Conceptual Brands
My cup is now full...we have attended many conferences over the years and each one had a special light bulb moment, however the light bulb moments at the mocha elite journey just kept getting brighter and brighter, the loving and truly admirable speakers felt like they were our friends, never have we been able to connect with them one on one, as for Linda and crew, this event was truly celebrity style, gifts, love, pampering, entertainment, fun and luxurious. It ticked all the boxes, and the memories will live for ever.
- Pina Khalaf, Hair, Body & Soul
When I was invited to Mocha Elite. I had no idea what it was, but I knew anything to do with mocha was a yes from me. So, with juggling 3 young children; a raging skin clinic and no outside help I knew I needed to go. Firstly, because I couldn’t believe I was selected… me? Are you serious little me from my skin clinic in Perth. Insert imposter syndrome here. But I just knew in my gut I had to go. So, I did even with being unwell and all the things I went. My god. Firstly, I have never in my life felt so embraced, loved on and accepted, but by a group of people I absolutely look up to in business. And they knew my name! I could not believe these people knew who I was. I absolutely knew who they were. Secondly, I realised I am actually worthy and ‘successful enough’ to be sitting with these absolute powerhouse CEOs. That I have created something so special, and my story is important too. That the table I always wanted to sit at but didn’t think I was good enough to be at… I was not only sitting at, but so worthy of being there.Lastly, I got more out of this personally than I ever could have imagined. A lifetime of self-doubt despite my success, gone. A group of people I look up to that I now call my friends, here. I will never be more grateful to Jarred, Linda and Louise for selecting me.
– Kristin Rose, Peachy Skin Clinic
I had the privilege of attending the very first Mocha Elite and it didn’t disappoint. From the moment I arrived I was taken care of and made to feel very special. The fellow attendees were an inspiration, and I feel I have gained friends and comrades for life! The schedule was beautifully put together and the value I gained from the speakers will be life changing. The perfect balance of education, relaxation, fun and connection! I can’t wait to be part of it ongoing!
– Samantha Jones, Ms Monaco Hair Society
My Life Changing Experience with Mocha Elite.... After 30+ years in the industry, attending countless conferences and retreats, I thought I had seen it all until Mocha Elite. This wasn’t just another event, it was a transformational experience that redefined my mindset, leadership, and personal growth. The strategies and principles I learned weren’t just inspiring—they were life-changing. I’ve now embedded them into my daily routine, elevating not only my leadership but my entire outlook on success. This wasn’t motivation, it was a complete reset. It challenged my mindset in ways I never expected, who would have thought after all these years. I’m beyond grateful for this experience and look forward to my next personal invitation. Growth never stops, and thanks to Mocha Elite, I’m more committed than ever to leading and elevating this industry.
– Sharlene Lee, Circles
As a newcomer to the Industry, I felt privileged to be invited to the Inaugural Mocha Elite Networking Conference. Not knowing what to expect I went along ready to open myself up to whatever was ahead of us. Coming together at the first Cocktail Party it was a little awkward, but honestly that lasted 5 minutes, as everyone was ready to allow themselves to network and making new friends. The fact that the group was a mix of Industry Professionals that all shared a common thread made it so easy to connect. Over the 5 days we got to learn more about ourselves and how we can not only be better at what we do but who we are as people. More importantly we got to know each other as people. I have been involved in several groups and clubs where networking was the agenda, however the Mocha Elite group and the mix of people that were invited all came in with what felt like a sense of friendship and openness that allowed all of us to connect like we were lifelong friends... The Hair/Skin& Beauty Industry has and will continue to be my life, making associations through this group has made it even more meaningful. I want to thank Linda for coming up with the idea and Jarred and the whole Mocha team to arranging such a seamless event.
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Carmelo
Francese, Inspire Brands
Attending the Mocha Elite retreat was a transformative experience where inspiration met relaxation in the most uplifting way. Surrounded by a selected group of driven entrepreneurs, I not only expanded my business network but also formed meaningful friendships. The calibre of guest speakers was truly exceptional, delivering powerful insights that ignited motivation and empowerment within us all. The skills, perspectives and renewed mindset I gained were presented in a fun and supportive environment, leaving me confident that my personal growth will positively impact my business and team. The Mocha team’s attention to detail and personal touch made this retreat an unforgettable experience.
– Lea Taylor, Founder of Naked Tan.
Set amidst the breathtaking scenery of Crystalbrook Byron Bay, CPR Haircare’s Salon Forum 2025 welcomed over 200 industry professionals for an immersive and inspiring experience.
As the official media partners, Mocha Group were on the ground capturing the essence of the forum, which opened with an intimate welcome dinner, setting the stage for the transformative day ahead.
Ambassadors, educators, and industry leaders gathered in an intimate and relaxed setting, fostering meaningful conversations and connections before the event’s official proceedings commenced.
CPR Haircare General Manager, Cass Donnelly, spoke about the significance of hosting the event in such a serene location, emphasising the importance of grounding, community, and collaboration in today’s salon industry.
His work embodies a mission to empower salon owners and stylists to cultivate intentional spaces that prioritise well-being, artistry, and business success in equal measure.
Cass, along with CPR Creative Lead Natalie Chadwick, introduced the 2025 brand campaign, ‘I Made The Change’, a transformative initiative designed to inspire salon professionals to rethink their approach to business and embrace a more holistic mindset. This campaign resonated deeply with attendees, reinforcing the notion that success isn’t just about profit—it’s about creating an environment where both clients and salon teams can thrive.
Empowering Growth Through ‘I Made The Change’
The ‘I Made The Change’ campaign encouraged salon professionals to step into a new era of business with mindfulness, leadership, and innovation. More than just a tagline, it represented a commitment to ongoing growth, both creatively and professionally, while redefining salon culture. Cass Donnelly shared his insights into how salons can integrate sustainable practices, enhance the client experience, and build a business model rooted in authenticity and purpose. His belief that salons should be spaces of healing and self-expression resonated strongly, inspiring attendees to reimagine their roles as leaders and facilitators of positive change.
Guiding the Experience with Energy and Passion
Guiding the full-day event with warmth and charisma, Mel Alsemgeest, creator of Infectious Behaviour, took the stage as the forum’s MC. With her natural ability to engage an audience, Mel ensured that every presentation, panel, and discussion flowed seamlessly, creating an atmosphere that felt welcoming and empowering.
Industry Thought Leaders and Innovators
One of the most anticipated sessions was led by Tabatha Coffey, the renowned TV personality, keynote speaker, and business mentor best known for her hit series Tabatha Takes Over. With her signature no-nonsense yet deeply inspiring approach, Tabatha shared powerful insights on embracing change as a path to success. She challenged attendees to redefine their leadership, push past comfort zones, and adopt futurefocused strategies to build thriving salons. Her message of adaptability and intention resonated deeply, making her session one of the event’s most impactful moments. Tabatha empowered attendees to define their brand mission beyond the digital noise. She announced her partnership with CPR on an upcoming interactive education project, available to all holistic salons.
Throughout the event, some of the biggest names in the industry took the stage to share their expertise, guiding salon professionals toward sustainable growth and creative innovation:
Kaine Vakai, a globally recognised educator and salon owner, captivated the audience with insights into personal branding and social media strategy, showing attendees how to leverage online platforms to attract and retain clients.
Paula Hibbard, an esteemed educator in longhair styling, delivered a hands-on showcase, demonstrating long hair styling on two models, Paula spoke about the importance of asking the right questions to truly understand client needs.
London stylist Tom Warr ignited the creative energy in the room, showcasing his signature 80s-inspired mod cuts and emphasising the importance of translating bold inspiration into wearable salon styles. Assisting Tom was Clive Allwright, whose added insights gave further value to the session.
Paul Frasca, co-founder of Sustainable Salons, engaged attendees in a powerful discussion on the shift toward eco-conscious business practices and how sustainability is becoming a non-negotiable for salons.
Vish Hair Color Management Software and Phorest Salon Software highlighted how technology is transforming salon operations, making them more efficient, profitable, and customer centric.
Stellar Hair with the latest innovations were highlighted as an exciting addition to the event, offering salon owners new tools to enhance their services and elevate their client experience.
Breakout Sessions and ThoughtProvoking Panels
In addition to the keynote sessions, attendees had the opportunity to participate in intimate breakout discussions led by Tom Warr / Clive Allwright, Kaine Vakai, and Tabatha Coffey, providing deeper insights into leadership, creativity, and business growth.
Furthering the learning experience, two expertled Ambassador Panels delved into industry challenges and opportunities. Mocha Group GM, Jarred Stedman, moderated an engaging discussion with Stevi Greenwood, Paul James Graham, and Tom Warr, exploring client experience, reputation-building, and the evolution of unisex hairdressing. Meanwhile, Mocha Group CEO, Linda Woodhead, facilitated a panel featuring Shakira Jade, Georgie Johnson, and Jacqui Cubitt, which focused on scaling businesses, career development, and creating work-life balance.
Supporting Clients Facing Domestic Violence
One of the most powerful and necessary discussions at the forum was centred around supporting salon clients who may be experiencing domestic violence. The Hair3Rs program, developed by FVREE, was highlighted in a dedicated session, educating salon professionals on recognising the signs of domestic violence and understanding how to respond with care and discretion. This initiative equips hairdressers with the tools to provide appropriate referrals, and a safe space for clients in need. The session was both eye-opening and deeply moving, reinforcing the role salons can play in creating a supportive community beyond hair services.
A Celebration of Community and Industry Evolution
While The Salon Forum was a hub of education and inspiration, it was also a celebration of the hairdressing industry’s creativity and evolution. The event wrapped up with a Palm Springsinspired poolside gathering, where attendees reflected on their learnings, shared insights, and strengthened industry connections. Over drinks and relaxed conversations, new friendships and partnerships were formed, reinforcing the event’s spirit of collaboration and shared success.
As salon owners and professionals departed, there was a clear sense of motivation and momentum—an eagerness to implement the knowledge gained and to continue growing their businesses with intention and confidence.
Join the Movement – Salon Forum 2026
With this year’s event leaving a lasting impression, the anticipation for The Salon Forum 2026 is already building. Promising even more innovation, education, and industryshaping discussions, next year’s event is set to be another transformative experience.
Tickets are available now and will sell out fast!—secure your spot and be part of the future of holistic salon success. www.thecircle.cprhair.com/the-salon-forum
Elevating Salon Excellence: A Journey to the 2025 Phorest Salon Owners Summit in Dublin
By Jarred Stedman – Mocha Group GM
A Detour with a Difference
The itinerary was set. We were to meet other Australian salon owners in Dublin, including Kristian Tognini of Tognini’s and Hey Hair in Brisbane and Caroline Doley from SkinDeep Spa in Western Australia. However, travel, much like business, doesn’t always go to plan.
After 11 hours in the air, we were informed that due to extreme hurricane winds in Ireland (126 km/h!), our flight was grounded indefinitely. What was meant to be a short layover in Dubai stretched into a two-day detour. But rather than seeing it as an inconvenience, we embraced the adventure.
Dubai, a city built in just 40 years, is a marvel of modern architecture, luxury, and hospitality. With only our hand luggage, we made the most of our time, embodying the philosophy my wife and I live by when we travel: “Let’s do it like we’re never coming back.”
From dune buggies and sandboarding to camel rides and four-wheel driving, we seized the moment. We explored the architectural wonder that is the Museum of the Future and stood in awe before the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa. It was an unexpected yet unforgettable prelude to the main event.
An Invitation to Inspire
When Phorest extended an invitation for mocha group to be the Official Media Partner and attend the highly anticipated Global Salon Summit in Dublin, I knew it was an opportunity not to be missed. As the media partner and General Manager of Mocha Group, I boarded a flight from Sydney, Australia, with the handpicked Phorest Australian team, ready to immerse ourselves in an event that promised to inspire, challenge, and elevate the industry we love.
Our delegation included Sandy Carty, Phorest’s Australian Country Manager; Kimberly Martin, Regional Marketing Manager; Bev Davis, Operations Manager; Jenna Michelle and Kalista, both Salon Business Consultants. With bags packed, visas in hand, and a newly created WhatsApp group to keep us connected, we embarked on what would become an unforgettable journey.
Arriving in Dublin: The Heartbeat of Phorest
Landing in Dublin, we were welcomed into a city brimming with history, warmth, and innovation. The Phorest Salon Owners Summit 2025 was about to begin, and the energy was palpable.
Now in its ninth year, the summit has become a beacon for salon professionals worldwide. With over 650 attendees, this was the largest Summit to date, a testament to Phorest’s commitment to fostering an industry-leading global community. The event brought together salon owners, industry leaders, and innovators, all united by a shared passion for growth and success.
Sandy Carty, Phorest’s Australian Country Manager, reflected on the significance of the event:
“I recently attended the 2025 Salon Owner Summit held in the home of Phorest’s Head Office in Dublin, Ireland.
The conference was an overwhelming success, with over 650 attendees (its largest attendance to date), cementing its place as the premier event for salon owners and industry professionals across the globe.
This year’s Summit saw an incredible display of community spirit, bringing together a diverse group of salon owners, industry leaders, and innovators. Over the two days, I felt a real sense of energy and camaraderie amongst the crowd and a real thirst and motivation for learning. The event provided the opportunity for attendees to connect, learn, and grow together in an atmosphere charged with inspiration and excitement.
I left the Salon Owners Summit with a deeper love for and connection to the industry, and I am more motivated than ever to help salon, clinic, and spa owners have their best year yet.”
The event’s theme, Elevate, perfectly encapsulated the mission: to rise above challenges, refine our strategies, and embrace the future with confidence. Phorest has long been more than just a software provider; it is a partner in growth, a visionary force helping salons define their own benchmarks rather than conforming to industry averages.
Lessons, Leadership, and Limitless Potential
The summit was meticulously curated, blending thought-provoking panels, interactive workshops, and networking opportunities that fostered deep connections. Industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and experts took the stage to share their wisdom.
Keynote speaker Ken Hughes captivated the audience with his insights on branding, consumer loyalty, and the psychology of customer engagement. His discussion on how businesses, much like cultural icons such as Taylor Swift, create tribal loyalty left many of us reevaluating how we connect with our clients.
The beauty industry’s leading voices, including Winnie Awa, Keya Neal, Tendai Moyo, and Dija Ayodele, shared invaluable perspectives on inclusivity, innovation, and adapting to the evolving landscape. Peigin Crowley’s powerful session on burnout and resilience struck a chord, reminding us that success is not just about business growth but also about personal well-being.
Ronan Harrington’s session on sustainable high performance emphasized the importance of balancing ambition with renewal. His candid discussion on anxiety, burnout, and the pressures salon professionals face resonated deeply, reinforcing the need for self-care in our industry.
Technology also took center stage, with Dr. Anne Marie Imafidon shedding light on AI’s transformative impact on the salon industry. Kati Whitledge’s session on mastering the client lifestyle provided actionable strategies for retention and engagement.
Phorest also welcomed key partners like Vish, Dermalogica, and Mya, who played a significant role in enhancing the experience, providing additional networking and educational opportunities that strengthened the industry’s global connections.
Beyond Business: A Celebration of Community
Phorest is known for its unique ability to blend professional development with moments of pure joy. From the electrifying energy of Bingo Loco to the unforgettable moment when our very own Australian General Manager, Sandy Carty, took the stage to belt out Ice Ice Baby, the summit was as much about connection as it was about education.
The final night’s celebration at an elegant, French-inspired venue was the perfect conclusion—a moment to reflect on the learnings, friendships, and inspiration gained over the past few days.
Looking Ahead
The Phorest Salon Owners Summit continues to set the benchmark for industry events, and the 2026 summit is already confirmed for January 25–26, returning to the Royal Convention Centre in Dublin.
With a reputation for innovation and fostering a strong sense of community, Phorest stands out as a leader in salon technology and business growth. Recognized among the Deloitte Fast 50, the company serves nearly 11,000 businesses worldwide and over 160,000 beauty professionals across 11 regions. With a presence in Ireland, the UK, Finland, the Netherlands, Germany, Australia, Canada, and the US, Phorest’s commitment to pushing the industry forward remains steadfast.
Reflecting on this experience—from the unexpected adventures in Dubai to the transformative days in Dublin—one thing is clear: the Phorest community is thriving, and the future is full of possibilities. For those ready to embrace growth, innovation, and connection, the journey is only just beginning.
Meet Your Growth Partner Than Just Software
Phorest was born on the salon floor in Dublin, Ireland, 20 years ago. Since then, it has been shaped by hair and beauty professionals to ensure that the industry's trailblazers have the tools they need to thrive.
Phorest's all-in-one system allows you to elevate your guest experience and optimize your operations from booking to checkout. You'll generate more revenue with minimal effort while the passionate Phorest team is on your side from day one.
Bringing Hairdressing Education Back to Greatness
HAIR The Movement, a 3-day powerhouse event and the brainchild of Sharon Blain OAM, is redefining hair education by bringing back the high-level technical training the industry needs.
''This is more than education - it's a movement redefining hairdressing. A firsttime event of this scale is a game-changer for the future of our industry'' SHARON BLAIN OAM
With over 35 global educators, it is designed to futureproof hairdressing, providing professionals with the skills, knowledge, and inspiration to thrive. Whether refining skills, discovering trends, or networking, this is the must-attend event for anyone wanting to be at the forefront of hairdressing.
After the exciting launch to industry, as the Offical and Exclusive Media Partner, mocha group caught up with Sharon Blain to find out more…
Sharon, what inspired you to create HAIR The Movement?
I’ve watched as hair education shifted away from its technical roots, and I knew something had to change. HAIR The Movement is my way of bringing that powerful technical foundation back, stronger than ever. This 3-day event is designed to ignite passion, power skills, and equip professionals with the knowledge they need to thrive in the future. It’s about reigniting the mastery, creativity, and business insight that truly set hairdressers apart and drive incredible success. This is the future of hairdressing.
What makes HAIR The Movement different from any other event?
HAIR The Movement is a first-of-its-kind event. Three days of non-stop, high-quality education and networking that goes beyond typical traditional hair events. With over 35 global educators, this event isn’t just about watching demos—it’s about engaging with the industry’s best in cutting, colouring, styling, and avant-garde artistry. Attendees will gain exclusive access to the latest trends, groundbreaking techniques, and essential business strategies to power their careers. What truly sets us apart is the opportunity to connect with leaders from all facets of the hair industry, as well as the unique chance to experience NOISE, the world’s top hair show, making its Australian debut. It’s the perfect blend of education, inspiration, and networking—all in one event.
Who can attendees expect to learn from?
Our lineup is second to none. I’ve personally handpicked and brought together the world’s most highly acclaimed hair artists, educators, and business minds to deliver the high-level technical training the industry has been missing. Every session is designed to push creativity, sharpen skills, and inspire fresh thinking—so no matter what stage of your career you’re at, you’ll leave with the confidence and expertise to thrive.
NOISE is making its Australian debut—why is this such a big deal?
NOISE making its Australian debut is a game-changing moment for the industry. For 13 years, it’s been the world’s most talked-about underground hair show, and now it’s finally coming to Australia, thanks to HAIR The Movement! This isn’t just a show—it’s an extraordinary hair experience. Set in a secret location, NOISE pushes creative boundaries, showcasing raw, fearless artistry. Expect high-energy, jaw-dropping transformations as top global and Aussie artists showcase bold, avantgarde looks live. It’s a massive celebration of what’s next for hairdressing, a night to ignite your imagination and celebrate the artistry of hair like never before.
Why did you choose The Fullerton Hotel Sydney as the venue for HAIR The Movement?
The Fullerton Hotel Sydney is an iconic landmark that combines luxury, sophistication, and accessibility— making it the perfect venue for an event of this scale. Its stunning architecture and spacious, state-of-theart facilities offer the ideal setting for the dynamic energy and innovation we’re bringing to HAIR The Movement. We wanted a venue that reflects the cuttingedge nature of the event while providing comfort and convenience for our attendees. The Fullerton is not just a place to gather; it’s a landmark that perfectly aligns with the vision of HAIR The Movement.
What’s the best way to experience HAIR The Movement?
We offer flexible ticket options to suit everyone’s needs: All-Access 3-Day Pass, Single-Day Tickets, and Group Discount Tickets. The All-Access 3-Day Pass is the best way to experience everything HAIR The Movement has to offer, including live seminars, business sessions, and exclusive events. And on’t miss out on the early bird special offers! This is more than just an event—it’s a movement that makes hair education great again and empowers us to be our best!
THE ULTIMATE UNDERGROUND HAIR EXPERIENCE
15TH SEPTEMBER 2025
The world’s top hair show for 13 years is coming to Australia!
HAIR The Movement brings NOISE—a 3-hour, raw, high-energy event at a secret underground location. This electrifying show features six visionary artists who will transform hair artistry into an unforgettable visual experience. Step into the rebellious, creative world of NOISE, the underground hair and art showcase redefining boundaries in global hairdressing.
Krystle
Tokunai
2024 AHIA Creative QLD Hairdresser of the Year & the Salon She Built!
Just a few minutes from the bustling centre of Cairns, you’ll find something special—Tokunai Hair. More than just a salon, it’s a creative sanctuary where hair artistry meets community, and where every client is embraced with genuine care.
At the heart of it all is Krystle Tokunai, a talented hairdresser, makeup artist, and entrepreneur who has not only built an incredible salon but also created her own beauty range, MIYA—a beauty range inspired by the names of her two daughters. Since opening the salon in 2008, she’s built something extraordinary—a salon where people go not just for great hair, but for an experience they’ll always remember.
What truly sets Tokunai Hair apart is the energy within its walls. The team is more than a group of stylists; they are a creative force, constantly innovating and pushing the boundaries of hairstyling. Their passion is evident in everything they do. Their dedication has turned heads across the industry, earning them recognition, including Krystle Tokunai’s individual achievement as the 2024 AHIA Creative Queensland Hairdresser of the Year. But beyond the awards, what stands out most is the way they support each other— lifting one another up, collaborating on creative projects, and celebrating every milestone as a team.
From the moment you step inside Tokunai Hair, you’re welcomed with warmth and attention to detail. Krystle Tokunai and her team have created a space where every detail is designed with care, from the warm welcome to the little touches that make each visit special. It’s not just about great hair (though you’ll certainly walk out feeling amazing). It’s about how you feel the entire time you’re there. The team takes the time to get to know their clients—their lifestyle, hair goals, favourite ways to style their hair. Consultations aren’t rushed, and the team is always ready to offer expert advice, so clients leave not only looking fabulous but feeling confident in how to maintain their new look.
Tokunai’s VIP membership system is another way they make life easier for their clients. With prepaid colour memberships and a subscription-based blowdry service, their loyal clients get priority bookings and a personalised experience every single time. It’s this kind of attention to detail that makes Tokunai Hair a salon people keep coming back to.
One of the standout features of Tokunai Hair is its commitment to continuous learning and innovation. The salon is not just a workplace; it’s a hub for professional growth. Krystle ensures her team stays at the forefront of industry trends through structured monthly in-salon training sessions, external workshops, and participation in hands-on creative projects. This commitment to education ensures that every stylist is equipped with the latest techniques and knowledge, providing clients with cutting-edge hairstyling services.
Creativity is celebrated beyond the salon floor. Tokunai Hair’s team played a pivotal role in executing a highly successful creative project that contributed to Krystle’s 2024 AHIA Creative Queensland Hairdresser of the Year win. The team collaborated on every step of the process, from concept development and styling to actively participating in the photoshoot day. This project was more than just an award entry—it was an opportunity for growth, learning, and pushing artistic boundaries. The experience reinforced their unity as a team and set a new standard for excellence in creative hairstyling.
Beyond structured training, Krystle fosters an environment where mentorship and team building are a priority. Monthly incentives and a strategic goal-setting system encourage every team member to track their growth, take pride in their work, and stay motivated. Tokunai Hair’s work culture thrives on collaboration, where stylists inspire and challenge each other to become their best. The salon also participates in external industry events, allowing stylists to experience highpressure creative environments that further develop their confidence and skill set.
Sustainability is another key focus at Tokunai Hair. The salon has integrated eco-friendly practices into its daily operations, from using ethically sourced, chemical-free hair products to implementing a structured recycling program that includes foils, hair clippings, and product packaging. By reducing waste and minimising its environmental footprint, Tokunai Hair is proving that luxury and sustainability can go hand in hand. They’ve also embraced digital communication methods to cut down on paper usage and have switched to biodegradable alternatives wherever possible, ensuring that every aspect of their operations aligns with an environmentally responsible vision.
The sense of community within the salon extends far beyond its doors. Krystle and her team believe in fostering strong relationships—not just with clients but with the wider Cairns community. Whether it’s through hosting creative events, mentoring upcoming stylists, or engaging in collaborations with local businesses, Tokunai Hair remains a positive force in the industry and beyond. The annual “Because Fashion” event is a testament to this, showcasing not only the team’s artistic talents but also reinforcing their dedication to bringing people together to celebrate style and self-expression. Tokunai Hair is more than a salon; it is an evolving space where artistry, innovation, and community come together seamlessly.
So, what’s next for Tokunai Hair? If history is anything to go by, the only way is up. With Krystle Tokunai’s passion, the team’s talent, and their unwavering commitment to creativity, innovation, and community, the future looks brighter than ever. One thing is certain—whether it’s through groundbreaking hair transformations, unforgettable client experiences, or show-stopping creative projects, Tokunai Hair will continue to redefine what it means to be a salon. It’s not just about hair; it’s about heart, and that’s what makes all the difference.
@tokunai_hair
2024 AHIA QLD Salon Business of the Year
Rokstar Salon
There are salons, and then there’s Rokstar—a name synonymous with elite hairdressing, unrelenting excellence, and a culture that pulses with passion and purpose. Led by the visionary Brodie Tsiknaris, Rokstar has cemented its place as an industry powerhouse, proudly securing the title of 2024 AHIA QLD Salon Business of the Year. But beyond the accolades, and national recognition, Rokstar is about something far deeper—the people, the experience, and a relentless drive to evolve.
Innovation and Excellence
Since its inception in 2013, Rokstar has been a salon built on dreams and determination. What began as a 42sqm space with just five mirrors and a beauty room has grown into a thriving empire, set within a transformed industrial glass factory in Brisbane’s West End. The evolution of Rokstar has been nothing short of extraordinary, with expansions in 2015, 2020, and 2022—each reinvention marking a bold step towards redefining what a salon experience should be.
An Unrivalled Guest Experience
At Rokstar, the client experience is elevated to an art form—thoughtfully curated, deeply personalised, and effortlessly luxurious. Every guest is welcomed into a space that feels like home, where attention to detail is second nature. From bespoke consultations and sensory spa experiences to personalised aftercare and seamless booking services, Rokstar ensures that every touchpoint is exceptional. Whether it’s a calming tea and crystal eye mask in their dim-lit spa area, a concierge text service for effortless bookings, or a warm follow-up message after a visit, the team goes above and beyond to make each guest feel valued, heard, and indulged. It’s this unwavering commitment to care that sets Rokstar apart, creating not just beautiful hair but unforgettable moments.
A Year of Transformation: Rokstar’s 2025 Expansion
For Rokstar, success isn’t just about awards or milestones—it’s about the dedication, passion, and culture that fuels every day. It’s about a team that consistently strives for excellence, ensuring that every client experience is seamless and exceptional. This commitment to growth and innovation led to a transformative year for Rokstar. They not only claimed QLD Salon of the Year for the fourth time, but also underwent their most ambitious expansion to date. Faced with overwhelming demand and a need for growth, Brodie and her team made the courageous decision to gut the entire salon and rebuild it from the ground up—all within just eight days.
Reflecting on this massive transformation, Brodie shares, ‘It’s been an absolutely massive year for us! Not only did we take home QLD Salon of the Year for the fourth time, but we also completed our biggest expansion ever. We were at full capacity and had to figure out how to grow, so we took a bold approach—we gutted the entire salon (except the floor, though that needed a bit of patching!) and rebuilt it from the ground up. Every design choice was made with practicality and commercial viability in mind.’
One of the biggest shifts in the redesign was moving away from traditional full-length mirrors to long terrazzo benches lining the walls, complete with USB-C chargers, ensuring that time-poor clients can work seamlessly while enjoying their hair service. Other upgrades included a smaller, more efficient reception area, dishwashers, and zip taps, all designed to maximise space and streamline operations.
‘And we didn’t waste a second—the whole transformation happened in just eight days!’ Brodie adds. ‘Our shopfitters worked around the clock, and during that same week, we also hosted our annual Rokchella Education Conference. Since then, it’s been non-stop—navigating staff leave, Christmas, sick days, and mentoring Rokstars for the AHIA awards on their first shoot. On top of that, I just directed the hair for two incredible Melbourne Fashion Festival runways, bringing some of the team along for the ride. It’s been a whirlwind, and I’m definitely looking forward to catching my breath at Easter!’
The expansion has allowed Rokstar to enhance its first-class service offerings, creating a seamless fusion of indulgence, efficiency, and cutting-edge technology. Clients now enjoy an even more exclusive, spacious, and personalised experience, while the team thrives in an environment designed to foster creativity, collaboration, and career growth.
This latest evolution of Rokstar is not just about physical expansion—it represents the salon’s unyielding commitment to pushing boundaries, setting new standards, and remaining at the forefront of the hair industry.
Rokstar: A Home, A Family, A Legacy
Rokstar is more than a salon. It’s a home—a place where passion, talent, and care intertwine to create something truly special. It’s a family, built on trust, shared vision, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. Through world-class education, a relentless pursuit of excellence, and an unshakable sense of community, Rokstar continues to lead by example.
With their latest expansion complete, Rokstar has taken its next bold step forward, growing not just in size but in impact. Every element has been carefully curated to ensure that both clients and team members feel valued, inspired, and part of something bigger than just a salon visit.
But for Brodie and her team, this is just the beginning. Their commitment to growth, education, and evolving with their clients’ needs ensures that Rokstar will continue to lead the way in the Australian hair industry. The salon is not just a place for exceptional hair—it’s a sanctuary, a community, and a beacon of what the future of salon excellence looks like.
At the heart of Rokstar is a love for the craft, a devotion to people, and a belief that when you pour your heart into something, magic happens. This is more than just a salon— it’s a place where dreams take shape, careers flourish, and every person who walks through the doors leaves feeling a little more like the best version of themselves. The Rokstar journey continues to unfold, with each chapter more inspiring than the last. And if one thing is certain, it’s that this is a salon with a future as bright as the passion that drives it forward.
@rokstarsalon
“Not only did we take home QLD Salon of the Year for the fourth time, but we also completed our biggest expansion ever”.
- Brodie Tsiknaris
Plan your visit to
Hair Festival 2025
Hair Festival 2025 is just over three months away so, to avoid Hair Festival FOMO, ensure you are registered and reserve your best value tickets in the industry. Hair Festival 2025 marks the event’s fourth year, and it’s coming back bigger and better than ever on June 29 and 30, at The ICC, Sydney.
With more than 90 stands and 60 plus educators, including local and international guests who add up to more than 40 hours of education, all in one place – Hair Festival is the only weekend where you can learn the latest innovations without traveling far and wide.
Each year we hand the mic to a variety of respected industry leaders, renowned educators, and beloved brands to share their knowledge, expertise and insights on all things hair, at the only event that combines all pillars of our industry in one place. No other industry event affords you the opportunity to SHOP, LEARN, COMPETE and CONNECT with more than 6500 industry peers.
The Festival Hub
The Festival Hub access is FREE, so you can explore and take your pick of the latest stage presentations and classes as you connect your way through the Festival Hub floor. Hair Festival still remains the only event where you can design your agenda to suit your individual needs, while sharing the experience with your entire salon team.
From new product innovations to colour, texture, styling, men’s hair, business and more – Hair Festival continues to move with the industry and enables you to connect with your peers while being inspired across versatile and personalised topics. Take it all in amidst two stages, multiple hubs, networking spaces, activations, installations, brand activities, exclusive launches and information and so much more.
Education Sessions
Leading colour company Danger Jones is back by popular demand and Reuzel founders Leen and Bertus Schorem are hitting our shores to share the ultimate men’s cutting styles and techniques. Wahl, Matrix, Seamless One, CPR, Moroccanoil, De Lorenzo, Joico and more contribute to top-tier education. Expect to see even more exciting updates in this space.
Each one-hour education session will cover a variety of topics such as salon business, colour artistry, cut and style intricacies, hair extension ideas and so much more. Education Sessions are currently $79, or you choose an All Access Pass to have free reign over any education – and more! - all weekend long.
REALtalk Business Forum
REALtalk gives you front row access to the people who have built brands that receive national and global recognition both within and outside of our industry. In 2025, co-founder and strategy director of Untangld, James Needham, will help you redefine your brand story and create the moments that make a brand iconic, while James Fitzgerald from SMK (Social Media Knowledge) will show you how to create better branded content while utilising tech like AI to improve your marketing, communication and social media. Tamara Reid from Inside Industry will share her insights on how to build your personal brand as a creator. Combining interactivity with information and inspiration through keynote speeches and panels, REALtalk is like no other business seminar in the industry.
Live Competitions
The highly anticipated Hair Festival Competitions are returning in 2025, kicking off on Monday 30 June at 11am. Thanks to competition sponsors O&M, every competitor will receive a special gift of some of their favourite products, along with prize money for all Hair Festival Competition winners. In 2025, we’ve increased the number of pre-done competitions, and will still be bringing the excitement of live competitions across TWO stages: THE STAGE and the BUSINESS CONNECT stage. That means there’s more opportunities for entrants, and more chances to win! If you’re dreaming of being crowned the 2025 Hair Festival Champion, in fields of women’s, men’s and emerging talent, you must compete across multiple categories. By entering in multiple competitions, you gain extra points. Discounted entry applies if applying to multiple categories!
Wonderland
The one night of the year that is continually talked about as the best party on the calendar, promises to be even bigger and better at a new venue – Campbells Stores, at The Rocks. With a theme of Mystique for 2025 that celebrates mystery and the art of the individual, be prepared for a night to remember looking across two of Sydney’s great icons – the Harbour Bridge and The Opera House. Encouraging you to dress in your favourite mystical outfit to suit a night of golden glamour and mystery, this is a night you won’t forget, with food, drinks, entertainment, themed rooms, activations and beyond, thanks to brands such as Rogue Beauty and Angel Hair Extensions, with more to be announced.
You have only until April 30 to save up to $180 on tickets to Hair Festival 2025 unless sold out prior. The All Access Pass includes tickets to the Festival Hub, the REALtalk Business Form, all Education Sessions and Wonderland.
If you are interested in a single session for you and your team for a particular educator or class, you can purchase five single session tickets and get the sixth ticket for FREE!
Don’t miss out on the hottest weekend in hair –register now and we’ll see you there!
Receive last minute updates, offers and educator information by registering at www. hairfestival.com.au
CREATIVITY TO DYE FOR
SHADES
Meet the AHIA 2024 winner
Ella Stewart
By Louise May
For Ella Stewart, hairdressing wasn’t the plan– it was the plot twist that changed everything. At 27, she took a leap of faith, jumping into an apprenticeship at Stevie English Hair without overthinking it. That instinct led her straight into a world where creativity, colour, and connection collide, and she hasn’t looked back since.
What made you want to be a hairdresser?
Now a New Talent Stylist, Ella has made a name for herself with bold colour transformations, expressive editorial work, and a fearless approach to learning and evolving. Winning Apprentice of the Year in 2022 set the tone for what was to come, and now, as one of the AHIA 2024 Hot Shots, she’s diving even deeper into the industry she’s come to love.
Her passion? Colour that tells a story. Whether it’s subtle nuances or full-scale creative statements, she sees hair as a way to amplify identity, mood, and self-expression. Raised in a household of artists and musicians, creativity runs deep – it’s in how she works, how she sees the world, and how she approaches every transformation.
Beyond the salon, she thrives on collaboration, editorial shoots, and pushing boundaries, soaking up every opportunity to refine her craft. With a sharp eye, a bold mindset, and a refusal to stagnate, she’s here to make an impact–one colour at a time.
We caught up with Ella to chat about what drives her, where she’s headed, and what being part of Hot Shots means to her.
I’ve always been somewhat garbage at pretty much everything apart from chatting the back legs off a donkey and creating things with my hands, so hair just felt correct.
What kind of hair work is your favourite and why?
I love colour and creating wild shapes to elevate the colour. Editorial shoots have really pushed my perspective of what hair can do and how it can make you feel. I think I thrive most when I feel like I’m being challenged and learning on my feet.
How to you manage life and work balance?
I am lucky enough to be able to say that my job rarely feels like work because it’s so fun! Alas, burn out is real. If you don’t rest your body and brain or give yourself nourishment in your personal life, you can’t be your best at work. I’m still getting the hang of it, but I’m learning to be more mindful of my needs and not just run on my ADHD motor.
Who inspires you in the creative field of hairdressing and why? Creators that push boundaries and are unapologetically authentic to themselves inspire me. Erol Douglas, Nicolas Jurnjack, Tom Warr, Nathaniel Eldezan, Anthony Turner, Lyndal Salmon.
Ella Stewart
If you could spend a day with anyone from a business or lifestyle mentorship perspective, who would it be and why?
Vivienne Westwood. She shifted subversive, subcultural streetwear into a high fashion space and remained a creative powerhouse and activist until the day she died. Iconic behaviour. That’s a brain I wanna pick.
How important are competitions and awards to you?
The process is what I love. The creative team, the hive mind thing that happens on shoot day. The chaos, and the pride you all feel when you see the thing you made together. It’s the best bit. The trophies are just cherries, baby.
Can you tell us what you love most about being a member of the Hot Shots team?
The insight from the most incredible brains in the Australian hair industry is priceless and I am so beyond grateful and excited to be a little sponge to absorb it all; but that photoshoot is what I am bursting at the seams to get stuck into. Let me at it!
Where do you see yourself in 10 years’ time?
Travelling, educating, learning, creating and collaborating every day with beautiful creative minds all over the world. That’s the dream.
FUN SNAPSHOT
Fave Holiday Destination? My house. I love enjoying my rental. Plus, that’s where my cat is, so...
Fave Drink? Coke zero
Favourite Food/Meal? Literally anything pickled. Kim chi all day long please.
Favourite Music/Song? Cher. Aretha. Caroline Polacheck. Gaga. Donna Summer. Divas Only Thank You.
Who was your Celebrity High-School crush? Drew
Barrymore and Noel Fielding
If you weren’t a hairdresser, you would be a? Fashion designer, restaurant owner or interior designer
@sirfletcherhair @hairbystinky
Spotlight on KirbyLago
By Louise May
Powerhouse hair stylist Kirby Lago was just 17 when she joined the industry. Dedicated to healthy hair and lived in colour, celebrity clientele include Delta Goodrem, Miranda Kerr, Rachel Finch and beauty influencer Leigh Campbell. Her salon Pelo By Lago is a Sydney haven where connection and care are woven into the fabric of everything Kirby and her team do. Kirby is also a Kerasilk Ambassador; and newly appointed Goldwell National Artist.
We recently caught up with Kirby and chatted about her journey, her love of Goldwell and being a mum!
You have been hairdressing since you were 19, working in Sydney and LA and owner of multiple salons. Share a little about your journey in hairdressing.
I started hairdressing at 14, and by 19, I had opened my first salon. I’ve been completely obsessed with both hair and the business world my whole life, and I feel so lucky to live in both. Along the way, I shadowed leaders in the industry in LA for training, which was such an amazing experience.
Over the years, I’ve worked in the editorial space, but my true passion lies in creating healthy colour that enhance each person’s natural beauty. I’ve developed my own signature techniques, which I now teach to my team, ensuring we all focus on the highest standards. We are deeply committed to delivering a top luxury experience to each client, with a strong emphasis on customer care and making everyone feel valued. While I’ve had the privilege of working with A-list clientele, I also treasure the relationships I’ve built with every salon client who walks through the door. To me, every client deserves the best.
You are renowned for lived in colour and low-maintenance hair, with a focus on hair health. What’s the secret to nailing this look with every client? What techniques do you use?
The secret to nailing lived-in color and low-maintenance hair is creating a colour that blends naturally and grows out seamlessly. It starts with understanding the client’s lifestyle—whether they want regular maintenance or something that lasts for months.
I focus on strategic techniques like face-framing highlights and root shadowing, which soften the grow-out and prevent harsh regrowth lines. Healthy hair is at the core of my process, so I lift slowly with lower-volume developers and always use bond-building treatments to protect the integrity of the hair. A good toner or gloss is the final touch to refine the color and enhance shine. The result is a look that’s effortless, dimensional, and designed to evolve beautifully over time, making it truly low maintenance.
You count Delta Goodrem, Rachel Finch, Miranda Kerr and Britt Hockley as clients, what are some career highlights?
Working with amazing women like Delta Goodrem, Rachel Finch, Miranda Kerr, and Britt Hockley has been such a career highlight. Creating Delta’s signature blonde was a standout moment for me—it really captured my love for healthy, lived-in color. Working with Miranda was equally special because her focus on natural beauty fits perfectly with how I approach hair. Each experience has been about more than just the hair—it’s about connecting, creating, and learning something new every time.
Your Cronulla salon is a Shire favourite. Share with us a little about the look and feel at Pelo by Lago?
Pelo by Lago is all about creating a space where clients feel completely at home while getting that elevated, luxurious experience. In a holiday inspired, warm, and inviting space—just like the Shire itself—but with a focus on expert care and attention to detail.
We want every client to feel like they’re stepping into a space where they can relax, be themselves, and trust they’re in good hands. It’s not just about the hair; it’s about making people feel amazing from the moment they walk in.
Kirby Lago
How does Kerasilk align with you and your philosophy as a hair stylist?
Kerasilk aligns perfectly with my philosophy because it’s all about combining luxury with hair health. As a stylist, I prioritize maintaining the integrity of the hair while achieving beautiful, long-lasting results, and that’s exactly what Kerasilk delivers. Its transformative treatments don’t just provide temporary fixes—they work to nourish and strengthen the hair from within. Whether it’s adding softness, taming frizz, or boosting shine, Kerasilk allows me to create looks that not only feel luxurious but are sustainable and easy for clients to maintain. It’s a brand that values both beauty and care, which is at the heart of everything I do.
Why did you choose to partner with the Kao Salon Brands (Goldwell, KMS, Kerasilk, Oribe)?
I chose to partner with Kao Salon Brands because they give me everything I need to deliver the best results for my clients. Goldwell is my go-to for beautiful, customised color that stays healthy, while Kerasilk offers high-performance care to keep hair soft and strong, whilst Oribe brings that touch of luxury clients love. It’s a perfect balance of innovation, quality, and versatility—exactly what I need to create beautiful, healthy, and low-maintenance hair.
What intrigued you most about the opportunity to become a Goldwell National Artist? What do you love about working with Goldwell Color in salon? What excites me most about becoming a Goldwell National Artist is the opportunity to collaborate with other talented stylists and be part of a brand that’s constantly innovating. I’m looking forward to sharing my knowledge, growing creatively, and inspiring others in the industry. In the salon, I love how Goldwell Color allows me to achieve beautiful, customised results while keeping hair healthy and vibrant. It’s the perfect balance of creativity and care, which is exactly what my clients expect.
Last year you introduced Restore by Pelo, can you share more details on this Service?
Restore by Pelo is our dedicated hair restoration service, designed to address thinning hair and improve scalp health. The core of this service is KeraLase, which combines the LaseMD Ultra laser with KeraFactor serum to stimulate regrowth, strengthen hair, and boost scalp vitality. It’s a non-invasive, personalized solution for clients looking to reduce shedding and promote healthier, fuller hair. Restore is about more than just hair—it’s about helping clients regain their confidence through real, lasting results.
You are a superwoman, salon owner and mum to 3 young girls. How do you make it all work?
Balancing being a salon owner and a mum to three little ones is definitely a juggling act! I stick to a solid schedule to keep everything on track—business and family. I’m lucky to have my husband, who handles a lot of the childcare, which gives me more space to focus on work. I appreciate my time with the girls, I make sure to be fully present, and I’ve learned it’s okay to say no sometimes to avoid burnout. It’s all about finding the rhythm and knowing I don’t have to do it all on my own.
What does 2025 hold for you?
2025 is shaping up to be a huge year of growth and new opportunities! I’m focusing on building my personal brand and making strides with my salon, Pelo by Lago, while continuing to develop Restore and explore new ways to help people with hair loss. I’m excited to dive deeper into my passion for healthy hair and share my knowledge with others, especially through upcoming masterclass and future classes for stylists.
What are your top 3 Kao Salon Brand products?
My top three products would definitely be:
1. Kerasilk Texturizing Spray – It’s perfect for adding volume and texture without weighing hair down. I love how it gives that effortless, tousled look.
2. Oribe Gold Lust Oil – This one’s a must-have! It provides incredible shine, tames frizz, and deeply nourishes the hair. It’s perfect for a sleek, smooth finish.
3. Goldwell Stylesign Shaping and Finishing Spray – I always reach for this one to lock in any style. It offers long-lasting hold with flexibility and a natural shine—no crunchiness!
These three are staples in my kit!
Heavenly Hair
Angel Extensions, an Australian-owned company, has been a pioneer in the hair industry for over 60 years. Located in Moorabbin, Melbourne, this family-run business has grown from its humble beginnings in the cosmetics industry to become a leading name in hair extensions, ponytails, and hair accessories. As the go-to supplier for salons across Australia, Angel Extensions has become synonymous with premium quality and exceptional customer service.
“We focus on providing premium products and exceptional customer service to ensure you reap the benefits of long, voluminous, thick hair.”
CEO, Paul Shiff
A Legacy Begins: The Birth of Angel Extensions
The company was founded in 1957 by Harry and Stella Shiff. At the time, their main focus was on the perfumery and cosmetics industries, representing renowned brands such as Pierre Cardin, Doctor Prior, Tabac, Sunoroid, and Brit Marine. Harry, a trained businessman, focused on marketing and sales, while Stella managed inventory, manufacturing, and new product development. Their range grew through frequent buying trips to Japan, the USA, and Europe, where they sourced everything from perfume atomizers to powder compacts.
By 1965, the growing demand for wigs and hairpieces led to the creation of Celebrity Wigs, marking a significant shift in the company’s direction. With an expanding portfolio, Angel Extensions became exclusive agents for iconic brands like Revlon and Christian Dior Wigs, and by 1967, their products were proudly featured in department store ground-floor departments across Australia, including Myer, David Jones, and Waltons.
A New Chapter: The Rise of Hair Extensions
In 2006, Angel Extensions entered the hair extension market after a chance encounter with a revolutionary new product – Tape Extensions. The innovation was introduced to the Shiffs by an inventor at the company’s main wig factory. The sample arrived with no instructions, but after a bit of research, Paul Shiff, now CEO of the company, recognized its potential. He quickly flew overseas to strike an exclusive deal with HairTalk, marking the beginning of Angel Extensions’ expansion into hair extensions.
In 2007, HairTalk Australia was launched at HairExpo. While initially met with hesitation by hairdressers, the product soon gained traction, and by 2010, tape extensions were hailed as the next generation of hair extensions. By 2013, the HairTalk brand was replaced with Angel Extensions, further solidifying its reputation for high-quality products and outstanding customer service.
A Family Business That’s Evolved Through Generations
The Shiff family remains at the heart of Angel Extensions. In 1995, Paul, the second generation of the family, joined the business and took over marketing and business development from his father. In recent years, the third generation, Simon Shiff and his wife Ruby, have taken on prominent roles in shaping the company’s future. Simon, with his background in commercial photography, serves as Creative Director, overseeing all marketing initiatives, while Ruby, an expert in digital content and social media, handles product creative and branding.
While each family member has distinct roles, they work together closely, with Simon and Ruby often bringing work home to discuss ideas and strategies. As Paul reflects, growing up in a family business means the lines between work and home life can blur, but it’s all part of the creative process.
The Angel Extensions Story A Legacy of Excellence and Innovation
Angel Extensions: A Point of Difference
What sets Angel Extensions apart from its competitors? Customer service is the company’s number one priority. Paul explains that while product quality is important, it’s the company’s commitment to exceptional customer service that truly makes a difference. “We live and die by this,” Paul states. “Fortunately, our customers agree and compliment us on how we interact and deliver our goods.”
The brand’s experience and understanding of market needs also give it a unique advantage. Angel Extensions has been in the industry for over 60 years, and its longstanding presence ensures that the company is deeply in tune with customer expectations.
A Comprehensive Product Range
Angel Extensions is a one-stop-shop for salons, offering an extensive range of hair extension applications, including Weft Extensions, Nano Beads, Utip Extensions, Clip-In Extensions, and Ponytails. The company also stocks a vast selection of accessories, such as beads, threads, pliers, and replacement tapes, designed to make life easier for extension technicians.
While tape extensions were the foundation of the business, Angel Extensions has quickly diversified to meet every need of the modern salon. They continue to innovate with tools and accessories that enhance efficiency and quality.
Unmatched Colour Range and Quality
Angel Extensions is renowned for its extensive and consistent colour range. Maintaining consistency from batch to batch can be a challenge, but Angel Extensions
excels in this area, ensuring that customers can rely on the colour matching across various product types. One of the most popular trends currently is Root Shadow, where the root colour differs from the mid-lengths and ends for a natural, lived-in look. The company also ensures that stock availability is never an issue, investing significantly in warehouse stockholding to meet demand.
Education and Support: Empowering the Next Generation
At Angel Extensions, education is at the core of their ethos. The company runs Angel University, an on-site learning centre where they offer workshops on extension application and maintenance. Workshops are also available in-salon and remotely, giving salons the tools they need to master every type of extension technique. Angel Extensions is also passionate about supporting the future of the industry, actively sponsoring TAFE students and nurturing young talent.
The Future Focus: Innovation and Service
As Angel Extensions looks to the future, Paul emphasizes the importance of continued product development and customer service. One of the company’s most exciting developments is the Butterfly Weft Method, a new technique currently in the works. The positive reaction to the “coming soon” post on social media has been overwhelming, and the company is set to introduce the new method in the coming months.
Alongside product innovation, branding remains a significant focus. Angel Extensions recently underwent a rebranding, which has elevated the brand’s presence in the market.
Angel Extensions remains a leader in the hair extension industry, thanks to its commitment to quality, customer service, and innovation. From its beginnings in cosmetics to becoming a trailblazer in hair extensions, Angel Extensions continues to evolve while staying true to its roots as a family business.
Empowered Salons A Spotlight on Success
Revlon Professional has long been more than just a brand—it’s a true business partner for salon owners who are passionate about their craft. Through the Empowered Salons program, Revlon Professional provides unwavering support, education, and a sense of community that helps salon owners take their businesses to the next level.
In this spotlight, we feature three incredible salon owners—Kristi Clifton of Salon76 in QLD, Nik Goutziotis of Amos Hair & ENA Hair in VIC, and Claude Mesiti of Mesaba Hair in NSW—who have embraced the Revlon Professional philosophy.
From education and mentorship to highperformance products and business growth strategies, these salon owners share how their partnership with Revlon Professional has shaped their journey.
Kristi Clifton - Salon76 QLD Salon76 is a space built from complete love for hairdressing, they are a busy salon where 90% of their business is colour work specialising in Blondes. They welcome every one of their guests as friends and family. Located in Upper Coomera Village, Upper Coomera at the base of the beautiful Tamborine Mountain in the Gold Coast hinterland.
Nik Goutziotis - Amos Hair & ENA Hair VIC Nik is the owner of two salons with his wife Amelia, Amos hair in Sandringham which is a multi-award-winning hair salon specialising in precision cutting, advanced hair colouring and hair extensions. At AMOS, they want their clients to enjoy the experience as much as they enjoy their new look, and they do their best to make every aspect of the time at the salon enjoyable. Also, Ena Hair in Cheltenham... where they take pride in the salon experience they provide alongside the beautiful hair they create.
Claude Mesiti - Mesaba Hair NSW
Mesaba Hair was born out of a long-standing friendship and a shared passion for the hairdressing industry. Claude Mesiti and Teresa Saba started as apprentice hairdressers and have grown into seasoned professionals with over 30 years of experience working together. They officially opened Mesaba Hair—just days before the COVID-19 lockdown in Sydney. It was a challenging time to launch a business, however their resilience and commitment carried them through.
Located in the vibrant community of North Ryde, Mesaba Hair sits among a charming strip of shops on Avon Road. They take pride in offering clients a welcoming, professional environment where they can experience top-tier hair services tailored to their individual needs.
Editor of Mocha Hair - Louise May chats with all three about their experiences with Revlon Professional, the impact on their salons, and their feedback on partnering with the brand.
How has Revlon Professional contributed to the growth and development of your salon?
KRISTI: Revlon professional has given me so much support and guidance, sometimes owning a salon can feel very lonely, but with Revlon Professional I no longer feel alone, I now feel like I’m part of making a difference again. Working with such amazing colours and products I really feel and see I’m giving my guests the very best.
NIK: Revlon has been a part of our business for 13 years now. They have always been supportive
in growing our brand through training, and marketing. Also giving us the opportunity to go from 1
Salon to 2. The colour range has been super reliable, and our clients love it.
CLAUDE: Partnering with Revlon Professional has been instrumental in our salon’s growth and evolution. Their support extends far beyond product supply—it’s a true business partnership. Through professional development opportunities, personalised consultations, and hands-on creative workshops, Revlon Professional has provided us with invaluable industry insights. These have not only enhanced our creative direction but also helped us refine and elevate our business strategies. We are particularly grateful for our Revlon Professional Business Representative, Denise McManus. Her wealth of knowledge and genuine investment in our success has been invaluable. Having a reliable and understanding industry expert as a sounding board and troubleshooter has been crucial in navigating the highs and lows of business ownership.
What advice would you give to other salon owners considering a partnership with Revlon Professional?
KRISTI: Don’t think twice, the community created by Revlon professional won’t leave you questioning your choice. They offer so much training and support, and they really do stand out, in my 25+ years in hairdressing and my 4.5years of owning a salon I’ve never had this level of faith in a company.
NIK: The advice I always give is that Revlon is
reliable and a professionally run company. Their range is true to tone and easy to train up new and existing team members in. It’s uncomplicated and each tone has a use in your business.
CLAUDE: For salon owners considering a partnership with Revlon Professional, my biggest piece of advice is to establish clear, measurable, and attainable business goals. Having a strong mission that your team can align with will set the foundation for a productive and rewarding partnership.
When you enter this collaboration with clarity and direction, Revlon Professional matches you with a representative who can help bring your vision to life. Their team is approachable, knowledgeable, and genuinely invested in longterm success, offering more than just products— they provide mentorship and strategic support. Transparency and open communication are essential to building a thriving partnership. Revlon Professional fosters a culture of mutual respect and collaboration, ensuring that your achievements become their successes, and your challenges are tackled together. It’s not just a product collaboration—it’s a sincere and supportive partnership.
What aspects of the Empowered Salons program do you find most valuable?
KRISTI: The constant communication from not only Revlon but also fellow Empowered salon owners and I know I’ve said it before but it’s seriously a level of support I’ve ever experienced. It truly is about empowering each other and raising the bar together bringing quality hairdressing and standards back again.
NIK: The aspects I find most valuable are the sense of community they are creating; it allows other salons to openly discuss each other’s businesses and support each other. Also, the retreat is a great way to re inspire yourself and learn from leading business entrepreneurs.
CLAUDE: The Empowered Salons program is truly outstanding! Teresa and I are incredibly
passionate about it. One of the most valuable aspects is the opportunity to network with other salon owners, collaborate on business strategies, and share solutions to industry-wide challenges. It’s more than just a program—it’s an extension of your business family, creating a positive and inspiring network of like-minded professionals.
The program keeps us informed about industry trends and emerging opportunities while offering invaluable mentorship. The annual conference is a highlight of our year! It challenges and reinvigorates us as business owners and seasoned professionals in our craft.
At Mesaba Hair, Teresa and I lead with the “dance floor and balcony” metaphor developed by leadership experts Ronald Heifetz, Marty Linsky, and Alexander Grashow. This concept teaches business owners and leaders to balance hands-on work (the dance floor) with strategic thinking (the balcony). The Empowered Salons conference gives us the time and space to step onto the balcony, review our business, strategise for the future, and equip ourselves with the tools, support, and knowledge to elevate our salon.
What sets Revlon Professional apart from other suppliers you’ve worked with?
KRISTI: There is no question unanswered, the line of communication is always open, having people to actually turn to that care you’re doing your best work, and supported.
NIK: They’re honest and understand the salon needs. They work with you in a non-BS approach.
CLAUDE: With over 40 years of experience in the hairdressing industry, Teresa and I have worked with many suppliers, each offering unique benefits. However, Revlon Professional stands out through its unparalleled support network and commitment to professional education. As a global brand, Revlon Professional has deep connections with industry experts, educational
platforms, and high-quality training programs— not just for business owners but for salon staff as well. The additional support and education that come with a Revlon Professional partnership go beyond product supply. The Empowered Salons program alone is a game-changer and a compelling reason to explore this collaboration. It truly sets them apart in the industry.
How do your clients respond to the Revlon Professional products and services you offer?
KRISTI: Change it’s never easy but they are loving the quality of products and can see and feel the difference in their hair loving how shiny& healthy it feels even our blondes comment on how amazing and strong their hair feels after the change to Revlon Professional.
NIK: We have clients from the very beginning, and they love the range, as it will always cover their grey hair and leave their hair looking and feeling great. They also love all the free promotional gifts they send out too.
CLAUDE: Revlon is a household name in the beauty industry, but many clients are surprised to learn about Revlon Professional as an exclusive salon-only colour range. We love educating our clients on the benefits of Revlon Professional colour, and once they experience it firsthand, the feedback is overwhelmingly positive. The quality, vibrancy, and longevity of the colour speak for themselves. Clients with diverse hair needs have been thrilled with the results—especially when paired with Revlon Professional’s take-home haircare line. The consistent quality of the products ensures that both hairdressers and clients alike recognise Revlon Professional as a leader in the industry. It’s a win for everyone!
Hairdressing is all about evolving, pushing boundaries, and staying inspired. Whether you’re looking to refine your skills, explore new techniques, or connect with like-minded stylists, this game-changing education program offers the perfect platform. From high-energy workshops and hands-on studio classes to global excursions, this is your backstage pass to the future of hairdressing.
Meet the R+Co Artists: The Creatives Behind the Brand
R+Co is more than just great products—it’s about the artists who bring them to life. Meet the stylists shaping the future of hairdressing.
A seasoned hairstylist with a rich 16-year career, fuelled by a lifelong influence from her family’s hairdressing legacy. Beginning at Dublin’s acclaimed Brown Sugar and later refining her skills at Barney Martin in Sydney, Penny absorbed knowledge from industry luminaries like Paloma, Barney Martin, and Laura Reid while collaborating with top-tier brands such as Oribe, R+Co, and participating in Australian Fashion Week. Penny’s passion for education stems from a belief in embracing change for growth. She envisions a future marked by a brand that champions education, granting her the freedom to explore new horizons and evolve her craft.
“I’ve proudly partnered with Rogue Beauty for nearly 10 years. Beyond incredible products, their commitment to education and collaboration sets them apart. R+Co’s ongoing training keeps me inspired and always learning. As a colourist, I want products that perform flawlessly while making a positive impact—R+Co delivers on all fronts.” – @pennyjennifer_
Tiffany Decaux – SA
(Styling / Cutting / Colour)
Elly Paynter – VIC (Colour)
A seasoned salon owner, colourist, and educator, kindled her hairdressing journey 17 years ago in rural Victoria, evolving swiftly through apprenticeships and city ventures, showcasing her versatility and passion. Collaborating with renowned mentors and brands like R+Co and Oribe, she’s recently opened her new studio, aiming to share her expertise through workshops and events, marking a significant milestone in her illustrious career.
“Partnering with R+Co and Rogue Beauty was an easy choice—they align with my values and offer a strong sense of community and collaboration. Whether working with R+Co, Bleu, or R+Color, I have the perfect toolkit for any outcome, with hair health, performance, and sustainability always top of mind. The education and networking opportunities they provide are unlike anything I’ve experienced before.” – @ellyhairpaynter
With over 15 years of experience in the hairdressing industry, Tiffany began her career in Loxton, South Australia, before moving to Adelaide, where she worked under the mentorship of Damien Rinaldo at Boris the Cuttery. A year ago, she fulfilled her dream of opening Iris House of Hair, focusing on personalised, uplifting client experiences. Tiffany has worked with top brands like Redken, L’Oréal, and R+Co, earning accolades such as South Australian Hairdresser of the Year and a spot on the prestigious F.A.M.E. Team.
“I chose to partner with R+Co and Rogue Beauty because they foster a community of likeminded creatives who are passionate about hair, education, and innovation. Their forwardthinking approach to sustainability and performance aligns with my brand. The inspiring network of stylists and cutting-edge products make working with them both exciting and rewarding.” – @tiffanydecaux
Penny Jennifer – NSW
(Styling / Cutting / Colour)
Stevie Vincent – WA (Styling / Cutting)
Ryan King – QLD (Styling / Cutting)
With 17 years in the industry, Ryan King’s journey began in 2007 when he traded a rainy carpentry apprenticeship in England for a career behind the chair—a decision inspired by his mum and never regretted. Honing his craft in London alongside top stylists, Ryan developed his expertise in precision cutting.
“A brand partnership has to be the right fit—shared values, the same drive, and a commitment to excellence. Collaborating with R+Co under Rogue Beauty has been incredible, with top-tier education and events like the On Tour roadshow.”
– @ryankinghaircutter
A salon owner, entrepreneur, and educator, began her journey at 15, excelling in cutting, styling, and colour. Passionate about inclusivity and clean, safe products, she advocates for gender-neutral spaces and toxin-free products in her two Western Australia-based salons.
“I’ve never worked with a company I align with so effortlessly—one that’s both innovative and deeply respectful. R+Co is an artist’s brand that fuels creativity while maintaining hair health.”
– @stevievincentt
R+Co On Tour isn’t just a workshop—it’s an experience. Live cutting, styling, and colour demonstrations meet high-energy inspiration in an environment where artistry thrives. Expect trend-driven techniques, creative insights, and the chance to connect with industry leaders who are shaking things up.
Upcoming Dates & Locations:
• NSW: Ryan King + Elly Paynter | March 17 | 6:30 PM – 8 PM
• QLD: Tiffany Decaux + Penny Jennifer | April 8 | 6:30 PM – 8 PM
• VIC: Tiffany Decaux + Ryan King | June 17 | 6:30 PM – 8 PM
• QLD: Tiffany Decaux + Penny Jennifer + Elly Paynter | August 5 | 6:30 PM
– 8 PM
• NSW: Elly Paynter + Penny Jennifer | September 30 | 6:30 PM – 8 PM
• VIC: Stevie Vincent + Elly Paynter | October 14 | 6:30 PM – 8 PM
Studio Classes: Hands-On Training with the Best
For those who want to level up their craft, R+Co’s studio classes offer handson learning with expert educators. Whether you’re diving into advanced colour techniques or refining your cutting and styling skills, these sessions are built to take you to the next level.
R+Color:
• QLD: Elly Paynter | July 7 | 10 AM – 4 PM
• VIC: Tiffany Decaux | October 6 | 10 AM – 4 PM
R+Co Cutting & Styling:
• QLD: Ryan King | March 10 | 10 AM – 4 PM
• VIC: Ryan King | May 5 | 10 AM – 4 PM
• NSW: Ryan King | September 15 | 10 AM – 4 PM
E-Learning: Training on Your Terms
R+Co’s free online platform makes education easy. Bite-sized videos covering R+Co, R+Co BLEU, and R+Color let you learn at your own pace, whenever and wherever it suits you.
R+Co Excursions: Take Your Learning Global
Step outside the salon and into the world with R+Co Excursions. These exclusive experiences bring top-tier education to iconic locations, offering in-depth learning, networking, and major creative inspiration.
Excursion 1:
• Feb 2-5 | Las Vegas, NV
• Apr 6-9 | Miami, FL
• May 18-21 | Miami, FL
• Oct 5-8 | Nashville, TN
Excursion 2:
• Sept 21-25 | Miami, FL
• Oct 19-23 | Miami, FL
www.randco.com
@randco @randcopro
R+Co On Tour: Learn, Create, Connect
Incredible
The Skinification of Hair Collection
Ever found yourself daydreaming about hair so luscious it could star in its own shampoo commercial? Well, pinch yourself, because the milk_shake® Incredible Collection is here to turn that dream into reality.
THE DYNAMIC TRIO
incredible milk: This isn’t just any leave-in spray; it’s the Swiss Army knife of hair care. Designed for all hair types, including colour-treated locks, this lightweight treatment boasts twelve benefits (yes, you read that right!). From repairing and reducing frizz to detangling and adding volume, it’s like having a personal hair concierge in a bottle. And the best part? No rinsing required. Just spray, style, and strut.
incredible oil: For those whose hair needs a radiant boost, this fast-absorbing oil is your new best friend. Ideal for dull hair craving softness and shine, this elixir not only brightens but also strengthens, all while protecting your precious colour. Whether applied before styling for protection or after for a glossy finish, it’s liquid gold for your tresses.
incredible serum: The newest powerhouse in the incredible line, this fastabsorbing serum is a game-changer for weak or brittle hair. Working from the scalp down, it fortifies strands at the root while delivering a surge of hydration. CaYeine stimulates scalp health, laying the groundwork for stronger hair, while Hyaluronic Acid locks in moisture, leaving hair resilient, radiant, and ready to shine.
The secret behind the milk_shake® Incredible Collection? A cocktail of powerhouse ingredients that work magic on your hair. Milk Proteins deeply condition and strengthen, while Fruit Extracts—a vibrant mix of blueberry, raspberry, papaya, and mango—infuse strands with antioxidants for a natural glow. Muru Muru Butter, found in incredible milk, delivers next-level nourishment, making hair irresistibly soft and manageable. Meanwhile, CaLeine in the incredible serum energises the scalp for healthy growth, and Hyaluronic Acid locks in hydration, keeping hair lush, vibrant, and full of life.
Want to get your hands on this trio?
Get in touch with Conceptual Brands at www.milkshakehairproducts.com.au
Follow us: @ milkshakehair_aus
Infused with milk proteins and fruit extracts, this fortifying serum nourishes the scalp and roots for stronger, shinier hair. Its fast-absorbing formula delivers a refreshing burst of hydration and keeps hair resilient and protected.
Breaking New Ground
Shortcuts Launches Game-Changing Software for Independent Hair and Beauty Professionals
Shortcuts, the Australian-born global leader in salon software, has reinforced its innovative legacy by hard launching their first salon-specific, free booking platform tailored for independent beauty professionals.
Responding to Australia’s booming freelance economy in hairdressing, barbering and beauty, Shortcuts has leveraged its 30-year heritage to develop Shortcuts Aire, addressing the unique needs of sole traders and micro-salons while helping protect both freelancers and space providers from potential contractor compliance issues.
Shortcuts first launched Shortcuts Aire, late last year, and have since further developed the product to include even more features to support independent hair and beauty pro’s, and their small teams. As testament to its success in Australia, Shortcuts Aire is now launching in the UK market, marking a significant expansion for the brand.
Hair and Beauty professionals need 24/7 booking capability to maximise their potential, but using a traditional salon’s booking system can create contractor compliance risks. Meanwhile, existing “free” booking platforms for freelancers often come with hidden costs and lack essential features needed by hair and beauty professionals, from hairdressers to nail artists and brow specialists. Shortcuts Aire offers the most comprehensive free system available, providing independents with a robust online booking and appointment platform that strengthens their business identity without unexpected charges.
“The hair and beauty industry landscape is changing rapidly in Australia, with more professionals seeking flexible work arrangements,” says Joanna Burgess, Co-Founder and Head of Growth at Shortcuts, which is celebrating thirty years of software innovation in the industry.
“Freelancers, solo operators, and micro salon owners deserve more than just a booking system—they need a platform that empowers them to thrive. That’s why we’re launching the most sophisticated, yet effortless, mobile solution, Shortcuts Aire, designed to handle the booking and business side of things, so stylists, barbers, and therapists can focus on what they do best: delivering incredible client experiences. With our Free package, we’re giving independent professionals the scheduling freedom and flexibility they crave, and with our Grow and Pro package options, we’re unlocking even greater power and potential. And this is just the beginning for Aire—our vision is to keep pushing boundaries, bringing groundbreaking innovations that redefine what’s possible for the industry”
Shortcuts Aire runs on a cloud-based system you can access anywhere, with an online booking profile, appointment management, client database, and social media integration at no cost. The platform is simple to set up online. While the basic version is free for individual users, the Aire Pro version supports micro-salons with up to six team members.
The three-tier Shortcut Aire, with entry level completely free, provides a proactive, flexible and professional-facing model that will allow users to flourish in the industry.
Launch your 24/7 online brand now with Shortcuts Aire
Head to www.shortcutsaire.com to learn more.
Booking software built to suit how stylists actually work
As a solo operator who's always on the go, Shortcuts Aire has been a game-changer for me. It allows me to manage all my bookings directly from my phone, making it super easy for clients to book their appointments. It's like having a pocketsized assistant!
Sara Teixeira Senso Hair
Marketing Automations
? Automated marketing and upselling
? Capture bookings while you sleep
? Automatic appointment confirmations
Client Supertools
? Quick-add appointment notes
? Client history, birthdays, last services
? Bookings with Google Search/Maps
Scan the QR Code to claim your Mocha Hair offer.
Di Mattia & Co’s
New Head Spa Experience.
By Louise May
Introducing a Head Spa experience to the salon felt like the most natural next step for Di Mattia & Co. With the space available, the team had been looking for something special that would elevate their client experience to the next level.
Editor of Mocha Hair, Louise May, recently had the pleasure of chatting with owner Kerrie Di Mattia about this exciting addition to her salon. A beautiful basin experience has always been a high priority—it’s one of the things clients love most and frequently mention in reviews, alongside the salon’s high service standards.
Recognising that clients in their rural community were traveling two to three hours to access premium scalp and hair wellness treatments in the city, Kerrie knew something had to change. “That didn’t sit right with us. Why should people have to leave town for something so beneficial?” she explains.
Determined to provide a high-end, resultsdriven experience without the long trip, the team introduced the Head Spa—taking what they already do so well to a whole new level.
What can clients expect when they visit?
Clients can expect an experience that is both indulgent and results focused. From the moment they arrive, it’s all about relaxation and self-care. The room is private and tranquil, with dimmed lighting and an oasis of greenery. Actually, it’s so nice that I often find members of the team chilling in there when it’s not in use—it just has the most beautiful, calming energy!
Our spa specialists begin each service with a professional scalp analysis to understand the client’s needs, then guide them through a multistep treatment that includes dry brushing, scalp detoxification, a warm oil deep scalp massage, a neck, shoulder & arm massage, deep cleansing, and steam-infused hydration.
The reclining basin, healing sounds, and calming aromatherapy make it an experience that is so beneficial for both the scalp and the mind.
For our Head Spa treatments, we’ve carefully selected Actyva—a premium scalp and hair
wellness range distributed by Sabre (Joico) that perfectly complements the other beautiful products we use, such as organic carrier oils and high-quality aromatherapy oils for a truly sensory experience.
Actyva’s formulas combine the best of science and nature, using botanical ingredients that work to rebalance the scalp, regulate oil production, and promote stronger, healthier hair. Free from harsh chemicals and rich in natural extracts, Actyva enhances the effectiveness of our scalp rituals, ensuring that every treatment is as nurturing as it is results-driven.
What are the benefits of a Head Spa?
Our Head Spa isn’t just about pampering—it’s about real scalp and hair health. The treatments help remove buildup, regulate oil production, and improve circulation, which supports healthier hair growth.
Over the past few years, we’ve noticed many of our clients struggling with scalp issues, including hair loss, due to a wide range of reasons. While we recognise (but don’t diagnose) these concerns, we are able to help guide our clients on the path to a healthier scalp and hair.
Beyond the physical benefits, it’s also about stress relief—because who doesn’t need that?!
Can you give us an idea of what is on the menu at the Head Spa?
We currently offer two signature experiences, designed to complement the high level of service our salon is already known for: Refresh Ritual – 60 minutes A deeply cleansing scalp care experience that includes a professional scalp analysis, dry brushing, warm oil scalp massage, deep cleanse, detoxifying scalp exfoliation, steam-infused hair mask, hot towel wrap, and a
professional blow-dry. Ideal for those wanting a fresh start for their scalp.
Signature Scalp – 90 minutes A more intensive version of the Refresh Ritual, with an extended massage, deeper detox, and additional focus on scalp contraindications. Perfect for those looking for a more in-depth treatment and deeper relaxation.
We also offer a 30-minute LED Therapy Addon The perfect complement to either of our rituals, taking scalp health and relaxation to the next level.
Using advanced low-level light therapy this treatment helps stimulate circulation, reduce inflammation, and promote healthier hair growth.
For clients experiencing scalp sensitivity, excess oil, hair thinning, or slow growth, LED therapy is a game-changer. The light wavelengths penetrate the scalp at a cellular level, encouraging better oxygenation and nutrient absorption, which in turn supports stronger, healthier hair. It’s a simple yet powerful way to boost the results of our Head Spa treatments.
For us, this isn’t just another service—it’s a natural extension of what we already do best. It’s our way of elevating our clients experience and giving them access to premium scalp & self-care—right here at home.
@dimattiaandco
Leading the Way with
DermapenWorld EXO-GROW
Leading this exciting new division in the role of Brand General Manager for Global Haircare is Tracey Hughes, whose extensive experience in education, business leadership, and the professional hair industry makes her the perfect fit to guide DermapenWorld’s expansion into haircare. With a strong foundation in scientific innovation and a commitment to empowering professionals and consumers alike, DermapenWorld is set to redefine how we approach hair loss and scalp health on a global scale.
Editor of Mocha Hair, Louise May, caught up with Tracey to talk about her journey, what excites her about this new venture, and how education will play a pivotal role in transforming the way we approach hair loss and scalp health.
Congratulations on your new role. What excites you the most about leading the Global Haircare Division at DermapenWorld?
Thank you so much! I’m incredibly grateful for this opportunity to lead DermapenWorld’s new haircare division. As pioneers in microneedling, our expertise in science-backed skincare, medical devices, and now haircare is truly extraordinary. What excites me most is the challenge of launching this division on a global scale. With our existing footprint in 80 countries, we have an expansive community to support this endeavour, and we have ambitious plans for growth.
Powered by bioscience. Driven by results
By Louise May
Known globally for pioneering advancements in microneedling technology, DermapenWorld is now transforming the hair industry with the launch of its breakthrough EXO-GROW Collection. Bringing decades of expertise in skin rejuvenation into the realm of scalp health, the brand is introducing a revolutionary approach to hair restoration—powered by bioscience and driven by results.
Beyond business, the hair loss category is about more than just providing hair growth solutions—it’s about helping individuals regain their confidence. That mission aligns deeply with my personal philosophy of giving back with purpose. To me, this isn’t just a role or a title— it’s about empowerment, both for consumers and salon professionals worldwide.
Can you tell us about your journey in the hair industry and how it has prepared you for this position?
My journey has been incredibly rewarding, filled with challenges and triumphs that have shaped me both professionally and personally. Arriving in Australia as a young backpacker, I quickly learned independence and resilience. I built Mieka Hairdressing from the ground up, transforming it into a prestigious, multi-award-winning salon, earning Salon of the Year 10 times.
Launching Tracey Hughes Education allowed me to pioneer innovative education resources while also serving as Artistic Director for a major manufacturer. My career evolved from hairdresser to salon owner, educator, keynote speaker, and ultimately a business leader. A significant turning point came when I lost my salons due to an unethical business partnership. While devastating at the time, it opened doors for growth, leading me to the USA, where I served as Global Education Director and later Vice President of Global Education.
During that period, I also founded Leading Ladies, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering individuals and giving back to the community. Working with renowned global brands broadened my perspective, and upon returning to Australia, I took on leadership roles in corporate settings. However, I realized that corporate life didn’t align with my entrepreneurial spirit. Now, at DermapenWorld, an Australian company with global influence, I have the perfect platform to leverage my skills, experience, and passion in a truly impactful leadership role.
DermapenWorld is well-known in the beauty and aesthetics industry but new to the hair industry. Can you give our readers insight into the company?
DermapenWorld has built a global reputation for pioneering advanced skincare solutions, and now, with the EXO-GROW Collection, we are applying the same innovation and dedication to haircare. Our core values—confidence, clarity, and compassion—are embedded in everything we do, empowering men and women with thinning hair to take control of their hair health and self-image.
As the inventors of the first-ever automated microneedling device, we set the gold standard for skin rejuvenation. Now, we are bringing that same level of scientific excellence to scalp health with our revolutionary bioscience-driven EXO-GROW Collection, an advanced anti-aging haircare solution designed to regenerate follicles and promote long-term scalp health.
Why EXO-GROW? What inspired DermapenWorld to create this range, and what makes it stand out in today’s haircare market?
EXO-GROW is the result of cutting-edge research in exosome technology.
Our patented EXOSOME core technology harnesses stem cell-derived exosomes to promote follicle regeneration and reduce inflammation. This clinical-grade, clean haircare range is free from harsh chemicals, parabens, and sulfates, and is both vegan and cruelty-free. Many haircare brands compare their formulas to skincare, but we are already world leaders in cosmeceutical skincare. EXO-GROW’s unique K-Beauty bioscience ComplexA technology directly targets follicle regeneration, offering a deeper, more effective solution than any competitors. Consumers today are highly ingredient-conscious, and demand scientifically backed, results-driven solutions—EXO-GROW delivers exactly that.
Tracey Hughes
DermapenWorld is renowned for its microneedling innovations. How does this technology integrate with EXOGROW’s haircare approach?
Thinning hair has significant psychological effects, yet many traditional treatments, such as drug therapies, have limitations. The combination of Dermapen microneedling and EXO-GROW offers a holistic, results-driven approach with superior clinical outcomes. Microneedling triggers the body’s woundhealing response, amplifying the effectiveness
of exosome technology by increasing blood flow and accelerating follicle rejuvenation. Consumers can use the Dermapen Home device with the EXO-GROW Collection for at-home maintenance, while more advanced treatments are available in clinics through our network of doctors, trichologists, and aesthetic professionals. From individuals seeking thicker hair to those with alopecia or genetic hair loss, this synergy of science and technology empowers people to restore their hair with confidence.
Hair loss and scalp health are growing concerns. How do you see EXO-GROW making an impact worldwide?
I deeply understand the emotional toll of hair loss. EXO-GROW is more than just a product— it’s a message of compassion, offering individuals a genuine solution for hair restoration and renewed self-confidence.
For salon professionals, EXO-GROW represents the future of haircare, combining the latest in anti-aging technology with targeted, resultsdriven formulations. This isn’t just about hair growth—it’s about vitality, empowerment, and helping people feel their absolute best. That is the driving force behind our mission.
As a leader in education and mentorship, how will you integrate education into the EXO-GROW launch?
Education has always been at the heart of my career, and at DermapenWorld, it remains a top priority. We are establishing multiple educational touchpoints for our global network, collaborating with leading experts—including doctors, trichologists, and microneedling specialists—to provide in-depth training.
We’re also building a strong ambassador network of hair professionals who believe in education and innovation. In August, we’ll be launching a national roadshow across Australia, featuring our global team from the UK and Europe. Additionally, our new digital learning platform, DermapenWorld University, is designed to be highly interactive, ensuring deeper engagement and knowledge retention. This is just the beginning—we have many more exciting educational initiatives in the pipeline, including specialized training in fine hair techniques and hair restoration solutions.
You’ve worked with major global brands. What drew you to DermapenWorld, and what do you love
most about the company?
It’s simple—the culture, the people, the innovation, and the challenge. The founders, Stene and Corri Marshall, are true entrepreneurs with immense integrity, and their vision resonates deeply with me. The entire global team operates with passion, respect, and collaboration, which makes this an inspiring environment to be a part of.
I also love the challenge of launching and scaling a new brand within an established organisation. Unlike rigid corporate structures, DermapenWorld fosters creativity, agility, and a start-up mentality—qualities that align perfectly with my leadership style. After experiencing toxic work environments in the past, I am incredibly grateful to now be surrounded by a supportive, empowering culture that values innovation and teamwork.
With EXO-GROW launching globally, how can professionals and consumers access the range?
Salon owners, hairstylists, and barbers can connect with us to sample the EXO-GROW Collection and explore real case studies demonstrating its effectiveness. As a niche, science-driven brand, we complement existing salon retail lines rather than competing with them.
Our go-to-market strategy is centred on building brand awareness and creating demand within professional salons. We are expanding our global team to share our message and ensure every stylist and barber has access to this revolutionary range.
You’ve made a profound impact on the industry, from education to leadership. What message would you like to share with salon professionals to keep them inspired?
Our industry is uniquely collaborative and creative. I encourage salon professionals to embrace lifelong learning, support one another, and celebrate our craft. Confidence stems from knowledge, and with the right education and solutions, we have the power to transform lives. Through resilience, self-belief, and a commitment to excellence, every professional can reach their full potential—and that’s a journey worth taking together.
2025 Curate Awards announce most exciting apprentices across Australia and New Zealand
Created to discover and celebrate Australia and New Zealand’s freshest urban and regional Apprentice talent through the delivery of exciting hair vision and creativity, the 2025 CURATE Awards have announced the 30 Finalists for this unique competition platform.
Envisioned by Brisbane hairdressing icon and reigning AHIA Creative Australian Hairdresser of the Year 2023 Justin Pace, the ongoing goal of CURATE is to elevate the perception of hairdressing as an exciting career pathway. With an almost 50% increase in entries for the awards second year, the local and international judging panel were again blown away by the incredible calibre of entrants.
As a digital competition, CURATE allows for apprentice talent to shine through the creation of a two-minute video to showcase their cutting, colouring and styling skills, eliminating any geographical barriers to entry. Entrants are judged on a combination of inspiration, delivery of their hair creation, finished result and video editing skills.
Winners will be announced on 13th April and the lucky five will start prepping online with Justin for their full-day photo shoot workshop with Justin in Sydney, one part of their share of the $51k+ prize pool which also includes tickets to Hair Festival and the AHIA Creative Awards Gala, L’Oréal ACCESS Education vouchers, Excellent Edges scissors, ghd Professional electrical tools, ELEVEN Australia products, Sustainable Salons goodie bags, a biography from Lily Blue Communications plus industry exposure throughout 2025.
To acknowledge, support and inspire the talented 2025 CURATE Awards entrants, Justin is also excited to be able to offer all entrants this year a complimentary ‘Viewing Gallery’ ticket for the AHIA Creative Awards Gala in celebration of Mocha Group’s 20th anniversary, a complimentary ticket to Hair The Movement’s Day 3 Seminar- ‘Industry leaders: Journey to the Top’, plus all Queensland entrants will receive a complimentary ticket for MIG Training’s ‘MIG DAY OUT’.
Justin is thrilled to work with the most promising Apprentice talent for the second year.
“The success of the inaugural CURATE Awards last year just reinforced the importance of this initiative for our industry and I was so proud of our winners. 2025 sees us expand into New Zealand and I’m so thrilled to increase our reach to give even more next-gen talent the chance to excel and for this competition to become an integral part of more hairdressing careers.”
A big thank you to CURATE’s collaborators for 2025 who are championing the industry. These include Official Media Partner Mocha Group, Major Partner L’Oréal Access, Prize Partners Excellent Edges, ELEVEN Australia and ghd, Sustainability Partner Sustainable Salons and Proud Supporters MIG Training, Jadore Hair and the AHC.
Special mention also to the 32 industry luminaires who judged this year’s entries, namely Andrew Cobeldick, Benni Tognini, Brodie Tsiknaris, Carolyn Gahan, Chris Baran, Chris Moody, Clive Allwright, Damien Rinaldo, Danni Solier, Danny Pato, Jamie Furlan, Jarred Stedman, Jayne Wild, Jenni Tarrant, Jo Smith, Jude McEwan, Jules Tognini, Julia Homard, Kerrie DiMattia, Kiralee Honor, Kristy Hodgson, Lauren McCowan, Michael Kelly, Rachel Vitullo, Richard Kavanagh, Richi Grisillo, Sam James, Sara Allsop, Scott Sloan, Sharon Blain, Sheridan Rose Shaw and Stevie English.
CURATE AWARDS 2025 FINALISTS
REGIONAL AUSTRALIACOLOUR & STYLE
Alexandria Oomen, Kaboo
Haircutters
Georgia Schembri, Mayko Hair
Kynan Booty, Parlour O Maddison Stone, The Salon Collective
Madison Groves, Safari Room
URBAN AUSTRALIA - CUT & COLOUR
Bethany Robinson, HeadHunters Hair Studio
Sophie McDonnell, Bella Donna The Hair Collective
REGIONAL AUSTRALIA - CUT & COLOUR
Bella Karlsson, Becky B Hair
Casey Churchwood, Ms Monaco Hair Society
Kealey-Grace Harkins, Jarahs Hair
Lilly Dearden-Ord, Intuition The Art Of Hair
Madison Groves, Safari Room
Sienna Shields, Wow Hair Wickham
URBAN AUSTRALIA - COLOUR & STYLE
Alicia Edwards, The Disco
Cam Day, Co And Pace Salon
Danielle Carman, Fon Salon
Elisha Forgione, Bliss The Art Of Hair
Isabella Molloy, Tigerlamb
Odette Hall, Heading Out Hair & Beauty
Jasmin Movsowitz, Toni&Guy Sydney City
Kobi Lee, The Factory 3013
Lucy Ahearn, Tsiknaris Hair
Shannon Westwood, The Factory 3013
Xanika Kearnan, MAMAWEST
NEW ZEALAND - COLOUR & STYLE
Eva Jones, Bettjemans Hair Salon
Eva Jones, Bettjemans Hair Salon
Jess Wilson, Zibido Hair
Nascita Lindsay, Smoke & Mirrors Hair Lounge
Natalia Newson, Wabi Sabi
Samantha Eddy, Salon One Hair & Beauty
www.curateawards.com
Facebook: curateawardsforapprentices
Instagram: @curateawards
EXPO4BARBERS BACK FOR IT’S 2ND BIG YEAR TO HIT AUSTRALIA!
Barbers, get ready. EXPO4BARBERS is back for 2025 from May 3rd – 5th on the Gold Coast QLD and it’s shaping up to be bigger, bolder, and sharper than ever. Whether you’re an experienced pro, an up-and-coming talent, or just a passionate barber who loves the culture, this is your event.
EXPO4BARBERS is the biggest Barber event in Australia & New Zealand history where you can witness an unprecedented convergence of top-tier grooming professionals, cutting-edge technology showcases, and live demonstrations by renowned barbers from around the globe.
Immerse yourself in the latest trends, techniques, and tools shaping the future of the industry, and be part of an experience that will revolutionise the art of barbering.
WHAT’S ON OVER THE 3 DAYS...
SATURDAY 3RD MAY - BARBER BATTLE & OPENING PARTY5:00PM till Late!
The weekend kicks off with the most electric event of the expo—the Barber Battle. Barbers from all levels will compete across 4 categories
• Apprentice 0-3 Years Experience
• Senior 3+ Years’ Experience
• Old School Traditional/Classic Styles (Any Experience)
• New School Modern/Editorial Styles (Any Experience) All battling it out for over $10,000 in prizes. Expect high energy, creative cuts, and serious skills on display.
To enter, barbers can sign up at expo4barbers.com.au, choosing their category and preparing to showcase their artistry on the big stage. Once the clippers cool down, the Opening Party kicks in. Think beats, drinks, and plenty of barber banter in a top-secret Gold Coast venue (to be revealed soon!). Whether you’re competing, watching, or just here for the vibes, this is the perfect way to start your expo experience.
MAY 4TH & 5TH — FULL EXPO, GOLD COAST CONVENTION AND EXHIBITION CENTRE, BROADBEACH, GC
As the world of barbering continues to evolve and expand, EXPO4BARBERS emerges as a pivotal event, bringing together enthusiasts, professionals, and industry pioneers.
For those planning to attend, the expo promises a comprehensive experience that is both enriching and exciting. Here’s what you can expect from this monumental event:
Networking Opportunities
EXPO4BARBERS serves as a melting pot for barbers, stylists, and industry professionals from various backgrounds and skill levels. Attendees can expect to mingle with a diverse crowd, from local talents to globally recognised names.
This is a golden opportunity to exchange ideas, share experiences, and build connections that could open new doors for your career or business.
Educational Workshops and Forum’s
Education is at the heart of EXPO4BARBERS. Prepare to engage in a wide array of workshops and seminars led by seasoned professionals and celebrity barbers.
These sessions cover a range of topics, from cutting-edge barbering techniques and trends to business management and digital marketing strategies tailored for the grooming industry. Whether you’re a novice looking to sharpen your skills or a seasoned pro aiming to stay ahead of the curve, there’s something for everyone.
MAY 5TH - OWNED BY MOCHA GROUP THE ANZ MODERN BARBER AWARDS (AMBA)
To finish off the weekend, celebrate in style at the AMBA Gala Awards night, at The Island, Surfers Paradise 7-11pm.
Live Demonstrations
One of the highlights of the expo is the live demonstrations where master Barbers & Educators showcase their skills in real-time.
These demonstrations not only provide visual and practical learning opportunities but also inspire creativity and innovation and real time in how the tools & products work. Watching these artists at work is a unique experience that can offer fresh perspectives and techniques you can incorporate into your own practice.
Product Launches and Exhibitions
EXPO4BARBERS is a launchpad for the latest products and innovations in the barbering industry. Attendees get the first look at new tools, products, and technologies designed to revolutionise the way professionals work.
Exhibitors from leading brands to emerging startups offer hands-on experiences, allowing you to test and compare a wide range of products. This is also an excellent chance to snag exclusive deals and discounts offered only at the expo.
Attending EXPO4BARBERS is more than just an opportunity to learn and network; it’s an immersive experience that celebrates the art and science of barbering. Whether you’re there to build your skillset, find inspiration, or simply soak in the vibrant atmosphere, the expo promises to deliver a memorable experience.
Get ready to be part of an event that not only shapes the present landscape of barbering but also charts the future of this dynamic industry.
WHAT’S HAPPENING ON MAIN STAGE?
SUNDAY 4TH MAY
VIP Ticket Holders gain Exclusive Access from 8:00AM – 12:00PM – With Exclusive VIP Main stage education with 4 Globally renowned Educators
• Josh O.P
• Josh Lamonaca
• Luca Perillo
• Mr Official
EXPO DOORS OPEN To All General Admission Ticket Holders from 12.00PM TO 7.00PM
MAIN STAGE SESSIONS:
Live demonstrations and industry insight sessions from leading Brands and educators
• Luca Perillo
• Mr Official – Level 3,
• BaBylissPRO
• JRL
• BRAVO SUPPLY/MRD CLIPPERS
• 4BARBERS
• Mocha Group
• Hair & Beauty Kingdom Gold Coast
• Day 1 Wrap Up
EDUCATION ROOM SESSIONS
Session 1 - 9:00am to 10:00am Doctor Tama – Social Media Blueprint
Session 3 - 11:30am to 12:30pm DEPOT – Ben Kane & Suzie O’Brien
Session 4 - 12:45pm to 1:45pm Gamma+ – Jordan Tabakman
Session 5 - 2:00pm to 3:00pm Gamma+ – Luca Perillo
Session 6 - 3:15pm to 4:15pm Level 3 – Mr Official
Session 7 - 4:30pm to 5:30pm Josh O.P – The D.F.S Formula
Session 8 – 5:45pm to Gamma+ – Josh Lamonaca
**Education Room Sessions: Tickets sold separately by sponsoring brands.
MONDAY - 5th MAY
MAIN STAGE SESSIONS
• DEPOT
• JOSH O.P
• BaByLissPRO
• Gamma+ – Josh Lamonaca
• Day 2 Wrap Up
• cont’d over page
Over the 2 Expo Days Expect...
• Live action-packed demonstrations at brand booths
• Exclusive product launches and first-hand testing
• Shop Globally Recognised Brands with Exclusive Discounts and Offers
• A high-energy atmosphere buzzing with barber culture
• The chance to build connections and get noticed in the industry
Whether you’re looking to upgrade your toolkit, discover new brands, or make industry connections that will last a lifetime, the expo floor is where it all happens.
TICKET OPTIONS
General Admission (GA)
• Doors Open Sunday May 4th 12:00 PM – 7:00PM
• Access to Show Floor For 2-Day Access (Sun/Mon)
• Entertainment On Show Floor
• Stage Demos
• Shop Globally Recognised Brands with Exclusive Discounts and Offers
VIP Expo Ticket:
Exclusive VIP Main stage education with Globally Renowned Educators
Sunday 4th May From 8:00am – 12:00pm
• VIP Swag Bag (over $300 value)
• $50 Voucher for Bar & Food
• Access to Show Floor for 2-Day Access
• Entertainment on show floor
• Stage Demo
• Shop Globally Recognised Brands with Exclusive Discounts and Offers
• Exclusive VIP Discounts and Offerings
• VIP Ticket does NOT include Education Sessions (tickets sold separately via sponsoring brands)
Barber Battle GA Entry Ticket:
Saturday May 3rd – 5:00 PM
Ticket includes:
• Access to barber battle and opening party
• Cash bar and food available on the night
Saturday 3rd May 5pm – Late
Barber Battle Contestant Ticket:
Ticket includes:
• Access to barber battle and opening party
• Cash bar and food available on the night
• Contestant ticket includes 1 x model entry
Saturday 3rd May 5pm - Late
Tickets are selling fast! Visit expo4barbers.com.au to secure your spot.
WHY YOU NEED TO BE THERE
EXPO4BARBERS 2025 isn’t just another event—it’s an experience designed to educate, inspire, and elevate barbers of all levels. Whether you’re looking to sharpen your skills, grow your business, or connect with like-minded professionals, this is the ultimate opportunity... and did we mention the massive Giveaways??
Not only will you get exclusive access to the best educators, products, and brands in the industry, but this year’s expo also features the AMBA Gallery, showcasing the finalists’ collections in an awe-inspiring display of artistic excellence in barbering. Additionally, for those looking to celebrate the best in the industry, the 2025 AMBA Awards will be held on Monday night. While separate from the expo, this prestigious event is the ultimate way to close the weekend— recognising and honouring the top talents in barbering across Australia and New Zealand.
This year the AMBA’s have moved and being held at The Island, Surfers Paradise. Tickets can be purchased at www.mochagroup. com.au/shop/
This is your chance to be part of something big—a weekend dedicated to pushing the boundaries of barbering while celebrating its culture and community.
GET YOUR TICKETS NOW!
Visit expo4barbers.com.au for more details & ticket bookings. See you on the Gold Coast in May!
MAY 3 - 5
GOLD COAST CONVENTION & EXHIBITION CENTRE
AUSTRALIA’S LARGEST EXPO FOR
BARBER BATTLE LIVE DEMOS 50+ VENDORS GIVEAWAYS
EXCLUSIVE DISCOUNTS NETWORKING EDUCATION
WHY ATTEND?
• For all levels – From beginners to pros, there’s something for everyone!
• Top brands & discounts – Get hands-on with the best tools at exclusive prices.
• World-class education – Learn from international industry leaders.
• Connect & grow – Network with barbers & hairdressers from everywhere.
• Live demos & workshops – Watch, learn, and level up your skills.
SECURE
Gamma + continues to lead the way in Barbering through Innovation and Technology. At Gamma + we are not only interested in the selling of our latest tools but also driving the Education and Training through the Industry.
Josh Lamonaca
Jordan Tabakman
Luca Perillo
This year we are continuing to invest in the future of tomorrow’s Barber, by allowing Australian Barbers access to world renowned leaders in their field.
Gamma+ & Expo4Barbers are excited to announce that we will be bringing the world renowned owner of Menspire Global, Josh Lamonaca, to Australia. Together with Josh we are bringing Luca Perillo, the owner of Menspire Napoli (Italy), to Australia. These two Worldclass Educators will be joined by our very own Gamma + Lead Educator Jordan Tabakman to run a number of Barbering Seminars whilst they visit our shores.
Josh Lamonaca, a powerhouse in Men’s Hair Education, brings an infectious energy and relentless work ethic to every session. Known globally, Josh has revolutionized the way men’s hair is taught through his Menspire philosophy, which he’s shared in over 25 countries captivating audiences of up to 3,000. With 536K followers and industry recognition through multiple awards, his bold creativity and iconic haircuts have made a massive impact, inspiring stylists worldwide.
Luca Perillo, moved to London at the age of 18, working in various Barber’s and attending some of the most prestigious academies in the world, which included Menspire. Luca developed a strong bond with Josh and began to follow Josh across Europe at all his events.
As Menspire grew, Luca pursued a new work experience in Amsterdam, New York & Miami. In 2020, in collaboration with the Menspire brand Lucca opened his first shop in Napoli, Menspire Napoli.
Jordan Tabakman, owner of TBC India, The Barber Club Australia and Bali and Lead Educator for Gamma + Australia/ New Zealand and India.
For many years Jordan has graced the stage showing live haircut education and techniques globally. Jordan has elevated into one of the youngest success stories in entrepreneurship owning multiple businesses in Australia and Internationally.
Josh and Lucca will debut in Melbourne, where there will be 2 x 1 Day Workshops for an Exclusive Group of 12 Barbers, who want to invest in their future by working with Josh and Luca, this will be on May 1st & 2nd.
On May 3rd, the team will travel to the Gold Coast for the annual Expo4Barbers event. At this event both Josh and Jordan are going to be Judges in the Battle of the Barbers Challenge on Saturday Night.
Sunday, brings a day of Seminars! We are thrilled that Gamma + will be hosting 3 of the 8 seminars being held on the Sunday, starting with Jordan and Luca, each presenting a 1 Hour Session, and culminating with Josh, at the end of the day, with a 2 Hour Look N Learn Session, not to be missed!
Jordan Tabakman’s Seminar is an in depth look at Jordan’s journey and the path he has taken including a blueprint he has created for his Brand. It will cover off such things as;
- Personal Branding
- Business Development
- Team Building
- Team Growth
- Tips and Tricks to operate successful salons
Luca Perillo’s Seminar will cover off current Global Trends focusing on;
- Essential Techniques
- Industry Standards
- The latest in Global Trends
Josh Lamonaca will the finish the day with 2 Hours taking a deep dive into the techniques and philosophies of Barbering. Known for his empowering approach, he will mentor participants through skills that can transform both their craft and career.
This is a rare opportunity to gain experience from Josh, one of the most innovative voices in the Barbering world.
In addition to our Seminars, throughout the 2 days of the Trade Show Gamma + will have our own stand at the event where we will be LAUNCHING our latest Clipper (and if you think the Boosted Clipper is good, this is next level)!
There will be giveaways, competitions and a chance for you to buy your favourite Gamma + product at Special Pricing! Make sure you come and visit us, because we know that you will find something that will make your trip worthwhile.
This will not be the last time you get to see the Gamma + team this year, we will also be exhibiting at Hair Festival in Sydney at the end of June.
To purchase tickets www.gammaplus.com.au/expo4barbers/
For more information: www.gammaplus.com.au
Why you can’t afford to miss the AHC 2025 Events
In an ever-evolving industry like hairdressing and barbering, staying ahead isn’t just about mastering the latest trends - it’s about understanding where the industry is headed, making the right connections, and positioning yourself for success. That’s exactly what the AHC 2025 Events are all about.
Presented by the Australian Hairdressing Council (AHC), these two must-attend events - Industry Day and Leadership Summit + Schmoozefest - are designed to equip salon owners, educators, industry leaders, and professionals with the insights, inspiration, and networking opportunities they need to thrive.
From thought-provoking discussions on the future of the workforce to critical conversations about education and training, these events will set the tone for the next phase of the industry. And with both events strategically scheduled right before Hair Festival and the AHIA Creative Awards, there’s no better way to immerse yourself in the biggest weekend of the year for Australian hair.
AHC Leadership Summit + Schmoozefest: The ultimate industry gathering
For those in leadership positions, whether you’re running a salon, heading an education institution, managing a product brand, or shaping industry policy, the AHC Leadership Summit + Schmoozefest is the must-attend event of 2025.
Bringing together top decision-makers, influencers, and experts, this half-day summit is designed to deliver the latest insights into business, leadership, and industry evolution. You’ll gain exclusive access to ‘State of the Industry’ reports, data from key industry and government bodies, and a panel of thought leaders dissecting emerging trends and workforce changes.
Adding to the value of this event is an inspiring keynote session by renowned social researcher, demographer, and futurist Mark McCrindle His session, The Future of Work, will delve into the major forces reshaping the workforce, from generational transitions to shifting career expectations and workforce trends. If you want to future-proof your business and workforce strategies, this is a session you can’t afford to miss.
But the Leadership Summit isn’t just about knowledgeit’s also about connectionwhich is a key pillar of the AHC. That’s why, following an afternoon of insights and discussions, the event seamlessly transitions into Schmoozefest, an exclusive networking event designed to foster genuine connections within the industry. With drinks, canapés, and a relaxed atmosphere, it’s the perfect setting to meet new business partners, reconnect with old friends, and celebrate everything that makes the industry great!
Event details:
and the work being done to address workforce shortages in the industry. Her session will provide essential insights for educators and business owners looking to adapt to changes in training and workforce development.
Date: Saturday, 28 June 2025
Time: 2:00 PM – 7:00 PM (Registration from 1:15 PM)
Location: Sheraton Grand Sydney Hyde Park Inclusions: Light lunch, afternoon tea, and refreshments, followed by drinks and canapés.
Tickets are on sale now, and with demand high, it’s advisable to secure your spot early.
AHC Industry Day 2025: Shaping the future of hairdressing education
While the Leadership Summit + Schmoozefest is all about industry leadership and business strategy, Industry Day is dedicated to the foundation of the industry: education and training.
Education is the backbone of a thriving hair industry, and in today’s rapidly changing landscape, it’s more important than ever to ensure that training programs, qualifications, and career pathways remain relevant and sustainable. AHC Industry Day brings together educators, training organisations, salon owners, suppliers, and government representatives to collaborate on shaping the future of hairdressing education in Australia.
This full-day conference is packed with vital discussions, including updates from government bodies on the latest reforms to the Hairdressing and Barber Training Package, insights from key industry leaders, and expert-led panels exploring the biggest challenges and opportunities in education and training.
The first confirmed guest speaker, Natalie Turmine, CEO of Service & Creative Skills Australia (SaCSA), will share critical updates on training package reforms
Industry Day isn’t just an opportunity to learn; it’s a chance to actively contribute to discussions that will shape the future of hairdressing education. Whether you’re an educator looking to stay informed, a salon owner navigating the challenges of hiring and training staff, or an industry stakeholder invested in long-term sustainability, this event is where the most important conversations are happening.
Event details:
Date: Friday, 27 June 2025
Time: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Registration from 8:15 AM)
Location: Sheraton Grand Sydney Hyde Park Inclusions: Lunch, morning and afternoon tea, and refreshments.
Tickets are available now, and early booking is recommended.
Be Part of the Conversation
The AHC 2025 Events aren’t just about attending an event - they’re about positioning yourself at the forefront of industry evolution. Both Industry Day and Leadership Summit + Schmoozefest offer rare opportunities to gain expert insights, connect with industry leaders, enjoy friendly camaraderie, and be part of the conversations that are shaping the future of hairdressing and barbering in Australia.
Whether you want to stay ahead of business and workforce trends, contribute to the future of industry education, or simply network with the best minds in the business - and make new friends along the way - these are the events that will set you up for success.
With tickets selling fast and industry professionals eager to be part of the action, now is the time to secure your place. Don’t miss out on your chance to be part of the most important events on the hair industry calendar.
Book Your Tickets Now for These Events At www.theahc.org.au
Mark McCrindle
Natalie Turmine
Against The Odds: The Mastery of Growth
By Bernadette Beswick – 2024 AHIA Business – Australian Educator (Independent) of the Year
Like many in the industry, my journey hasn’t been a straight path. I originally completed a 12-month course, but after time away, being a mum to 4 children, and 1 with a disability, I made the decision to return to hairdressing. When I stepped back in, I assessed my skills, identified my gaps, and committed to further education. I didn’t want to guess my way through—I wanted to know my way through.
I dedicated myself to mastering technical skills, communication, and personal development, ensuring that every client left my chair feeling confident—not just in their hair, but in me as their stylist. That commitment led me to a fully booked career with Lorna Evans at Zumay Mornington, where my return to the industry truly began.
We’ve all been there—second-guessing a client’s request, feeling unsure in our abilities. My mission as an educator is to eliminate that uncertainty, helping hairdressers build thriving careers with confidence. Because hairdressers change lives—we see it every day.
THE POWER OF EDUCATION
Education transformed my career, and I want to share that power with you. Since 2022, my commitment to education, motivation, and growth has led to:
• Winner – AHIA Australian Educator of the Year 2024
• 2X Winner – AHIA Victorian Hairdresser of the Year (2022 & 2023)
• Winner – Australia’s Best Collaboration (with Stevie English, 2022)
• Finalist – Australian Hairdresser of the Year 2024
• Finalist – British Hair Awards International Hairdresser of the Year 2024
• Finalist – Live Fashion Hair International Hairdresser of the Year
• Over 289 international publications and 12 international front covers (alongside Stevie English)
And it all comes down to one thing: education— the tool that changes lives.
Every time I stand in front of an audience, my message is simple: if you have the determination and a passion for growth that serves others, success is inevitable. If I can do it, so can you. My journey continues every day.
Over the next 5 issues, we’ll explore the key elements that build confidence, skill, and success behind the chair. Each issue will focus on a critical area to help you refine your expertise, grow your business, and take full control of your craft.
BUILDING CONFIDENT HAIRDRESSERS
Confidence is the foundation of success in hairdressing. Whether it’s consultations, cutting, or communication, confidence allows us to work with ease and deliver outstanding results. But confidence isn’t something you’re born with—it’s built over time, through education, experience, and the right mindset.
The Top 3 Benefits of Confidence Behind the Chair:
• Stronger client trust and loyalty
• Better decision-making and creativity
• Increased job satisfaction and career growth
Confidence isn’t just about technical skill—it’s about how you present yourself, communicate, and handle challenges. Throughout this series, we’ll be focusing on the key skills that allow hairdressers to feel in control, assured, and prepared behind the chair.
2025 – HAIRCUTS ARE BACK!
With 2025 bringing a resurgence in haircuts, are you ready to do more than just a trim?
Right now, the industry is facing a cutting crisis. Many hairdressers lack the confidence or skills to execute diverse, tailored cuts, leading clients to seek expertise elsewhere, or hairdressers declining to do the work. The industry needs to reignite its passion for precision cutting.
• Mastering a wide range of cutting techniques isn’t just about delivering better results—it’s about:
• Increasing productivity and efficiency behind the chair.
• Attracting a broader clientele with versatile skills.
• Enhancing service value and pricing potential.
Haircuts create walking referrals—the kind where strangers stop people on the street to ask, Who cuts your hair? This skill sets you apart and fuels client loyalty.
CHAMPION YOUR CONSULTATION
A great client experience starts before the first snip—it begins with the consultation.
With social media influencing client expectations, many clients arrive with an overload of images and ideas. The question is: Are you leading the consultation, or is the client dictating the direction?
Mastering the consultation process allows hairdressers to:
• Position themselves as trusted advisors.
• Take control and set realistic expectations.
• Build long-term relationships and client retention.
By refining this skill, you create seamless, timeeffective services that lead to repeat business and stronger client satisfaction.
THE SECRET POWER OF RETAILING
Up your game with retailing in the salon!
Retailing in the salon is so much more than just making a sale—it’s about problemsolving, education, and enhancing the client experience. Every product recommended is an extension of the service provided, ensuring clients can maintain their results at home and continue to see the benefits long after they
leave the salon. It’s about understanding their needs, addressing their concerns, and offering solutions that genuinely improve their hair. When approached with the right mindset, retailing becomes a natural part of the consultation process—building trust, strengthening client relationships, and positioning the salon as a goto expert for ongoing care and advice.
Retail is the service that sets you apart.
Either you care for your client in salon with this service of someone else will.
THE MAGIC OF COLLABORATION
In the final edition, my partner in creativity, Stevie English, and I will share the secrets behind our collaborative success.
The Yin & Yang of the Industry
We’ll dive into the creative process, showcasing how collaboration brings diverse strengths to the table.
Salon Success – The Fusion of Cutting & Colouring
Great hairdressing isn’t just about individual skills—it’s about how they come together. This session will explore how cutting and colouring expertise enhance the client experience and elevate salon success.
ARE YOU READY TO ELEVATE YOUR CAREER?
Over the next five issues, we’ll work together to refine confidence, cutting, consultation, retailing, and collaboration skills—building a stronger foundation for success.
Education gave me the power to transform my career, and it can do the same for you.
See you in the next issue!
B x
@be.the.exceptional.hairdresser
How to Nail the Perfect Consultation.
By Amber Bullock - 2024 AHIA Creative Master Colourist of The Year.
Ever had a client sit in your chair with absolutely no idea what they want? Or found yourself stuck mid-consultation, unsure of what to ask next? Don’t worry—you’re not alone! I’m here to share some of my consultation secrets to help make every client feel like a superstar.
But first, hi! I’m amber bullock, salon manager, colour director, social media multitasker (when I get a hot minute), and Jenni’s righthand woman at bond hair religion. Last year, I hit the peak of my 21year hairdressing career, winning AHIA Master Colourist of the year in July and AHIA manager of the year shortly after. This year, I’m a super proud brand ambassador and colour educator for Eleven Australia.
When it comes to my clients, my mission is simple: make them feel safe, heard, and valued. The key? It all starts with a killer consultation.
Why the consultation is everything
Let’s be real—the consultation is the most important part of any service. Get this wrong, and not only could you have a disappointed client, but you might also end up having a redo that costs the salon big bucks. I’m not perfect (who is?), and I’ve also had my share of hair disasters. But every mistake is a lesson. At bond, we have a client agreement form for new clients or those wanting a big change. We fill this form out together. It’s packed with open and closed questions covering everything from inspo pics to product recommendations. Both the client and I sign it, so we’ve got a record of the consultation if they later say, “it’s not what I asked for.” It’s rare, but it happens, and this form has saved us more than once!
5 tips for the perfect consultation
1. Be a hair detective
From the moment a client walks in, I’m assessing everything—hair, nails, clothing, skin tone, eye colour, personality, jewellery, even shoes! I also ask about their lifestyle: are they a fulltime mum, a business owner, or a gym junkie?
Why? Because every detail matters. If a blonde client with six kids shows up with sweaty, porous hair and only has an hour for a full head of foils, treatment, a haircut, and a ’90s blowout, I now know she’s time-poor, wants to feel good, and likely needs a low-maintenance solution (and maybe a hug).
2. Make it personal I’m 5ft nothing, so getting to eye level is easy for me. I never start a consultation through the mirror. Instead, I position myself to the side, making direct eye
contact. When it’s time to get hands-on, I move behind them. This approach helps reduce any anxiety they might have— because let’s face it, even the most confident client can feel a little nervous about a big change or a new salon.
3. Decode inspo pics like a pro
When a client shows me 67 Pinterest photos of essentially the same look, I ask for their two favourites. Then I break the images down into three sections: roots, mid-lengths, and ends.
So many times, a client will show me a balayage pic, and after a bit of chat, I discover it’s not the dark roots they love but the mid-lengths. By dissecting the image, I make sure I’m delivering what they actually want.
4. Take a trip down memory lane
If a client isn’t sure what they want, I ask if there’s a photo of themselves where they loved their hair. Most of the time, it’s a memory of when they felt beautiful and confident.
Of course, we have to consider whether their style has evolved or if their face shape has changed over time. But even if the old look isn’t quite right anymore, it’s a perfect starting point to suggest an updated, modern version. And if the colour they loved was high-maintenance but they’re now all about ease, I’ll propose a lower-maintenance option that still gives them all the feels.
5. Honesty is always the best policy
This might be my most important tip. I’ve built my loyal, six-month-booked-out clientele on honesty. I never sugarcoat it. Clients come to me for my expertise, and I won’t risk their trust by saying, “eh, it should be okay.”
If a client’s dream colour isn’t going to work, I tell them straight up. But I always follow up with a plan to enhance their look in a way that works. Your clients are walking advertisements for your work— make sure they’re showing off something you’re proud of!
Final thoughts
I hope these tips have given you a fresh perspective on consultations. Remember, the consultation isn’t just about the hair—it’s about building trust and rapport, understanding your client’s lifestyle, and setting them (and you!) Up for success.
Amber x @ambercolourdirector
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Bridging the Gap: How Barber Education is Reshaping the Hair Industry.
By Gareth Philpott
The lines between hairdressing and barbering have become increasingly blurred in recent years. More hairdressers are looking to upskill and add barbering techniques to their repertoire, while many barbers are exploring more creative styling techniques traditionally found in hairdressing. This crossover has sparked a demand for high-quality education that caters to both disciplines.
At The Hair & Barber Academy, we’ve recognised this shift and have actively worked to create education pathways that allow hair professionals to transition seamlessly between barbering and hairdressing. Our Barber Skillset Program, for example, offers hairdressers a structured, 10week course that helps them gain a barbering qualification while enhancing their skill set.
By integrating face-to-face learning sessions with some of the most skilled barbers in the country, we are giving students the opportunity to learn firsthand from industry leaders. These training sessions include not only fundamental barbering techniques but also insights into running a successful business and adapting to the evolving hair industry.
The response from students has been incredible. Many hairdressers have found that adding barbering skills to their portfolio has opened up new career opportunities, whether in barbershops, salons, or as independent stylists. With the rise of hybrid hair professionals, the need for comprehensive, multi-disciplinary training has never been greater.
At The Hair & Barber Academy, we are passionate about bridging the gap between hairdressing and barbering, ensuring that professionals in both industries have access to the education they need to thrive. By embracing collaboration, innovation, and handson learning, we are creating a new era of industry professionals who are versatile, skilled, and ready for anything the future holds. We also have a private RTO which caters to Hairdressing which is called The Hair Academy Australia which delivers apprenticeship training across Queensland and New South Wales.
Beyond skill-building, our education programs also focus on business development, customer service, and adapting to emerging trends. With the influence of social media and changing client expectations, today’s hair professionals must be adaptable, creative, and business savvy. Our courses are designed to equip them with the confidence to not only perform technical services but also market themselves effectively and grow their client base.
We have also introduced advanced workshops for professionals who want to take their skills to the next level. These workshops cover everything from advanced fading techniques to creative hair artistry, ensuring that our students are at the forefront of industry innovation.
The future of hair education is about breaking down barriers between barbering and hairdressing, providing professionals with the tools to expand their skill set and embrace new opportunities. At The Hair & Barber Academy, we are excited to continue leading this movement, ensuring that the next generation of hair professionals is equipped with the knowledge and expertise to succeed in a constantly evolving industry.
RTO#41209
@hairacademyaus @thebarberacademyaus
thehairacademyaus.com.au thebarberacademy.com.au
Hair SHOP
INTENSE HYDRATE STYLING CREAM By REF Stockholm
Perfect for effortless styling, clients can pamper their hair with hydration & moisture with this NEW moisturising styling cream from REF Stockholm that delivers a light hold, smooth definition and lightweight hold and control. Enriched with Organic Coconut Oil and Jojoba Oil for moisture, it hydrates deeply, tames flyaway and shields your hair against humidity for a frizz-free, silky finish. 100% Vegan, Sulphate, Paraben & Cruelty Free. Climate Compensated.
www.smithscollectivebrands.com.au
ILLUMINATE COLOUR INSTANT SHINE By REF of Stockholm
REF of Stockholm introduces Illuminate Colour Instant Shine, a weightless illuminating lotion that guarantees instant glossy hair, reviving colour, eliminating frizz and leaving hair enviably silky and smooth. Infused with Camellia Oil and Wheat Bran Extract for moisture, Instant Shine also features REF’s exclusive Colour Preserve System, and Strengthening Quinoa Protein (100% Vegan) that contains essential amino acids, assisting in the repair, protection, shine and conditioning of the hair, preserving the hair’s natural beauty.
Introducing a quick and easy way to retouch and keep those pesky flyaways and frizz under control.
Think “lip balm” for your hair, ELEVEN Australia’s Smooth Me Now Flyaway Hair Balm is the perfect in-your-pocket go-to that also works to re-hydrate the hair from the outside in and prevent it from looking and feeling dry.
Whether you’re opting for a sleek style or simply need to tame your mane on the go, this little wonder stick is about to become your new best friend. It’s lightweight, non-greasy formula won’t have you feeling like you’ve applied a tub of wax to your hair. With a natural sheen, it’s a residue free balm that will leave a clean and clear result even on dark hair.
If edges are your thing, then our Smooth Me Now Flyaway Balm is also the perfect product to apply to keep baby hairs in place, controlled and hydrated.
Small but mighty, it packs an effective long-lasting punch that is super easy to use. The wind up and down applicator allows light touch control directly to where it’s needed most. www.elevenaustralia.au
DEEP CLEANSING DETOX SHAMPOO By
HI LIFT
Hi Lift Deep cleansing Detox shampoo removes impurities including hard water mineral build up, styling products and excess oil from hair and scalp. Native Australian plant and flower extracts nourish, soothe, and strengthen leaving the hair and scalp feeling refreshed and revitalised. www.muimports.com.au
WASHLOUNGES SET TO MAKE A STATEMENT By Comfortel
Club in Textured Black - Compact & modern, this wash lounge brings bold curves & sleek vibes to your backwash. With its all-in-one design & textured finish, it’s a striking statement from Also available in Sand.
Paddy in Sage Green - This plush shampoo lounge features electric recline, pulsating massage & memory foam comfort. Perfect for modern salons wanting natural vibes with a laid-back luxe feel. Visit Comfortel showrooms across Australia to experience their salon furniture firsthand.
www.comfortel.com.au
PROFESSIONAL HAIR BRUSHES By Shine Brushes
A flawless hairstyle starts with the perfect tools, and the Luxe Blend Shine Professional Hair Brushes deliver just that—effortless styling, superior precision, and a touch of luxury. These brushes are designed with a blend of boar and nylon bristles, ensuring smooth, tangle-free hair with an enviable shine.
TONING DROPS By muk.
Highly concentrated, multi-use additives, designed to be used in conjunction with the entire muk professional colour portfolio to maximise efficiency, customisation and control.
Two key colours - Violet and Blue - have been introduced into the muk professional category. The drops are designed to elevate a salon’s professional offering, with a transformative addition to hair colour services and client take home care solutions.
The Science Behind the Luxe Blend: Crafted with double-strand nylon bristles, the Barrel Brushes prevent snagging while gripping the hair for better styling control. Ideal for all hair types, they provide volume, smoothness,
For quick drying and detangling, the Vent Cushion Brushes feature a vented back design, allowing for optimal airflow while styling. The combination of ionic nylon bristles and shorter boar bristles ensures reduced frizz and enhanced shine.
A Brush for Every Need: From sleek blowouts to voluminous curls, the Shine Luxe Blend collection has the right tool for the job. Available in multiple diameters—ranging from 40mm to 90mm—these brushes cater to every hair length and texture. The ergonomic design ensures comfort, control, and a salon-quality finish.
Redefining Hair Care with Luxe Innovation:A perfect fusion of elegance and innovation, the Shine Luxe Blend Brushes are a must-have for hairstylists and beauty enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re aiming for effortless waves, voluminous locks, or sleek sophistication, these brushes elevate your styling routine to professional heights. Experience the Luxe Difference. Brush. Blend. Shine. www.joiken.com.au
COLOR EXCEL GLOSS TREATMENT
By Revlon Professional
Revlon Professional has redefined the haircare game with their Color Excel Gloss acidic treatment - the 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 cysteic 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 35 shimmering shade palette, 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. www.revlonprofessional.com
CHRONOS MAX By GHD
ghd unveils the latest innovation in the chronos family, ghd chronos™ max. Featuring cutting-edge HD motion responsive™ technology, with 85% larger close-edge plates7, ghd chronos™ max delivers up to 3X faster1 onestroke that last 24 hours. Ideal for long, thick and curly hair, ghd chronos™ max allows you style large sections with speed, for up to 3X straighter hair in one stroke and 90% more shine, plus the close-edge plates mean you can now get closer to the roots when styling for perfect root-to-tip results. With ghd chronosTM max, ghd continues to transform the tech-beauty realm, bringing high-definition, ultra-fast styling and glass-like shine to everyone. www.ghdhair.com
Hiring! … I’m Making A Stand!
By Sam James, 2024 AHIA Creative Australian Hairdresser of the Year
Hi, my name is Sami J, and I’m a raging hairaholic - My last cut was 9 days ago (BECAUSE I’M ON HOLIDAYS!) eeeeekkkk!!
Yes, I’m writing this whilst in 1 degrees in New Orleans having our first holiday in nearly 3 years. Hundreds of planes, but none with no scissors and for just Scotty and I and some play time.
But, before I could leave there was a lot - and I mean a lot to think about, organise and do (you business owners get me)
And one of the key things was making a decision on hiring. The thing we all hate!
When are we doing it? Can it wait till I’m back? Who are we looking for?
And of course, having these chats with the team, working it all out together.
Fortunately, our team has grown organically over the last 3 and a half years. With people approaching us just at the right time and being the next right person to grow our family. However, the universe isn’t providing right now, so for the first time, I decided to let the team handle it.
So, whilst I’m away, my coordinator and senior stylist of nearly 5 years, are currently interviewing and shortlisting applicants.
I made the video before I left, including all the people and fun parts about SJ, and outlined what we are looking for.
BUT WE ARE TACKLING THIS DIFFERENTLY.
WE NEED TO STOP BEGGING AND LOOKING DESPERATE!
As an entire industry, salon owners and their teams need to rethink how they’re approaching their hiring Ads.
Do you want Saturdays off!
Do you want above award pay!
Do you want flexibility!
Do you want exceptional training!
DO YOU WANT TO CHOOSE YOUR HOURS!!
It’s like we’re begging and bribing people to come work for us. I get that we’re at all-time lows in apprentice numbers, and an all-time high of actual salon businesses, but what hairdressers are we creating by begging them to be in this industry, and come work for us with whatever it takes?
Your approach is that we have a unique opening for ONE special someone to join our incredible team, and be a part of one of the best industries in the world.
We want them to come to the interview, excited, and like they need to prove to us that they deserve that spot.
During the interview process, we outline all the unique things we offer a SJ‘s. Weekly training with me, Our annual retreat, trips to Sydney for Hair Festival and the awards, being part of our photo shoots, team bonding events throughout the year, and overall having an incredible team culture within the salon.
This is always prior to talking about money, time off, and all the things that they get to have unique flexibility with.
Our team have all of the things I mentioned above - flexible hours, paid above award rates, great incentives - even for apprentices. However, these are spoken about throughout the first few weeks, like nice added bonuses when working with us.
They are certainly not the basis that we get people in our door or hire our new team members on.
I just think if we all made this little change, then we would elevate our industry again as a whole, and hopefully start to see a different calibre of employees and success rates across hairdressing and especially throughout apprentices.
I FEEL LUCKY TO BE ABLE TO DO WHAT I DO, AND WITH THE PEOPLE I DO IT WITH. INVITING SOME ONE NEW IN IS SCARY, AND THEY NEED TO WANT AND DESERVE IT!
@samij_hair
Sam James
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Fresh Starts!
By Shae Tsiknaris, 3X AHIA Creative Master Cutter of the Year
Welcome to my second blog for The Mocha Hair Magazine! I hope you enjoyed the last one. Can you believe we’re already well into the year? It has been very busy for me, with the usual chaos of getting the kids sorted with their school supplies. If you’re still ticking off the school list, let me recommend Officeworks they’ve been fantastic! Fun fact: New Year’s Day is an excellent (and quiet) time to shop there. Who knew?
The holidays also brought some unexpected excitement. My little poodle Maltese cross, Milo, gave us a moment we’ll never forget. Milo is 17 years old yes, I know, but he’s still a puppy at heart, despite his tiny size. One afternoon, I left some chicken schnitzels defrosting on the bench. When we got home, Milo greeted us with his usual over-the-top enthusiasm, running around in his pyjamas. But then, out of nowhere, he bolted under the bed and grabbed something, and dashed outside.
The kids started screaming, “Mum, look!” To my horror, I discovered that Milo had swiped our defrosting schnitzels! This wasn’t just a small pack this was the bulk family pack. Milo had eaten half of them and cleverly stashed the rest under the bed . At first, I was furious, but then I couldn’t help but admire his ingenuity. He looked so proud of himself, thoroughly enjoying his gourmet meal while the kids had to settle for something else that night!
Life at the Salon
The beginning of the year tends to bring a calmer pace to the salon steady yet a bit sporadic. I’ve enjoyed this time, reconnecting with my beautiful clients and making changes happen for them. A lovely surprise was seeing Elena, a friend I met at an Alfaparf cutting seminar in Melbourne last year. She visited Brisbane for a few days and trusted me with her hair. It was such a joy thank you, Elena! Another moment that stood out for me was helping a client’s sister, who is currently recovering from cancer treatment. Her hair is starting to grow back, and I gave her a short pixie style that softened her delicate features and boosted her confidence. It’s moments like these that remind me why I love this industry. Helping someone regain their confidence and seeing that smile it’s priceless. We’re so lucky to be a part of our clients’ journeys.
Fresh Starts and Changes
The beginning of the year always feels like a fresh start. Whether it’s committing to a diet (I’ve been trying to tone up for five years now still working on it!) or making a big change with their hair, this season inspires transformation. Lately, I’ve had a lot of guests request bold, short precision cuts from bobs to shaggy pixies. I love working with their natural texture and movement, often surprising them with just how much they have.
One guest, who’s been with me for four years, recently came in and said, “Right Shae, I want to go platinum blonde and pixie short.” I laughed and said, “Sure, let’s do it!” But as I moved her hair around, admiring its natural beachy waves, I suggested we keep it long for now, add texture, and brighten her colour instead. She loved it! I told her, “Enjoy this look now we can always make a change next time.” That’s the beauty of hair it’s ever evolving.
Family Milestones
This year is especially exciting for our family. Our eldest started high school at the same school Chris and I went to. It’s such a special moment to see our little star follow in our footsteps.
Award Season Buzz
As I mentioned in my last blog, award season is almost here! My mind is buzzing with ideas excited, nervous, and ready to push myself creatively once again. I thrive on trying something new, challenging myself, and staying a little unsatisfied. It’s that perfectionist streak that drives us to grow.
To everyone entering the awards, I wish you the best of luck. What will be, will be but don’t forget to enjoy the creative process along the way.
Until next time, Shae x @hairbyshaetsiknaris
Shae Tsiknaris
Has the Big Influencer Model Run its Course in the Hairdressing Industry?
By Emily Ciardiello
I’m Emily Ciardiello, CEO & Co-founder of the globally renowned brand, Foil Me. For 11 years, I have worked to revolutionise, innovate and disrupt the foil category, creating and delivering artistic, practical and efficient foils with our signature embossing, to enhance the lives of colourists.
A key part of our business, and one that I love doing, is connecting with our community through social media and in person. For over a decade, I’ve witnessed the social media landscape change for both brands and individuals, and the hairdressing industry has not been immune. Which brings me to this question: Has the big influencer model run it’s course in the hairdressing industry?
Once upon a time, social media was the ultimate gamechanger for hairdressers. It gave us a platform to showcase our work, connect with like-minded creatives, and build businesses that extended beyond the salon chair. But now, as the influencer economy reaches saturation, we have to ask: Has the big influencer model run its course in the hairdressing industry?
The Image Influencers Portray
For many years now, social media has glamorised the life of a hairdresser who is an influencer for a brand: the jet-setting, the VIP events, the never-ending product partnerships. But what message is this sending to aspiring hairdressers, young apprentices and emerging colourists? The reality is, hairdressing is built on skill, connection, and passion—not just aesthetics and engagement rates.
I was recently told a story that really hit home. A hairdresser attended a major industry event, eager to network and learn. They approached a well-known figure in the industry, only to be completely snubbed – no eye contact, no acknowledgment, just sheer dismissal. The worst part? The snubbed stylist had no idea why. It left them questioning their own value and relevance in the so-called hairdressing hierarchy.
Does this kind of thing happen in other industries? Absolutely. But should it be happening frequently in an industry known for its kindness, respect, and support? Absolutely not.
Social Media: Business vs. Individual Brand
Social media has become a powerful tool, but do we need to differentiate between using it as a business strategy versus chasing personal fame? In the beginning, social media was about growing clientele, educating teams, and sharing the artistry of hair. But when the focus shifts to individual popularity - chasing likes, followers, and the next brand deal - does it still serve the industry as a whole?
There’s a growing divide between hairdressers who simply want to do their job and those who feel pressured to be social media stars. And let’s be real - not everyone wants to be an influencer. The murmurs in the industry suggest that many are sick and tired with the pressure to “perform.” After all, isn’t the craft itself enough?
Is the Influencer Model Bringing Hairdressers Together?
Social media is supposed to connect us, but has it created more division instead? Competition for brand deals, invites to VIP events, and the “cool crowd” at industry events has made some colourists feel like outsiders in their own profession. If the influencer model isn’t fostering community or lifting others up, then what real value is it bringing?
There’s nothing wrong with celebrating successes, but when status takes precedence over genuine human connection, we have a problem. What happened to supporting one another? To collaborating instead of competing? To simply being lovely to each other?
The Right Kind of Representation
While the big influencer model might be losing its charm, there are still ambassadors showing us how it’s supposed to be done. These professionals are grounded, represent brands they truly love, and have built relationships with the companies they represent long before earning the ambassador title. They mainly showcase their expertise —not just GRWM videos, their latest bikini or designer item. Are these the kinds of people our youth and brands should be looking for to represent them? If we are to elevate the hairdressing industry in society’s eyes, then I think it is. Ultimately, it’s up to both the brands, existing hairdressers, and the next generation of apprentices to decide what kind of professionals they want to be and look up to.
What’s Next?
It’s time to reassess the role of social media in our industry. Does it have value? Absolutely. Should we let it dictate our worth? No.
Hairdressing has always been about people - about making someone feel incredible, whether they’re sitting in your chair or standing beside you at an event. It’s about the art that these hair artists create, and who they are as a professional. Don’t get me wrong – it’s important to show your personality because that is being real, but how far do we go and what responsibility do we have to be role models for the future generation of hairdressers?
So, for those who just want to do their job without the pressure to “perform” online - know this: you are enough. Your skill, your passion, and your kindness are what truly matter. You are being seen. And if the influencer era has made you question that, then maybe it’s time we, as an industry, shift the focus back to what’s real, what’s authentic. What do you think—has the influencer model run its course?
@foilmefoils
@foilme.thedressinggownceo www.foilme.com.au
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Exceptional Customer Care.
By Samantha Jones, 2X AHIA Business Best Customer Care
Winning the Australian Hair Industry Awards Best Customer Care Award for two consecutive years is a dream come true and an incredible honour - one that reflects not only my dedication to outstanding service but also the deep-rooted passion I have for creating exceptional client experiences. Customer care is the foundation of my salon’s success, and my journey in perfecting it started long before I stepped into the world of luxury hairdressing.
From the Skies to the Salon: My Customer Service Journey
Before opening my salon, I worked as a flight attendant for a British airline where I was trained to provide world-class customer service. (Back in the early 2000’s when customer service really counted) In aviation, delivering impeccable service is non-negotiable. Every passenger, whether in economy or first class, deserved a seamless, comfortable, and memorable experience. I quickly learned that exceptional customer care wasn’t just about meeting basic needs—it was about anticipating them, going above and beyond, and creating a lasting impression.
That experience shaped my approach to salon service. In the air, I had to remain calm under pressure, handle a variety of personalities, and ensure that every passenger felt valued. That same philosophy carries over to my salon today. Clients aren’t just coming in for a haircut or colour, they’re trusting us with their appearance, their confidence, and often, their only time of relaxation. Just like in the airline industry, I believe that a great experience starts before the service begins and extends well beyond the appointment itself.
What Customer Care Means to Me
doors. From an easy booking process to follow-up care, we ensure consistency, efficiency and convenience at every touchpoint.
Empowering Our Clients
Customer care is more than a smile at the front desk or offering a cup of tea (although those things matter, too). For me, true customer care is about:
Personalised Service
Every client is unique, and their experience should be tailored to them. We take the time to understand their hair goals, lifestyle, and personal preferences. From remembering their favourite coffee order to knowing exactly how they like their blow-dry finished, we make sure every detail is just right.
Active Listening and Genuine Connections
Great service isn’t just about talking; it’s about listening. Clients often share personal stories, upcoming events, and even their struggles. Being present and genuinely engaged in these conversations fosters trust and makes clients feel seen and heard.
Luxury Through Thoughtful Details
Luxury isn’t just about expensive products—it’s about how an experience feels. From the moment a client walks in, we create an atmosphere of calm, comfort and exclusivity. Whether it’s through relaxing scalp massages, high-end hair treatments, or a flawless finish, we ensure every visit feels indulgent.
Seamless Customer Journey
Just like in aviation, where passengers’ journeys start long before they board, a salon experience begins before a client steps through our
Customer care doesn’t end when a client leaves the salon. We equip them with the knowledge and tools to maintain their look at home, offering expert advice, product recommendations, and styling tips. This level of care fosters long-term relationships and trust.
Why Exceptional Customer Care Is Imperative
In an industry as competitive as hairdressing, skill alone isn’t enough to build a thriving salon. Clients remember how you made them feel and that’s what keeps them coming back. Exceptional customer care builds loyalty, trust and reputation. Winning this award two years in a row is proof that going the extra mile matters—it sets us apart in an industry where true connection and attention to detail are rare.
Beyond business success, great customer care is personally fulfilling. Seeing a client walk out not only loving their hair but also feeling valued, confident and uplifted, is the ultimate reward.
Winning this award has reinforced my belief that customer care isn’t a skill—it’s a lifestyle. It’s about consistently showing up with the intention to make someone’s day better, whether that’s through a flawless balayage, a comforting conversation, or simply remembering their name.
As we continue to grow and evolve, my commitment to exceptional service remains unchanged, dedicating another year to elevating customer care, exceeding expectations, and making every salon visit a truly memorable experience.
@msmonacohairsociety
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Community Over Competition
By Andrew Cobeldick, 2024 AHIA New Zealand Hairdresser of the Year
Hairdressing is more than just a craft—it’s a culture, a community, and a constantly evolving art form. From the first time I picked up a pair of scissors, I knew I wanted to do more than just create beautiful hair. I wanted to push boundaries, collaborate with others, and build connections that would inspire both myself and the people around me.
Over the years, I’ve come to realise that collaboration isn’t just about creativity—it’s about support. This industry moves fast, and the pressure to constantly innovate can be overwhelming. Without the right people around you, it’s easy to burn out. That’s why I believe the key to longevity in hairdressing lies in two things: working together and looking after our mental well-being.
Collaboration: The Foundation of Growth
If there’s one lesson I’ve learned in my career, it’s that creativity doesn’t exist in isolation. The best hairdressers are the ones who are constantly learning from others, exchanging ideas, and embracing new ways of thinking.
Every time I work with another stylist, I see things from a fresh perspective. Whether it’s an editorial shoot, a backstage styling session, or even just a conversation with a fellow creative, these interactions shape the way I approach my work. Some of my biggest “aha” moments have come from simply watching another stylist work and realising, “well shit! That’s cool! I’m going to try that!”
But collaboration isn’t just about improving technical skills—it’s about inspiration. When I step into a room full of passionate people, I feel that spark of excitement that reminds me why I love what I do. The energy of bouncing ideas off someone, experimenting with new techniques, and pushing the limits of what’s possible—that’s what keeps me motivated.
Working on projects like Industry Mastered has reinforced just how powerful collaboration can be. Bringing together different talents in the industry creates an environment where we’re all learning, evolving, and supporting one another. In an industry where competition can sometimes feel fierce, I believe there’s more value in lifting each other up than in working alone.
The Importance of Mentorship
I wouldn’t be where I am today without the mentors who guided me. Learning from experienced stylists has been a game-changer—not just for refining my technique, but for navigating the challenges that come with being in this industry.
One of the biggest things I’ve learned is that mentorship isn’t just about skill-building. It’s about having someone who believes in you, challenges you, and helps you see your potential. When you’re just starting out, the industry can feel overwhelming. You’re constantly trying to prove yourself, keep up with trends, and build your reputation. Having someone to turn to for advice makes all the difference.
Now, I make it a point to pay that forward. Whether it’s training new stylists, sharing my experiences, or offering guidance, I want to be that support for others. Because at the end of the day, we all benefit when we help each other grow.
Mental Health: The Unspoken Challenge in Hairdressing
Hairdressing is one of the most rewarding careers out there, but it’s also one of the most demanding. Long hours, physical strain, emotional labour , and the constant need to perform at your best—it’s a lot. I’ve had days where I’ve felt completely drained, wondering if I could keep up with the pace of the industry. And I know I’m not alone in that.
One of the hardest parts of this job is that we give so much of ourselves to our clients. We listen to their stories, we help them feel their best, and we absorb their emotions. While that’s part of what makes our job special, it can also be exhausting.
Burnout is a real issue in hairdressing, but it’s something we don’t talk about enough. There’s this expectation that we should always be
“on”—always creating, always pushing, always grinding. But the reality is, we can’t pour from an empty cup.
I’ve learned that taking care of my mental health isn’t just important— it’s essential. Setting boundaries, taking time off when needed, and having a support system in place have made a huge difference for me. More than that, I believe we need to normalise these conversations in the industry. If we can talk about the best new cutting techniques or colour formulations, we should also be able to talk about stress, anxiety, and the importance of self-care.
Building a Healthier, More Supportive Industry
Looking ahead, my goal isn’t just to create great hair—it’s to help build a healthier, more connected industry. I want to see a culture where collaboration is the norm, where mentorship is accessible to everyone, and where mental wellness is taken as seriously as technical skills.
We need more spaces where hairdressers can come together—not just to work, but to talk, share experiences, and support each other. Whether it’s through mentorship programs, open discussions about mental health, or simply checking in on a colleague, these small actions can make a massive impact.
Hairdressing is a journey—one that never stops evolving. But no one should have to navigate it alone. When we collaborate, uplift each other, and prioritise our well-being, we don’t just create better hair—we create a stronger, healthier, and more sustainable industry. And that’s something worth working for.
@andrew.cobeldick
The Salon Success Formula: It’s Easier Than You Think!
By Dwight Hodge
Many salon owners believe that success must come from working harder, offering more services, and constantly chasing new clients. But the truth is that overcomplicating your business often leads to stress, burnout, and inconsistent results.
The most successful salons don’t rely on complex strategies or overwhelming marketing plans. Instead, they follow a simple yet powerful formula:
Right Pricing + Great Client Relationships + Consistent Rebooking = A Thriving Salon
By focusing on these three areas, you can create a sustainable, profitable business without the stress of constant reinvention. Let’s break down the formula and explore how you can simplify your salon’s approach to success.
1. Right Pricing: Charge What You’re Worth
Many salon owners struggle with pricing, often setting rates based on fear rather than facts. They worry about losing clients if they charge too much, leading them to underprice their services. However, this mindset results in long hours, minimal profits, and, ultimately, exhaustion.
The reality is that correct pricing is the foundation of a successful salon. If you’re not charging enough to cover costs and make a profit, no amount of marketing or customer service will fix that.
How to Simplify Pricing for Profitability:
• Know Your Numbers: Calculate your costs, including rent, outgoings, products, wages, and profit margins. Your pricing should reflect these factors—not just what nearby salons are charging.
• Stop Discounting Unnecessarily: Discounts may attract short-term clients, but they also condition people to expect lower prices. Instead, focus on delivering value through expertise, service, and experience.
• Review Pricing Regularly: Costs rise, and your skills improve over time—your prices should reflect that. Schedule a pricing review at least once a year to ensure your services remain profitable.
A well-priced service structure means you can work smarter, not harder. It allows you to earn more without needing to squeeze extra clients into an already packed schedule.
2.
Great Client Relationships: Build Loyalty, Not Just Transactions
A salon’s biggest asset isn’t its branding, social media presence, or even its skill level—it’s its clients. And the secret to long-term salon success isn’t constantly chasing new clients but keeping your existing ones coming back.
Loyal clients not only return more frequently but also refer friends and spend more on services and retail products. Building strong client relationships turns one-time customers into lifelong advocates for your business.
How to Simplify Client Retention:
• Create a Welcoming Experience: First impressions matter. From the way your team greets clients to the atmosphere of your salon, every touchpoint should make guests feel valued and comfortable.
• Personalised Service Matters: Clients don’t just want a haircut; they want to feel heard and understood. Ask about their lifestyle, preferences, and hair goals, and tailor recommendations accordingly.
• Follow Up & Stay Connected: A simple text or email to check in on a client’s hair after an appointment can go a long way. It shows you care and keeps you top of mind for their next visit.
• Reward Loyalty: Instead of offering discounts to new clients, reward existing ones. VIP programs, referral bonuses, or even exclusive early access to new services and products create loyalty without sacrificing profit.
A client who feels seen, appreciated, and valued is far more likely to return than one who simply receives a service and leaves. Focus on relationships over transactions, and your salon will naturally grow.
3. Consistent Rebooking: The Secret to Steady Income
Too many salons put all their effort into attracting new clients while neglecting the ones they already have. The key to financial stability isn’t just new business—its ensuring existing clients return regularly.
Rebooking clients in advance provides predictable revenue, steadier cash flow, and a fuller appointment book. It eliminates the feast-or-famine cycle that many salon owners experience.
How to Simplify Rebooking:
• Make It a Habit: Every appointment should end with a simple question: “I will book your next visit so we can keep you looking and feeling your best—does Tuesday at 2:00 p.m. in six weeks work for you?”
• Train Your Team: If your team isn’t comfortable with rebooking, educate them on why it matters. Role-play conversations so they feel confident suggesting the next appointment.
• Offer Incentives for Pre-Booking: Small perks like priority booking, loyalty points, or even
a complimentary treatment can encourage clients to commit.
• Use Reminders Effectively: Automated SMS and email reminders reduce no-shows and cancellations. A simple “Your appointment is coming up soon—can’t wait to see you!” keeps clients engaged.
Clients often don’t rebook simply because they forget. By making rebooking an easy and natural part of your service, you ensure a steady flow of business without constantly needing to chase new clients.
Salon Success is Simpler Than You Think
Many salon owners believe success requires working harder, taking on more clients, or offering endless promotions. But true success comes from mastering the basics and doing them exceptionally well.
By following this simple Salon Success Formula:
• Right Pricing: Charging for profit, not fear
• Great Client Relationships: Creating loyalty over one-time transactions
• Consistent Rebooking: Ensuring a full appointment book without the hustle… you set yourself up for long-term success, financial freedom, and a salon that runs smoothly.
The best part? It’s not about doing more—it’s about doing what matters better. Stick to this formula, and you’ll find that running a profitable salon is far easier than you ever imagined.
Final Thought: Keep It Simple, Keep It Successful
Salon owners often overcomplicate things, thinking that more services, more promotions, and more clients will equal more success. But the reality is, the simplest strategies are often the most effective.
Price right, build relationships, and ensure rebooking—master these three areas, and your salon will thrive.
Would love to hear from you—what’s been your biggest lesson in simplifying your salon business?
@dwighthodge_leadership_coach
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Marketing is Not Always about Selling!
By Cait Muir
Is there anything more cringey than seeing a salon post “20% off for new clients only” or “$50 voucher when you book today + tomorrow” …ick. It’s hardly attractive to a high-end client, is it? It just SCREAMS of desperation and says “calling all discount, inconsistent, broke clients” …most of us don’t want those anywhere near our business.
No shade to our beautiful bread and butter clients, that is not who I’m referring to here. But discounts generally attract discount clients, and that’s a NO THANK YOU for most of us. Well thought out, precisely planned, and carefully executed marketing is the golden ticket to a booked out salon and a productive business.
So, what’s the solution? How do we better market our salon businesses, and what strategies can we use to ensure long-term success?
First things first - DECIDE ON THE OUTCOME YOU WANT before you plan out the pathway to get there!
What this means is don’t just do what everyone else is doing because it looks like it’s performing on social media…
For example, why are you running a competition if you want to get more bookings? Comps are for building brand awareness and social media engagement. If you want to get more bookings, why aren’t you looking into referral programs or incentivising bookings?
Another example of starting with the end in mind was for Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day and Christmas. We knew our clients wanted their services paid for (in the form of vouchers or memberships) so every year we used to market to the partners and families of our predominantly female clientele… how did we do that?
We asked for “hint drops”, so when our clients were in the salon for their appointment, we would get them to write what they wanted on a card, with their name, their partners/family members name, and their contact details. From there, we would then send the “hint” to this nominated person, and they would then order it from us without our client having to buy it for themselves. Genius.
Next, SPEAK THEIR LANGUAGE.
When writing marketing, STOP using too much technical terminology that will confuse and intimidate your ideal clients. Write in language that speaks to your clients like as if you were having a face-to-face conversation with them. What do they need to know? What’s not relevant?
A good way of explaining this is FEATURES vs. BENEFITS…
A feature is where a product was made, its ingredients, that it’s got pretty packaging and looks great in your bathroom, for example, or that a service uses this specific tool or piece of equipment that’s exclusive to your salon.
A benefit is about the performance of the product or service and how it will help them – things like, that it makes their hair less tangly, it has heat protection, or that it has great longevity; things that benefit the client.
Sometimes the features aren’t very necessary to discuss or “sell” in your marketing, because after all – our job is literally to solve problems and to create a result for our clients. So instead of talking jargon with technical terms and irrelevant wording, instead talk about how they will feel and how much better their life will be after buying whatever service or product you’re selling.
Also, KNOW WHO YOU’RE TALKING TO. You need to spend some time identifying who your ideal clients are.
What are their demographics? Their age, gender, location, marital status, family, career. What are their psychographics? Their lifestyle, hobbies, their style, their beliefs and values, their interests.
And following on from that, what are their problems? What causes their problems? What’s the solution to their problems? How can you solve their problems in your salon? What result do they want? How can you make their life better with your products and services?
Get to know them on a deeper level so you know what they want and can create marketing that makes your prospects take action and convert into paying clients.
With marketing, you must always PLAN AHEAD!
What’s the saying – failing to plan is planning to fail? Yep, that! And this is where the ‘desperation marketing’ comes into play. When you don’t plan ahead for the busier and quieter seasons of your business that are upcoming, or the key dates like your business’s birthday, or holiday’s like Christmas that was abovementioned, all of a sudden you have unfillable gaps and low sales and you try to do some cheap and nasty quick-fix-butts-on-seats strategy that leaves you overworked and underpaid.
Marketing is a long-term plan; and with consistent effort, thoughtful input, and the mindset of attracting the right clients; helping them and making their lives better, you can’t fail!
• Why are you only sending an email twice a year to sell something, but you’re silent otherwise?
• Why are you only sending blast texts when you want to clear old products or fill your book quickly?
• Are you still doing the ‘we miss you here’s
a $20 voucher’ texts for people who haven’t returned, opposed to actually spending the time and effort reaching out to your nonreturners for feedback? How’s that working out for ya? Eek.
Try sending a monthly or quarterly newsletter just saying g’day to your database and staying in touch. Make the effort.
Try doing a ‘client of the month’ where you celebrate the people who support your business with a free blowy or product.
And of course, don’t just post and ghost on socials. Know the peak times to post and make it happen 3-5 times a week. Keep engaging with your people from all angles!
“Jab, Jab, Jab, Right Hook” –MARKETING IS NOT ALWAYS ABOUT SELLING.
Okay so it’s a boxing term – if you don’t get it, look it up *insert winky face here* ha ha
No, really, with consistent contact you shouldn’t need to be selling something every time you contact your clients. You should really, really, not do this. Instead, try sharing advice, tips that will make their services last longer and their days easier, celebrate exciting milestones in your business, and build a community of fans who just wanna get amongst your amazing business. That’s the ‘jabs’!
Then once you’ve built rapport and a trustworthy relationship with your clients, and they love you and your vibe, and they’re excited to hear from you, and they’re engaging with you – THEN and only then sell something to them… that’s the ‘right hook’!
Constantly asking for money, and bookings, and sales, and just selling stuff for the sake of it (opposed to giving them something that they need) is the biggest ick-style bad salesmanship.
A big no-no!
TRACK YOUR GAINZ
What’s ‘the gainz’ you ask? That’s your return on investment AKA how much money you are
making from the investment you made into the marketing strategy.
How do you know what’s working if you don’t know how your clients are finding you? Or you don’t track who’s buying from your online store? Or you don’t know who’s clicking your ads? Or you don’t know who’s referring to you?
I once had a client paying $5,000 per year for a radio ad three years running, and once I made her track her ROI she worked out that she only had one $250 booking from that $15,000 investment… worth it? I think not. She could’ve saved herself and her biz an eyewatering $10,000 if she had’ve identified this and cancelled the radio at after the first year.
Track everything, queen!
Last but not least, you should always BELIEVE IN WHAT YOU’RE SELLING
If you and your staff don’t actually like what you offer in terms of your products and services, they literally won’t sell. Your clients will read between the lines of your faux marketing, and they’ll be turned off, or they’ll see it all over your face in the salon and they probably won’t like them too. You’ve gotta love, love, love what you do, and love what you offer!
To finish this article off today, I just want to remind you to HAVE A LITTLE FUN with your marketing and client contact in general. Show your personality, let your freak flag fly, think outside the box and stand out from the crowd. If you’re bored with what you’re reading, your clients and prospects probably are too. Be real, be exciting, and enjoy the process.
x Cait Muir
Our books are currently open to new clients, inquire at iconiccoaching.com.au
Why Giving Back is the most Powerful Tool in every Hairdressers Toolbelt.
By Sharlene Lee
After over 30 years building the Circles of Hair group into the powerhouse it is today, I’ve learnt a thing or two. I’ve seen the highs and lows of the industry, and I know firsthand just how tough it can be to run a successful salon. So many of us are busy salon directors and owners, plus mentors, educators and brand ambassadors as well as parents, all at the same time! It’s a lot and we all need help, whether we like to admit it or not.
Our industry thrives on creativity and passion, but too often the business side of running a salon is overlooked or put in the too hard basket. So many salon owners dive into their dream of building a successful space, only to be blindsided by the financial and operational realities that come with it. I’ve seen too many talented hairdressers struggle—not because they lack skill, but because they don’t have access to the right business knowledge.
I LOVE what I do and the success I have experienced has been more than I ever dreamt. I unashamedly enjoy the finer things in life, and I see money as one of my biggest motivators. Why do so many people have a problem with this mindset though? Why is it so hidden away and something to be ashamed of? We should all be wanting more money and setting big financial goals and it’s something that I am dedicated to shifting.
People always want to know what my secret is. It’s a lot of things but I think it is mainly my work ethic that I formed from my immigrant parents and the challenges they faced. They experienced things I could never fathom and that never fails to inspire me to put in those extra hours or to take that big risk personally or professionally.
A New Approach to Knowledge Sharing
I believe in radical honesty. I want to show people the real numbers, what works, and what doesn’t. I want owners to increase profits, build kick-ass team, and create a showstopping salon.
That’s why I created the Circles Shadowing Program—a raw, no-holds-barred experience designed to equip salon owners with real-world insights into running a thriving, profitable salon. This isn’t like anything that’s been offered before.
Alongside my Director of Operations Declhan Lee, who advises on all things back-end, admin, and finances, my Head Coordinator Fallan, who assists with FOH, efficiency and staff management, and my Circles of Hair Group Co-Owner, Jess Marie Del Borello, an expert in social media, marketing, and team motivation, we offer salon owners a rare opportunity to step inside our business world. This program provides unfiltered insight into what it truly takes to run Circles, with actionable takeaways that can be implemented in their own salons.
We break down exactly how we built and maintain a highperforming, financially strong salon—proving that artistic excellence and business success can go hand in hand. We talk profits, costs, salaries, and most importantly, how to price services correctly to ensure long-term sustainability. Too often, salon owners undercharge, misunderstand their true costs, and ultimately burn out. That has to stop, and we’re here to show you how.
So, for those of you unable to come visit us, how can we help? Well for one you can reach out to me on social media. I love chatting to people and answering questions and I am always here for advice.
And secondly, I have also pulled together Declan and Jess for us to create a series of Circles Shadowing Program insights into a few key areas that we hope you will benefit from. Over the coming months we will delve into;
Truly Motivating Your Team
No, we aren’t talking some free product, the occasional breakfast, or an early mark, we are talking REAL incentives. We are all motivated by different things but at the end of the day, why are staff turning up to work? Money. And there is nothing wrong with that. So, you need to make sure that you are creating real value with your incentives. We will talk about ways to offer these incentives whilst also positively impacting your ROI so that everyone is a winner. We will also focus on the importance of attracting and retaining apprentices for the future of your salon and the sustainability of the industry. Our apprentice training program is a huge part of our business, and we can show you how to place powerful emphasis here.
Digital Diversification
I get it—many of us owners remember life before social media and sometimes wish we could go back. But the reality is, it’s here to stay, and when used strategically, it can be a game-changer. It’s not just about ROI; it’s about brand reach and leveraging your demographic in deceptively simple ways. By connecting with influencers, collaborating with local businesses that share your ideal clientele, and crafting unique promotions that demand attention and engagement, you can amplify your brand’s presence exponentially. When leveraged properly, this increased visibility brings in new business, strengthens client relationships, and ultimately delivers a strong return on investment with minimal cash outlay.
We know that many salons struggle with content creation and scheduling—which is why we’re also about to launch a series of Digital Asset packs designed to take the guesswork out of social media. From ready-to-use graphics to caption templates, they’ll provide a streamlined solution for salons looking to elevate their online presence without the stress.
Thinking Outside the Box
I know, I know—everyone says this, but it really is true. One of the most important lessons we talk about is innovation. If you’re running your salon the same way you did five years ago, you’re already behind. The industry is evolving rapidly, and staying ahead means thinking differently, adapting to change, and finding new ways to generate revenue. It’s no longer just about hair; it’s about brand, experience, and creating additional profit streams that elevate your business beyond the chair.
At Circles, we’ve embraced this mindset by diversifying our income streams. We’re not just a salon; we’re a brand. From launching our own branded foil to designing an entire range of Circles merchandise, we’ve transformed the way our clients connect with us. Every product we create serves a purpose—not only reinforcing our brand identity but also adding tangible value to our bottom line. This approach isn’t just suitable for us. The same strategies can be applied to any salon, no matter the size. Whether it’s increasing retail sales through carefully curated product lines, turning everyday items like styling tools into profit-generating assets, or leveraging social media to make your salon a sought-after destination, the opportunities are endless.
The Lifechanging Power Of Automation
There are few things you can implement that will transform running your salon as much as automation, especially when it comes to your marketing and CRM. The client journey extends well beyond the salon floor, and you need to have tested touchpoints at every possible step to maximise both new client acquisition as well as existing client retention. Automation can revolutionise so many diverse aspects of your day to day operations whether it is your email marketing, upselling, Google Ads or website.
I’m so passionate about this and have committed considerable time and money to making systems which work. This has rubbed off on Declhan who is now a walking, talking automation machine and can translate it in easy to understand terms for those starting out on their journey.
Declhan, Jess and I can’t wait to take you through these areas in more detail and I hope that we will also get to see some of you in person here in Perth. This style of education is a labour of love for me and I’m so proud to lead the way alongside my team. We are really only just getting starting as we will also be unveiling our exciting new Club C Education brand soon as well! I hope that we can inspire salon owners everywhere to open up and share their wisdom, helping others to fast track their success. A thriving industry filled with excited aspiring and experienced hairdressers is what we should all be aiming for, so let’s make it happen together.
@circlesofhair
25 Years of Sloans: Creativity, Dedication & Love of Hair
By Scott Sloan
I can hardly believe that Sloans is celebrating 25 years in business in 2025. It’s a cliché but in many ways, it feels like just yesterday that I was standing on Longueville Road, opening the doors for the very first time to what has since become my life’s passion. Hitting the 25 year mark has forced me to take stock and reflect on what an incredible journey it’s been, and to say it’s been an adventure would be an understatement!
I was talking to one of my original clients about the upcoming milestone recently and she asked me “how could you possibly stay motivated for that long?”. As she pointed out, it’s pretty rare to commit to one business or brand or workplace, or anything really, for that long. She had had numerous roles and relationships in that timeframe, but she noted that Sloans had always been her constant. Firstly, I realised what a privilege that was. Then I started to think about what had actually kept me motivated. I realised that these elements might also help other salon owners and hairdressers on their own journeys and that they might be of value.
When I first decided to open Sloans in 2000, the world was a different place. The new millennium had landed, and everyone had realised the Y2K bug wouldn’t be the end of us. Britney and the Backstreet Boys were topping the charts, “The Matrix” was changing cinema forever, and “Sex and the City” was redefining TV and our lives. Hair trends were bold, layered, and experimental. The infamous “Rachel” cut was still in high demand, and crimping, chunky highlights, and butterfly clips were everywhere.
Against this cultural backdrop, I set out with a goal: to create a salon that was dedicated to delivering a little modest glamour in a relaxed and sociable space. How have I kept it just as rewarding today as it was back then?
Recapturing The Excitement
One of the most important lessons in staying motivated is knowing when to mix things up. After years of leading teams at various local fashion weeks and events, being named ‘Best Hair’ at RAFW in 2011 for Miss Unkon, and then having Hair Director gigs with Chanel, Fashion Palette and Perth Fashion Festival, I found myself missing that magical feeling I had when I started out. The nerves that I would get, the energy before the show started, and the absolute rush from seeing one of my looks walk down the runway. So, I pushed myself beyond my comfort zone. I reached out to industry legends like Sam McKnight and Guido Paolo, put myself out there, and soon found myself backstage at global fashion weeks in London, Milan, and Paris, working on my dream shows for Dolce & Gabbana, Prada, Dior, Valentino, Gucci, Chanel, Versace, Vivianne Westwood and more. I reignited my passion, proving that even after decades, you can still surprise yourself and experience something new.
The Power of Brand and Culture
Brands should evolve and adapt, and they should always feel authentic, yet fresh. Guiding the Sloans brand throughout the years has been a privilege and it has encompassed everything from our branding and messaging to the culture of our team and defining what we stand for. I really discovered the value of this in the last few years when we chose to highlight our unique culture from beyond the staff room and really bring it to the forefront with an engaging recruitment campaign. We have becoming increasingly proud to embrace the diversity of not only our team but also our clientele and demonstrate that Sloans is a place which embraces and celebrates everyone!
When I first started there were shades of style over substance. I thought that Sloans would be about beautiful hair, and it certainly is, but when you spend 25 years on the same street with the same people you realise it is actually more about community. In fact, we have recently evolved our brand essence to reflect that we are a cornerstone of the local lower north shore community, at the same time as being a national flagship for hair fashion.
The Thrill of Competition
Competitions have been a game-changer, pushing me to innovate and keep striving for excellence. My first big competition I took part in was the IHJ Vidal Sassoon Snapshot Competition back in 2011 and it was judged by Vidal Sassoon himself. When I was named Runner Up and received the most amazing recognition from Vidal you could say I was hooked! It showed me the power of stepping up, not just once or twice with a few wins, but consistently every year.
I’ve followed that up with winning Hair Expo Emerging Hairdresser of the Year 2013, Hair Expo NSW Hairdresser of the Year 2017 and I was also Finalist for AHFA Australian Hairdresser of the Year in 2019 and 2021. Although I haven’t yet taken that one home, I will still keep striving to win and fulfill my personal need for creative expression. But it isn’t just about me, it’s about my team. Their wins are my wins, and I have been honoured to mentor so many of them to industry success. Together we have also taken out some of the biggest major industry awards, including AHIA Business - NSW/ACT State Salon of the Year 2024 and 2023, AHIA Creative - Creative Team of the Year 2023 and AHFA - Salon of the Year 2023 to name just a few.
Partnering with the Best in the Industry
Our collaborations with product partners have kept us at the forefront of trend and inspired us endlessly. As a National and International Ambassador for L’Oréal Professionnel, I get to work with some of the most creative and forward-thinking minds in hair, always pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. Whether it’s testing new innovations before they hit the market, collaborating on major national campaign shoots, or shaping the trends that define our industry, these experiences fuel my passion.
They remind me that there’s always something new to learn, fresh ideas to explore, and exciting challenges to take on. Bringing that energy back into the salon, sharing it with my team, and seeing how it inspires them is what keeps work exciting every single day.
Sharing Knowledge as an Educator
Education has become one of the most rewarding aspects of my career because it constantly challenges me to stay ahead of the game. Teaching others, whether in my own salon or on stages around the world, forces me to refine my techniques, push my creativity, and never settle into a comfort zone. Seeing that spark in someone’s eyes when they master a new skill or find their confidence behind the chair is incredibly motivating. It reminds me why I fell in love with hairdressing in the first place.
The added bonus? Travel has always been a passion of mine and being able to combine it with my work - meeting talented stylists from all corners of the globe, exchanging ideas, and immersing myself in different creative cultures - keeps everything feeling fresh and exciting. Every class, every seminar, and every oneon-one mentoring session reinvigorates my love for this industry.
Creating the Salon of My Dreams
They say change is as good as a holiday, and while relocating and expanding Sloans at the end of 2022 didn’t always feel like a relaxing getaway, the result has been nothing short of incredible. For years, I had envisioned a space that blended luxury, comfort, and creativity - a salon that not only elevated the client experience but also inspired my team every day. As we had outgrown our old space and we were nearing 25 years, it felt like the perfect time to bring that vision to life.
Walking into our new flagship establishment, I feel reinvigorated. It’s more than just a salon; it’s a reflection of our journey, our evolution, and the next chapter of Sloans. Seeing our team and clients thrive in this environment reminds me why I started this journey in the first place. I must say though that I do have one regret, and that is that my mum and dad never got to see this dream salon, the salon I always wanted to share with them. That will always remain bittersweet for me, so I look at this as a special tribute to them, and a thank you for all they did for me.
These past 25 years have been filled with incredible highs, challenges, and unforgettable moments. It’s been truly incredible, although I know that I am very lucky to be as passionate about hairdressing today as I was when I first started, and I can’t wait to see where the next quarter century take us.
Over the next few months, I’ll be talking about some of the game changing approaches I have incorporated to keep myself, and my team, motivated when the days feel like they are getting a little long and the weeks feel like they are a lifetime!
To my team, my clients, my industry peers, and everyone who has supported Sloans —thank you. Here’s to all of us staying motivated for many more years of creativity, success, and incredible hair! SS xx
Rent Logic: How A Fixed Increase Beats a CPI Increase for Commercial Spaces.
By Your Leasing Co.
When it comes to entering a Lease on a commercial space, there’s always the question of how to handle annual rent increases. Some Landlords like to tie the rent to changes in the Consumer Price Index (CPI), while others prefer to keep it simple with fixed increases. Let’s break down the pros and cons of both approaches and why sticking to fixed rent increases might be the smarter move.
CPI in Leases: Keeping It Fair
So, what’s the deal with using CPI increases in commercial Leases? Well, it’s a way to adjust rents based on how prices for goods and services are changing over time. This method can keep things fair and transparent between Landlords and Tenants, helping to avoid any disagreements over the need for rent increases. Plus, it can protect Landlords from losing out to inflation by making sure their rental income keeps up with rising costs.
However, there are some downsides to using CPI increases. For Tenants, it can mean facing unpredictable rent changes that make budgeting a headache. And for Landlords, relying solely on CPI might not always cover their actual increasing expenses, leading to financial strain. That’s where fixed rent increases come in as a more stable and predictable option.
Steady Rent Rises: Planning Ahead
Negotiating fixed rent increases means setting a specific amount for rent increases each year, giving both Landlords and Tenants a clear picture of what to expect. This predictability helps with long-term planning and budgeting, benefiting everyone involved. It also helps Landlords keep pace with their costs without having to worry about fluctuating CPI numbers.
Tenant Tranquility: Predictable Rent Bumps
For Tenants, fixed rent increases provide peace of mind, knowing exactly how much their rent will go up each year. This makes it easier to budget and avoids any sudden spikes in rental costs. It can also lead to better relationships between Tenants and Landlords, as everyone knows what to expect.
In the end, while CPI increases offer flexibility and transparency, opting for fixed rent increases could be the way to go in commercial Leasing. With stability, predictability, and protection against inflation, fixed increases can make life easier for both Landlords and Tenants. By finding the right balance between the two approaches, Landlords and Tenants can create Lease agreements that work for everyone in the long run.
Talking to Landlords: Dealing with CPI
If you find yourself in a situation where a Landlord insists on CPI increases in a commercial Lease, it is essential to approach the situation tactfully and strategically. Here are some steps to consider.
When a Landlord pushes for CPI increases, it is important to try to understand their stance first.
You might decide to negotiate by suggesting compromises like capping CPI boosts or proposing fixed increases or a combination of both. Additionally, you could offer alternatives for stability, such as fixed rent adjustments. We recommend seeking advice, if negotiations get tricky. Above all, it is important to evaluate the Lease terms carefully and consider flexibility, if CPI increases are non-negotiable. And last, but not least, keep everything in writing for clarity.
Remember that open communication, understanding the Lease terms and exploring options, can help navigate a situation where a Landlord insists on CPI increases in a commercial Lease. Throughout each Lease negotiation, it is important to approach the situation professionally and seek mutually agreeable solutions whenever possible.
New Digs Hunt: When Leases Hit Snags
If negotiations stall over CPI increases, exploring other commercial premises may be a better and more strategic option. Finding a Lease that better fits your budget and objectives, can promote financial stability and operational efficiency. Moving to a space with more favourable lease terms, may offer a solution to avoid potential financial strain and uncertainties linked to CPI adjustments.
Your Leasing Co. specialises in Tenant/ Landlord communication and representing Tenants to negotiate favourable lease terms. If you have any questions or need any help to get the best outcome from your Lease, you can call us for a free, no obligation conversation on 1300 356 702.
@yourleasingco
Maintaining your You-Ness in a Robot World!
By Keira Maloney – The Salon Photographer
Try this: Ask ChatGPT, “Write a social media caption that will make a potential client book an appointment today. It should showcase expertise, warmth, and the experience of a visit to my salon.”
Read what it spits out. It’ll probably be smooth, engaging, well-structured, and maybe even bang on the brief. But does it actually sound like you? Does it capture how you greet your clients, the hype energy you send them off with, or the personal touches that set your salon apart? AI can automate, but it can’t replace real human connection.
As a salon photographer (ahem, The Salon Photographer), I had a moment where I questioned whether AI could replace me. AI-generated images? Perfect. Almost too perfect. I won’t lie, I looked at them and thought, “Oh crap, is this going to make me redundant?”
But something felt off. AI-generated photos lacked the soul I capture in real salons. They didn’t have the warmth, movement, or beautiful imperfections that make an image feel real. The glow of natural light bouncing off roughly folded foils, the anticipation in a client’s eyes, the unposed moments that tell a story—AI images miss all that. They look like stock photos; technically stunning but emotionally flat.
And here’s the thing: clients don’t come to your salon for perfection. They come for the experience. They trust you to read their expressions, listen to their concerns, and adjust in real time. AI-generated content can’t replicate that level of connection.
It’s also interesting that social media platforms now require AI-generated content to be labelled. Why? Because people can’t always tell the difference! Yet, the more AI content floods our feeds, the more people crave what’s real.
That’s why I love seeing roughly edited salon content like roughly cut reels, a slightly off-centre shot, a raw beforeand-after, a caption with a slight spelling mistake. These things remind me that a real person created them. Imperfections aren’t failures; they’re proof of human touch, which is highly valued in 2025.
• Embrace the mess. A perfectly curated feed can feel soulless. A bit of roughness makes it human.
AI isn’t the enemy. It’s a powerful tool for brainstorming, quick mock-ups, or placeholders, but if you rely on it too much, you risk losing the raw, human element that makes your work unique.
So how do we stay authentic in a fast-paced, AIdriven world?
• Use authentic imagery whenever possible. Your clients want to see you and your work, not an AI-generated salon dreamland.
• Show the process, not just the result. People connect with energy, laughter, and hands-inaction.
• Use AI to support, not replace, ideas. If it helps to refine them, great! But make sure the final product has your creative stamp.
Back yourself. Not everyone will love your raw, authentic work, and that’s okay. The right people will.
Creativity isn’t about automation. It’s about instinct, experience, and human connection. AI can generate all sorts of things, but it can’t replace you. The way you see colour, movement, and emotion is what makes your work stand out.
In a world drowning in AI-generated content, real human artistry will always win. Trust your talent, your ideas, and your vision. Because no bot can do you, boo.
www.thesalonphotographer.com
@the_salonphotographer
Keira Maloney
The Rise of Employee-Generated Content (EGC) & how to get your Team Creating Social Media Content that works!
By Belinda Haigh, Founder & Director of Social Standards
In the fast-paced world of social media, one of the biggest trends making waves is Employee-Generated Content (EGC)—and it is something salon owners cannot afford to ignore. If you are relying solely on professional photos or curated brand content, you are missing a huge opportunity to connect with your audience in a more authentic, and engaging way.
EGC is content created by your team—your stylists, apprentices, and front desk staff— giving a behind-the-scenes look at your salon. EGC could include Day In The Life (DITL), simple educational hair tutorials, Stylist product recommendations, or fun moments from a busy Saturday shift. This type of content not only highlights your salon’s personality but also builds trust with potential clients. After all, people want to see people and what your stylists are up to behind the scenes!
Why Employee-Generated Content is a GameChanger
1. Authenticity Wins – Clients love real, unpolished content. Perfectly curated grids are being replaced by more raw and relatable posts.
2. Boosts Engagement – When your team posts, their followers (potential clients!) engage, helping to organically grow your salon’s reach.
3. Strengthens Team Culture – Involving your stylists in content creation makes them feel more invested in the salon’s success.
4. Saves You Time – No need to create every single piece of content yourself—your team can help fill the gaps.
How to Get Your Team on Board
Many salon owners struggle with getting their team involved in social media. The truth is most hairdressers love creating content—but they just need a little guidance. Here is how to set them up for success:
1. Make Content Creation Easy & Fun
Not every stylist is a natural in front of the camera, and that is okay. Encourage Stylists to capture quick clips of their work rather than talking to camera videos which can end up looking awkward. Voiceovers over processstyle content is another uncomplicated way to build stylist profiles and trust with potential clients without Stylists having to show their faces in footage.
2. Set Clear Guidelines (Without Killing Creativity)
To ensure content aligns with your salon’s brand, provide a simple content brief. This
does not have to be complicated—just a few pointers like using natural lighting, key services to focus on, and getting both wide and close-up shots of the process. Consider creating a content cheat sheet with inspiration and best practices so your team always knows what kind of content works best.
3. Incentivise Participation
Make content creation rewarding! Ideas to boost involvement could include filming fun team content all together, or in pairs. Offer small rewards like free products, a late start or early finish, free coffee for the week, or cash bonuses.
4. Lead by Example
If you want your team to create content, you need to be involved too! Show them how easy it is by filming quick videos yourself and making it part of the salon’s culture.
Social media is evolving, and salons that embrace Employee-Generated Content will stand out from the competition. By making it easy, fun, and rewarding for your team, you will build a more engaged audience, attract new clients, and create a salon brand that feels real and relatable.
So, hand your stylists a phone, encourage them to capture their work, and watch your social media presence transform. The best content is not always the most polished—it is the most authentic.
Do you want to save time, stay consistent, and attract new clients through your salon’s social media? Say goodbye to the guesswork and let our expert team support your salon’s growth.
Book a free 30-minute chat with Belinda by scanning the QR code below. Limited spots are available.
@socialstandardsau Socialstandards.com.au
Belinda Haigh
Are you in Alignment with your Values?
By Angeli Marie Shaw
Being in alignment with your values means that your decisions, actions and overall behaviour consistently reflect what you consider to be the most important and meaningful in your life. Essentially, you’re living according to your core principles and beliefs. When you’re in alignment, your daily choices line up with your values, leading to a feeling of fulfilment and a strong sense of authenticity. And it feels good!
An important part of this process is getting clear on what your values actually are! Values are the beliefs and principles that guide your words, actions and decisions. Think of them like your moral compass, acting as your guide. Values apply in both life and business, with your personal values being more predominant, therefore influencing the formation of your work ones.
Now ask yourself, are you being, doing and saying what’s in alignment with your own values?
To determine this, you need to reflect on whether your daily actions and decisions consistently reflect the values you hold personally, ensuring that your conduct aligns with your personal ethics and beliefs.
Not sure or don’t know where to start? Consider these
- What are your personal values? Clearly define what is most important to you in your personal and professional life. Examples of these may be honesty, integrity, sustainability, social responsibility, teamwork or innovation.
- Analyse your business practices. Look at your daily work choices, interactions with your team mates and customers and your decision-making processes to see if they align with your stated values.
- Evaluate workplace culture. Assess whether your business values and mission statement resonate with your personal values. Don’t have a mission statement? CREATE ONE! This provides a summary to staff as well as
an opportunity to share with your clients what you’re all about.
Are you clear now? Or are you unsure? Here are some signs that you’re in alignment
- Feeling fulfilled and motivated in your life and work. Your actions align with your values, and you feel a sense of purpose and satisfaction in what you do.
- Your making ethical decisions consistently. You prioritize doing the right thing even when it’s challenging.
- You openly communicate your values and feel comfortable discussing your values with family, friends or staff without fear of repercussions.
If you’re still unsure, you may be misaligned. Here are some signs
- You’re experiencing internal conflict and stress. Your actions may be contradicting your values, which creates feelings of guilt or discomfort
- You’re compromising your principles. You feel pressured to make decisions that go against your ethical standards.
- You’re disengaged from work. You’re having feelings of disconnection due to a lack of living by your values
So, what can you do if you feel you’re not aligned? Start by having open conversations. Discuss with those you trust in your personal life, or even your team so you can explore potential solutions or adjustments that you can
make. This opens up opportunities for change! Even if significant changes are not possible in the short term, consider small steps, they will all lead to the same destination, regardless how long it takes.
To reiterate, when our actions and behaviour support whats important to us, we are focused on our values and living in alignment. Get clear, be consistent and really focus on whats important to you so you can then take the steps that you need to support your choices. Reaffirm what you strongly believe in, prioritise top values and remember, you can always change your mind, after all, much like most things in life, it’s a work in progress, as are you.
As always, I believe in you!
Love & Bliss, Angeli xxoo
Angeli is a former salon owner and Holistic Empowerment Coach, Mindset Mentor/ Trainer and founder of The Bliss Coach. To work with me 1:1, organise group training or book me as a speaker in 2025, get in touch by visiting www.theblisscoach.com.au or follow me on my socials @theblisscoach to connect and find out more.
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with Sophia Hilton & Sharlene Lee
18-21st May 2025 Tanadewa Resort Ubud, Bali
PRESENTS For full details and bookings, scan the code or visit smithscollectivebrands.com.au/pages/professionalsalon-owners-retreat-bali An Exclusive 3 Night Luxury Retreat – The Entire Hotel, Just for US
Join Sophia & Sharlene for an extraordinary & exclusive 3-night, 2-day retreat designed to transform your salon business. Learn from two industry gamechangers as they help you gain clarity, boost your confidence, and realign with your goals. Walk away feeling recharged, inspired, and ready to take your business to the next level!
DE TOX
Australian nati ve plant and flower ex tracts nour ish, soot he and stre ngthen hair and scalp le av ing it refr eshe d and re vitalise d. Re move s impur itie s from hard wate r min eral build-up, chlo rin e, st yling products & ex ce ss oil from th e hair and scalp. Colour saf e. For all hair type s. Us e daily wit hou t stripping hair. Id e al pr ior to ch e mical tr eatm ent s. Ve gan • Sulphate • Parabe n Fr e e. M ADE IN AUSTR AL IA. CODE: CP82
