About Us
About Leading Edge
“BEAUTY WITH INTEGRITY AND KINDNESS”
Who We Are
Our Story
Founded in 1987, Leading Edge Salon has been serving the Santa Rosa community for nearly four decades with a commitment to exceptional guest care, professional growth, and industry innovation.
Located in Santa Rosa Business Park, Leading Edge has evolved alongside the beauty industry while remaining grounded in the values that shaped the salon from the beginning: professionalism, education, consistency, and respect for both guests and team members.
Over the years, our salon has continued to embrace new technology, advanced systems, and sustainable practices that support a modern salon experience. While the industry continues to change, our commitment remains the same — creating an environment where guests feel cared for, supported, and confident in the services they receive.
Today, Leading Edge Salon is proud to combine decades of experience with a forward-thinking approach, ensuring we continue to meet the evolving needs of our guests and our community.
Restore Your Style
Why Choose Us
“A Salon Experience Designed Around You”
At Leading Edge Salon, we believe exceptional hair begins with understanding the individual. Our experienced team combines technical expertise, ongoing education, and personalized recommendations to create results that support your lifestyle, preferences, and long-term hair goals.
From your first visit to every appointment that follows, our focus is on providing a professional, welcoming experience built on communication, consistency, and care. Through advanced technology, thoughtful systems, and a collaborative team culture, we strive to make every visit feel seamless, comfortable, and tailored to you.
Whether you’re maintaining your signature look, exploring a new color, or simply looking for a salon you can trust, we’re committed to helping you look and feel your best.
Leading Edge
Our Team & Culture
At Leading Edge Salon, we believe a great salon experience begins with a great team environment.
Our culture is built on professionalism, respect, collaboration, and a shared commitment to continuous growth. We invest in the systems, education, and support that allow our team to focus on what matters most—providing exceptional care and service to every guest.
As an employee-based salon, our stylists work together rather than compete with one another, creating an atmosphere of support, consistency, and accountability. Through ongoing education, modern technology, and clear communication, we strive to deliver a salon experience that feels both professional and personal.
We believe guests should feel confident not only in the technical expertise of their stylist, but in the strength of the team supporting them behind the scenes. From your first interaction to every visit that follows, our goal is to create an environment where both guests and professionals can thrive.
For nearly four decades, Leading Edge Salon has continued to evolve alongside the beauty industry while remaining committed to the values that have guided us from the beginning—professionalism, innovation, and genuine care for the people we serve.
Leadership
Leading Edge Salon is guided by a leadership team committed to exceptional guest care, professional growth, and a culture built on professionalism, consistency, innovation, and genuine care.
Owner & Visionary
Paula Lindsay founded Leading Edge Salon in 1987 and, after decades behind the chair, now focuses on the salon’s vision, growth, and culture. With nearly four decades in the beauty industry, her commitment to professionalism, innovation, and guest care continues to guide the evolution of Leading Edge Salon.
Director of Guest Services & Operations
Katie Gillotte with over 20 years in the industry, leads the guest experience and day to day operations at Leading Edge. She blends her background as a stylist with strong operational insight to create a smooth, welcoming environment for guests and a well supported, organized space for the team.
Our Stylist Team
More than individual stylists, we’re a collaborative team of professionals committed to education, consistency, and exceptional guest care.
TAMARA
Tamara began her hairstyling career in 2008 and has been a valued member of Leading Edge since 2011.
Skilled in a wide range of techniques, she has a special passion for short cuts and personalized styling. Tamara is dedicated to helping guests achieve looks they can confidently recreate at home while supporting the long term health of their hair.
Her warm approach and genuine love for the craft make every visit a celebration of each guest’s unique beauty.
Precision. Style. Confidence.
KATHLEEN
Kathleen is an elite stylist with over a decade of experience.
Known for her precision haircutting and refined creative approach, she has built a strong reputation for delivering immaculate, detail driven results.
Kathleen’s commitment to excellence and her ability to earn clients’ trust make every transformation tailored, thoughtful, and unique. For guests seeking a polished and original look, Kathleen’s expertise and artistry make her a standout choice.
Precision. Polish. Expertise.
TERESA
Teresa is a skilled stylist with over 16 years of experience.
Teresa is known for creating effortless, pretty hair, beautifully executed haircuts, and meticulous attention to detail. Her expertise extends to transformative color work, supported by ongoing education with leading artists in the industry.
With a warm and genuine approach, Teresa brings both artistry and kindness to every appointment, ensuring each client feels valued and cared for.
Effortless Beauty Expert.
MICHELE
Michele brings over 20 years of expertise to Leading Edge Salon.
Rooted in her advanced training at the Vidal Sassoon Academy and years spent refining her craft as a stylist with the Sassoon team, Michele specializing in precision haircuts for both men and women.
Known for her warm personality and attentive nature, Michele is passionate about creating tailored cuts that enhance each client’s natural beauty, making her a trusted favorite among guests.
Classic with Heart.
DANA
Dana is a highly skilled stylist with over 25 years of experience.
Dana’s niche is in balayage, precision cutting, and razor-cut techniques especially for women’s short hair.
A former salon owner in Chico, she has trained with top educators from Vidal Sassoon, Toni & Guy, and Bumble & Bumble, refining her craft at the highest level. Now based in Sonoma County, Dana is known for delivering elevated, personalized services that highlight each guest’s individual style at Leading Edge Salon.
Blonding. Razor Cut.
ALEXA
Alexa is a stylist who thrives on continuous learning and staying current with the latest hair trends.
She loves all things color, especially creating beautiful results for redheads, and brings strong expertise in men’s cuts, fashion tones, and highlights.
Known for her easygoing, approachable nature, Alexa ensures every guest feels comfortable and cared for while delivering looks that reflect their individuality.
Trend Focused. Color Creative.
JENSEN
Jensen first joined the Leading Edge team at our front desk, where her friendly nature and positive energy quickly made her a favorite among guests.
Inspired by the stylist’s work happening around her each day, she followed her dream of pursuing her cosmetology education and continued her hands-on training within the salon environment.
Now welcoming clients as a stylist, Jensen brings warmth, enthusiasm, and a genuine passion for her craft. She is excited to begin her career behind the chair at Leading Edge and looks forward to caring for every guest who sits with her.
Emerging Stylist. Attentive.
Get In Touch
Book An Appointment
Location
1235 North Dutton Ave.
Santa Rosa, CA 95401
Call or Text
(707) 575-5551
Hours
Tuesday – Friday: 9 – 5
Saturday: 9 – 3 Sun- Mon Closed