Today we’d like to introduce you to Kiki Rizzi.
Hi Kiki , it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
From a young age, I was drawn to the energy and creativity of the salon world. My first job in high school was working as a receptionist at a local hair salon and spa—a role that quickly became more than just a part-time gig. I continued working front desk positions throughout my college years while studying Communications at Northeastern University in Boston, gaining firsthand experience in client service and salon operations.
After graduation, I moved to New York City to pursue a career in public relations and also worked at a music agency. To supplement my income, I sought out a high-end salon in my Chelsea neighborhood where I could work evenings and weekends—something I felt completely comfortable with given my years of experience. I ended up at Sally Hershberger Salon, unaware at the time of how pivotal that choice would become for my career.
Shortly after, I was laid off from my PR role—a moment that, while challenging, turned out to be a turning point. I transitioned to full-time work at Sally Hershberger Salon and quickly realized how much I thrived in the salon environment. I loved the fast pace, the creativity, and the sense of community.
Over time, I stepped into new responsibilities, eventually becoming Sally’s personal assistant. From there, I took on the role of spa manager at The Face Place, the skincare studio located above the salon. It was during this period that I had a realization: I wasn’t just passionate about the salon industry—I wanted to be behind the chair.
Hair had always been a personal passion. I was the go-to stylist for my friends growing up, braiding hair at summer camp and doing updos before school dances. With encouragement from Sally and her team, I enrolled in a top cosmetology program in NYC, attending classes at night while still managing the salon by day.
After graduating, I joined Sally Hershberger’s team as an assistant, primarily working under the renowned Tomoyasu Nakajima and learning from some of the most respected professionals in the industry. I enjoyed working on many celebrities and influential clients. I absorbed everything I could, from technique to client care, and soon after, sought to deepen my education even further at the iconic Bumble and bumble salon on the Upper East Side.
After several years in New York, I was ready for a new chapter—one where I could bring my experience to a growing city, build a name for myself, and eventually create a space of my own. I moved to Jacksonville, Florida (knowing only one person!) and spent eight years cultivating a loyal clientele.
Three years ago, I fulfilled a longtime dream by opening 11i Salon Collective—a creative, community-focused space that reflects my years of experience, passion for the craft, and commitment to elevating the salon experience for both clients and stylists alike.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Balancing three jobs while living in New York City and assisting in a top salon was no easy feat—but in your twenties, you find the energy and drive to make it work! That time in my life taught me resilience, discipline, and the importance of staying focused on long-term goals.
One of the more challenging decisions I faced early on in my career was choosing between becoming a colorist or a stylist. In many New York salons, specialization is the standard, and I ultimately chose to focus on styling because I loved the energy of working on set and behind the scenes at fashion shows. My first big solo gig was doing hair for a Nylon Magazine TV shoot for Charles David Shoes. I was then hired by the fashion journal One Magazine to do their cover shoot. I had the privilege of doing hair for BCBGMAXAZRIA at New York Fashion Week. I was also hired to style hair for TRESemmé during their New York Fashion Week pop-up salon.
After relocating to Florida, I saw an opportunity to expand my skill set and offer more comprehensive services to my clients. I returned to New York to train at the prestigious Goldwell Academy, where I advanced my education in professional color. Today, I’m proud to offer both coloring and cutting/styling services, along with bridal and editorial hair. Being able to combine all of these areas allows me to bring a well-rounded approach to every client and project I take on.
We’ve been impressed with 11i Salon Collective, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
The name 11i Salon Collective is a meaningful nod to where my journey as a hairstylist began. When I first enrolled in cosmetology school in New York City, I was living in an apartment labeled “11i” in Manhattan. It quickly became a gathering place for friends who would come over for haircuts, color, and styling sessions. Before long, they affectionately began calling it “Salon 11i”—and the name stuck. When it came time to open my own space, it felt only right to honor those early days and the spirit of creativity and connection they represented.
The word Collective reflects my vision of creating a collaborative space for independent beauty professionals. Since opening, we’ve welcomed estheticians, nail artists, extension specialists, and curly hair experts—each bringing their own artistry and unique perspective to the salon. The energy in the space is vibrant and inspiring, and there’s a strong sense of support and camaraderie among the team. It’s more than a salon—it’s a community of passionate creatives, each contributing to a shared vision of exceptional service and artistry.
Alright, so to wrap up, is there anything else you’d like to share with us?
I love doing natural, “lived-in” colors and styles using techniques like Balayage razor cutting and point cutting. I also perform a lot of smoothing treatments, such as Brazilian Blowout and QiQi. I carry really great clean hair products. Seven Haircare is based out of Seattle, and they are only sold in authorized salons and directly through their website. I also love Shibui, K18 and Color Wow products. I primarily use Duomo and Redken for hair coloring. I enjoy volunteering and using my skills to help people and change lives. One of my favorite charities that I was able to do hair for is Tim Tebow’s Night to Shine, a worldwide prom event for individuals with special needs. I also love doing hair makeovers for people who have lost their hair due to medical conditions.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://11isaloncollective.com
- Instagram: kikirizzihair
- Facebook: 11isaloncollective
