I started behind the chair at an exclusive salon in London in 2001. From that first year, I knew this industry had me. After London, I made the move to Adelaide in 2004, and my career has taken me everywhere since: New York, India, across Europe, directing international hair shows, judging the world’s biggest live colour competition, and having my work published in INSTYLE, Hairbiz, and titles across Spain and Mexico. I have worked with Samara Weaving, Ruby Rose, and Kate Ceberano. As a member of the Global Matrix Artistic Team, I contribute to international education, fashion forecasting, and product development. I also work as an ambassador for L’Oréal Access, EVY Professional, Excellent Edges, and YL Extensions. This industry is incredible, and I genuinely mean that every time I say it.

I opened SJ Establishment because I wanted to build something that stood for more than great hair. A space that is creative, inclusive, and genuinely welcoming, where the experience is just as considered as the result. Inclusivity is not a talking point for us; it is something we live inside the salon. We are proud to have an NDIS participant on our team, here every other Friday, looking after our clients and keeping the salon running beautifully. It matters to me that SJ is a place where everyone belongs.

Getting the culture right, mentoring and educating people in and out of my salon properly, and creating an environment where talented stylists actually want to stay and grow, that is work I take as seriously as anything happening behind the chair.

Beyond the 2024 win, the accolades include five times SA/TAS Hairdresser of the Year, Creative Team of the Year in 2021, a finalist nod at the British Hairdressing Awards for International Collection of the Year, and SA/TAS Salon of the Year three years running. These things matter to me, not for the trophies, but because they reflect the standard I hold myself and my team to every single day.

If you are ready to book, we would love to have you in the chair.

Love Sam xx