We recently connected with Melinda Cortez and have shared our conversation below.

Melinda, appreciate you joining us today. When did you first know you wanted to pursue a creative/artistic path professionally?

I would have to say my senior year in high school. I remember writing a scholarship essay about using my craft to help people feel beautiful and confident. My dream at that time was to be a cosmetologist.

Melinda, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

I’ve loved doing hair since I was a kid, I remember being in middle school doing my older cousins hair for homecoming and prom. I knew I wanted to pursue a career in the industry as a senior in high school. I went to cosmetology school, got my license, worked behind the chair for a little while, but then I stepped away to be a stay at home mom. Being a mom to two beautiful boys is and will always be the biggest, most magical adventure of my life.

After I did my sisters hair for her wedding two years ago (she wouldn’t take no for answer), I realized I missed being in the industry, but I did not want to be behind the chair. I wanted to specifically do bridal. I researched schools for hair and makeup but everything was in LA, then I found Alchemy Beauty Academy in San Diego. I took their Hair Alchemist course last year (which was absolutely amazing), and started my business the beginning of this year. I honestly feel if it wasn’t for Alchemy (Kim & Hollie Owners) and the amazing community they have built, I wouldn’t be where I am right now. I started this year doing mostly free projects, and assisting, and then by July I was blessed to have been booked every weekend.

Although it was/is absolutely scary starting off I am proud that I took a chance on myself and my craft. I know I am a long ways from where I want to be, but I am having so much fun in perfecting my art.

I love being challenged to create any look but what I love to create most is anything retro, Hollywood glam waves, pin-up, or beehive. I also have a special place in my heart for braids, if I could do a combination of a crown braid and glam waves everyday I’d be ecstatic.

I also love working with natural textured hair, and hope to someday specialize in textured hairstyling.

I would describe my brand or hope it to someday be retro, edgy, with a Mexican flare to it.

I truly believe there is something magical about getting your hair and makeup done, it brings out your inner radiance and gives you this confidence that is palpable. It’s truly beautiful. I want to create that magic with people, whether its for a photoshoot celebrating themselves, or for their big special day.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

I think the most rewarding part has been meeting other artists and creatives and creating art together. Such a beautiful and inspiring community to be a part of.

Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative?

When I first started on this journey I was always made to feel that being a hairstylist wasn’t really a career but more of a hobby. Coming back into this industry I still get asked “what is your 9-5, do you just do this on the weekends?”. I think it’s hard for non creatives that I can make a career for my self by being a creative (having fun).

Contact Info:

• Website: www.haircraftbymelinda.org
• Instagram: haircraftbymelinda