Featured Birch | Lead stylist & educator : Ellie Vacher
Some people come into your life and quietly change everything. Ellie is one of those people.
I remember the first time I heard about her before I ever actually met her — this funky, talented Australian everyone seemed to be buzzing about. When we hosted our very first art showcase at Birch & Lace, she showed up with friends in tow. I suspect she was scoping out the scene. We were both too shy to introduce ourselves that night, but something sparked, and it wasn't long before she walked through our doors for good. Looking back, that was one of the best things that ever happened to this salon.
There was a moment, not so long into her journey with us, when life's logistics nearly pulled her away from hair altogether. She was navigating her permanent residency, and for a brief, terrifying moment, it looked like she might step back from the craft that is so clearly her calling. I wasn't willing to let that happen without a fight. Whatever she needed, whatever capacity worked — we were going to make it work. I am endlessly grateful she stayed. Hair is her calling, and I think deep down, she knew it too.
Nine years! How lucky are we?!
In that time, Ellie has helped shape the very standards and soul of this salon. She's built education programs, steadied the ship on the hard days, and brought an energy to this space that is equal parts grounding and electric. She stepped into a salon management role with grace, and more recently took the helm as our academy lead — a role she was born for. Her students feel it. The team feels it. The walls of this salon feel it.
And beyond all of that — she makes us braver. Her artistry doesn't stop at hair. It spills into everything she touches, constantly nudging the rest of us to think differently, create boldly, and let our freak flags fly without apology.
We've shared so many chapters together — late nights, big laughs, and adventures that have taken us to New Orleans, Toronto, Vancouver, and beyond. And if these nine years are any indication, the best ones are still ahead.
Ellie, this place would not be what it is without you. Thank you for your talent, your dedication, your heart, and for choosing us — again and again. Here's to nine years, and to everything still to come.
How did you get started in the industry? Tell us about your competition / creative work!
I started young, as a school based apprentice in 10th grade. I actually fell into it, my friend wanted company in starting the apprenticeship, I've always been creative so I thought 'why not' and the rest is history I guess!
What brought you to Revelstoke, BC?
I knew nothing of Revelstoke when I arrived on an extremely rainy fall day. I lined up a room to experience a few months of the winter before moving on (unknowing that Revelstoke was a resort town). I guess I stayed mostly because of the people and the community that welcomed me and made me feel at home.
What do you love about your job?
I love so many parts of my job, I love working with my hands, I love the creative challenge that hair gives as a organic canvas, but mostly, I love connecting with people! It's truly the most exhausting and rewarding part of the job, I do my best to listen carefully to each persons needs and how their hair affects their confidence and lifestyle. It's not just a haircut, you can really affect how the person functions on a day to day basis, as well as who they want to present themselves as to the world.
Favourite service to offer?
I enjoy a variety or work, complacency is the quickest way to lose joy in the work that you do. However, if I had to pick one thing I guess it would be a 'big change'. I love helping someone re-invent themselves.
What are your predictions for hair/makeup in 2026? What would you love to see more of in your day?
Natural styling, lots of airdry and soft blow outs!
What are your favourite products currently, and why?
My favourite combo right now is; prep with love smoothing perfector - which I believe is getting a bit of a remodel at the moment, add structure and volume with a light application of the volume boosting moose, and finish with the perfecting hairspray. All from davines!
Why?
The love smoothing perfector - creates beautiful light protection and softens ends for an easy dry
Volume boosting moost- because its magic!!! I don't know what else to say
Perfecting spray- its really easy to work with and creates a touchable finish
Top ice cream flavour?
Anything that mixes chocolate and peanut butter!
What do you love doing in your spare time?
Reading in the sun, time with my boys (Elton my dog and my partner Ben), moving my body (usually some form of biking)
What are you reading/watching right now?
I just started reading Red Rising (literally this morning, so if you're in my chair soon I will let you know how its going!) I am a huge reader and Fantasty, SciFi, Thriller lover. I’m here to nerd out about this anytime!
Tell us something that may surprise people?
I am an introvert by nature. I think people assume that hairstylists are always huge extroverts, I get energy from talking to people and connecting behind the chair. Outside of work I am generally doing solo adventures or walking around town with my headphones on (yes, I am listening to a book!).