Today we’d like to introduce you to Melissa Grinberg.
Melissa, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I’ve had my hands in hair for a very long time. This came about because at a young age, out of nowhere, I experienced a texture change in my own hair (from straight to curly) and I had to spend a lot of time figuring it out and finding out what worked best. This led me to discover how much I enjoyed styling hair and to the realization that I was good at it. Eventually, I found my way to MUD, Makeup Designatory in Burbank , Ca., where I attended makeup and hair courses in 2007. After completion, I worked as a freelance makeup artist and hair stylist for print, TV, and film for several years.
In December of 2014, I graduated from TONI&GUY Hairdressing Academy in Santa Monica. I received my license the next month and immediately started working at a full-service salon.
Currently, I’m working at Drybar in Culver City and also taking private cut and color clients at select Santa Monica salons.
Has it been a smooth road?
Honestly, the biggest struggle, especially at the beginning of my career, has been getting the opportunities to do what I love….to play with hair. You’d be surprised how hard it was at times to give away free haircuts.
The rest of the bumps in the road, I consider them normal life experiences. It has been a fun adventure and I have definitely experienced struggles but I wouldn’t change it for anything.
Do you feel luck has played a role in your life?
Throughout my career, I feel that luck’s been on my side. I mean, how else could you explain all the wonderful people I’ve met; the projects I’ve worked on; the things I’ve done and the places I’ve been. Don’t get me wrong, it’s not all luck. The hours were put in. As was the hard work. I wasn’t just born with talent, I’ve earned it. But there’s literally thousands of other incredibly talented people out there, who also work hard. I have to say luck played a big role. There’s been a lot of right place, right time moments in my life.
Do you feel like there are certain traits that increase the likelihood of success?
I feel that I have two qualities that have contributed to my success. And both are things that I take pride in. The first is I have great people skills. I’ve had many jobs in which I’ve had the opportunity to be able to hone and perfect my customer service and listening skills. I spend the time to actually listen to my clients and really figure out what they’re looking for.
The second characteristic is my high energy and cheerful demeanor. It may sound boastful but I have been asked many times and multiple situations how I am able to stay so energetic and happy. It’s easy when I get to do what I love.
Let’s touch on your thoughts about our city – what do you like the most and least?
Hmm. I have to think about that for a second. How do you narrow down a single best thing about Los Angeles? One of the aspects I love most is how diverse our city is. From the different cultures and cuisines to the endless array of activities and attractions, there is something for everyone. And did I mention those beaches?
On the other hand, the least favorite thing is the traffic. It’s honestly horrendous. That is the number one limiting factor in truly being able to enjoy all the great things LA has to offer. I mean, it would sometimes take me close to an hour to commute to work even though I lived just 3 miles away.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.hairbygrinberg.com
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: @hairbygrinberg
Julieta
October 17, 2016 at 01:18
Melissa does know how to work magic with my hair. I have natural curly hair and she can blow dry it straight. My hair color is another thing she does and I’m always happy with the results. As far as my hair cut, it always looks great after she has run her shears through my curls and my hair is healthy and bouncy.