Kayla’s journey of empowerment
Owner of Gypsy George Gladstone, NSW
Kayla Willis is the founder of award-winning salon Gypsy George, based in the picturesque village of Gladstone, NSW.
Kayla’s journey is filled with resilience, passion, and a commitment to making a difference. It all began during a period of hardship, when Kayla decided to take charge of her destiny and create a brighter future for herself.
With a heart full of determination, Kayla made a bold move to Melbourne. Dressed to impress, she confidently walked into the most upscale hair salon she could find and landed herself a job. This step marked the beginning of her dream pursuit in the hair industry. The experience provided her with invaluable insights and educational opportunities. She had the chance to collaborate with talented stylists, build a substantial clientele within the second year of her apprenticeship, and participate in fashion shows. Working with high-end clients further ignited her passion for the industry. Kayla credits her teacher, and then boss Andrew, for instilling in her the drive and passion needed for success.
Over time, Kayla has not only realised her dreams but has also gained recognition for her exceptional expertise in bridal hair styling and makeup. Her creative approach to cutting and colouring has set her apart as a true artist.
However, what truly distinguishes Kayla is her active participation in fundraisers, where she uses her passion for sustainability and love for hairdressing to contribute to charitable causes. She’s not just a hairstylist; she’s a compassionate individual who uses her talent to make the world a better place.
Kayla has donated ponytails and worked closely with cancer patients to support families during challenging times. Winning competitions and sharing the joy with her family has also been a significant part of her journey.
Kayla’s brand, Gypsy George, is a reflection of her travels up the east coast of Australia, inspired by her journey with her Pops, George. The salon encourages individuals to embrace their natural beauty and be themselves, celebrating uniqueness and diversity.
As a salon owner and hair professional, one of Kayla's strengths is her ability to bring happiness to her clients through her work and conversations. She’s also a dedicated leader empowering her junior stylists, offering them endless educational opportunities to grow and excel in their careers.
Kayla’s alignment with CPR is both a business choice, and a reflection of her values. What appealed to Kayla was partnering with an Australian brand that is about the people. She saw an opportunity for growth within the industry and appreciated the down-to-earth essence of CPR.
Since switching to CPR as a concept salon, Kayla’s experience using the product has been extremely positive! She says that the colours are magical, leaving her clients feeling their best when they leave the salon.
Kayla’s journey in the hair industry stands as a testament to the transformative power of resilience, creativity, and a commitment to making a positive impact, one happy client at a time.