Today we’d like to introduce you to Melissa Pavel.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
My journey into the beauty industry started at 19 years old, however my love for all things beauty began pretty organically, as a toddler trying to mimic my beautiful mother, playing in all her amazing hair products and makeup. My mother has always been incredibly stunning and chic, growing up idolizing her definitely molded me into the hairstylist I am today and the type of work I live to produce.
I would like to say, “that’s my story…It was that easy…look at me now”, but there were a few life detours along the way that made this journey extra special.
When I was 20 years old, I had my son, Baylor Joseph and realized quickly that my aspirations of working behind the chair as a single mom “pursuing her passion” just wasn’t financially possible. Like most providers of the family, I made the decision to put my dreams on hold and took a position with a small Oil and Gas Brokerage here in Fort Worth. What was only supposed to be a temporary career path, became my home for eight years. The money, the benefits and everything else that comes with working for a successful and ever growing business, was unrealistic for me to consider giving up.
I think the saying goes, “When we make plans, God laughs”, and that’s exactly what happened for me. After having my second child, daughter Dawson Farrar and working almost a decade “behind the desk”, faith, family, and circumstance gifted me with the chance to buck up and actually take a chance. I wake up grateful everyday that I was presented the opportunity to take this chance.
Has it been a smooth road?
I knew taking this leap as not only a stylist, but an entrepreneur would have its hardships, but I never anticipated the emotional struggle, self doubt, and physical toll that comes with it all. There were so many times I wanted to tell myself to give up, that I wasn’t good enough, that I wasn’t talented enough,that my kids deserve a better role model, the list goes on and on. If it were not for the compassion and encouragement of my parents (Scott and LeeAnn) the love and constant motivation from my fiance’ (Colton), and the hugs and smiles of my beautiful children, I would have most definitely quit on myself. Their support let me know that giving up on myself and my dreams was not an option. I’m so thankful.
So, as you know, we’re impressed with tHAIRapy on the AVEnue (a.k.a TOTA Studio) – tell our readers more, for example, what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
In July of 2018, I toured and was completely blown away by Novak Hair Studios and its owner’s, Ben and Justin Hudgins. The Hudgins’ unique energy, desire to grow and educate their stylists, and their enthusiasm for saving the planet, inspired me and ensured that I signed on as one of their first Solo Artists at Fort Worth’s First Fully Sustainable Salon, Novak Hair Studios!. When I met Ben & Justin on a tour of NOVAK, I fell so in love with their energy and concept, I told them I had to be part of it! Truth be told, I begged them to take a chance on me and i’m so thankful that they did”. Thus, tHAIRapy on the AVEnue (aka TOTA Studio) was born.
With TOTA Studio, I wanted to create an inviting, relaxing, and almost therapeutic (get it…tHAIRapy!) luxury salon studio experience for my Guests. I believe that not only the service but also the combination of the experience and atmosphere they receive is what has and keeps bringing Guests through the door.
At tHAIRapy on the AVEnue, we specialize in Hair Color (i.e., Color Corrections, Balayage, Blonding, etc.,) and Hair Extension Services. We recently transitioned into the DFW Bridal Market offering on-site Wedding Hair and Airbrush Makeup Services. We love getting to be a very small part of a such an incredibly big day.
In November 2018, myself along with a few other Novak Solo Artists, were granted the opportunity to attend MODERN Salon Artist Session in New York City. Artist Session gave me the ability to learn from and work with elite Hairstylist’s, Makeup Artists, Photographers and Models in the industry. In January 2019, my editorial work produced at Artist Session was published in the #1 Industry Magazine in the nation, MODERN SALON MAGAZINE. In March, Ben and Justin Hudgins along with our Superhero of a Salon Manager Angela Patino came to my studio and informed me that I could officially add; Internationally Published Session Artist to my resume’.
To say that I’m living my dream is more than an understatement. I wake up everyday and cannot wait to get into my studio and create something beautiful. I am absolutely evidence that dreams do come true, hard work pays off, it’s never too late and that you are worth and deserve it, no matter the circumstance.
Let’s touch on your thoughts about our city – what do you like the most and least?
I love everything about Downtown Fort Worth! Its historically beauty coupled with its industrial modern vibe makes it the perfect location for tHAIRapy on the Avenue.
Contact Info:
- Address: 250 W. Lancaster Avenue
Suite 110, Studio 17 - Website: https://www.totastudiodfw.com
- Phone: 8175665229
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/totastudio
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/totastudio
- Other: https://www.theknot.com/marketplace/thairapy-on-the-avenue-fort-worth-tx-2018636
Image Credit:
Brylee Raye Beauty and Photography
Getting in touch: VoyageDallas is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
