My approach to hairstyling is responsive. It revolves around you, your lifestyle and the natural movement of your hair.

When I started out 21 years ago, I was lucky enough to train in precision haircutting with world-renowned hairdressers. I worked alongside some really great people who are still good friends today.

But, around 8 years into my career, I started suffering from allergies at the salon. Symptoms got so bad that I was no longer enjoying coming into work. So, I dug into the research and discovered that ammonia and other common salon chemicals are associated with increased risk of allergies and chronic diseases, including certain cancers, asthma, and immune disorders.

This was a major turning point for me. I switched to low-toxic, more natural, organic colour lines, and my allergies went away and never returned.

My own experience made me start questioning how these toxic products were affecting the health of my clients — and, for that matter, the planet! What happens to the noxious chemicals we’re rinsing down the drain? Where do those huge bags of chemical waste go when the salon throws them away every day? And where the heck is ‘away’?”

I became a passionate convert to the low-tox and low-to-zero-waste movement. My continuing research led me to a subculture of really cool, like-minded people who are growing personalized, un-corporate, eco-conscious boutique businesses.

People like Beau Bollinger, a talented hairdresser and owner of Hairstory Dallas, who has become an industry beacon during the pandemic.

And like Jayne Matthews, co-owner of Edo Salon and Gallery in Oakland and San Francisco, whose effortless bohemian styling and unique methods for creating textured hair has been a huge inspiration. I’m constantly upgrading my skills, so when an opportunity came up to take her advanced razor-cutting class in 2018, I jumped on it.

After 21 years in this business, I’m now cutting hair for the children and grandchildren of my original clients. These connections are the joy of my working life. I get to accompany my clients through the ups and downs of their lives. When times get tough, I can at least make sure they’ve got great hair.

Away from the salon, I love hanging out with my wife and four-year-old son, especially around our plot in the community garden. We are also zealous supporters of our spectacular local indie food and wine community.

So, that’s a little about me. Thanks for reading. If you’re a long-time client, I can’t wait to see you again. If you’re a first-timer, I’m eager to meet you and get my hands in your hair!