You belong here. ♡

Meet Our Stylists

Lisa Ponce Kim

Owner + Stylist

Known for natural hair extensions, grey blending, blonding, and curly cuts, Lisa has trained in New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco, and beyond. Her techniques range from bold and transformative to natural and lived-in, offering clients an extensive range of services backed by years of experience.

Throughout her career, Lisa has worked with some of the industry's top curl specialists, including Ouidad, and has traveled extensively to further her education. She's passionate about enhancing not only her clients' natural beauty, but also their personality and confidence, ensuring every guest leaves her chair feeling beautiful inside and out.

Madison Gerlach

Stylist

Specializing in lived-in color, hair extensions, and men’s cuts, Madison brings a versatile approach to hairstyling with both cosmetology and barbering licenses. After graduating from Cal Poly in 2017, she followed her passion for hair, developing expertise in natural, dimensional color, seamless extensions, and precision haircuts tailored to each client.

Known for her attention to detail and personalized approach, Madison is passionate about helping clients look and feel their best. She loves building lasting relationships and creating a welcoming experience where every guest feels confident and cared for. Outside the salon, she enjoys exploring the Central Coast, trying new recipes, and spending time with her husband, family, and pets.

Stylist

Sarina Watson

Specializing in vibrant reds, coppers, rich brunettes, and hand-painted balayage, Sarina loves creating beautiful, dimensional color and layered, textured haircuts tailored to each client. After earning her cosmetology license, she joined Moon River Salon and completed the salon's assistant program, where she began building her dream clientele and refining her craft.

Passionate about continued education, Sarina regularly participates in classes and one-on-one training with inspiring hair artists to explore new techniques and stay creative. She is dedicated to making every guest feel welcomed, confident, and cared for. Outside the salon, Sarina enjoys hiking, thrifting, and spending cozy days at home with her family.

Emma Archer

Book an appointment with Emma | See Emma's Work @emma.archerhair
Stylist

Specializing in hand-tied hair extensions, dimensional blondes and brunettes, and textured haircuts, Emma brings creativity and versatility to every appointment. With a passion for enhancing natural beauty, she prioritizes the health and integrity of her clients' hair while creating personalized styles that complement their individual needs and goals.

Dedicated to continued education, Emma regularly explores new techniques and trends to refine her craft and help clients achieve their dream hair. She loves creating beautiful, healthy results that leave guests feeling confident and refreshed. Outside the salon, Emma enjoys spending time with her husband, son, family, and friends, along with reading, hiking, playing card games, and sipping iced matcha lattes.

Tessa Carender

Stylist

Specializing in dimensional brunettes, lived-in blondes, vivid color, and blended, layered haircuts, Tessa brings creativity and a personalized approach to every appointment. With a lifelong passion for the beauty industry, she focuses on creating beautiful, effortless styles while maintaining the health and integrity of her clients' hair.

Tessa believes great hair is about more than appearance; it's about confidence, connection, and feeling truly seen. She is passionate about building meaningful relationships with her clients and creating a welcoming experience where every guest feels comfortable and cared for. Outside the salon, Tessa enjoys spending quality time with her family and continuing to grow in the career she's always dreamed of.

Carlton Kim

Salon Dog

As Moon River Salon's official salon dog and resident sweetheart, Carlton brings warmth, smiles, and plenty of tail wags to every visit. Known for his calm demeanor and gentle spirit, he's always happy to greet guests, soak up some attention, or find the sunniest spot in the salon for a well-deserved nap.

Passionate about making everyone feel welcome, Carlton takes his role as the salon's four-legged ambassador very seriously. Whether he's offering a comforting cuddle or charming his way into a belly rub, he has a special talent for brightening everyone's day. When he's not hard at work, Carlton enjoys treats, sunshine, and spending time with his favorite humans. 🐾