We had the good fortune of connecting with Melissa Marusteri and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Melissa, you love what you do. It’s clear to anyone who knows you. Why and what about your work do you love so much?
I love being a cultivator of confidence. I am so grateful that my clients entrust me with their appearance. In just a few hours, I am able to impact how a woman feels about herself and awaken her inner confidence. She leaves my salon feeling powerful and her inner beauty shines outwardly. Its much more than hair, its an expression of self-care. I can’t imagine doing anything else!

What should our readers know about your business?
I am a master hairstylist and certified holistic health coach. I own a health-minded hair studio called The Green Spot inside The Beauty District at Desert Ridge Marketplace in Phoenix, Arizona. My salon focuses on natural looking hair color and hair extensions. I carry a variety of non-toxic styling products that set me apart from other salons. I’ve spent the last 5 years switching over from the toxic salon products of old to the more natural lines that still perform at a high level. Cultivating a new business is never easy. I’ve learned to constantly evolve and change in order to keep relevant. I wanted to create a salon that would limit the exposure to toxic chemicals. I began this quest due to my own auto-immune issues. I could not continue to work around such harsh chemicals as it was negatively impacting my own health. Hair is synonymous with self-care. I’m proud to be one of the few salons in the valley that offer alternative, healthier hair services.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I’m a big foodie and I love a good brunch. If my bestie was in town, I’d take her to Chez Vous in Scottsdale for mimosas and crepes. After brunch, I would definitely take advantage of the many amazing resorts and spas in the valley. I love floating in the mineral pool at the Hyatt Regency at Gainey Ranch. The spa treatments are amazing. They even have a Himalayan salt room that you can reserve. After we’ve relaxed and lounged at the spa I’d probably hit up a restaurant around Scottsdale Fashion Square. Toca Madera is a great place to take an out of towner. It’s quite the trendy scene and the food and drinks are amazing! There is so much to see in Arizona. Sedona is also one of my happy places!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
One of my best friends, Melissa Lenberg has had a huge impact on my success. She owns an organic skincare and makeup store called Citrine at the Biltmore Fashion Park. Melissa has influenced my business in so many ways. She’s held my hand through it all. I appreciate all the late night phone calls and help along the way. I look up to her and am grateful she’s willing to share all she’s learned on her journey as an female entrepreneur.

Website: www.greenspotaz.com
Instagram: @mel.greenspotaz
Facebook: @thegreenspot

Image Credits
The first picture of me was taken by Rubi Metz. The other 8 I took myself 😉