Interview: Celebrity Stylist Melissa Schleicher on Inspirations, Mentorship and Loving Her Career

Born and raised in Nashville, TN, Melissa Schleicher has become well known as one of Nashville's leading hair and makeup artists for over 20 years. Her warm and friendly personality, combined with her incredible talent and style make Schleicher one of the favorite go-to hair and makeup artist for many renowned music artists and celebrities, including Carrie Underwood, Alan Jackson, Brad Paisley, Rascal Flatts and Lisa Marie Presley, among others. Most recently, Schleicher created Carrie Underwood's highly-touted 2013 Country Music Awards look, winning the acclaimed singer many "Best Hair and Makeup" acclaims from the media.

In December 2011, Schleicher opened her modern, glamorous salon, Parlour 3, in Brentwood, TN where she now offers all of her favorite products and services for a variety of clients. In a recent interview, Schleicher opened up about what (and who) inspires her, her thoughts on mentorship, and why she loves her career!

What inspired you to be a Hair and Makeup artist?
Melissa: As early as I can remember, I had every single Barbie imaginable! I would constantly do their makeup, and cut and style their hair.  My mom would get so mad at me because I cut all my Barbie’s hair!  

When did you first start?
Age 11, I would cut all the boy’s hair in the neighborhood. I’d do friends, family, whoever would let me! I just love doing it – it is my passion.

Who was your first hair and makeup mentor?
Melanie Shelley. She owned the first salon I ever worked in. She was great, so patient and a really good teacher. I am extremely thankful for her guidance.

Do you consider yourself a mentor to anybody?
I try to be, especially to all the stylists in my salon. Tiana Trotz met me when she was just 12 years old. I did her hair and makeup and she said that ever since then she just knew she wanted to be like me. When I opened Parlour 3 Salon two years ago, she came to me and asked for a job and has been working here ever since. She is now 19 years old and a great, positive asset to our team!

Why do you love it?
SO many reasons! I get to meet great and fascinating people daily and my work with celebrities has taken me to amazing places that I may never have seen. It is such a rewarding career. I can make someone feel amazing in just a couple of minutes. I have worked with many cancer patients and, in just five minutes, I am able to make them feel better about the way they look. It is a great satisfaction. If I can do just one small thing to make a person feel better in some way, it is incredibly rewarding. The transformations are incredible.

For more information about Melissa Schleicher and Parlour 3 Salon please visit www.Parlour3.com

[Image courtesy of Exit One Solutions]