Today we’d like to introduce you to Michelle Luna.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Michelle. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
I completed cosmetology school in 1989 and immediately started a European apprenticeship under a master German stylist Manfred Herf at Vivace European Coiffure. I was trained in all aspects of hairdressing including salon operations. In 1999, I opened Luna Del Mar salon in Del Mar which is still operating today. I’ve always loved hairdressing since I can remember and I’m constantly attending education to keep our salon on trend and current with the latest in the hair world.
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?
In every business, there’s the part that you love doing. But when you run your own business, you have to work hard at all parts of it. When you’re looking for something to do for a living, pick something you love, because it will take a lot of time and hard work and dedication to get started, and even more to keep it going. As you grow the business, you’ll have to balance work with family and everything else that’s important to you in life.
As a woman, I think we have to be all things to all people all at once. As a hair artist, a businesswoman and most importantly a mother. I definitely feel the pressure in all areas. Especially now, since my daughter, Samantha is a new hairstylist and is looking to me as her mentor!
Please tell us about Luna Del Mar Salon.
I am proud to use only the best hair products for coloring and styling such as Schwarzkopf, Redken, Olaplex and Brazilian Blowout. My expertise is in damage free blonding, gray coverage, balayage techniques, ombre, color melts, and more.
What sets my salon apart from others is the atmosphere. Unlike other salons that are typically structured to a specific crowd – barber shop for men, fancy salons for women, haircut shops for children – Luna Del Mar is a salon that feels like home to everyone that walks through the door. There is no pretentious nature, but rather a welcoming and friendly vibe that makes you feel like you’ve walked into a friend’s house. That is what I’m most proud of.
Are there any apps, books, podcasts or other resources that you’ve benefited from using?
One of my favorite books is It’s Not Really About the Hair.
The Honest Truth About Life, Love, and the Business of Beauty by Tabatha Coffey.
It’s not only about being a women salon owner in the hair industry but also shares the experiences of her own life to encourage you as a strong woman in any business.
Pricing:
- Haircuts 75.00
- Blowouts 45.00
- Brazilian or keratin 300 & up
Contact Info:
- Address: 2334 Carmel Valley RD #C
Del Mar, California 92014 - Website: Lunadelmarsalon.com
- Phone: 1-858-794-2669
- Email: mluna@lunadelmarsalon.com
- Instagram: @lunadelmarsalon
- Facebook: @lunadelmar

Image Credit:
Samantha Luna, Molly Valles
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