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:

  1. Artist

  2. 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