Mark Pedersen - master stylist / owner
Mark Pedersen has always enjoyed drawing and painting, but it was not until about ten years ago that he stumbled upon hair as his new esthetic. After discovering his calling, Mark opened up Jade in 2006 and still loves coming to work everyday. As Jade’s master stylist, Mark leads training classes in the salon as well as mentors new stylists. He has been partnered with Aveda for over eight years now, and has attended every class Aveda has to offer, including advanced academy training classes with several of Aveda’s master stylists. Mark considers the art of cutting curly hair to be his specialty, as do the true testimonials on Naturallycurly.com. On his time off he loves painting, playing with his children and even cutting hair! Mark loves what he does and thus has been very particular in putting together his team at Jade. He is very proud of the entire Jade team and feels confident in recommending any of the stylists.

Tricia O'Leary - stylist / aveda hair color educator
Tricia O'Leary graduated from the Aveda Institute in Cleveland, Ohio before moving down to North Carolina in 2005. She has been with Jade since its opening and has since become an Aveda Certified color educator who trains stylists both in the salon and at the Aveda Institute in Chapel Hill. She has attended many advanced training classes with Aveda in Washington D.C., Cleveland, Chapel Hill and Aveda’s flagship location in Minneapolis. Tricia loves to travel and try new things; whether it’s a new razor cutting technique or kayaking or pottery, she enjoys the thrill and creativity of a transformation. Although Tricia considers color to be her specialty, she loves everything about being a hair stylist with Aveda, especially making people feel good!

Brittney Hiatt - stylist
Brittney Hiatt loves to have fun at Jade! Whether it’s coming up with a fun new style or entertaining her teammates, Brittney is always up for anything out of the ordinary. Staying up to date with the latest trends in hair is what keeps her excited to try new things. Brittney loves the daily surprises and excitement of working in a creative atmosphere that encourages change. Both her teammates and her guests turn to Brittney for positivity and strong cutting skills. Always a good listener, Brittney is eager to help guests create new looks that fit into their lifestyles and showcase their best features.

Stewart Smith - esthetican
Spend five minutes talking to Stewart Smith about skincare or one hour experiencing a customized facial with her and you will understand why she is so passionate about Aveda. Stewart gives guests the chance to experience personal wellness through facials and daily skincare. Her interactions with guests are her chances to educate them about skincare and wellness. Her easy going nature helps calm guests and make them feel comfortable (even during bikini waxes!). Stewart enjoys taking any classes on the latest skincare techniques and products as well as traveling and interactive video games.

Amanda Simmons - stylist
Working at Jade is more than just a job for Amanda Simmons. She has been with Jade since its opening in 2006, and loves the daily opportunity to help people transform their style and the way they feel about themselves. She graduated top of her class from the Aveda Institute in Chapel Hill, and considers highlighting and cutting to be two of the things she does best. Other than helping guests transform themselves, Amanda also enjoys gardening, cooking and spending time with her husband, dogs and family.