Today we’d like to introduce you to Mel Mattison.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Mel. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
I wasn’t originally supposed to do hair. I was a mathlete and chemistry nerd in high school in El Paso, Tejas, and after coming home from a few semesters at University of Texas-Austin, I found myself in cosmetology school with my mom, who was studying to be a nail technician. I never really considered cosmetology. Even though I cut and styled my friends’ hair in high school, I always figured that I’d be doing something “smarter.” But my mom planted the idea, and 21 years later, I’m flourishing in a career that mixes my love of chemistry, math and creativity. It’s definitely a profession that uses all 17 of my brain cells.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Imposter syndrome is something I deal with every day. Being a perfectionist creates a cycle of paralyzing fear. (It’s why I never responded the first time y’all reached out to me) Finding support and educating myself on the art and business of what I do connects me with others who share what I am going through. These shared experiences and connections help me not be so hard on myself about how I do what I do. My advice is to find several mentors. People you admire and aspire to be like in several avenues of your life. Social media is great for that. And I am lucky to work with people who inspire me daily. I also start my workday with dancing. Celebrating movement without overthinking- just being in the moment and having a fun release.
Please tell us about your business.
Inviting guests to redecorate and style themselves in ways they haven’t seen before is the favorite part of my work- helping them see themselves in a different way is my passion. It doesn’t always require scissors or color. I love teaching my guests how to enhance and be freer with their existing hair. Curls, twirls, surfer hair, brush-free living has always been the look I’ve been most attracted to, as going with the way hairs flow makes the most sense to keeping hair healthy, although coloring hair- any flavors of the rainbow- and the chemistry involved fascinates me. Also, educating my guests on how to care for their hair between visits (I call it homework) is vital.
Do you think there are structural or other barriers impeding the emergence of more female leaders?
My mami, Dora, is my biggest inspiration. Chihuahua-born and one of eleven, she has lived many lives. English is her second language and she is unabashed when communicating with friends and strangers alike.. She is constantly trying new words and phrases- the first time I heard her read in English was just over 15 years ago. She keeps learning! Her strength is also beyond words–my little brother died when he was nine, 30 years ago this March; we do cry together a lot, but we laugh and dance and celebrate the life that we get to keep living.
Next is my wife. She is the smartest person I know. And the most patient, as she is a high school band director. Her support is unending.
I am inspired by the beautiful women I get to work beside at Radar Salon and the women with whom I get to collaborate while they are in my chair.
Contact Info:
- Address: Radar Salon
6790 Top Gun St
Suite 4
San Diego, Ca - Website: Publichairhouse.com
- Phone: 8067733993
- Email: publichairhouse@gmail.com
- Instagram: Melmattison
- Facebook: Mel Mattison Hair
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