Bushwick

Hair was an integral part of my upbringing. With multiple cosmetologists in my family, weekends were spent with my grandmother getting her hair glossed and set and us little ones reluctantly getting our hair ready for the school week. Later, as a biracial queer teen, I found immense comfort and individuality in expressing myself through hair and makeup. So it was no surprise to me or anyone else when I chose a career in the beauty industry.

I am extensively trained in curly-hair cutting and hair-lightening services for all types and textures. I find my passion not only in creating beautiful hair, but also in building relationships and community through my role as Salon Director of The Bird House Bushwick. I’m light-hearted, loyal, and 100% committed to giving every single Bird House client the best possible experience.

M y hair journey started when I was very young. My sister was pursuing cosmetology in Kosovo and would bring me with her to school. After the war there in 1999, she wasn’t able to continue her training but would sit in front of the mirror blowing out her curly hair section by section, and it became like a meditation for me to watch her. Later, I was trained at The Salon Professional Academy in Nashville, Tennessee where I then became an educator. Although I loved teaching and the connection I had with my students I decided to start my journey behind the chair where I focused on building a safe environment to hear my clients’ stories and help them build a look that represents their deepest selves.

My roots are in shaggy cuts and mullets but with the flick of my wrist I’ll create a soft long-layered shape that will grow out effortlessly. My heart is in enhancing the beauty of everyone’s natural texture through razor and precision based cutting, and in creating soft dimensional color.

B ring me your break-up, break-through, or break-out hair dreams and I will make them a reality. I connect deeply with big overhauls, color corrections, getting that perfect double process or making your highlights look effortlessly natural. I want your hair to fit you so well that it looks like you grew it that way yourself. I love getting to know the ~real you~ and will always be your biggest supporter in getting you to where you want to be—in the salon and out!

Originally from New England, I spent four years behind the chair learning my craft in Boston, MA. In 2014, I made my way to NYC seeking big changes. I made my home at a salon in North Brooklyn, where I spent the last 7 years honing my skills and creating beautiful connections with clients all over the city. I’m ready for the next chapter and am so thrilled to have found my way onto The Bird House team. When I’m not working it out behind the chair, I’m out throwing sass with my Pomeranian, Chevy and my two naughty cats, Gary and Lemmy.

W hile studying Economics at Virginia Commonwealth University, I could never visualize a future for myself in that field. I craved a profession that allowed me to express my artistic side. When a close friend opened her own salon, I saw the inner workings of the industry and realized it was exactly what I was looking for!

Specializing in high-impact blondes, rich luxe tones, and color corrections, I am well versed on hair chemistry and health. (Hair health is my number one priority!) I know exactly how far you can push your hair to achieve the look you want. In my chair, you’ll not only leave with the hair you’d hoped for, but you will have also learned about how it thrives, and what products and lifestyle is required to ensure you maintain its health and structure.

I love working with curly hair, creative colors, and creating a perfectly finished look. In my free time I am a devoted plant mom, and I love to experience outdoor life with my two pups. Despite growing up in this busy city, I like to live a really chill and laid back life.