SOUTH / BUMBY.

Name: Jes Bauman

About me: Hi, I’m Jes — owner of J. Bauman Salon and a stylist since 1992. I completed my apprenticeship in New York, where I developed a strong foundation in precision, discipline, and craft that still guides me today. After years behind the chair, I opened our Mills 50 location in 2006 with a vision of building a salon rooted in education, professionalism, and genuine connection. While I’m not behind the chair as often these days, I still enjoy challenging myself creatively from time to time. What I’m most proud of, though, is the team we’ve built at both locations. I believe great salons are built on strong education and culture, so I make it a priority to invest in ongoing training and development throughout the year. My focus now is leadership, growth, and ensuring every guest experience reflects the standards we’ve worked hard to establish.

Above all, being a hairstylist is about the connections you build with the people that sit in your chair; after all, the majority of the job requires direct interaction. However, for many hairstylists, it goes beyond the “requirement” of being a conversationalist; this urge to communicate profoundly to the people with whom we spend our work days stems from a deeper striving for empathy, compassion, and understanding. This is most evident in the life and career of Kate (KC) Craig, a stylist here at J. Bauman Salon.

KC’s compassion for other beings presented itself in her first career choice, as a veterinary technician.

“I was working for a wonderful doctor, but I knew that there really wasn’t a way to move up, aside from becoming a veterinarian myself. Plus, it wasn’t always fun, sometimes the animals were very sick, which was difficult to see.”

But it wasn’t until someone suggested it that KC thought of becoming a hairstylist,

“I always played with my own hair as a teenager, and by that I mean I was my own guinea pig; but the real story is that my mom’s hairdresser at the time suggested I look into it, and possibly work for her in her, then, new salon. I was open to it, and the rest is history!”

So, KC attended cosmetology school at Florida Beauty Academy, and graduated in 2006. She then went on to work at several reputable salons over the years, but after a change of ownership and decrease in quality at her last place of employment, KC made the decision to leave behind what was familiar to her, and seek greener pastures. That was almost two years ago, and she has since become an irreplaceable member of the J. Bauman Salon team.

“Jes is a fantastic boss, I really do love the team that I work with, and the atmosphere in the salon is very good vibes. I also love that I work with people of all levels of experience that I can and have learned from, it’s motivated me to step up my own game.”

In observance of the craft itself, KC says,

“My favorite thing ever is a dramatic transformation, either with color or a haircut or both. My specialty, I think, is razor cuts.”

And, of her clients,

“I care very much about each and every soul that sits in my chair. My goal is to meet your expectations to the best of my ability, and I don’t give up easily!”

When looking toward the future, KC plans to make this industry a lifelong career,

“I’d like to be a partner in the salon, eventually.”

And with the determination and personal connection to those around her that KC has cultivated, the future is, indeed, as bright as ever.

See KC’s work on Instagram: @hairbythekc

Name: Lily Johnson

Tier: Senior Stylist

Instagram: @beyondbeautybylily

About me: Hello! I’m Lily, and I have been doing hair for 7 years. Originally from Salt Lake City Utah, I’ve lived in Orlando for 13 years and love going to concerts, eating at new restaurants and laying on the beach. I am Bellami trained in extension application, and certified in Keratin Complex and Brazilian Blow out services as well. My favorite services are fashion color, extension installation and men’s cuts. I am excited to see you in my chair!

Holy grail products: Dede Shampoo and Conditioner, Oi Mask, Oi Hand Cream and Oi Body Wash.

Anthony “Tony” DeJesus is a seasoned skincare professional with over 15 years of experience in the beauty and wellness industry. With a strong foundation in managing high-performing salons and spas within the corporate space, Tony has cultivated a deep understanding of both client care and operational excellence.

Driven by a desire to create more meaningful, results-oriented experiences, he transitioned from corporate leadership to working directly with clients focusing on personalized, intentional skincare. His approach is rooted in education, skin integrity, and long-term results, blending holistic principles with clinical insight.

Tony is the visionary behind a purpose-driven skincare brand centered on understanding the skin at its core. His work is defined by thoughtful care, elevated service, and a commitment to helping every client feel confident, seen, and supported in their skin journey.