Who we are
MIKE CHACKO (HE/HIM)
Hairstylist
Co-founder – My passion for hair was born more out of necessity than curiosity. When I was nine years old, a barber carelessly chopped off the sideburns I had been meticulously growing for months. From that point on, I took it upon myself and learned how to cut my own hair.
After finishing university and dabbling in the world of finance, an opportunity arose for me to learn to cut hair professionally, this time on other people. Now, years later, what started as a hobby has turned into a craft, and launching Freyja seemed like the natural next step.
When I’m not behind the chair, I’m busy sharing a moment with my wife, my three sons, and my closest friends.
EWELINA WNĘK (SHE/HER)
Hairstylist/ Colourist
Co-founder - As a teenager in the 90’s, I was immersed in both grunge and rave culture. Inspired by these two worlds, my hair underwent a series of colour treatments and cuts.
During college, I experimented with many mediums while studying visual arts, but eventually gravitated towards hair. I was drawn in by the endless possibilities of playing with colour and texture, as well as the exciting pace of a busy salon. Well over a decade into my career as a stylist, I still love being creative and challenged by each head of hair.
Today, among many things, I am a mother who is primarily influenced by the philosophy of slow living. By co-founding Freyja, I am building an environment in which I can balance work and self-nourishment, with the goal of setting a new standard for our industry.
MATHIEU “SQUELETTE” RICHARD (HE/HIM)
Colourist
By nature, I would consider myself to be a creative person. This creativity, coupled with my playful energy, made me well suited for hairdressing school 17 years ago. Since then, I have been cultivating my hair colouring prowess, and mastering various techniques, including creating natural looks, adding babylights, framing the face, balayage, and playing with beautiful tones of red and copper.
Beyond my professional career, I’m passionate about the finer things in life: food, DOGS, caffeine, YouTube, and Beyoncé . When I’m not working with hair, I feed my creative side through movies, art, 90’s culture, and music (I even played in a band for almost 10 years!). My overall life philosophy is to keep things fun and dynamic – an energy I try to bring to Freyja and my clients everyday.
HOLLIE FLASHMAN JARVIS (SHE/HER)
Hairstylist
I have always gained satisfaction from caring for people, and it was this love, along with years of experimenting on my own hair as a teen, that sparked my interest in hairdressing 9 years ago. Combining these two along with my creativity couldn't be better.
I love to explore, both through my work and seeing the world. I spent the last year specializing in curls back home in the UK, and previously was in Melbourne where I discovered the shag/ mullet vibes! People energize me. I love listening, and creating beautiful, fun, individual hair.
Away from Freyja, I try to live a fun healthy life. I enjoy giving my time when I can, and living sustainably where possible. I express myself through my colourful wardrobe, and enjoy yoga, food, and a delicious IPA once in a while. I come from a mad English family, and they are the best!
LAURA KELLY (SHE/HER)
Hairstylist/ Colourist
Old school glamour mixed with rock and roll grit.
I’ve always been a deeply tactile person. From a degree in glass blowing to years as a burlesque costume maker and now a hairstylist- my driving creative force has always been sculptural. I approach hair with the same creativity and joy in experimentation.
I want to create a space for my clients to explore their image of themselves and bring out their most authentic, brave and babely self. Modern takes on classic cuts, vivid colour, sun kissed natural looks and even modern bridal/ updos - I’m your girl.
I like to laugh. If you run into me on the sidewalk I’m probably tripping over myself while grinning at your dog, spilling the massive coffee in my hand. Oh, and I can’t wait to meet you!
JESSICA DALTERIO (SHE/HER)
Hairstylist/ Educator
I have been in the hairstyling industry for over 12 years. I have a passion for bobs: straight lines bring me joy. I also specialize in fine hair and short hair. And shags hold a special place in my heart.
I consider myself an artist. I love to create with my hands. And I have a good eye for details.
Looking forward to creating with you soon!
Chika Hayashida (She/Her)
Hairstylist
After getting my national license as a hairdresser in Japan, I started working in the heart of Tokyo fashion district (Aoyama, Harajuku). There I interacted with many great artists and hair stylists. These encounters made me grow as a stylist and as a person.
Although Tokyo is a wonderful city, I wanted to broaden my horizons. So I went on trips alone with my backpack and eventually set my sights on Montreal because of its vibrant artistic scene and uniqueness in North America. I moved here in 2018 and fell in love with the city and its people.
My dream and goal is to take care of hairs from people of various backgrounds and cultures. That thought has now taken shape with the support of my clients. Looking forward to meeting you.
SARAH LE MASSON (SHE/HER)
Hairstylist/ Sustainable Development Coordinator
Hairstyling has a special place in my heart. I owe my grandfather, who was himself a hairdresser, 100% of this passion and this need to contribute to the well-being of the community.
When I was young, I often listened to him sharing his vision and cutting techniques. I also still remember the perm smell that invaded the basement walls. I used to walk downstairs holding my nose to find my grandpa totally happy to practice, even retired, after 40 years of career.
Growing up, I have been very observant of other people hair and style. I’m fascinated by natural beauty and to enhance the form and texture authenticity of the hair.
I also have a master’s degree in sustainable development. Naturally, I got curious about Freyja Salon. A perfect mix of these two precious interests.
I’m always up to talk about environmental issues or responsible practices from all around the world.
I want to make a difference by contributing to the ecological transition while keeping this “joie de vivre” and this essential human contact!
Jessica "J.Rae" Rae Alley (She/Her)
Junior Stylist
I came to a career in hair only recently, after graduating with a B.A. in English Lit and spending the next decade writing, dancing, making art, performing burlesque, and working in bars. I suppose now I could look back and consider those moments when I’d give my barbies chopped off “rockstar” haircuts as foreshadowing, but at the time, I just thought they looked more glam.
I love the sharp sculptural nature of short hair, from fades to pixies, and spent the first year of my career working those skills in a barbershop. Learning to cut longer hair quickly became a passion, leading me to obsess over shape, silhouette, and texture.
I’m inspired by 80's and 90's culture, vintage clothes and magazines, fashion editorials, and badass humans. I believe a new haircut can be a magical transformation, and being able to facilitate that as a hairstylist is such an honor. Looking forward to hearing your stories and helping incite some magic.
ALEX MARICA (SHE/THEY)
Apprentice/ Lead Shop Associate
When I was a teenager, I spent a lot of time in my bedroom learning different skills by watching YouTube videos. I had fun trying different hairstyles and I would always be the one styling my sister's hair. Eventually, I started experimenting with dyeing my own hair. After trying every color possible, I picked up a pair of scissors and cut my bangs. To this day, I remember the thrill of seeing the strands of hair fall to the ground.
My eclectic sense of style and hairstyles have always been my tools to express myself. As a stylist, I want to help others find self-confidence through a haircut or a color, and through listening and caring for them
during their service.
I love to create hairstyles with lots of character whether it's a mullet, a flowy shag or a pop of vivid color.
I enjoy talking about music, movies/tv shows, astrology, pop culture and food, but I also love to get philosophical and to ponder whether aliens exist or the meaning of life.
Emilie Nadon (SHE/HER)
Apprentice Hairstylist + Colourist/ Shop Associate
I always knew I wanted to pursue a creative profession. The question was: which one?
I spent many years studying various creative fields in cégep and university. During that time, my only constant was my frequent hairstyle change. Towards the end of my teenage years, I cut my brother's hair. He wanted an edgy look but was afraid of going to a salon and being judged. From then on, he returned regularly, armed with photos of mullets and a blind confidence.
In 2021, I finally decided to enroll in a hairdressing course and learn the trade. Since then, my passion for this profession has only grown. I love the social, creative, and educational aspects of hairdressing. Whether it's simple or extravagant, I feel privileged to work and create with clients to achieve their hair goals.
In my free time, I enjoy taking care of myself and spending time with my friends and family. Over the past two years, I've discovered a passion for fitness. I also enjoy the arts, reading, music, cooking, and much more.
CLARA ORTIZ MARIER (SHE/HER)
Lead Shop Associate - On maternity leave :)
In September 2018, I had the great opportunity to come work with Ewelina and Mike. I’ve been part of the team since day one and I love my Freyja family. I take great pleasure in making sure the salon offers the best experience possible to both clients and employees. When I’m not at Freyja, I spend most of my time working with leather. I love crafting beautiful bags, accessories and objects, and would love to have my own brand of handmade leather goods one day.
SERENA THIBAULT (SHE/HER)
Hairstylist/ Junior Colourist
I’ve always known I wanted to work in a creative field and after experimenting with my hair for years, it was only natural I end up working in salons.
Growing up in a creative and eclectic family has exposed me to a diverse selection of art, music, and individuals, fostering a deep appreciation for each of them.
My joy in meeting and caring for people, combined with the dynamic challenge of crafting something unique for each client is what makes me love being a hairdresser so much. I’m most inspired by unconventional cuts playing with fun colours, curly hair, creating textured styles, lived-in blondes, while appreciating and spinning off classic techniques.
During my downtime, I'm usually with friends at events, discovering new music, or trying out new restaurants. When I'm not out and about, you'll probably find me at home cooking with friends and hosting big dinner parties, or enjoying some alone-time watching reality TV and knitting with my cat.
Looking forward to meeting you and sharing some giggles!