The Team
Ninfa Govero
Master Stylist - Owner
As co-founder of Strands, Ninfa has always set a high bar for care and style. Her work ethic and creative talent make her an exceptional team leader and are also just two of the many reasons she has such a devoted fan base.
With more than 20 years of professional experience and a dedication to continued education both here and abroad, Ninfa's learned that inspiration can be found where you least expect it, so she constantly studies the world around her from different angles and encourages her stylists to do the same.
Ninfa - along with her partner Kevin - has also created and nurtured a salon philosophy and environment that ensures every client walking through the door receives a unique approach and personalized attention to get the look that best reflects his or her individual style. And it is this experience that results in clients walking out of that same door looking and feeling their absolute best.
Kevin Govero
Master Stylist - General Manager
Kevin, the other half of this super stylish co-founding duo, began his career in Clayton for over twenty years and has made every moment count. A true creative visionary, Kevin – along with wife and partner Ninfa – set out to create a special kind of salon experience that has both a family feel and rock star appeal.
With that dream realized in the Strands we know and love today, Kevin has achieved a kind of Guru status with his future-forward approach and the way he’s always a step or two ahead of the trends – oftentimes predicting the next big moves in hair – keeping the vibe fresh and the salon itself at the forefront of style.
Strands’ roster of multi-talented stylists and a long list of loyal customers are testaments to Kevin’s commitment to client service and team building, as well as his cool, calm, and comfortable leadership style. And while he’s best known for his innovative cuts and color technique, it’s his natural gift for giving clients a look they love that keeps them coming back for more.
Beth Cornelius
Salon Coordinating Supervisor
Behind every successful salon is a dynamite Coordinating Supervisor. And for Strands, that supervisor is Beth. For more than 15 years, she has supported the salon and our stylists in a number of ways to ensure that the salon and you, the client, have everything you need to have a great experience while you're here. So, while stylists are almost always the stars of the show in any salon, Beth's expertise "backstage" has made her as quintessential a team member as Ninfa and Kevin themselves.
Lucy Masin
Designer
For more than 13 years, Lucy has indulged her love of cutting and enhanced her keen creative eye at numerous hair shows from Miami to Nashville and Chicago to St. Louis but focuses her expertise on clients here in the Lou. In her time at Strands, she’s also become quite the color expert thanks to color training in Minnesota and in-house sessions with her fellow stylists.
Inspired by nature, fashion bloggers, and vintage movie star glamour, Lucy believes everyone is beautiful and finds her greatest motivation in helping her clients express their own personal style. She also has a great sense of humor and loves singing along to the always excellent salon soundtrack so clients always have a wonderful time in her chair. You’ll laugh ‘til you cry but you will never cry about your hair. That will always get a, “WOW.”
Rob Govero
Master Stylist
Robert Govero boasts over three decades of experience in the makeup, photography, and salon industry. As the proprietor of multiple salons, he has lent his expertise to various prestigious European and American color/cosmetic brands, working as an educator/partner and participating in training programs with renowned companies.
Presently, Robert practices his craft at Strands Salon alongside his family, leveraging his background in chemistry to educate and train professionals on the intricacies of Keratin Complex Smoothing Systems, color cutting theories, styling and professional accumen. His boundless energy, extensive product and chemical knowledge, and creative talents have earned him recognition in various publications, videos, and television broadcasts. Notably, he collaborates with the Empowering You Consulting group and has provided training for over 300 stylists in the St. Louis market over the course of his career.
Beyond his professional endeavors, Robert is dedicated to giving back to both local and global communities. He channels his extensive network of resources, contacts, and energy into causes he passionately supports. Notably, he is a proud advocate for the St. Louis Crisis Nursery and has recently served on the board for Friends of the Rainforest of Costa Rica. Furthermore, Robert has led teams at New York and LA Fashion Weeks, serving as the Artistic Director and contributing his expertise in hair and makeup for editorial and catalog work with luxury lingerie brand Liviara and other renowned designers.
Orene Contini
Designer
Driven by an unwavering passion for hair and beauty, she has embarked on numerous journeys around the globe. Having owned multiple salons alongside her beloved partner, whose memory remains cherished in her heart, she continues to transform not only hair but also the lives of those she encounters. With a loyal clientele and decades of invaluable experience under her belt, she is a true expert in her field.
Charles Lorenzini
Designer
Charles is a true embodiment of a rich family legacy in the beauty industry, spanning multiple decades. With an illustrious career marked by the ownership and successful sale of seven salons, he has cemented his status as a trailblazer in the field. As a platform artist and esteemed educator, he possesses the rare ability to captivate and inspire others. Charles finds genuine joy in his craft, particularly in the art of working with long hair and creating breathtaking transformations through his mastery of highlighting, coloring, and foiling techniques. His insatiable thirst for knowledge has taken him on numerous voyages across the United States and Europe, immersing himself in diverse cultures and gathering inspiration from every corner of the globe.
Jackie Richardson
Designer
Jackie Richardson is a master hairstylist with expertise in hair coloring, precision cutting, and hairstyling. She can transform your hair into a work of art, whether you want a subtle change or a bold new look. With her creativity and skill, Jackie can create various styles for different occasions, ensuring you look your best. She is also certified in Keratin treatments, providing the latest and most effective hair treatments. Jackie's dedication to customer satisfaction has earned her a loyal client base and allowed her to coordinate hair and fashion shows, weddings, and even television shows. Additionally, she owns Zero Time LLC, a hair tool company designed for hairstylists, showcasing her commitment to the industry.
Tom Rector
Designer
Tom, an elite barber with over a decade of experience, has redefined industry standards to provide impeccable service and special calendar availability to a few discerning clients, including busy executives, professional athletes, and the elite. With a sharp eye for detail and a mastery of masculine aesthetics, Tom crafts perfectly personalized haircuts and beard trims, enhancing your unique style and confidence. Join his exclusive clientele by applying at his wait-list and experience world-class service at www.myladuebarber.com
Brett Fitxsimmons
Designer
Brett, a licensed professional since 2020, draws inspiration from a variety of sources in his craft. He has been inspired by industry leaders such as Sophie Stay Gold, Mc Barber Online Course, Regal Gentleman, Matty Conrad, Faded Culture, and Behind the Chair. Brett continuously hones his skills by immersing himself in tutorials and staying up-to-date with the latest trends and techniques. With his passion for the art of barbering and dedication to his ongoing education, Brett is committed to delivering exceptional results to his clients.
Michelle Abernathy
Designer
Michelle, our extraordinary stylist, brings over 30 years of unparalleled expertise to the table. She has traversed iconic cities like New York, Chicago, and Boston, immersing herself in their vibrant hair industry to expand her knowledge and skills. Michelle has had the honor of working and training with renowned brands such as Schwarzkopf, Jingles, L'Oreal, Scruples, Matrix, and many more, solidifying her reputation as a true master of her craft. Guided by the esteemed mentor Markus Bluestein at Facade, she refined her skills to perfection. Additionally, she captivated audiences with her famous Monday makeovers on channel 5 for several years, showcasing her immense talent to the world. Michelle's true passion lies in the art of color, as she is dedicated to creating stunning transformations that make her clients feel undeniably beautiful. With Michelle by your side, you can trust that you'll receive an exceptional and personalized experience that will leave you feeling confident and radiant.
Cate McDonald
Designer
Cate, our exceptional stylist, brings over three decades of unparalleled expertise to the table. She has honed her skills at prestigious institutes such as Jingles and Bumble & Bumble in New York, as well as Sassoon, Toni & Guy, and Unite. Cate's true passion lies in creating personalized haircuts that effortlessly enhance her clients' individual face shapes and lifestyles. What truly fuels her is the sheer delight of helping people feel and look their absolute best, firmly believing in the power of staying current and stylish at any age. With Cate by your side, you can trust that you'll receive a tailored and transformative experience that will leave you feeling confident and beautiful.
Lisa Woodford
Designer
With over 30 years of experience, Lisa is a true master at cutting hair. She has traveled far and wide, finding inspiration in every corner of the world. Lisa has honed her craft through extensive training with renowned industry leaders like Bumble and bumble, Vidal, Sassoon , as well as Tony and Guy. Her love for cutting hair is evident in her work, and her keen sense of beauty and style sets her apart.
Haley Cook
Esthetician
Introducing Haley, your friendly and experienced Master Certified lash tech from the heart of Saint Louis! With a passion for enhancing women's true beauty, Haley has been specializing in eyelash extensions for over 5 years, making life easier for busy women like us. Graduating from Paul Mitchell Cosmetology School in 2015, she brings creativity and expertise to every lash application. Beyond her lash skills, Haley is also a proud auntie to six adorable kiddos, a step mom to two lovely girls, and a dog mom to two adorable pups. Building close friendships through her clientele is one of her favorite parts of the job, and she can't wait to meet many more lovely ladies as her career expands at Strands!
Veronica Ortiz
Esthetician
A youthful and enthusiastic individual, deeply influenced by the values instilled by her family. Passionate about skincare and beauty, she has always sought opportunities to expand her knowledge. Among her favorite facial treatments, dermaplaning holds a special place, as it provides instant and remarkable results, leaving one with a radiant and rejuvenated glow.