LEADERSHIP
Debbie Nachreiner
CO-OWNER · MASTER ARTIST
Debbie has been in this industry for over 30 years and continues to lead our team as a master stylist. Her motto is, “A thorough consultation is the key for a positive outcome.” She says, “My years of experience have proven this to be the secret to success in this industry. Having the ability to give advice based on your unique facial shape, skin tone, eye color, body stature and lifestyle are what bring my clients back. I truly pride myself on my honesty, which results in a long-lasting positive relationship.”
In addition to unique consultations, color is her passion. Debbie has a keen eye for color, whether it be in the hair industry or home decorating. She believes true beauty starts within a healthy body, and many of her interests outside of C’zar include nutrition and diet. When not busy running C’zar or behind the chair, Debbie’s other passions range from home decorating and gardening to spending time with family and pets.
Due to her limited schedule, Debbie is not available for online booking and is no longer accepting new guests.
Evonne Rutz
CO-OWNER · MASTER ARTIST
Evonne has been in the salon atmosphere from the time she was 18 months old. Her mom was a hairdresser and had her by her side while she was giving one of her guests a permanent wave. An accident occurred when her mom walked away to answer the phone…Evonne reached over her high-chair only to grab the white bottle of perm solution, drinking down the entire contents. Needless to say, after a successful stomach pumping at the hospital, Evonne had ingested the “Kool-Aid,” so to say, and the inevitable journey into the hairdressing world was destined to be her future. What a beautiful journey it has been thus far.
After obtaining licensing in barbering, cosmetology, and teaching in the early to mid-80s she traveled the globe to seek quality education. After working in California in 1985 she moved back home to Illinois where she met Debbie Nachreiner. The two’s friendship and business relationship quickly flourished. With the support of each other, they believed that they could grow their business at a reasonable pace that wouldn’t jeopardize their responsibilities as mothers and wives. It was then that C’zar was born. Evonne loves to see the excitement in the eyes of people who love the work performed by her and her staff. She is most proud of her daughters and niece as they have worked endlessly to contributing to the success of C’zar’s growth.
Gina Sowa
CO-OWNER · MASTER ARTIST
Gina has been a key part of the C’zar team since 2007. Prior to joining us, she graduated from the Aveda Institute Chicago and has worked with the Aveda product line since 2004. In addition to her professional training, she is third generation in this business and credits both her mother and grandmother for years of inspiration. They taught her the “good stuff,” aka the information that just can’t be taught in school and the skills that will set you apart from the rest.
She says, “I feel very blessed to be able to come to work every day and do what I love. In turn, my job very rarely feels like ‘work.’ I always have been, and will continue to be, extremely dedicated to my craft, and advanced education is a constant priority to me. At C’zar, I wear many hats and am truly passionate about each one. It feels as though I am constantly being asked, ‘Which service do you like to do best?’ Truthfully, one doesn’t stick out more than another. Variety is what keeps me inspired. I tend to look at the big picture and with each guest, use the opportunity to somehow make a difference in their life. If I can help them feel as beautiful on the inside as I make them look on the outside then in my eyes, my job is complete!”
Katie Barren
GENERAL MANAGER
Still trying to get Katie to sit still long enough to write this. Check back soon.
HAIR ARTISTS
Andrew Hood
LEVEL 7 HAIR ARTIST
Andrew began his career behind the chair in 2016. Although a real comedian at heart, he takes his job very seriously and strives to turn every guest experience into a great one. Andrew’s certifications range from Aqua Hand-tied Weft Extensions to Cezanne Smoothing treatments. Additionally, as C’zar Wheaton’s Aveda Ambassador, Andrew always has the “Aveda tea” — keeping you informed on all the new & exciting up-and-coming products. His strengths lie in making anxious guests feel comfortable, tapered men’s cuts, and long women’s layered cuts. He loves everything that comes his way, but especially thrives when his guest desires a dimensional color change or formal style.
Karina Davila
LEVEL 7 HAIR ARTIST
Karina is a dry cutting and color specialist known for creating modern hair that enhances each guest’s natural texture, personality, and lifestyle. She’s built a reputation on intentional consultations, customized dry and curly cuts, and rich, dimensional color that moves beautifully and fits your lifestyle. As a proud Libra, Karina enjoys bringing a grounded, personable energy to every appointment. Her approach blends expertise with education — she delivers a refined yet welcoming experience where you feel understood, guided, and confident in your hair journey. You’ll leave with a newfound appreciation for your natural hair and know how to maintain it at home away from the salon.
Despite staying active in her off time doing dancing, yoga, or hiking, she loves slow mornings. Starting with a cold brew or matcha in-hand, she travels nationwide, educating stylists on how to confidently cut, color, and style all hair textures. Outside the salon, Karina is an Aveda Hair Color Educator, and a Forever Curls Master Stylist and Educator — all before her 30th birthday. Her latest advanced training includes Rezo Curly Cut and Color Academy, Masters of Balayage, Ashlee Norman’s Color Class, Bridal Styling with Tonya, and Styling with Elegance by Kim. As the owner of her own bridal hair and makeup business, Karina blends her artistry with a strong foundation in business and marketing, creating an elevated experience from first inquiry to final look.
Liz Derrig
LEVEL 7 HAIR ARTIST & EDUCATOR
Liz has been a licensed cosmetologist since 2000 and joined the C’zar family in 2007. She’s taken classes taught by lead figures in the industry such as Lupe Voss, Geno Chapman, Jon Reyman, and Robert Grimes. Her specialties include color, dimensional color such as “foilayage,” grey coverage, cutting all lengths, and detailed consultations. When she’s not behind the chair, Liz loves spending time with her three daughters and husband.
Stephanie Virzi
LEVEL 7 HAIR ARTIST
I’ve been a professional hairstylist since 2006, beginning day 1 at Douglas J. Aveda Institute in East Lansing Michigan, with advanced training from top industry educators and experience in New York City. I specialize in curly cutting, men’s cuts, keratin smoothing treatments, blondes, and women’s short hair. My focus is always on delivering personalized results that help each client leave feeling confident and seen. Guests love my warm, attentive approach and describe their visits as skillful, relaxing, and rejuvenating. Many note the personal touches — especially the invigorating scalp massages and how I truly listen and tailor each service to their needs.
Yvette Kuta
LEVEL 7 HAIR ARTIST
As a master artist at C’zar and with over 17 years experience in the industry, Yvette’s passion for hair is stronger than ever. Working as a stylist for many years, her philosophies have matured to create hairstyles that are not only current but easily managed as well. She will personalize each and every color, and incorporate it with the right cut — enhancing your individual style and features. How hair looks as it grows out is vital, and she styles hair with that essential principle. Yvette’s strength resides highly in blow-dry styling and creating lasting results for everyday wear or special occasions.
Amanda Karcz
LEVEL 6 ARTIST
If you’re looking for a stylist that’s both personable and professional, Amanda’s your girl. Since joining our team in 2012, her easy-going and positive attitude makes her a popular choice for C’zar guests. Amanda’s expertise lies in blondes, dry hair-cutting, foilayage, curly hair, and color. Regardless of the reason for your visit, she loves giving you a look you can easily maintain and teaching you how to re-create your look at home.
Caitlyn Tisza
LEVEL 6 HAIR ARTIST
Hi, I’m Caitlyn, and I’m passionate about bringing your dream hair to life! With over six years in the industry and four years specializing in extensions, I’ve honed my craft to create seamless, natural-looking transformations. I’m certified in multiple extension methods, including Invisible Bead Extensions®, Bellami, and Aqua — continuously expanding my expertise to offer the best results. Whether you’re ready to begin your hair journey or have questions, I’d love to connect!
Casey Hvizdos
LEVEL 6 HAIR ARTIST
Casey may only be 4’11” (5’1″ in heels), but the passion and energy she brings to the C’zar team is immeasurable. Since joining our family in 2015, Casey has quickly advanced within our ranks and continues to excel in both her technical skill and leadership abilities. Coming from a family of hairstylists, Casey has come full circle. She knew she wanted to pursue a career in this industry ever since she was tall enough to stand at the table and rip foils. It’s no wonder her specialties lie in blondes, balayage hair painting, and foiling patterns. She recently added FlatTrac extensions to her list of talents. She graduated with high honors from Capri in New Lenox and has since taken classes with industry-leading educators such as Jon Reyman, Lupe Voss, and Ashlee Norman.
CeCe Cermak
LEVEL 6 HAIR ARTIST
After previously working as a Certified Nursing Assistant, CeCelia realized she loved helping people & making them feel good about themselves. She then decided to begin her career as a hairstylist at Mario Tricoci in 2017 & joined the C’zar team to excel in our extensive Advanced Education Apprentice Program. Over the course of her education she’s found her specialty in foiling & creating dimensional blondes, along with specializing in hair extensions. She currently has four separate extension certifications and continues to take classes to better her craft! Other strengths include bobs and transformational colors. CeCe has also taken makeup courses where she was selected to travel to L.A. with James Ryder where her artistry was featured in Lividity Magazine. When she’s not behind the chair, this animal lover doubles as a competitive horseback rider and breeder — ranked 3rd in the nation in 2016 and 2017, and the first horse she bred was reserve national champion in 2023!
Jessica Liesen
LEVEL 6 HAIR ARTIST
Jessica has been a part of the C’zar family since 2011. Her guests will tell you she’s always smiling, and her down-to-earth and easy going personality always keeps them comfortable and relaxed. Jessica’s daily focus is accentuating the natural beauty and individuality of her clientele through a variety of services. After completing C’zar’s intensive advanced education program in 2012, Jessica has since become Vidal Sassoon ABC Hair Cutting Certified and has continued her education with some of Aveda’s top educators including Jon Reyman, Ricardo Dinis, and Lupe Voss. Her specialties include men’s cutting and men or women’s dimensional hair coloring.
Bailee Shillaker-Funk
LEVEL 5 HAIR ARTIST
Bailee joined C’zar Wheaton in September of 2021. She says, “Growing up I was always a tomboy, but I remember I loved getting my hair cut. I would also beg my mom to let me color it in high school. I just loved how you could come into the salon looking and feeling subpar and leave feeling your best! I started my journey at a small privately owned salon with no thought that I might become a stylist. It wasn’t until I started working closely with the clients and learning more about the industry that I was hooked. I get to be a chemist when mixing color, a therapist when discussing life quarrels, and a friend that is a part of some of the biggest moments you’ll ever experience in life.”
When she’s not in the salon, Bailee enjoys riding motorcycles. There’s something truly freeing about feeling the wind and the sun on your face. Book an appointment with Bailee today and let her be your friend, and your hair’s best friend.
Nikie Rodriguez
LEVEL 5 HAIR ARTIST
Nikie began her career in 2013 and joined our C’zar family in 2014. Upon completing C’zar’s intensive Advanced Education Program, Nikie’s specialties include cuts & blowouts for all hair types along with custom hair color.
Lin Miller
LEVEL 5 ARTIST & BARBER
Lin joined C’zar in 2014, but began practicing her craft in 2011. Although she’s held her cosmetology license since 2013, this goal-getter is dually licensed — meaning she obtained her barber license in 2019. Her specialties include men’s grooming along with blonding, pixie cuts, and short crops.
Lisa Therron
LEVEL 5 HAIR ARTIST
Still trying to get Lisa to sit still long enough to write this. Check back soon.
Alicia Bellino
LEVEL 4 HAIR ARTIST
Alicia graduated from G Skin and Beauty Institute in the winter of 2017 and has been a hairstylist with us since September 2020. She officially completed C’zar’s Advanced Education Apprenticeship program in the summer of 2021. Her passion lies in color and cutting alike, but the most rewarding of all is educating her guests on how to recreate her hair magic at home. Her clients say her attention to detail, willingness to educate, and friendly conversation keep them coming back again & again.
Bree Lang
LEVEL 4 HAIR ARTIST, CERTIFIED
Besides earning her Cosmetologist license in 2020, Bree is also a Certified Makeup and Microblading Artist. She joined the C’zar team in February of 2021 in order to continue on her mission of uplifting others. She says, “I have always had a passion for making a positive difference in people’s lives, by inspiring them to express themselves. Working as a hair stylist has not only helped me support my passion, but it also provides me an opportunity to be creative and help people feel good about themselves.” Bree has since earned her Master Certification in Bellami Hair Extensions.
Sharon Burnham
LEVEL 4 HAIR ARTIST
Sharon graduated from The Paul Mitchell School and became a licensed Cosmetologist in June of 2021. It was Sharon’s passion for cutting that drew her to cosmetology, but throughout her education she quickly discovered her passion for color as well. Sharon completed her apprenticeship at C’zar in September ’22 to fine-tune her skillset and became a full-time Hair Artist. Seeing her guests happy with her work is the most rewarding accomplishment that she plans to achieve through continued education, an artistic eye, and a sense of satisfaction from transforming hair!
Marena Gonzalez
LEVEL 3 HAIR & MAKEUP ARTIST
Marena began her journey in the beauty industry in 2014 as a freelance makeup artist for bridal, special events and professional photoshoots. This led her to an opportunity to teach makeup and skin care at a modeling agency where she became an instructor to all ages, specializing in photoshoot and film makeup for the next 2 years. Next, Marena freelanced with a well-established, natural-based makeup company where she gained experience in makeup and skincare education.
Along with these great blessings of experience in the professional makeup industry, Marena began her apprenticeship at C’zar Salon in 2020 and fell in love with Aveda, Davines, and other natural products. Her ultimate goal is to make every individual that comes to her feel beautiful and cared for, all while supporting brands that will do the same for the world we live in.
Shelby Patrey
LEVEL 3 ARTIST
Still trying to get Shelby to sit still long enough to write this. Check back soon.
Ceridwen Kehoe
LEVEL 2 HAIR ARTIST
Hi! I’m Ceridwen (pronounced Sir-reed-dwin). After a year in a social work program, I realized my passion for helping people could be expressed in a different way. I found my calling at the Douglas J Aveda Institute in Chicago, where I graduated in August 2022. My journey in beauty began with Aveda’s holistic approach, which has always been a part of my life thanks to my mom’s love for the brand.
Since starting my career in the industry in 2021 and behind the chair in early 2023, I’ve honed my skills in precision haircuts, blonding, men’s grooming, and as a passionate nail tech. My favorite part of the job is helping my guests feel confident and secure, no matter the service. I believe my guests are always in the driver’s seat — I’m just the GPS guiding them toward their goals.
Outside of the salon, you’ll often find me enjoying the great outdoors — whether it’s golfing, fishing, or simply soaking up fresh air. My home is my sanctuary, where I share life with my boyfriend, our two cats, and our snakes. If you’d like to book a nail service, feel free to call the Bolingbrook location at (630) 739-4949.
Trina Lovelass
LEVEL 2 HAIR ARTIST
I have been a C’zar Hair Artist since summer 2023! While I might be new to the roster, I have a handful of years of experience including my schooling at The Aveda Institute in Chicago, a year with C’zar’s Advanced Education program, freelancing for Chicago Art exhibits, and not to mention the years of begging my sisters to do their hair. Long, short, just a cut or add some color — I love working with clients to get their hair healthy and find their perfect style! I especially enjoy introducing the salon experience to kids and making them feel as comfortable as possible.
Crystal Santiago
LEVEL 1 HAIR ARTIST
Crystal is a hairstylist specializing in custom color, with a passion for blonding and precision haircuts. She creates everything from soft, natural tones to bright, dimensional looks tailored to each client. Experienced with all hair textures, Crystal is dedicated to maintaining healthy hair while bringing each client’s vision to life. Known for her warm, welcoming energy, she ensures every guest leaves feeling confident and refreshed. Outside of the salon, Crystal loves traveling to nature-filled destinations with her husband and enjoys cooking and baking.
Katy Krasnozon
LEVEL 1 ARTIST
Katy loves creating lived-in color, transformative changes, and customized cuts designed to help guests feel like the most confident version of themselves. After completing C’zar’s Advanced Education Program in 2026, she’s excited to officially be welcoming guests to her chair. Her goal is to make every appointment feel personalized and refreshing, whether you’re looking for a subtle update or a full transformation. Outside the salon, Katy enjoys exploring local forest preserves with her camera, catching live concerts, and planning her next travel adventure.
Lauren Franzen
LEVEL 1 ARTIST
Lauren joined our team in December 2024! She completed our advanced apprenticeship in Spring 2026 where she fine-tuned her craft in cutting, color, and styling. Lauren loves anything trendy from platinum blondes to Pinterest cuts with sleek blowouts and is certified in Bellami Hair Extensions. She can perform all methods such as weft, tape-in, K-tip, and I-tip.
SPA & WELLNESS
Chona Estacio
LEVEL V MASSAGE THERAPIST & ACUPUNCTURIST
Chona (pronounced Chaw-na) is a Nationally certified and IL Licensed Acupuncturist and Massage Therapist, as well as a Board-certified Chinese Medicine Herbalist. She received her Masters of Traditional Oriental Medicine from Pacific College of Oriental Medicine Chicago and has been practicing for over 10 years. Chona has found that combining massage with acupuncture, along with any herbal and dietary remedies, can create a happy balance for every client. Her goal is to promote and restore the balance of Qi, the flow of energy throughout the body, which will benefit a wide variety of conditions ranging from aches, pains and digestive disorders to chronic degenerative diseases and infertility. Regular visits are suggested as preventative complementary treatments to decrease stress, improve energy and boost immunity.
Jackie Klafeta
ESTHETICIAN V
Jackie’s love of helping and caring for others led her to the world of esthetics. She has been with C’zar Salon Spa since 2010. Her guests don’t receive just a facial or a waxing service — they get an experience. She begins with a guided meditation ritual and concludes with a thorough at-home skin care routine recommendation. It’s a comprehensive, holistic service. Her guests leave the spa both euphoric and educated.
Dawn McHugh
ESTHETICIAN III
Dawn has more than seven years of experience in both esthetics and cosmetology, but her new-found love for the Aveda mission and cruelty-free products prompted her to join the C’zar spa team in early 2018. Dawn completed her education at University of Aesthetics in 2013. It was there that she realized beauty stemmed from within oneself, and that many women struggle with self-love. This motivated her to help people see the strength and beauty inside themselves and help build the confidence they deserve. Some of her specialties include chemical exfoliation treatments, sun-kissed airbrush tans, and relaxing facials.
Heather Hartman
ESTHETICIAN III
Heather graduated from the Aveda Institute in 2004. She loves sharing her knowledge and expertise to help clients conquer any skincare challenges they may be experiencing. Heather has found that between Aveda and PCA Skin, there is a solution for every skin type! Her motto? Love yourself by loving your skin.
Kyra Long
NAIL TECHNICIAN
Kyra has been a nail technician since 1987 and with C’zar for over 14 years. She specializes in acrylics, no-chip manicures, and soothing pedicures with zero gravity chairs. Kyra has established a strong clientele through her professionalism, upbeat personality and desire to go that extra distance to please her clients.
Amy Reid
NAIL TECHNICIAN
Amy has been with C’zar Salon Spa for over eight years, but has been a nail technician for 22 years now. She enjoys shellac no-chip manicures and our new zero gravity pedicures the most of all. Our guests say Amy’s pedicures are as relaxing as a full-body massage. If you feel like life is stressing you out, come in to experience a relaxing pedicure with her!
GUEST SERVICES
Erin Rodgers
SALON MANAGER
Still trying to get Erin to sit still long enough to write this. Check back soon.
Isela Rocha
SALON MANAGER
Still trying to get Isela to sit still long enough to write this. Check back soon.
Lexi Wagner
SALON COORDINATOR
Still trying to get Lexi to sit still long enough to write this. Check back soon.
Jasmine Perezchica
SALON COORDINATOR
Still trying to get Jasmine to sit still long enough to write this. Check back soon.
Jen Tilsk
SALON ASSISTANT
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APPRENTICES
Lana Tarasova
APPRENTICE
Lana specializes in soft, dimensional color and seamlessly blended styles that enhance natural beauty while keeping hair healthy, luminous, and effortlessly wearable. Since joining C’zar in August 2025, she’s loved helping guests leave the salon feeling confident, radiant, and refreshed. Lana completed C’zar’s in-house Advanced Education Apprenticeship and has also assisted owner Gina Sowa, gaining hands-on experience at the highest level of the craft. Inspired by travel, live music, the outdoors, and time with her dog, Lana brings creativity, warmth, and positive energy to every appointment.
Emilie Kircher
APPRENTICE
You’ll have to ask Emilie yourself — she’s too busy making people look good to sit still long enough to write this. Bio coming soon.
Abby Rios
APPRENTICE
Abby Rios is no stranger to C’zar. From modeling in our photoshoots to being a warm, welcoming presence at the front desk as a salon coordinator, she’s long been part of the fabric of our space. Now, she returns with a new focus — pursuing her career behind the chair. After earning her cosmetology license from Tricoci University, Abby has stepped into the role of C’zar Apprentice, where she’s currently advancing her craft through our in-house Advanced Education Program.