We’re looking forward to introducing you to Melissa Bertrand. Check out our conversation below.
Hi Melissa, thank you for taking the time to reflect back on your journey with us. I think our readers are in for a real treat. There is so much we can all learn from each other and so thank you again for opening up with us. Let’s get into it: What do you think is misunderstood about your business?
I think people often underestimate how much skill, time, and effort goes into what we do. Some think doing hair is just a hobby or something easy, but it’s not just “playing in hair.” We’re trained professionals who have to understand hair health, textures, product chemistry, customer service, and even business management. It’s not just about making people look good, it’s about making them feel good too. There’s real value in what we offer, and I don’t think that always gets the credit it deserves.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Melissa! I’m a licensed cosmetologist and the hands behind some of the cleanest braids in Las Vegas. I specialize in protective styles that not only look good but help keep your hair healthy too. What makes my brand unique is the personal touch, I focus on making every client feel confident, comfortable, and cared for. I started this journey because I love art in all forms, and braiding is one of my favorite ways to express creativity. Right now, I’m also studying medical billing and coding, so I’m building my career in both beauty and healthcare. I’m always working on leveling up my skills, growing my business, and making sure my clients leave my chair feeling like the best version of themselves.
Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. What’s a moment that really shaped how you see the world?
A big moment for me was realizing I truly have no one to depend on but myself and that my kids are the only ones who are always there for me, no matter what. That moment hit hard, especially after past relationships that left me feeling alone. It changed how I see everything. I move differently now. I don’t wait on anyone to show up for me. I show up for myself and my kids every single time. That mindset keeps me going and keeps me grounded.
Is there something you miss that no one else knows about?
I miss the old me, the one who wasn’t afraid to try, even if I failed. Now I catch myself holding back out of fear. But I’m working on getting that fearless version of me back, little by little.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
That “anyone can do hair.” People think it’s easy, just braiding or styling, but there’s real skill, training, and care involved. Another lie is that you have to always “hustle hard” with no breaks to be successful. Burnout is real. Taking care of yourself should be just as important as taking care of your clients.
Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: What do you think people will most misunderstand about your legacy?
People might see the surface, me doing hair, working, raising my kids, and think it was just about getting by. But what they won’t always see is the pain I pushed through, the nights I cried in silence, and how hard I fought to keep going when I felt empty. My legacy isn’t about perfection, it’s about resilience. It’s about a woman who had every reason to give up, but didn’t… because she had babies watching, and a fire in her soul that refused to go out. That’s what I want to be remembered for.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.styleseat.com/m/v/melissabertrand
- Instagram: _M3m3_86
