Making dreams a reality
Owner of Katy & Co. Engadine, NSW.
Creating a hair haven with heart
Katy and Co. Hair is a CPR concept salon nestled in the heart of Engadine, Sydney. More than just a salon, Katy and Co. is a place where creativity, passion, love and friendship come together. Founded by Kate Walker, the salon has become expert in all things blonde, balayage, and lived-in colour.
The dream of being a hairdresser started at a young age for Katy, washing hair in her mum's friend's salon at 14. By the age of 17, Katy had secured an apprenticeship, navigating the dynamics of large chain-style salons, and over time rising above her duties to encompass the intricacies of salon management due to her natural drive in the industry.
The dream of owning her own salon fueled Katy’s determination. Recognising the need for a space where she could build a team the way she wanted – to feel secure, empowered, and confident, she took a leap of faith when a retail space opened up in her local area. Katy signed the paperwork, and within a week, she had a space to build her own hair haven.
Reflecting on her journey, Katy acknowledges that starting her salon was the best decision she ever made. With her values built by her early experiences, she crystallised a clear vision for her salon – one that prioritised training and empowering her team through guidance and support.
Katy’s commitment to uplifting her team shone through when her first-ever apprentice won Apprentice of the Year, a testament to Katy’s dedication to fostering excellence in her team.
“I think back to the little girl who dreamed of being a hairdresser and owning a salon and how proud she would be...”
More recently, Katy and her team celebrated a remarkable five year anniversary of her salon business. Katy says “owning and running a business isn’t an easy task and has its highs and lows. I think back to the little girl who dreamed of being a hairdresser and owning a salon and how proud she would be...”
Since transitioning to CPR, Katy shares her love for using the CPR colour system and haircare in her salon. She says “the products consistently deliver on their promises, allowing our team to nail the colour every time! My love for using CPR Colour is in its reliability, and the assurance that it consistently delivers outstanding results. Together, with our years of knowledge, training, skills and love for hair we have found, and partnered with, a brand that embodies and embraces who we are.”
Photographed: Kate Walker (right) and her emerging stylist Elissa Knowles (left)