Melissa Callahan

Welcome or Welcome Back!

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A basic introduction of how Bombshells by Melissa became a hair salon in Hampton Roads would need to begin with telling you I started my beauty career as a second career during the end of my Active Duty Service in the U.S. Marine Corps.

During my final months of service I, simultaneously, trained at a Vidal Sassoon Academy for Cosmetology. I graduated with certifications in Make-Up Artistry, Master Esthetics and Reiki to name just a few focuses I explored. Immediately following my training, Bombshells was established- circa 2007- as a mobile beauty business, when I provided hair and makeup services for weddings and fashion shows in the San Diego area. In August of 2010, I relocated and transferred Bombshells to Japan, where I operated a single chair salon- much like I do today. In 2012, I relocated once again- this time to Hampton Roads Virginia- where I have settled down and planted roots. From 2012 to 2022 I worked with various Aveda salons; I immersed myself into the environmentally conscious culture and naturally derived brand. At Aveda I spent countless hours taking educational courses to better myself, my skills and stay on trend with services. In 2018 I expanded to become a Certified Aveda Color Educator and Aveda Brand Ambassador. Within the salon I took on the additional tasks of Director of Education, Director of Social Media and Director of Marketing. In 2022, I took the opportunity to grow my personal business and brand, jumping head first into the Private Salon Suite Life. My journey around the world and back has brought me to where I am now, in Newport News.

Since opening a private space has allowed me to refine my brand, I use the discipline and attention to detail from my enlisted service, combined with the artistic creativity and passion I have for hair, to create a truly custom curated experience that is unique to each Bombshell who enters my salon. 

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I specialize in custom blended color, blonding and haircuts. My goal for Bombshells by Melissa is to provide an authentic and truly personal salon experience, while providing a safe and inclusive space to every Bombshell. As someone who has relocated many times, I know how hard it is to find a stylist with the technical skills you need and who you are also comfortable with; Trust is a key to easing your anxiety about a new salon or hairstyle. I am honored you have chosen me to be your new Hair Salon & Hairstylist.

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When I'm not in the salon, I might be found on a yoga mat, studying tarot + divination, riding rollercoasters at Busch Gardens for the thrill, exploring restaurants and shops in Hampton Roads or Richmond, or likely reading a book.

You may notice I sometimes have my current read on display in the salon; this has sparked some interest amongst Bombshells which has inspired me to start "Bombshells + Books"- a book recommendation group/page for my clients and book lovers everywhere. As of April 2024, I have expanded to start a Bombshells +  Books Book Club. If you're a book lover, you might enjoy reading my reviews or we can chat about books you love during your appointment...

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Or if you prefer to not talk at all, I'm okay with that too- Silent appointments are always an option.

Your appointment is yours.

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