about me
I was born in East Germany, into a family of master stylists and salon owners. In 8th grade, my teacher asked us to list two careers we wanted. I wrote:
Artist
Artist
When the Wall fell, I had to find stability amidst the upheaval, so I followed in my family’s footsteps and became a hairdresser.
Turns out, I still ended up with my dream career.
One chair, one client at a time—that’s how I work. In a sunlit studio with big windows and a good dose of green, every session becomes a quiet collaboration. My approach blends decades of craft with a modern, art-driven sensibility rooted in individuality and care. Sustainability is part of the process—mindful methods, conscious products, and a focus on what feels authentic and lasting. Hair, like art, should have soul: effortless, expressive, and built to stand the test of time.
curriculum vitae
master stylist + owner + founder + educator
Antje Kastner Studio | Chicago, IL
Tigerlilie Salon | Chicago, IL
2010–present
2005–2010
master stylist
Friendz Salon & Spa | Chicago, IL
2000–2005
master stylist + owner + educator
Kastner’s Beauty Studio | Rostock, Germany
1993–2000
lead-up styling educator
Fuel USA
educator
Schwarzkopf USA
Seven-year run of Tony-Award-winning musical Million Dollar Quartet | Chicago, IL
head stylist
hair stylist
various shows at Timeline Theatre Company + Drury Lane Theatre | Chicago + Oakbrook, IL
featured styling work
in Time Out Chicago, Chicago Magazine, and Modern Salon
in print ads
on album covers
on the heads of over 100 brides
master craftsman certification / bachelor professional
Professional School of Trade + Commerce | Rostock, Germany
1999