Our Team

Meet the Founder.

Cynthia is a powerhouse in the beauty industry — a nationally recognized hair color educator, mentor, and salon owner who’s turned passion into purpose.

She launched her journey in October 2019 with a private suite in the South Loop under the name Chicago Color Studio. But it didn’t take long before her vision outgrew the space. By September 2020, she expanded into a four-chair salon, rebranded as Salon Eighty8, and transformed her boutique business into a luxury, high-touch experience — one that remains fiercely inclusive, approachable, and anything but intimidating.

Her professional resume speaks volumes. Cynthia has:

  • Competed in Wella’s TrendVision hair shows, showcasing cutting-edge artistry and innovation.

  • Worked on set for editorial and commercial hair projects.

  • Been published in the bridal magazine Our Love in Color, recognized for her elegant and transformative styling work.

  • Served as a national hair color educator for two international brands: Oligo Professionnel and Design.Me — leading classes across the country and inspiring the next generation of colorists.

She also mentors and educates for salons nationwide, and coaches independent stylists and suite renters on how to run their businesses professionally and profitably — helping beauty entrepreneurs build sustainable, branded careers behind the chair.

At the heart of it all, Cynthia’s mission is to blend high-end hair services with a laid-back, unfiltered vibe. She created Salon Eighty8 to be a safe, elevated space where beauty is personal, creativity is celebrated, and luxury comes without pretension.

Beyond the chair, Cynthia leads with heart. Her community work includes Wigs4Kids programs and donation drivesfor women’s and children’s shelters, proving that beauty and service go hand in hand.

And yes — she’s still a millennial at heart. A little quirky, a lot creative, and always on the move, Cynthia finds joy in thrifting bold art, snuggling with her pets, and rewatching her forever favorites, The Craft and Clueless. (Because a little 90s magic never goes out of style.)

Whether you're stepping into Salon Eighty8 as a guest, team member, or collaborator — you’re entering a space built on vision, passion, and serious industry cred.