MEET BERWYN’S CREATIVES: GIA SCHAFFRATH OF GOLDILOXX HAIR STUDIO

Name: Gia Schaffrath

Hometown: Oak Park, IL

Current Residence: Oak Park, IL

All About Gia:

I lived in Oak Park my whole life and went to Oak Park River Forest High School. There, I was part of the Cosmetology Club and also did hair and makeup for theater. I played soccer my whole life and was a cheerleader in elementary school and high school, but was always drawn to anything art-oriented. I dabbled in piano, singing, and enjoy doing any type of artistry whether it be sculpting, painting, sketching, you name it. After graduating high school, I went on to Western Illinois University where I studied Chemistry for a semester. I quickly figured out it was not the path for me and decided to take a more creative route. I worked at Mancini’s for a few years while I continued to sharpen my creative skills.

The Business Side: I never thought I could make a career out of my creative interests, but I spoke to a mentor of mine who recommended I check out Mario Tricoci University. Going there was the best decision I ever made, and I still work there to continue building my client base. Aside from doing hair, I love doing special effects makeup, from Halloween makeup to characters and beyond. I’ve been doing this kind of makeup on myself since I was 14-15 years old and started sharing it last year on Instagram, where it took off and got so many positive responses. I plan on doing it full time along with hair!

I’ve worked at various hair salons over the past year, but none were close to home. Now you can find me at Goldiloxx on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 10AM to when the last client is satisfied. I’m well-rounded in all areas, but I’m happiest when I get to style. I also really enjoy color. I love getting to know my clients and helping them achieve the look they want. If clients aren’t sure, I’m always happy to give a consultation on a look that fits their wants and needs.

 

DESCRIBE YOURSELF IN 3 WORDS.

Creative: I grew up being creative, and my whole family is artistic in one form or another.

Driven: I know what I want to do in life and have a path set for my future.

Personable: I enjoy talking to and getting to know my clients, which is a perk of the job. People always tell me I’m very personable and have a great personality.

 

WHAT INSPIRES YOU?

The future and the endless possibilities. Just knowing what the future holds and what I can accomplish definitely inspires me and drives me.

 

WHY BERWYN?

Growing up in Oak Park, my neighborhood and surrounding suburbs like River Forest, Forest Park and Berwyn are all I know. I wanted to stay close to home and to Chicago, and Berwyn is that sweet spot. The commute is a breeze and I really love the area, so I don’t plan on leaving anytime soon.

 

WHAT IS YOUR FONDEST MEMORY?

I have a 2-year-old Pitbull Mastiff that is my not so little fur baby. I always think back to when I took care of him as a 5-week-old puppy. I love looking back on all the cute pictures and reminiscing.

 

WHAT MAKES YOU LAUGH?

The Office and other shows like it! I love Netflix.

 

WHAT JOB WOULD YOU BE TERRIBLE AT?

Anything involving immense pressure, like being a politician.

 

WHAT’S SOMETHING NEW YOU LEARNED OR EXPERIENCED?

Becoming a business woman. At Goldiloxx, I get to handle all the aspects of the business. I never thought I’d be a business woman and be good at it, so I’m happy to say I’m killing it right now!

 

WHAT’S THE OLDEST THING YOU OWN?

I don’t really like to hold onto things, but I do have a lot of my mom’s clothes from the 80s and 90s.

 

WHAT’S YOUR GO-TO KARAOKE SONG?

I don’t do much karaoke, but my favorite song my dad sings is the one and only “Africa” by Toto.

 

WHAT TIME PERIOD WOULD YOU MOST LIKE TO VISIT AND WHY?

Since I’m not a fan of super old history, I’d say I would like to be my current age but in 1991. I grew up watching Friends and loved the style and way of living during that time, crops tops, butterfly clips and all. I do like to incorporate scrunchies into my everyday style as a nod to the time period.

Book your appointment or consultation with Gia at styleseat.com/giovannaelisabetta.