my story in a nut shell

My career in hairdressing began long before I decided to go to cosmetology school. It began at the early age of 13 when my twin bro and I would play “Photoshoot” in our dinky apartment in San Marcos, Ca. I’d cut his hair into an 80’s wedge, sort of Flock of Seagulls meets Risky Business, dress him in a denim jacket, of which the lapel was chock full of buttons and the collar was popped ‘just so’, then start snapping away as though I was the Annie Lebovitz of Autumn Drive. I felt so creative and glamorous and I couldn’t imagine doing anything else. 

So, in 1988 when I turned 18, I headed to cosmetology school to make it legit.

Over the next 30 years I would diligently hone my skills as an artist, build and sell two salons, the last of which is the first and only eco-friendly certified salon in San Luis Obispo, work with some of the most talented hairdressers on the central coast and turn many clients into friends. 

When asked, I say I specialize in textured lived-in haircuts and multi-dimensional  hair color but upon greater examination I think I specialize in more than that… I think I specialize in connection and heart-felt conversation, too. My greatest desire as a hairdresser is that when a client leaves my chair they are not only thrilled with the results but that they feel a renewed sense of confidence and authenticity in who they are and how they represent themselves to the world and to themselves.

Today you’ll find me creating and connecting with my clients in my newest salon creation, Ursa Major. Located in the sweet little town of Los Osos, the studio is intimate and very nurturing; a sun drenched space filled with non-toxic haircolor and super clean product lines like OWay Organics and Cult + King. Products I believe in whole-heartedly. Ursa Major is a place for one on one connection to collaborate, create and celebrate beauty and life. I can’t wait to meet you!