Meet Melissa Velez

Today we’d like to introduce you to Melissa Velez.

Melissa, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
My journey stared since I could remember! Growing up I would go to the salon with my mom and I would watch the stylist for hours creating what felt like magic to me. My mom would encourage me to express myself creatively and my version of that was coloring my hair red, blue, yellow tips, literally all colors. Throughout the years, what I learned gives me the most satisfaction is seeing the confidence rise from all the clients when they leave the stylists chair, and now I get to see that with mine. I love the smiles, laughter, adrenaline, and creative process that comes with being part of the industry. Putting smiles on my clients faces and helping boost their confidence is to me the best feeling, and thus, the best career for me and one I will forever happily do.

Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
It definitely hasn’t been smooth sailing. My main challenge in building my career was self-confidence. It has taken a lot of courage for me to stand proud behind my work and truly believe I am putting 100% into every job. I struggled to find my niche in the hairstyling world but once I did, my passion and confidence truly emerged. I am very fortunate to have an amazing mentor and support system that push and challenge me every day. My journey continues, I am proud of what I have accomplished so far and cannot wait to continue learning to become the best stylist I can be.

Looks by Mely – what should we know? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
Looks by Mely was inspired by all the different looks and expression one can show through hair. I am located in Kearny Mesa, right off the 163 freeway. I do hair makeovers at Sola Salons in a private small suite. I specialize mostly in color services, and color corrections. I love what I do, and when a client is in my chair, they know and feel the passion I have for doing hair and the amount of dedication I put into my work to make sure they receive the best results! I believe it’s important to take the time to make sure your work comes out amazing, consistent, and keep a positive vibe all while keeping the clients hair health and goals a priority. All that is what Looks by Mely is based on, and I will always make sure my clients leave with a big smile on their face and a reason to come back to my chair!

Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
Always and forever my family will be the main and most important reason for everything that I do. My mom is a single mom of four who has always gone above and beyond for us with a smile on her face and not a single complaint. She taught me to do everything I do with grace and continues to cheer me on so whatever I do I give it my all. Along with my mom, my siblings and partner are the drive that keeps me pushing. I also would love to shout out one of my many amazing cousins, Evelin, for always pushing me out of my comfort zone and teaching me to never settle. My family, friends, my amazing mentor Mikal, my awesome clients and everyone that’s helped me along the way, I thank them for their constant support, love and always being my biggest fans!

Contact Info:

• Email: looksbymely@gmail.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/looksbymely/

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