Melissa
jaqua
Some people are simply destined for what they do—Melissa Jaqua is one of them. Born and raised in Toledo, Ohio, a hardworking blue-collar city far from the glamour of Hollywood, she envisioned a future bigger than the world she knew.
Setting her sights on Los Angeles, determined to build a career in hair and beauty, what started as a pursuit of working with celebrities evolved into something unexpected: a passion for education.
As a leading educator, Melissa's career has taken her all across the globe across six continents, where she has taught and mentored thousands of hairstylists—from up-and-coming students to seasoned professionals—helping them refine their skills and master their craft.
As a global platform artist for John Paul Mitchell Systems, she helped launch Paul Mitchell The School and co-created their Advanced Academy. Melissa's diversity in her work earned her the prestigious North American Hairstylist of the Year Award for her expertise in multicultural hair.
In Hollywood, her hard work landed her on major productions like The Voice, So You Think You Can Dance, Dancing with the Stars, Will & Grace, and blockbuster films including Top Gun: Maverick, Babylon, and the Oscar-winning The Artist.
She’s also had the privilege of working as a personal hairdresser to some of the biggest names in Hollywood, showcasing her artistry on runways, in fashion campaigns, and in editorial shoots. Her talent has been recognized with an Emmy nomination for her contributions to the television industry.
Yet, after 40 years in the industry, what she values most is the deep connections she builds with the people in her chair—a diverse mix of creatives, professionals, and industry insiders who trust her not just for her talent, but for the authenticity and artistry she brings to every client.
Melissa's work has been featured repeatedly as a leading artist in numerous beauty industry educational videos, hair shows , magazines and ad campaigns globally. She continues to inspire hairdressers as she donates her time to give back by mentoring and educating the up and coming generation of future professionals.
Melissa's most cherished achievement to this day?
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Being inducted into her high school Hall of Fame.
This was a full-circle moment—proof that the girl from a humble Midwest town, once told by her careers teacher to pursue a 'real job,' worked hard, followed her dreams and transformed her heart’s passion into her life’s purpose.
