Meet Edward
HE/him
Edward has been coloring hair for over 26 years. He has been featured in several magazines such as Elle, Chicago, Nylon, and Self Magazine who named him “Best Colorist in the Midwest”. He has also crossed over into TV by creating makeovers for MTV and local talk shows. Edward’s training has been with some of the best colorists in the industry from London, San Francisco, and New York. He can achieve colors from the very natural (as if the sun came down and kissed your head) to the outrageous; and everything in between. Fully trained by RUSK, Edward is quite an accomplished hair cutter. His style is considered to be urban street wear hair with controlled chaotic texture. Easy wear hair for all walks of life.
Meet Xander
HE/him/they/them
Xander is a Chicago native with a passion for beauty. Growing up, Xander idolized the beauty industry for its artistry and inclusivity. We were lucky to have him join our team because he brings his talent and specialization in blowouts, styling, and make-up, after perfecting such skills at DryBar for the last 6 years.
Meet Valerie
she/her
Originally from rural Michigan, Valerie VanderKolk is a licensed cosmetologist based in Chicago. Valerie works in film, television, photography, personal makeup, and hair services. Originally a costume designer, Valerie fell in love with makeup when she designed costumes and makeup on her first theatre production in Chicago, where she designed makeup for a chorus of creepy clowns. Valerie studied makeup at London Eyes International Academy of Makeup, Kosart Atelier, School for the Entertainment Arts, and Cosmetology at Tricoci University of Beauty Culture
Meet Teddy
they/them
Teddy’s love for skincare goes beyond skin deep. Their passion is to provide a thoughtful and pampering experience for the senses while simultaneously treating skin concerns. They are also experienced in makeup application and loves to educate clients one-on-one in the areas of both makeup and skincare. Teddy is here to be an attentive guide to better skin, relaxation, and self-expression.
Meet Eli
they/them
Originally from Connecticut, Eli started cutting and styling hair when they were a teen. With a love for vivid hues and fun alternative styles, they worked on themself, their friends, and family members for several years before refining their skills at Tricoci University of Beauty Culture here in Chicago. Among their bag of tricks, Eli brings an exerienced artist’s eye for texture and color and enjoys working with hair of all textures.
This website was created by Bad Little Blonde for Alchemia Art of Hair™