A bit about us!
We are a team of professionals with passion.
Behind every great result is a real human.
Our team is made up of passionate, highly trained stylists and barbers, each with their own strengths, specialties, and creative flair. From emerging talent to senior artists, every member of the Smoke & Mirrors team works within our tiered structure and ongoing education programme to ensure consistent quality, care, and professionalism. Get to know the faces behind the chair, explore what each person loves to create, and book with the artist who feels right for you.
Meet Dani
Master Stylist
Dani is the owner of Smoke & Mirrors and an award-winning stylist, specialising in creative colour and shag, alternative, and textured shapes.
She works primarily with her existing regular clients and accepts new clients by request. Dani’s approach is highly consultative, with a strong focus on individuality, hair integrity, and intentional design.
If you’re an existing client, you’re in the right place.
New clients are welcome to enquire with the salon regarding availability.
Meet Benji
Barber
Benji is a barbering tutor at Ara during the week and works in the salon on Thursdays and Fridays. With a strong foundation in traditional technique, he specialises in full-service barbering with classic, old-school vibes.
Known for his attention to detail and calm, professional approach, Benji delivers timeless barber cuts, clean shaves, and well-executed grooming services. Ideal for clients who appreciate traditional barbering done properly.https://www.instagram.com/benjibarbernz?igsh=cHFnaTFidmRkdXZ1
Meet Maddie
Creative Professional Stylist
Maddie is our specialist for alternative, queer, and creative hair, with a strong focus on bold colour work and extensions. She loves expressive, non-traditional looks and creating hair that feels authentic and affirming. Known for her eye for detail and safe, inclusive approach, Maddie is the stylist to book if you’re wanting something creative, unapologetic, or a little bit extra.
Meet Nascita
Emerging Stylist
2025 Southern Apprentice of the Year Finalist, with 4 years of salon experience. She has completed her apprenticeship and is due to fully qualify in June 2026.
Quiet, friendly, and incredibly talented, Nascita is known for her calm presence, attention to detail, and thoughtful approach to hair. She takes pride in delivering beautiful results while making clients feel relaxed and genuinely cared for.
Perfect for clients who enjoy a softer, more relaxed salon experience with quality work.
Meet Bianca
Apprentice
Bianca has just over three years of salon experience and is working toward qualifying near the end of 2026. A more mature, millennial-coded apprentice, Bianca brings a relatable energy and a thoughtful approach to her work.
Friendly and easy to talk to, Bianca is enjoying all aspects of hairdressing as she continues to refine her skills, with a particular interest in cutting. She is steadily building confidence across services as she grows in the industry.
Meet Majenta
Professional Stylist
Majenta is our most experienced senior stylist and previously owned a successful salon, bringing a wealth of knowledge and confidence to every appointment. She’s an exceptional all-rounder, known for her honest advice and ability to see what will truly suit you. Majenta specialises in shorter, funkier, styled cuts and loves creating hair with personality. Warm, outspoken, and full of chat — expect great hair and plenty of conversation.
Meet Megan
Professional Stylist
Megan is a driven, top-performing stylist known for her strong consultations and all-round skill set. She specialises in transformations and up-dos/styling, and loves creating polished, impactful looks. Extremely friendly and very talkative, Megan brings big energy to every appointment and has a story for everything — she’s lived every life and makes clients feel instantly comfortable.
Meet Zara
Apprentice
Zara is our newest team member and a recently qualified stylist through Ara, with 2 years of experience.
Bright, bubbly, and incredibly friendly, Zara is known for her bouncy blow waves, love of razor cutting, and one of the best head massages in the salon. She brings a fresh, enthusiastic energy to everything she does and is always keen to try new techniques and styles.
Perfect for clients who love a fun, feel-good appointment with passion, confidence and someone ready to get creative.