ABOUT SHAWNA
Education isn’t just part of my career - it’s part of who I am.
As a Redken Artist, I’ve spent years not only working behind the chair, but also traveling across the country to teach other stylists and salon owners. From hands-on color classes to real talk about running a salon, I believe in keeping it real, sharing what actually works, and helping others build a career they love.
That same passion for growth and education lives inside Salon 5th Avenue. My team knows I’ll never ask them to do something I wouldn’t do myself - and I’ll always make sure they have access to the same kind of top-tier education I’ve been so lucky to experience.
I’m all about staying on trend, mastering the classics, and keeping it fun - because when you love what you do, that energy shows up in every client experience, every class I teach, and every stylist I mentor.
If you’re ever curious about education or want to know more about what it means to be a Redken Artist, just ask. I could talk about this stuff all day.
xoxo,
Shawna
EDUCATION
At Salon 5th Avenue, education isn't a perk - it's part of who we are.
IN THE SALON
We work directly with top brands and educators, bringing in hands-on training for color, cutting, styling, and extensions. Our team holds certifications as Shades EQ Specialists, Redken Specialists, Redken Color Certified, Mizani AirCut Certified, and Aqua Extension Certified - with a Redken Artist in-house leading the way.
We don't just learn from outside educators, we learn from each other. Our team shares techniques, tips, and real-world strategies to keep every stylist at the top of their game.
IN THE SPA
Our spa team is just as committed to learning. We've partnered with Image Skincare for customized product training, hands-on peel workshops, massage therapy, and advanced facial education - even traveling to Chicago for deep-dive training.
We also invest in ongoing education for lash and brow tinting, facial enhancements, and the latest in customized skin care to ensure every guest experience is both relaxing and results-driven.
At Salon 5th Avenue, we learn together, grow together, and succeed together.
STYLIST COACHING
I founded The Luxe Hair Academy in 2025 to change the game for new stylists entering the industry and to raise the bar for what salon coaching should actually look like.
A lot of associate programs out there are really just glorified assistant roles. You follow a lead stylist, you clean bowls, you hand foils, and you're lucky if you actually get taught. That's not coaching - that's shadowing. At Salon 5th Avenue, we do things differently.
With The Luxe Hair Academy, you're not an assistant. You're a co-stylist - and that means hands-on training, real mentorship and intentional education both behind the chair and outside of it. We cover everything
As a stylist of nearly 20 years, a salon and spa owner, and a Redken Artist for almost a decade, I've lived every side of this industry - commission, independent, and educator. That what makes Luxe Hair Academy different. It's real-life education, built on actual experience, not just textbook theory.
Whether you're just starting out or a seasoned stylist looking to level up , Luxe Hair Academy is about more than skill - it's about balance, confidence, and building a career you love.
Want to learn more about coaching opportunities with The Luxe Hair Academy? Let's connect.
Contact Us
PHONE: (309) 713-1448
ADDRESS: 331 Southwest Water Street
Peoria, IL 61602
