OUR MISSION

At ASHES & STEEL STUDIO, we create more than beautiful hair — we create unforgettable experiences that leave our clients feeling confident, cared for, and inspired. Our Asheville studio is a collective of leaders in haircare and wellness, united by a passion for continual education and artistry. We are committed to building a legacy rooted in excellence, collaboration, progression, and sustainable beauty, while fostering a warm, inclusive community where creativity thrives.

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OUR TEAM

Our team is made of a blend of experienced, talented artists that share a common passion for beauty, growth and connection. Our level system is based on each stylist’s demand of time. Our team members bring creative vision and unique backgrounds in addition to a heart for service so that every one of our guests feels cared for and pampered.

Salon Managment & Operations

Editorial stylist, educator, Great Lengths Extension Specialist & Wella Master Color Expert

Alejandro — a force in the beauty world for over 26 years — has shaped the hair of runways, red carpets, and glossy covers alike. From backstage at the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show to New York, Paris, and London Fashion Weeks, his artistry has elevated collections for some of the world’s most celebrated designers. His chair has been graced by icons including Adriana Lima, Gisele Bündchen, Miranda Kerr, Stephanie Seymour, Milla Jovovich, Paris Hilton, Melanie Griffith, Fran Drescher, and Vanessa Carlton, among countless others.

He has worked on Vogue, Elle, W, Vanity Fair, V Magazine, Nylon, Cosmopolitan, Abercrombie, L’Oréal Feria, and Garnier. Years of collaboration with legendary hair visionaries — Garren, Max Pinnell, Italo Gregorio, Richard Ward, and Laurent Philippon — refined his signature approach: precision infused with effortlessness.

As an International Educator for Bumble and bumble, Alejandro has trained thousands of hairdressers and “beauty experts” worldwide. He is CEO and founder of PROHAIRKIT.com, co-owner of ASHES & STEEL STUDIO, a published author (THUNDERPUSS – A Queen’s Tale), and a master of the craft — from razor cutting to his credentials as a Wella Master Color Expert and Great Lengths Extension Specialist.

Once hailed by Allure magazine as “the Manhattan style set’s best-kept secret,” Alejandro now brings his global expertise and editorial edge directly to clients at A&S Studio.

WELLA Master Color Expert

Originally from the United Kingdom, Gary brings over 20 years of experience and a deep commitment to the craft of hairdressing to ASHES & STEEL STUDIO. A Wella Master Color Expert, he has trained with world-renowned brands including Vidal Sassoon, Wella, Bumble and bumble, Bellami Hair, and Combline Hair Extensions. At Vidal Sassoon Academy London, he mastered the fundamentals of precision cutting through the ABC method, while his training at Wella World Studio London and New York refined his expertise in corrective color, special blondes, creative color techniques, and advanced styling.

Gary’s career has been shaped by continuous education and mentorship with industry leaders, including one-on-one training with Reese, Lead Colorist at Bumble and bumble University. His skill set spans precision cuts, dimensional color, red carpet styling, and transformative extension services.

As co-owner, Gary is not only dedicated to his clients but also to the growth and legacy of ASHES & STEEL STUDIO—working tirelessly to build a brand that will inspire and serve future generations. His artistry, leadership, and work ethic make him a driving force behind the salon’s reputation for excellence.

OUR TEAM

With more than 16 years in the beauty industry, Chloe’s career began in salon management before she pursued her cosmetology training. She has trained with leading global brands including Wella, Kerastase, and Bumble and bumble, and studied alongside celebrated artists such as Nick Arrojo, Carlos Carreon, Guy Tang, and Larisa Love. Her experience spans from assisting top stylists at Denver Fashion Week and editorial shoots to creating elegant, memorable styles for weddings and special occasions.

As a Bellami extension specialist, Chloe is dedicated to delivering beautiful color services and women’s haircuts, with a particular passion for blondes and redheads. Beyond her technical skills, she is known for her professionalism, consistency, and unwavering commitment to her clients and team. Always ready to rise to any challenge, Chloe blends creativity with genuine care, ensuring every guest leaves feeling confident and valued.

As one of ASHES & STEEL STUDIO’s most fashion-forward stylists, Ren is renowned for her transformative hair extension work. Her passion lies in creating seamless, natural-looking blends that leave clients amazed at what’s possible. Whether adding volume, length, or a complete transformation, Ren’s extensions are crafted to be undetectable and undeniably stunning.

Her journey began in Greenville, SC, at Paul Mitchell the School, where she trained under a master stylist with over 20 years of experience, including mentorship from Anthony Cole. Along the way, she developed a deep expertise in color theory—thriving on dramatic changes and challenging color corrections that complement her extension artistry.

Ren lives by the belief that “comfort is the enemy of progress,” constantly seeking new techniques, trends, and education to push her craft forward. For guests seeking bold, fashion-forward transformations with flawless execution, Ren delivers artistry with impact and an unforgettable edge.

Samira’s dedication, loyalty, and passion for her craft make her an integral part of the ASHES & STEEL STUDIO team. She began her beauty journey in 2017 after moving to the United States, bringing with her a rich cultural heritage as a proud Palestinian-Jordanian. Splitting her time between Asheville and her home countries, Samira’s work is inspired by a global perspective and a deep appreciation for connection and community.

Her experience includes working in one of the region’s leading salons, where she assisted some of Asheville’s top stylists before earning her Associate’s Degree in Cosmetology. Specializing in radiant highlights, balayage, and precision razor cuts, Samira is also passionate about guiding her clients toward a healthy, sustainable haircare routine.

Known for her tireless work ethic and genuine care for her clients, Samira blends artistry with heart—creating beautiful results while fostering lasting relationships.

Samira welcomes female clients and provides services in alignment with her culture and religious practices

With 11 years behind the chair—and the last three as a valued member of ASHES & STEEL STUDIO—Chris brings both skill and personality to every guest experience. Known for his upbeat energy and quick wit, he has a natural gift for making clients feel at ease while delivering results that inspire confidence.

Chris has trained at the Bumble and bumble headquarters in New York City, mastering advanced styling techniques, and expanded his expertise through courses in precision haircutting and trending color placement with Wella. His specialties include haircuts for All, natural-looking highlights and balayage, and luxurious blowouts that leave hair polished and full of life.

A loyal team player and the life of any room, Chris blends artistry, professionalism, and genuine connection—ensuring you’ll leave not only looking great, but feeling great too.

Geoffrey’s career in hair began over a decade ago in New York City, though his passion for the craft started much earlier. Now an integral part of the ASHES & STEEL STUDIO team, he specializes in French balayage and razor cutting and love for movement, texture, and effortless flow.

Trained under some of NYC’s most sought-after stylists and selected for L’Oréal Professionnel’s prestigious Expert Network program, Geoffrey continues to prioritize education, attending multiple classes each year to stay inspired and on the forefront of trends. His experience working in a variety of locations has enriched his artistry, but his focus and dedication remain firmly here in Asheville, where he works alongside a team equally committed to excellence.

Clients value Geoffrey not only for his creative skill, but also for the genuine relationships he builds—making every appointment a blend of artistry, connection, and the signature ASHES & STEEL STUDIO experience.

Bella has been bringing beauty to life for the past three years, graduating top of her class from Douglas J Aveda in Ann Arbor. Her dedication and emerging talent earned her a place backstage at New York Fashion Week Winter 2024, where she thrived in the fast-paced, high-energy environment of the industry’s biggest stage.

Certified in Bellami Hair Extensions, Bella brings the same attention to detail and artistry to extension work as she does to her color and cutting services. At just 22, she approaches her craft with a depth of empathy and perspective that comes from overcoming challenges and embracing personal growth—qualities that allow her to connect with clients on a truly personal level.

Whether collaborating with the ASHES & STEEL STUDIO team or tailoring a look to match a guest’s vision, Bella’s focus is on making each person feel seen, confident, and cared for. When she’s not behind the chair, you’ll find her enjoying the outdoors—but her true passion is returning to the salon, where artistry and human connection meet.

Anastasiia has been a dedicated member of the ASHES & STEEL STUDIO team for nearly a year, quickly becoming an essential part of our salon’s daily rhythm. With a deep commitment to learning and growth, she has been training closely under owners Alejandro and Gary, refining her skills in both color and cutting techniques.

Her meticulous attention to detail and passion for the craft have already made her a favorite among clients and team members alike. In just a few months, Anastasiia will be stepping onto the floor as a full-time stylist—bringing her fresh perspective, technical foundation, and artistic eye to every appointment.

Whether assisting behind the scenes or preparing for her own chair, Anastasiia approaches each day with dedication, professionalism, and the goal of creating beautiful, confidence-boosting results for every guest.

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