MEET the Team

Laura Durkalski

A native of Park Ridge, Illinois, Laura received her undergrad in French, English, Poli Sci and Secondary Ed from Valparaiso University, followed with a Masters from Purdue. Former high school French teacher, former ride recruiter for Chicago TwinCities AIDS Ride, former Director for Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce’s Drug-Free Workplace Program she eventually packed up her Chicago roots and moved to the Charleston peninsula in 2000 to live with her brother and sister. While helping her brother establish his small business, she began working part-time at Grace as front desk manager. She had the opportunity to purchase the business from the original owners in 2004…and loves it! She prides herself on offering a relaxed yet professional atmosphere and feels as tho her fabulous stylists and clients are family. Besides running the show, her specialty is matching clients with the proper AVEDA staff specialist so if you are unsure whom to see on your first visit, just ask her. (Oh, and she loves playing concierge for travel/foodie/fashion/things to do recommendations too.)

Emily Howe

Emily comes to us from Salon Carcica in Atlanta and joined our family in 2010. She is a graduate of the AVEDA Institute in Atlanta and has mastered all the latest AVEDA color & technique classes. Emily adores her work and clients and certainly fits into the Grace Family, having been with us since 2010. She calls Charleston home with hubby Patrick and two adorable kids Georgia and Shelby. She is certified in Hairdreams Extensions and loves being busy!

Michelle

Michelle moved from Cleveland, Ohio (go Tribe!) in 2002 and loves calling Charleston home. She has been married to Jason since 2011, and has 2 kiddos Jacob, and Justin. She lives with her three dogs, Winston, Bella and newest addition, Harley Quinn. She graduated from Kenneth Shuler school of cosmetology in September 2019, joining our team shortly thereafter. Michelle specializes in highlights, and is certified in Keratin Treatments as well as DreamCatchers hair extensions, brow laminations and lash lifts. In addition to hair and makeup she is a pro at facials and manis & pedis so don't hesitate to see her for all your beauty needs! Follow her on Intagram @hairandeverydaylife_114

Donna Callahan

Donna moved to Charleston from Boston in 2021. She brings with her 20 years of experience in all aspects of color and received her training from the Aveda Academy in New York City.

Donna also earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Massachusetts College of Art. Studying color theory brings an artistic approach to her work as a stylist. Donna specializes in Color, Highlights, Balayage, Ombrè and corrective color. You can check out her work on Instagram @donnacallahan_aveda_colorist


Tara Barkleyn

Tara Barkley Tara is a native of the Holy City, currently residing downtown. She began her career in 2017 immediately after graduating from Ashley Ridge High School, earning her cosmetology degree at Paul Mitchell and continuing her AVEDA training in cities all around the U.S. including Chicago, Atlanta and Charlotte.
Tara specializes in color, balayage and men's cuts and is a pro at giving relaxing scalp and neck massages. Simplistic, natural beauty is her passion. On her days off, you will most likely find her at the beach with her pup Bella. Tara joined our family in February 2023.
Follow her on Instagram @tarabarkleystylist.


Lauren Irwin

Lauren has been a part of our family since May 2023. A proud native of South Carolina, Lauren has a deep passion for everything related to hair, specializing in color, highlights and Balayage. With a decade of experience as a cosmetologist, she has mastered skills in various areas, ensuring a well-rounded expertise. Lauren feels the true essence of being a cosmetologist lies in the invaluable connections established with clients. Book your appointment with Lauren today ..she can't wait to see you!
Tara specializes in color, balayage and men's cuts and is a pro at giving relaxing scalp and neck massages. Simplistic, natural beauty is her passion. On her days off, you will most likely find her at the beach with her pup Bella. Tara joined our family in February 2023.
Follow her on Instagram @tarabarkleystylist.


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