After leaving school, I moved to central London and began my career in banking, starting at the NatWest Tower, London City, before moving to the Bank of Rome, where I worked as a PA and on the Foreign Exchange trading floor. I later chose to pursue my passion for hairdressing.

I trained in Londons West End in the early 90s working within the Vidal Sassoon concept. My time in Bond Street was both demanding and formative, and I remain deeply grateful for the opportunity, the training, and the people - especially to Stephen Way - who helped shape the foundations of my career and standards to this day.

it was during this time that I was introduced not the “365” concept by Stephen Way - a philosophy centred around truly understanding the client through in-depth consultation, listening, and tailored advice. It was a way of working that felt instinctively aligned with my own values, shaped by my early experiences of never quite feeling heard as a client myself.

This approach- focusing on communication, trust, and education- has stayed with me ever since. It forms the foundation of how I work today ; ensuring every client feels understood, supported, and confident, not only in the salon, but everyday afterwards through the right guidance, products, and ongoing care.

During this period, I also lectured at the London Mayfair finishing school, teaching haircare and styling, while also gaining experience behind the scenes at fashion shows and creative industry events - an environment I naturally connected with.

I went on to manage an Aveda lifestyle salon in Notting Hill, and I was given opportunities to travel and work internationally, with a Session Stylist, particularly in Italy, doing hair shows, blending London hairdressing with European fashion influences… and there, I worked with Davines products on stage. I later moved away and continued in south east London within another Aveda lifestyle salon before choosing to move forward independently.

Today I proudly work with Davines - a modern conscious brand infused with effortless Italian style. Thoughtful in both formulation and design , it brings a sense of understated luxury , creativity, and enjoyment to the salon experience- something clients of all ages can connect with and take home.

In 2021, I opened AIKO - my boutique salon in Hither Green bringing together over 3 decades of experience, with a focus on thoughtful, refined work and a personalised, high quality experience.

For me, it has always been about creating hair that feels effortless, considered, and truly individual.