Today we’d like to introduce you to Brandon Bal-Lance.
Hi Brandon, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
From a young age, beauty was my obsession. I spent hours styling Barbie dolls, playing with hair, and experimenting with makeup, completely immersed in the art of transformation. My mom never held me back—she encouraged my creativity, letting me explore every avenue of self-expression. While some saw it as just play, I saw it as a glimpse into my future.
Growing up with learning disabilities and being on the autism spectrum with Asperger’s, I faced challenges that made traditional education environments difficult. But instead of letting those challenges define me, I used them as fuel to push forward. My mom always reminded me that my differences were my strengths, and I believed her.
At 14, I discovered Playboy magazine—not for the models, but for the hair. The polished, sexy, effortless styles captivated me. I realized then that I wanted to create that kind of confidence in people. Whether fully glammed up or fresh out of bed, I wanted my work to make people feel undeniably powerful in their own skin.
At 18, I dove headfirst into the industry, taking every opportunity to train and grow. I traveled across the country, investing in my education and learning from top industry leaders. I took on rigorous master colorist training and even flew cross-country monthly to attend Schwarzkopf Professional’s Royal Master Academy. That dedication set the foundation for what I would later build.
By 2017, at just 23 years old, I opened my first salon in Santa Clara, California, the heart of Silicon Valley—the tech capital of the world. I was determined to bring a new level of luxury and artistry to the industry, blending high-end services with an elevated experience. While many saw beauty and tech as separate worlds, I saw the power of innovation in both.
As my vision grew, so did my brand. I knew I wanted to create something even bigger, a salon that wasn’t just about hair but about elevating the industry itself. That dream led me to Saratoga, CA, where I launched Bal-Lance Salon—a multi-award-winning destination for luxury hair artistry, education, and innovation.
Today, Bal-Lance Salon is ranked #1 in Saratoga, CA, and has become a destination for elevated hair artistry. My career has evolved beyond the chair—I now train stylists nationally as a Senior Educator for Schwarzkopf Professional and Alterna Anti-Aging Haircare, sharing my knowledge with the next generation of artists.
What sets me apart is my relentless passion. I’ve never stopped learning, pushing, or growing. I believe in education, evolution, and excellence—and I bring that into everything I do, from behind the chair to the stage.
What started as a childhood obsession has become a powerhouse brand, and I’m only getting started.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
My journey has been far from easy. Growing up with learning disabilities and Asperger’s, I always felt different. School was a challenge, but what hurt more was the way people treated me—especially when I found my passion for hair.
I was bullied relentlessly, not just by classmates but even by teachers—the very people meant to guide and uplift. I was told I wouldn’t make it in the beauty industry because I was overweight, that clients would assume I smelled just because of my size. Others said I was too gay, even in an industry known for creativity and self-expression. It wasn’t just cruel—it was meant to break me.
And for a moment, I almost believed them.
But then, something inside me snapped. I refused to let their words define me. I knew I had talent, passion, and a vision bigger than their small-minded opinions. Instead of giving up, I worked harder, learned faster, and pushed further.
At 23, I opened my first salon in Silicon Valley—a space known for tech, not beauty—proving that I belonged anywhere I decided to be. As a queer, creative artist, I’ve had to fight harder for respect in an industry still largely controlled by men. But I built my own table, and now, I make sure others like me have a seat at it.
Every insult, every doubt, every closed door only fueled my fire. Today, as the owner of Bal-Lance Salon, a national educator, and a leader in luxury hair artistry, I stand as proof that the underdogs, the outcasts, and the creatives aren’t just here—we’re thriving.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
Hair isn’t just my career—it’s my art, passion, and purpose. I specialize in precision haircuts, advanced color transformations, and luxury blonding techniques, but more than that, I create experiences. Every guest who sits in my chair isn’t just getting their hair done—they’re stepping into a world of innovation, luxury, and confidence-building beauty.
I’m best known for my dark-to-light color corrections, seamless babylights, and transformative hair artistry, but what truly sets me apart is my ability to blend technical expertise with creativity. My work isn’t just about achieving the perfect shade or the sharpest cut—it’s about making people feel powerful, sexy, and seen.
Beyond the chair, I’ve built Bal-Lance Salon into a #1-ranked luxury salon in Saratoga, CA, where beauty meets education, artistry, and innovation. As a Senior Educator for Schwarzkopf Professional and Alterna Anti-Aging Haircare, I train stylists across the country, helping elevate the next generation of artists.
What I’m most proud of? Breaking barriers. I’ve built a brand that celebrates creatives, misfits, and dreamers—proving that beauty isn’t just about how you look, but how you own who you are.
What sets me apart? Passion, precision, and purpose. I don’t just do hair—I create legacies, confidence, and change in an industry that’s evolving, and I make sure my impact is felt far beyond the salon.
So, before we go, how can our readers or others connect or collaborate with you? How can they support you?
I believe in community over competition, and I’m always looking to collaborate with artists, brands, and creatives who share my passion for luxury hair, innovation, and education.
• Salons & Stylists: I offer advanced education in color theory, precision cutting, blonding, and luxury haircare, both in-person and virtually. Whether you’re a stylist looking to refine your craft or a salon wanting to elevate your team’s skills, I bring customized training and hands-on mentorship to help you grow.
• Brands & Partnerships: As a Senior Educator for Schwarzkopf Professional and Alterna Anti-Aging Haircare, I work closely with top-tier brands to showcase innovative techniques, product knowledge, and high-performance results. I love partnering on education, content creation, and product development that pushes the industry forward.
• Editorial & Creative Projects: My passion extends beyond the salon—I love working on photoshoots, editorial styling, and fashion collaborations where hair is an art form. If you’re looking for an expert in high-end styling, avant-garde looks, or red carpet transformations, let’s create something unforgettable.
• Clients & Guests: My chair is open to anyone who wants a tailored, luxury hair experience. I specialize in dark-to-light transformations, babylights, precision cutting, and high-end color services. Booking with me means more than just a hair appointment—it’s an elevated, customized experience designed to bring out your best self.
The best way to support me? Engage, share, and connect. Follow my journey on Instagram (@itsbrandonballance), book an appointment at Bal-Lance Salon, or bring me in for an educational event. Every collaboration, every partnership, and every guest helps me continue pushing the boundaries of beauty.
Let’s create something iconic together.
Pricing:
- Haircuts $130+
- Single Color $180+
- Partial Highlight $300+
- Full Highlight $350+
- Fashion Color $465+
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Www.ballancesalon.com
- Instagram: @itsbrandonballance
- Facebook: Itsbrandonballance
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@itsbrandonballance?si=zuundd_8CVM-xnov
- Yelp: https://m.yelp.com/biz/bal-lance-salon-saratoga-5
