Kirby Keomysay

Founder & Creative Director

Ko & Co. Studios Founder and Creative Director, Kirby Keomysay, is one of the most acclaimed and in demand cosmetic artists in the Midwest. From cutting his friends’ hair in high school to the eventual launch of his nationally renowned salon, Kontempo., Kirby has a lifelong creative ambition that has helped him to achieve multiple industry awards and the talent to build successful brands and businesses.

At Ko & Co. Studios, Kirby is making the benefit of his expertise and experience available to aspiring salon and spa owners while creating a launch pad for fellow entrepreneurs. By joining this innovative community, artists will have the opportunity to consult with Kirby, the Kontempo. team and participate in frequent educational events while enjoying the independence of operating their own high-end studio.

For Kirby, launching Ko & Co. Studios combines his passions for generating inventive business ventures while providing an uplifting and supportive work environment for potential tenants to pursue their dreams.

Kirby has been chasing his own creative career dreams since middle school, when he was styling mannequins from his aunt’s salon. After high school, Kirby enrolled at Capitol School of Hairstyling and Esthetics in Omaha and upon graduation, immediately dove into his first national competition. At the age of 19, Kirby took first place in the North American Hairstyling Awards (NAHA) student category, outperforming top artists from across the country – further fueling his determination.

A short time later Kirby was back in the national spotlight again after making it to the final round of Bravo’s ‘Shear Genius’ reality competition, followed by a winning performance on Oxygen Network’s hit show ‘Hair Battle Spectacular Season Two’. Kirby used the cash prize from his reality television success to fulfill his childhood dream of opening his own salon. At just 20-years-old, Kirby opened Kontempo. where he and his team have forged a nationwide reputation for being industry leaders and innovators.

Additional accolades in Kirby’s repertoire include features in Modern Salon Magazine, BehindTheChair.com and awards for ‘Best Colorist’ in Omaha Magazine’s annual Best of Omaha publication.

Further adding to his list of exciting achievements, Kirby was selected by Lilliana Vasquez, style contributor for the TODAY Show and the current co-host on E! News, to style her hair for the Golden Globe Awards. Kontempo. also sponsors contestants from six midwest states for the Miss USA and Miss Teen USA Pageants, providing style guidance to help them prepare for competitions and ensuring their flawless presence throughout their reigns. Additionally, Kirby was selected to serve as master stylist for Sarah Rose Summers, former title holder of Miss Nebraska and Miss USA 2018, for all of her pageants and appearances. Kirby continues to seek opportunities for both national exposure and local growth to maximize his company’s positive impact on the community.

That’s where Ko & Co. Studios comes in. Ko & Co. (which stands for Kontempo. & Company) Studios is an extension of Kirby’s brand but with the perk of individuality and self-scheduling. At Ko & Co. Studios, which also neighbors his latest project The Grind Coffeehouse, Kirby is helping to shape future generations of artists and entrepreneurs. Ko & Co. Studios was created to help prospective salon owners build their businesses with one of the best.

Ready to take the leap? Let’s meet for coffee next door at  to discuss your future.

Make your company

next level

Ko & Co. Studios is ready to collaborate. Contact us today for an opportunity to tour our exclusive spaces, check out our chic amenities and learn more about building your business.

What comes with a Ko & Co. Studios partnership?

 

  • An effortlessly beautiful workplace
  • High end finishes and design
  • Luxurious lounge and retail space
  • Prime location within brand new construction
  • Access to ongoing expert education
  • Guidance on building your brand and social media
  • A creative community of artists like you