Rising Stars: Meet Melissa Kleman

Today we’d like to introduce you to Melissa Kleman.

Hi Melissa, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Hi! I’m Melissa. I was born and raised in Minnesota where I had a childhood dream of becoming a Hairstylist. After Graduating Highschool I had the Amazing opportunity to attend The Aveda Institute of Minneapolis. There I studied Hair Skin and Nails full-time and Graduated in 1999. In the early 2000s, I made my move to Arizona. And after managing 2 salons, becoming a mom, and life just growing and changing, I really felt like my “season” at these salons had passed. I felt like I needed a fresh start and a new place for my clients and me to call our “Hair Home”.

So in 2020, I made the decision to open my own suite and become a small business owner. And that is when Elysian was created. Beautiful, creative, divinely inspired, peaceful, and perfect.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
So for me learning how to open a business was a learning process. Challenges become easier once I am more educated on how to overcome them. I am definitely the type of person who learns by doing something and going through the process. Then it’s knowledge I’ll hold forever.

I had to put aside the fear in my head saying “What if I fail?” And I had to turn it into “But what if I succeed?” I also have a few supportive friends in the business who always have great advice and continue to inspire me daily.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
My biggest fear of going solo was that I would miss the dynamic of a salon filled with other stylists and clients. And while I do miss that atmosphere sometimes, being in a private suite offers a different level of attention and connection I can provide to my clients. The relationship built between a stylist and a client is an important and valuable one. Together we can collaborate on a look for you that is authentic to you and your lifestyle. I’m all about doing what makes YOU feel your best. And while I don’t necessarily specialize in anything specific I do pride myself on that my clientele is unique and diverse all on their own.

I am able to work well with all different ages and personalities and feel confident with a variety of techniques to suit their desired look. So whether you’re looking for a bright bold color, a rich natural color, or sun-kissed highlights with short or long hair, I can accommodate. The ultimate goal when leaving my salon is that you had a moment to relax and you leave feeling more radiant and confident.

How can people work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
The best way to support me in this journey would be to send that person who compliments your hair my way. They could check out my website and maybe book an appointment. I always appreciate it when you have mentioned my name or business to someone new!

My clients really are amazing and I wouldn’t be where I am without them.

Contact Info:

• Website: Melissakleman1.glossgenius.com
• Instagram: @elysian.suite.116