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With 18 years in business and a passion for mentoring, Kristy has built a salon that’s as much about growth as it is about glamour.
“I love to talk and make people feel amazing,” Kristy said.
“That’s why I got into hairdressing — it’s the social aspect, the human connection. People’s hair matters a lot to them, and when they trust you with their image, it’s a big deal. We don’t take that lightly.”
Giggles Hair Studio is a family-run business with multiple premises and a strong focus on apprenticeships. Over the years, Kristy has signed up around 30 apprentices, with over 15 completing their training — all through TAFE Queensland.
“Apprentices play a major role in my salon,” she said.
“I love training them and helping shape the future of our industry. There’s a shortage of hairdressers, so it’s important to bring new talent through and mould them into brilliant professionals.”
First-year apprentice Charlotte is already making waves at Giggles Hair Salon, thanks to hands-on experience and expert training from her employer and TAFE Queensland.
Kristy’s commitment to apprenticeships is matched by her admiration for TAFE Queensland’s training model.
“I chose TAFE Queensland because of the flexibility,” she continued.
“They offer on-the-job training, and apprentices can also go to TAFE Queensland’s hair salon. The communication is unbelievable — they’re just a phone call or email away, and the teachers are awesome.”
That support has helped Kristy’s apprentices become business ready, equipped with both technical skills and professional confidence.
“The curriculum is great, and the flexibility means they can learn in the salon and on campus,” she explained.
“TAFE Queensland also offers a variety of opportunities that really prepare them for the industry.”
Kristy’s current apprentice, Charlotte, is already making an impression.
“She’s amazing,” Kristy said.
“She started eight months ago and has taken to the training so well. She’s passionate and progressing quickly — the training from TAFE Queensland has been awesome.”
Beyond technical skills, Kristy values the personal growth she sees in her apprentices.
“I’m very passionate about passing on my knowledge,” she said.
“Hairdressing is something AI will never take over — people need that intimate human interaction. Our job is to make people’s rainy days feel brighter.”
TAFE Queensland’s commitment to staying current with industry trends is another reason Kristy continues to partner with them.
“They’re always looking for ways to grow and update the curriculum,” she said.
“They ask for feedback, run surveys, and make sure they’re teaching what’s relevant in today’s beauty industry.”
For other salon owners considering hiring apprentices, Kristy has one clear message: just do it.
“It’s amazing,” she said.
“It adds real value to your salon and keeps you up to date with the ever-changing beauty industry. I’ve learned so much from my apprentices – they keep me young!”
With TAFE Queensland by her side, Kristy is continuing to grow her team, her business, and the next generation of hairdressers – one apprentice at a time.