We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Antje Kastner-Panya a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Antje thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Are you happier as a business owner? Do you sometimes think about what it would be like to just have a regular job?

I find greater happiness in creating my own work environment, one that fosters creativity. I enjoy setting up a space that is inviting for clients and allows room for experimentation and growth. In this setting, I’ve been expanding my photography skills, sculpting with clay, and exploring ways to reuse or upcycle my amber product bottles. These pursuits have opened up new revenue streams while keeping my work fresh and engaging. They also inspire me with colors and shapes that I can bring back to my clients, helping me stay enthusiastic and excited.

For me, exploring ideas and working with my hands is both calming and exhilarating. It would be challenging to find a job that provides the right “playground” within the field of cosmetology. I love connecting with my clients and engaging in meaningful conversations, which is one of the reasons I enjoy working as a solo stylist.

Antje , love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I was born in East Germany, to a family of master stylists and salon owners. In 8th grade my teacher asked us to list 2 careers we wanted.

I wrote:

1. Artist

2. Artist

When the Wall fell I had to find stability amidst the upheaval, so I followed in my family’s footsteps and became a hairdresser. Turns out, I still ended up with my dream career.

Today, I see clients who want artful, trend-defying, individualized hair styles. Everyone who sits in my chair gets personalized attention, and together we create a look as unique as they are. With 30 years of experience, I’ve elevated these client consultations to an art as well.

Great art survives the test of time, and salons should lead the way in sustainability. That’s why I run a low-plastic, Eco-conscious studio and use organic products when I can.

We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?

What I learned is that success in this industry doesn’t depend on the number of employees you have, the size of your salon, the number of followers on social media, or how well-known you are. I truly feel most successful when I give 100% to my clients during their service, and they leave feeling that they received exactly what they needed that day.

Any advice for growing your clientele? What’s been most effective for you?

I focus on each client individually. If I find myself struggling, getting bored, or feeling complacent with hair colors or cuts, I seek out a mentor I admire and sign up for a class to refresh my perspective and hone my skills. I stay open to interesting looks and strive to give each client a unique style, free from the pressure of following every trend. Client-stylist relationships are special, and I believe in being patient to find the perfect match.

In addition to focusing on personal growth, I am also committed to being environmentally conscious in my choice of products and my overall approach to the salon environment. I’m exploring ways to reuse product glass bottles and offer refills to my clients, ensuring that my practice reflects my values while providing exceptional service.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.akschicago.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/antjekastner.studio/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/antjekastner/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@AKSChicago

Image Credits
Hair and Photography by Antje Kastner Panya Models/Clients: Nicole, Katy, Maureen, Bettina, Charlie, Carina, Sarah, Juliet