Say “Brazil” and you immediately think of sophisticated music, expansive beaches, the sun, color, hot culture. That’s where I came from
to New York to follow a dream of working in the fashion and beauty industry. With my artistic background, I always wanted to help people
improve their personal style and feel great about themselves.
I began my career in the heart of NYC in early 1995 on Madison Avenue, across the street from Barney’s, NY. My eyes opened wide to a new
world of techniques as I learned from some of the top hair colorists in the business, enabling me to qualify as a master colorist. Over
the next 4 years, I worked with L’Oreal International in their stylist division creating fashion model makeovers for some of the top
magazines and hair shows. It was then that I wanted to establish a name for myself and Westchester County (where I lived) proved to be
the right move. My clientele expanded as I worked in several upscale salons in White Plains, Eastchester and Armonk.
Then a fabulous opportunity developed for Paulo with the purchase of his own salon “Paulo’s Atelier”. With its European flair and sharp,
modern furniture it is a vision Paulo had for many years.
With the support of his clientele and friends, its here where I can offer my expertise in color in a unique, comfortable and highly
professional atmosphere.
Natalie Ciullo Salon Manager
Natalie's extensive training and background in the beauty industry has been a touchstone in her career as Salon Manager at Paulo's Atelier.
Her years in retail, as an Aveda Corporation Platform Stylist, Bridal Beauty expert and Salon Stylist/Colorist taught her first-hand what is required to head Paulo's complex operation.
Paulo insists on advanced training in all aspects of his salon, and Natalie concurs. She continues to take management, computer, communication, and personal coaching seminars so as to provide the highest caliber of operations and ease to clients and staff alike. Training and guiding the employees behind the scenes to meet these elevated standards is a challenge as well as a pleasure.
Natalie most enjoys ensuring that every client receives a world-class salon experience, and works diligently to create that atmosphere. Please always feel free to let her know how your salon experience might be further enhanced!
Kathleen joined Paulo two years ago in hopes of finding a kindred spirit as well as a professional atmosphere to best accommodate her loyal following.
Trained in NYC at Suga Salon, Kathleen eventually balanced her energy by maintaining a clientele in Northern Westchester and Manhattan, while raising her family. It was a challenge to find a suitable salon that could meet her clients needs as well as her own.
Having now settled in contentedly at Paulo's, she continues to thrive in this industry by creating a tapestry of colors geared to the myriad needs of her lovely clients. Bonding with them helps her to celebrate the whole person-and helps her to deliver results more effectively.
"It is a combination of beauty as a healing art, as well as the magic of mixing potions to transform my subject- hair-into something stunning and believable that keeps me transfixed" exudes Kathleen. "Sharing anecdotes, trials and victories with my clients is the spice of my day. People continue to amaze me- I adore them!"
Recognized in 2008 as Best of Westchester- Editor's pick, and still servicing the same editor's presently, has been an honor, as has been the firece loyalty and authentic testimonials of her burgeoning clientele.
In the spring of 2010, Yasin Yartasi gave Bedford Hills a taste of his talent as a guest stylist at Paulo's Atelier.
His short tenure left his blossoming clientele clamoring for more.
It is our good fortune that he has returned permanently- as a full-time stylist. We are honored to present him now
on a grand scale.
Yasin hails from Turkey where he apprenticed at age eleven, under his uncle's exacting guidance at their family-owned salon.
The art of hair sculpting became intrinsic to young Yasin.
He further honed his craft as a stylist in the U.S. as of 2001. While building a captivated clientele in Westchester,
he secured his mastery in unique cut and superior blow dry techniques while taking advanced training classes intermittently
at Toni and Guy in NYC. Yasin readily shares his expansive knowledge with fellow stylists, and eager young assistants.
Although this gentleman is a full spectrum stylist (including cut/color/keratin complex relaxer, with emphasis on updos
and turbo blowdrys), he is a visionary when he transforms you- the client with his styling prowess.
The understated Yasin is too professional to ever tell you how extraordinary he is- but your friends will confirm this
truth the second they see your trendy new locks!
Cecilia Ibanez Stylist/Colorist
Cecilia, came from Paraquay at the age of 16, completed her education in the U.S and started her career in the beauty industry.
With a decade of experience, Cecilia enjoys offering her clients a full line of services from cutting to coloring as well as
being a straightening specialist. Come into Paulo’s Atelier and experience the high quality and friendly services Cecilia has
to offer.
Crystal recognized early in her career that one could never be over-educated in this industry. She sought intensive training at the Vidal Sassoon Academy in Santa Monica, CA soon after receiving her license.
Crystal brought her innovative skills back to Elizabeth Arden Salon and Spa, White Plains, where she attracted fashionable residents from all corners of Westchester and Connecticut.
She continued to train in Goldwell hair color at their Baltimore Training Institute, and to take cutting classes at every opportunity. She is a fan of the Keratin Therapy Treatment, but has extensive styling product knowledge to help those who resist.
One of Crystal's most sought after services is her skillful application of hair extensions. They are a fun and versatile way to spice up your look, or to grow an awkward hairstyle out.
Efficient, respectful, and wise beyond her years-Crystal is committed to providing a fresh perspective, and welcomes all ages to her chair with a friendly smile and even-keel temperament.
Please take note: If you allow her to, she can make you look and feel like a celebrity!
Cathy Young Stylist/Colorist
Cathy joined Paulo's Atelier as it opened in 2007. Already a sage haircutter, she sensed that this would be a place where she could explore all aspects of the hair industry, and she was right. Her skilled styling prowess and consistently expert results with the Keratin Complex Therapy treatment rival her cutting talent. Cathy is also recognized for her developed sense of haircolor, yet most outstanding to anyone who sits in her chair is her kind, gentle connection with clients.
Cathy will never strong arm you into her vision, but will gain trust and guide you respectfully into a new direction if that is your wish.
"I lean heavily on Cathy as my styling partner. She understands my color objective, and imparts her own signature finish as a dear friend might finish my sentence," Kathleen Troy notes. "She is trustworthy and respected on all fronts, and my clients realize it immediately!"
Armed with knowledge gained in advanced classes of trend conscious techniques, Cathy will deliver to you classy, edgy, stylish, or anything in between!
Cathy's male clientele is equally loyal, as she is exacting in her work. After rearing three gorgeous, fastidious sons, she clearly understands the intimate grooming trends of men.
Derrek Hawkins Master Colorist
Derrek, a Westchester native, places his finger on the pulse of our growing, cosmopolitan population. Initially drawn to a life of rock and roll, Derrek toured the world as a professional musician, accompanying rock luminaries such as Ace Frehley of Kiss. His focus on hair color and style occurred early in his schooling, as he saw opportunity for personal expression that rivals his innate passion for music performance. Derrek brings his unique artistic imagination to Paulo's studio and our clients.
Derrek, who keeps a hand in music and enjoys jamming with emerging bands, also seeks new and innovative ways to deliver superior color results to his adoring hair groupies. With a gentle, magnetic personality, Derrek imparts nuanced beauty to his clients. To stay on the cutting edge of new techniques and products, Derrek regularly attends training sessions at Goldwell labs in Baltimore.
He has earned a reputation as a "seasonal" color savant, (balancing hues from winter, spring and summer, rather than keeping a status quo approach), and has carved a special niche with dimensional brunettes. It has become his trademark, yet his bombshell blondes would also swear their hair best reflects Derrek’s beautiful brand of work.
Place yourself in Derek's skillful, creative hands, and decide for yourself!
Tony Bianco Stylist/Hair Replacement Specialist
Many recognize Tony from somewhere. Yes! Tony was the original owner of this space, but recognized a terrific opportunity when Paulo expressed interest in procuring the business. Tony was eager to enjoy this industry without the added responsibility of ownership. Witnessing Paulo redesign the space and system has been exhilarating for Tony, and he supports Paulo's quest completely.
Tony has served an illustrious clientele in the Bedford area for many years. Prior to this tenure, Tony and two partners founded "Adam and Eve Enterprises in Scarsdale, NY. Within three years, six more "Adam and Eve" salons were added to the surrounding region.
One of his most passionate ventures, though, was his joint venture; the
spear-heading and development of "Headmasters Academy" a premier school of advanced haircutting where he trained, coaxed, and emotionally supported many students to open their own salons.
Tony noticed an emerging necessity in his field, one that was often neglected. He developed special skills in "hair replacement" and enhancement for men and women. Tony furthered his craft by aiding women experiencing hair loss due to chemotherapy and other health-related hair loss. His gentle, respectful and affectionate nature is specially suited to this niche, and he never tires of comforting clients facing this particular challenge. "Seeing a genuine smile on their face after a hairpiece fitting and styling has to be the single most rewarding experience of my career," exudes Tony.
A private room is available for consultation and service. Please call in advance to book a complimentary consult with Tony.
Heidi Steimel Stylist/Colorist
To meet Heidi is to adore Heidi!
Heidi has been in the beauty industry for years, but one would think she is a 25 year young stylist. Her exuberance and positive attitude is contagious. One thing is guaranteed, Heidi always has a makeover idea in store for you. She will keep it reined in, but if you are ready, she is too! Heidi goes to every class available, be it trend color or new color placement. She does keratin treatments, chemically wave, highlight, razor cut- quite honestly, she can do it all!
Women of all ages are hooked, so book ahead! The word on the street is: Her cuts last longer than most, and grow in gracefully, especially her long -layered styles.
Best advice, even to those who have been with Heidi for years: Ask Heidi "What haircut do you think would look the best on me?" Then let her prove it!
Marie Cosmos Stylist/Colorist
Marie has worked in the Bedford area for over 20 years, and has a genuine understanding of what the refined women of Westchester require. Her extensive training includes chemical work with color and permanent waves, yet she really enjoys formal hair styling and up- do's.
"Brides need special attention. The day is so nerve-racking, and they deserve a calm, patient stylist. I really love to help create a happy memory for them!"
Marie also specializes in styling women who suffer with thinning hair. Her discreet nature comforts clients as this is a very common, yet sensitive subject. A private room is available for consultation. Marie guides the client with products and techniques to disguise the problem, or will assist in finding a hairpiece that is natural and believable.
Please book a consultation in advance, and prepare to love your hair again!
Justin May Stylist
Justin joined Paulo's in November 2009, after a salon win at Village Custom Cuts in Croton-on - Hudson. The salon was recognized by Westchester Magazine as "Best Men's Hair", - Justin was the only men's stylist! Although this was a terrific boost, Justin feared it would lock him into a narrow field. His desire to expand his expertise to include women's styling led him to Paulo.
Justin recognizes that education is power and communication is the key to success. "Devoting myself to my craft; empowering my mind with new techniques and thought processes, as well as surrounding myself with successful people is my recipe for excellence."
Justin's passion has paid off. His ability to recreate the cutting edge styles learned in stylist training programs offered at Eufora's Creative Cutting, John Allen's Advanced Men's Cuts, and Tigi's Advanced Cutting has advanced his career in record time. Justin constantly studies technique videos to further hone his skill set. Clients of all ages adore his energy and personalized creations. "I appreciate Paulo's encouragement to pursue education. He demands excellence from his employees as well as from himself. He is a role model in the industry, and I like to make him proud."
Agata Young Nail Technician, Make up Artist
Agata, personal style coach
Agata has combined her life experience as a runway model with her beauty business background, and Paulo's Atelier is fortunate to claim her as our resident personal fashion stylist.
Agata's impressive resume includes ownership of a beauty salon at a young age, as well as a European modeling career where she walked the catwalk after applying all the models make-up! "It was very hectic, but so exciting" reminisces Agata. While on fashion breaks, she did make-up, nails and styling for bridal parties and special occasions
at her salon in Krakow, Poland.
Agata came to the U.S. to pursue modeling, but realized the beauty industry is more stable. Also, she missed her role as a personal style coach for women of all ages.
Book a consultation with Agata; not just for beautiful nails and perfect eyebrow/*eyelash updates. Her real gift is helping women transition back into the workforce, and guiding new graduates to crossover from student style to polished, professional adult. She will teach make-up techniques, consult with you regarding wardrobe revamping, and refer you to a stylist best suited to your
hair type.
Do you have a young teen who is feeling insecure about her looks? Agata will gently advise her in ways to best enhance her attributes. Your daughter will leave this session with head held high, and an air of confidence in her stride.
*Newest addition: Glamorous eyelashes are yours for the taking! This new technology delivers long lasting doe eyes, and is all the rage in major cities,especially NYC and L.A. Agata guarantees your eyes and everyone else's will pop with this exciting addition to your make-over!
Luisa Vasquez Apprentice
Sandra Papari Apprentice
Samira Fischer Apprentice
Harmonie Josephs Apprentice
Cindy Payne Apprentice
Jessica DeBellis Apprentice
Johanna Montero Apprentice
Lilian Arroya
Jo Ann Santoro Front Desk Coordinator
Paulo's Atelier is complete when Jo Ann Santoro is present. Her effervescent smile upon greeting and elevated customer service protocol sets the atmosphere for our client - salon interaction. Jo Ann's years spent as a successful stylist and her tenure as a salon owner fostered her undying passion for the beauty industry. This background, coupled with a degree in Marketing and Management, prepared her for the high standard Paulo's Atelier requires.
Jo Ann was recruited by Paulo three years ago, knowing it was essential that his manager, Natalie, should have a responsible teammate to help coordinate the salon guest experience. The combination is a stellar one, as Jo Ann has a fan base of her very own.
Sandra Siquenza Stylist/Front Desk Coordinator
Sandra had the distinct advantage of apprenticing with Paulo in her early formative salon years. Her professional conduct and elevated color sense reflect his work ethic. As much as she adores and excels in color, her styling prowess is equally impressive. High School Seniors flock to her for trendy prom up-dos, brides gladly entrust her with their formal styles, and 21 year -olds feel transformed for their birthday celebrations.
Sandra has youth on her side: Young people trust her implicitly, yet her mature nature and respectful aura appeal to all ages. Mother/daughter teams are a common sight in her chair. If change is what you are looking for, she is your visionary!