Where Confidence Meets Care

With more than 15 years in the beauty industry and over a decade leading Harlow & Co., Carmel has become a sought-after makeup artist, skin specialist, and educator. As Owner-Operator and Founder, she is known for calm, organised support on wedding days and results that feel effortless in person and on camera. Before Harlow & Co., Carmel built a loyal following with The Makeup Box by Carmel Kestles.

Carmel’s credentials include a Cert IV in Small Business (Demi International), NEIS Program (ETC), Cert II in Retail Skincare and Makeup (Academy of Makeup), and Cert II/III in Financial Services. Her work has been recognised by the Brides Choice and Wedding Industry Awards, including Winner (2020, 2022, 2024), Highly Commended (2019, 2023), and Finalist (2021, 2025).

Born on 19 June, Carmel sits on the Gemini/Cancer cusp, balancing creative flair with grounded care, and outside the studio she keeps life centred on family and a tight circle of friends.

Carmel’s path into beauty began after roles in finance, insurance, and magazine advertising, followed by a move from Broken Hill to Coffs Harbour where makeup for Vertigo Blue boutique shoots sparked her transition into full-time artistry. She launched The Makeup Box, then evolved it into Harlow & Co., growing through word of mouth, industry awards, and a commitment to education and skin health—all while navigating COVID-era challenges, leading teams, and raising four children.

Starting a business with nothing but skill, passion, and determination, Carmel has built and maintained a thriving brand through every challenge. From managing a busy household and supporting her husband’s family business to becoming one of the region’s most trusted and award-winning makeup artists, her journey is a testament to hard work, resilience, and heart—proof that with grit and grace, you really can have it all.

G’day, I’m Leah, Senior Stylist here at Harlow & Co. I’ve been in the industry for 14 years now, with the last 10 spent right here at Harlow. These days, I not only look after my own clients but also mentor our junior stylists, which has been a brilliant way to share what I’ve learned along the way.

I’ve picked up skills in barbering, colour placement, even piercing, though these days I’m happiest sticking to hair. Honestly though, most of what I’ve learned has come from years of being hands-on with clients and just giving it a go.

Outside of the salon, my world is my husband and our two beautiful boys. You’ll usually catch us down at the beach, or if I get a little time to myself, I’m probably having a coffee or cocktail with Carmel. Born on 13 June, I’m a Gemini through and through, always up for a laugh and a good chat. My motto is simple: “YOLO, but if you do it right, once is enough.”

Tayah has been a dedicated part of the hairdressing industry for more than five years, building her reputation on consistent results and long-term client relationships. After completing her apprenticeship at Kiama Community College, she gained valuable experience working full-time in a busy salon before moving into contracting, where she could focus on providing a more personal, tailored service.

Specialising in both blonde and brunette colour work, Tayah also places a strong emphasis on communication. She believes the best results come from listening to clients and ensuring they feel supported with the right product care advice to maintain their look at home.

Away from the salon, she loves spending time outdoors, whether it’s swimming, relaxing in the sun, or being with her dog. Born on 3 March 2005, she is a Pisces, a sign known for empathy and creativity, qualities that shine through in her approach to hair. Her favourite words to live by? “Everything happens for a reason.”

Tayah is coming on as a part time employee. 

Lana’s path to hairstyling wasn’t exactly a straight line, but that’s what makes her story so real. She left school in Year 11 to begin her hairdressing apprenticeship, took time out to try her hand in retail, real estate, and admin, and eventually found herself back in the world of hair when Carmel encouraged her to finish her apprenticeship at Harlow & Co in 2021. Since then, she has never looked back.

Lana is all about creating colours that look beautiful without the high-maintenance upkeep. She loves working with lived-in, natural looks and makes hair health her top priority.

Outside the salon, Lana is a family girl through and through. You’ll find her camping, out adventuring, or playing sports with her loved ones. Born on 23 July, she is a proud Leo, the sign known for warmth, loyalty, and a natural knack for shining bright. Clients love that those qualities shine through the moment they sit in her chair.

With two years of dedicated experience in the beauty industry, Bella has quickly established herself as a trusted makeup artist and emerging beauty therapist at Harlow & Co. Her expertise spans across special events and bridal makeup, along with advanced beauty treatments including brows, facials, and body therapies.

Bella holds multiple certifications in brow styling, advanced facials, and advanced body treatments, which complement her artistry and ensure clients leave feeling radiant and confident. Her calm professionalism is paired with a genuine passion for beauty, often inspired by her love of the beach, sunrise walks, and the simple joy of making others feel their best.

Born on 24 March, Bella shares her Aries birthday with icons like Sarah Jessica Parker, another creative force known for style and beauty. True to the Aries spirit, Bella brings energy, initiative, and a touch of boldness to every look she creates. Her guiding mantra is: “If it won’t matter in five years don’t spend five minutes crying about it.”

Maddy is entering her third year as an apprentice hairdresser, and she is already making her mark at Harlow & Co. Starting her career in a bustling shopping centre salon, she quickly mastered the foundations before moving to Harlow, where she has had the chance to hone her skills in foiling, colouring, styling, and her specialty, nanoplasty.

With a strong work ethic and a cheeky sense of humour, Maddy makes the salon feel fun and welcoming. She is big on client care, whether it’s nailing the perfect finish or making sure you leave smiling.

When she is not behind the chair, you’ll probably find her at the gym, doing her makeup, or out on a hot girl walk. Born on 28 July 2005, she is a Leo, known for determination and flair, both qualities she brings into her craft.