Passing the Torch — A Circle That Keeps Growing

I’ve been thinking a lot about Jamie—former owner of Salon Shear—and the bold step she took a few years back. Before the world turned upside down, she made the decision to start something of her own. She had a vision, she built it, and she grew it with so much heart. And then—what I think is the most beautiful part—she passed it on to someone she had mentored and worked alongside: Sydney.

One of my favourite memories from that time is when Jamie first shared her idea for what she wanted her brand to be. She could see it so clearly in her mind, and I was honoured to sit with her, talk it through, and help her bring it to life. That brand identity, that story she imagined, still lives on today—even as Sydney steps into ownership. To me, that’s the power of branding: when it’s done with heart and intention, it carries forward and keeps its meaning, no matter who’s at the helm.

And I can’t mention this story without mentioning my sister, Kathryn. She has always been my biggest networker—constantly connecting people with the best intentions, always seeing the possibilities in relationships. She’s truly a master at it. If it wasn’t for Kathryn, I would have never met Jamie in the first place. Looking back, that one introduction has led to so much beauty, growth, and possibility.

Now, Sydney is not only carrying that torch—she’s adding her own spark to it. She’s protecting the soul of Salon Shear while making it her own, and that balance of legacy and fresh energy is exactly what makes a brand continue to thrive.

This is the kind of leadership that inspires me. Women working with women. Sharing ideas instead of guarding them. Having honest conversations about life—the highs and lows, the dreams and the burnout. Treating each other as equals, while making room for each other’s magic. When we do that, we all rise together.

To Sydney: I couldn’t be more excited for you as you step into this new role. You’ve worked for it, learned from it, and earned it. Keep going—you’ve got this.

And to Jamie: I’m so proud of you. You built something beautiful, and you left it stronger than you found it. That’s rare. I can’t wait to see what you dream up next—because if your past is any clue, it’ll be thoughtful, intentional, and full of that Jamie spark.

Here’s to building, branding, and passing the torch in ways that lift us all higher. And here’s to the women—like Kathryn—who make the connections that bring it all together.