Tabatha Coffey

Tabatha Coffey is an Australian hairstylist, salon owner, and American television personality. Her participation as a contestant on the television show Shear Genius led to her own television show, Tabatha's Salon Takeover.

Personal Life

Coffey was born May 17, 1969 in Surfers Paradise, Australia. She is openly gay, and lives in New Jersey with her partner of ten years. [http://www.afterellen.com/people/2008/8/tabathacoffey]

Career

Tabatha Coffey got her start, however, in her hometown, where she started as an assistant in a local salon at age 14. She wanted to learn more, she eventually took a four-year apprenticeship program a year later, and then moved to London to continue her training for the next three years.

Coffey has since opened her own salon, Industrie Hair Gurus in Ridgewood, New Jersey. Having fallen in love with hairstyling’s ability to transform people, she has set out to do just that to her clients, creating a special look for each individual, unlike other stylists who specialize in a certain look. She also works as a platform artist for hair care product company Joico International. She tours different countries 6-12 a year doing hair shows for the company, both to showcase her talent and to train other aspiring hairdressers. “My favorite thing is to do work with other professionals and teaching,” she said in an interview. “I love giving and getting back from other professionals.”

In addition to her extensive resume, Coffey has also worked as an editorial stylist for fashion and beauty publications, as well as backstage in New York’s Mercedes Benz Fashion Week. She has been featured on several publications as well, including Seventeen, Marie Claire and Mademoiselle.

Television

Coffey was a contestant in the Bravo reality show Shear Genius, hosted by actress Jaclyn Smith. Trying out because of pure curiosity, she quickly earned a reputation for her outspokenness and intensity. She was a front-runner in the competition, winning most of the challenges during her stay, but she was eliminated in the sixth episode, along with her teammate for the day, Tyson. She hasn’t made secret her objections to Tyson’s methods, thinking his ego got in the way of his work. The judges eliminated them for their poor teamwork. Tabatha later won $10,000 as the show Fan Favorite.

Despite that, she decided to bring her talent and experience to the Bravo reality series Tabatha’s Salon Takeover, helping struggling salon owners to turn their businesses around. Taking her youthful energy and signature edgy style to the show, Tabatha Coffey has lent her sound advice and expertise to numerous establishments that are in dire need.