Rising Stars: Meet Haeji Park of Buena Park

Today we’d like to introduce you to Haeji Park.

Hi Haeji, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
The pandemic was a challenging time for many, but for me, it became the moment to follow my dream. While others saw fear, I saw possibility. That’s when I decided to open my color-focused hair salon in Orange County.

I began alone, in a large salon space, holding onto nothing but my skills and belief in myself. Step by step, my salon has grown, and it’s been an incredible journey helping people feel beautiful and confident.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It hasn’t been a smooth road.

I started my salon relying only on my skills, but running a business was much harder than I expected. Managing people was the toughest part — despite giving my heart and passion, stylists came and left, which was heartbreaking at times.

I had to change my systems, rethink my marketing, and face my own weaknesses as a business owner. The biggest challenges were the disappointments that came from dealing with people. But through it all, I’ve learned and grown stronger.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
At our salon, we specialize in balayage, gray blending, and creative color transformations. We’re known for tackling even the most challenging color corrections, including removing stubborn box dye with high-quality color removers and transforming it into fresh, stunning new shades.

Thanks to social media, especially Instagram, our work has reached clients from other states who seek us out for our expertise.

I have over 30 years of experience in the hair industry and was part of Team USA, representing the United States in international competitions from 2012 to 2014. These experiences have shaped my technical skills and artistic eye.

What sets us apart is our commitment to using premium products and treatments that protect the hair while achieving beautiful results. We believe in delivering high-end color services at fair prices, helping clients feel confident and transformed without compromising hair health.

I’m most proud of the trust clients place in us to handle their hair journeys, especially when it comes to complex color corrections that others might find impossible.

What quality or characteristic do you feel is most important to your success?
I believe the most important qualities behind my success are passion, resilience, and a genuine love for people. I’m always eager to learn and never afraid to take on challenges, no matter how difficult they seem.

But beyond technical skills, I deeply value working as a team. I believe in growing together, supporting one another, and creating an environment where my team feels like family. Loving and caring for both my clients and my team members is at the heart of everything I do.

This connection and trust with people are what make my work meaningful — and ultimately, it’s what has helped me succeed.

Pricing:

• Women’s Haircut: $80~$100
• Men’s Haircut: $60~$80
• Full Color: starting at $160
• Balayage: starting at $420
• Treatment add-ons: $50~$150

Contact Info:

• Website: https://maihairstory.com
• Instagram: @mai_hairstory
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@maihairstory

Image Credits
Photos by Mai Hair Story