Paul Mitchell Schools

Tina Black - Salon Owner
Paul Mitchell School Owner x5
Co - Owner Next Level Salon Leadership
Certified John Maxwell Coach
Author
Working with Cara has been such an incredible experience for our students! Her ability to go beyond technical skill and connect with the hearts of our Future Professionals is truly special. She brings so much depth, purpose, and passion — reminding all of us that this industry is about more than doing great hair; it’s about making a lasting impact.
Through her class, our students learned the power of serving others with intention and care. Cara also introduced benchmarking tools that helped them visualize their goals and map out real pathways to success as stylists.
I can’t recommend Cara enough to any school or salon that wants to inspire, elevate, and empower their students for success in the real world.
"Working with Cara has been such an incredible experience for our students! Her ability to go beyond technical skill, and connect with the Heart of our future professionals is truly special. She brings so much depth, purpose, and passion- Reminding all of us that this industry is about more than doing great hair; It’s about making a lasting impact.
Through her class, our students learned the power of serving others with intention and care. Cara also introduced benchmarking tools that helped them visualize our goals and map out real pathways to success as stylist.
I can’t recommend Cara enough to any school or salon that wants to inspire, elevate, and empower their students for success in the real world."


Amber Peterson
Spa Owner/ Marshall, MI
Wellness Specialist
“I’ve known Cara professionally for over twenty years, and in that time I’ve watched her grow into a truly transformative presence in the beauty industry. She doesn’t just elevate someone’s hair—she elevates the people around her. Her calm, inspiring energy creates a space where others feel supported, seen, and capable of more.
Cara’s depth of experience, from stylist to mentor, makes her guidance both practical and powerful. She brings loyalty, insight, and a genuine passion for helping others succeed.
If you’re looking to grow your business and mindset, Cara is the kind of leader who makes the journey feel possible—and exciting.”


"I have had the honor of calling Cara many things over the course of our 16-year friendship. Everything from roommate, coworker, soul sister and ride or die. Anyone who has had the benefit of sitting in her chair knows she does everything through her God given heart. On more than one occasion she has inspired and motivated me to climb out of hairstylist burnout.
If you are in need of any consulting services, you must contact Cara!"
Christy Lucas
Salon Owner/ Mackinac Island
Hair Stylist


I can't say enough great things about Cara and her consulting business. She has a gift for helping hairstylists understand their clients on a deeper level, something our industry really needs. Her trainings are inspiring, easy to apply, and make a real difference behind the chair. If you want to grow not just as a stylist, but as a person, she's the one to learn from!
Melissa Kientzle
Salon Owner/ Naples, FL
HairStylist


Karen Bradley
Felix Andrew Salons/Naples FL
General Manager
"I have had the pleasure of leading Cara for almost 10 years, and during that time I witnessed her remarkable growth-not only as a stylist but as person.
Cara played a pivotal role in mentoring and inspiring new stylists across four of our locations. Her ability to set clear goals, motivate others, and lead with authenticity created a culture of growth and success. Cara's influence extended far beyond the chair; she elevated the entire team with vision, dedication, and heart. I am proud to have worked together with her and to have seen firsthand the lasting impact she made not only on our staff but her clients as well."


Shannon Welsh
Roots Salon/ Cape Coral FL
Owner/Hairstylist
"I have known Cara since our shared time in our hometown of Battle Creek, MI, and our unique experience of living together on Mackinac Island. The history we share has given me a deep appreciation for her character, drive, and innate ability to connect with people.
​​Cara possesses a rare combination of charisma and commitment that makes her an exceptional leader.
​She has a way of lighting up a room when she enters and is a genuine "go getter" who embodies the spirit of "living life to the fullest." This belief in herself and her capabilities is the core foundation of a successful leader.
​I believe in Cara wholeheartedly not only because she believes in herself, but because she does not wait for opportunities; she creates them.
​Cara Gandy is ready to embrace the responsibility of guiding others, supported by the passion, confidence, and authenticity essential for creating a thriving, impactful online presence.
​I highly recommend Cara for this leadership position without hesitation."
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