Today we’d like to introduce you to Taylor Gray.
Hi Taylor, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
started my journey in hair in 2017 when I went to Aveda in Jacksonville, and I started working behind the chair in 2019. I really fell in love with being in a salon and everything that came along with it. I learned so much from being around other stylists, taking classes, learning about products, and just being able to share ideas and learn from each other.
Over time, I found that color, lived-in blondes, custom color, and razor cutting were the things I really enjoyed most. I love that hair gives me a creative outlet, but I also really love the people side of it.
Eventually, I knew I wanted to create a space that felt like my own. That’s how Knack Shack came to be. I share the suite with my suite mate, Sher Clemmons, and we’ve created a space in Jacksonville that feels comfortable, welcoming, and a little different from a traditional salon.
One of the biggest things that matters to me is making people feel heard and understood. I don’t think you can give someone the best hair possible if you don’t actually listen to what they want. Everyone has different hair, lifestyles, and ideas of what makes them feel good, so I really try to meet people where they are.
More than anything, I wanted Knack Shack to be a judgment-free space where everyone can walk in, feel comfortable, and be themselves. I’m really proud of how everything has come together and how all of the experiences, people, and lessons along the way have brought me to where I am now.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
One of my first challenges was choosing to go to hair school after college once I realized it was something I was truly passionate about. I worked full time while going to school full time, and there were definitely moments where it felt impossible, but I knew it was what I wanted.
After school, I had to learn to trust my skills and understand that there was still so much to learn. Building confidence behind the chair took time.
I think the biggest challenge throughout my career has really been learning to trust myself. Every new step has required me to believe in what I’ve learned, take a chance on myself, and keep growing.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I specialize in lived-in, dimensional hair color and customized haircuts that enhance natural beauty, with a focus on blonding, soft transitions, and effortless, personalized tones. My goal is to create color that grows out seamlessly and fits each client’s personal style.
I’m known for delivering natural, healthy-looking results while ensuring every client feels comfortable, heard, and at ease in my chair, all while sharing a laugh and being my true self. Building trust and strong relationships is at the heart of my work.
What sets me apart is my attention to detail and commitment to listening. I tailor every service to each client’s lifestyle, goals, and maintenance needs so the result is beautiful, wearable, and sustainable.
I’m also proud to provide a space like The Knack Shack, an inclusive salon that celebrates individuality, creativity, and genuine connection.
Where do you see things going in the next 5-10 years?
In 5–8 years, I hope I’m still constantly learning, growing, and evolving as a stylist and as a person. I’d love to continue building Knack Shack into a space that people know and trust, while becoming a hairstylist who is truly a part of the Jacksonville community. I want my work and my relationships with my clients to speak for themselves and hopefully be someone people feel lucky to have in their corner.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://taylor-at-knack-shack.square.site/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/__tailoredbytaylor__/
