The Salon Riviera creative team. Focused on you looking your best ever.
Victoria Tap
Hair Stylist / Makeup Artist / Owner
Victoria finds creative inspiration in all kinds of things—from an exquisite photograph, to beautiful interior design, to average hair or makeup that she knows she can make fabulous. Known for giving clients fresh, effortless looks they can manage beautifully on their own at home, Victoria also creates amazing hair and makeup looks for special events.
She loves seeing people walk out of the salon feeling better about themselves than they did when they walked in. As she likes to say, “beauty isn't just about having a great look—it’s about how great hair and makeup reflects a person’s personality, and brings out their inner beauty. If you feel good about yourself, you will shine.”
Kristel Faulhaber
Hair Stylist
Kristel believes everyone deserves to leave the salon looking and feeling 100% beautiful. So she gives each client a change that makes it happen, whether it’s something small and simple, or a complete makeover. Either way, Kristel makes sure her clients know what works for their hair, so they can manage their look at home easily. She also makes sure that while they’re in her chair, they’re relaxed, comfortable and treated like royalty.
Karen O'Toole
Aesthetician
A former teen sun worshipper, Karen has used her own skin as a proving ground for stem cell therapy, peptides, advanced formulated retinols, and vitamin C, among other damage-reversing products. She knows what works, but she’s also inspired by the ongoing development of new regeneration, resurfacing and rejuvenating techniques, so Karen sees healthy skincare as a partnership, and she’s always on the lookout for the best of what’s new to offer her clients. Priding herself on going above and beyond the level of service you would receive at a spa, Karen makes sure her relaxing, results-oriented facials always provide an excellent value.
Melisa Bruce
Manicurist / Nail Artist
Melisa doesn’t just love nails. She lives nails. An active educator for Hand and Nail Harmony (the company that makes Gelish), Melisa is immersed in both the creative and technical sides of the field, even when she’s not in the salon. She’s constantly inspired by the new technology, trends, colors, and products that are emerging, sparking her imagination, and helping her give clients the great look they want for their nails. Melisa enjoys the fun, friendly vibe at Salon Riviera, and how relaxed and comfortable her clients feel here. Whether you’re getting a gel manicure, acrylic nails or a relaxing pedi, Melisa’s happy, easygoing personality, endless creativity and polished skills make it a great experience.
Shae Smith
A Southern California native, Shae has worked as a cosmetologist all over the US and Europe. While spending time in the UK, Shae noticed the popularity of microblading, and had the treatment done on her own eyebrows by a professional in London. Excited about the results, Shae decided to master the procedure herself. She earned her microblading certification, and immediately started beautifying clients' brows. Shae is thrilled to be back in the South Bay, offering this procedure at Salon Riviera.