Get to Know Us Better!

Naomi – Manager & Salon Trainer

Naomi has been hairdressing for over 30 years and brings a wealth of experience to the team. She trained with the Keith Hall Group in Nottingham, where she gained her NVQ Level 3, became a Salon Trainer, and honed her skills in competition work and fashion show styling.

Since joining Gavin Ashley in 2015, Naomi has been a driving force in the salon – managing a busy column of loyal clients while running weekly training sessions for our apprentices. Her passion for sharing knowledge ensures our whole team stays at the top of their game.

Marie – Artistic Director

Marie joined us in 2012 and quickly built a devoted clientele thanks to her creative flair and technical expertise. After achieving her NVQ Level 3, she went on to qualify as an Assessor, and later completed the prestigious L’Oréal Colour Specialist programme – passing with an incredible 96%!

As our resident Colour Expert, Marie loves working with clients to create bespoke looks that truly bring out their personality.

Gemma – Senior Stylist

With more than 25 years in the industry, Gemma brings incredible experience to the salon. Having worked in two local salons for over two decades, she joined us in 2022 and has since specialised in perms and colouring.

Specialising in L’Oréal INOA colour, Gemma creates beautiful, natural-looking finishes using this vegan, oil-based formula that’s gentle on hair.

Claire – Senior Stylist

Claire began her career with the Toni & Guy group in 2000, training in both cutting and colouring before specialising in precision cutting. During her time in London, she had the privilege of working closely with the legendary Anthony Mascolo, before moving on to become a Senior Stylist in Chelmsford.

After taking time out to raise her four children, Claire returned to the industry in 2025 and joined the Gavin Ashley team, where she brings her sharp eye for style and decades of expertise.

Vanessa – Senior Stylist

Vanessa first worked with Gavin Ashley 25 years ago, and we’re delighted to welcome her back in 2025! With more than three decades of experience, she has worked in some of the most prestigious salons in London – including Joshua Galvin, Mayfair, and Westminster, where her clients included MPs and BBC staff.

Vanessa has also worked internationally and previously ran training programmes to inspire the next generation of stylists. Her depth of knowledge and experience makes her a huge asset to our team.

Becca – Hair Designer

Becca joined Gavin Ashley in 2022 after completing her NVQ Level 3 at Bedford College while working in a busy salon. She’s no stranger to high-pressure styling, having worked backstage at fashion catwalk shows during her training.

Since joining us, Becca has built a strong clientele who love her creativity and warm personality. Outside of the salon, she’s a keen pianist.

Milly – Hair Stylist

Milly joined us in 2025, bringing with her a fresh energy and bags of talent. After achieving her NVQ Level 3 at West Suffolk College, she was invited to the prestigious Fellowship Finishing School and went on to compete at World Skills in Manchester, where she placed in the top 3 for the UK.

She’s already proving to be a rising star within our team.

Lisa – Salon Receptionist

Lisa has been welcoming clients to Gavin Ashley since 2019. Her warm, professional approach ensures every visit runs smoothly from start to finish.

Before joining us, Lisa spent six years working in sales on cruise ships around the world, and outside of the salon she is a qualified yoga teacher and competitive bodybuilder – even placing 3rd in a national ‘Pro Elite’ event!

Sarah – Salon Receptionist

Sarah joined our front-of-house team in 2023 and brings with her 14 years’ experience as a Salon Assistant and Receptionist in the local area. She loves the buzz of a busy salon and has always enjoyed being part of the hairdressing world.

Before moving into hair, Sarah trained as a Teaching Assistant and worked with young children at Woolpit Primary School – so she’s a natural at making everyone feel comfortable and cared for.

Dawn – Salon Assistant

Dawn joined us in 2022, bringing with her 23 years of experience as a hair stylist. She achieved her NVQ Level 3 locally before moving to France with her family. Fluent in French, she spent nine years building a loyal clientele of expats.

Sandra – Salon Assistant

Sandra became part of the Gavin Ashley family in 2017 after a long career in retail sales. With her natural people skills, she quickly developed a love for the hairdressing industry.

She’s particularly passionate about professional haircare, having completed specialist Kerastase training in London. Sandra enjoys helping clients find the perfect products to keep their hair looking fabulous between visits.

Eva – Apprentice

Eva joined in 2024 and is currently working towards her NVQ Level 2 while attending West Suffolk College and weekly in-salon training with Naomi. She’s enthusiastic, hardworking, and already making her mark.

Outside of work, Eva is a keen sportswoman and has represented Suffolk in badminton.

Jess – Apprentice

Jess joined the salon in 2025 and is also working towards her NVQ Level 2. She works closely alongside Eva and attends training sessions with Naomi each week.

Away from the salon, Jess loves street dance and has performed in competitions across Suffolk and London.