Meet the Team
Tap the photos to learn more about each stylist.
Our Mission
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We believe that everyone deserves to learn the best practices for their unique hair care, and self-care situations. We believe it is our duty as personal service professionals to be guides along this path, and We believe that Salon spaces should be safe, inclusive, and rooted in education and the sharing of that wisdom with the purpose of easing the experience for those who come after.
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We are here to do our part in healing the relationship between commerce and community.
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We aim to transform the salon experience into a wholehearted journey toward improved well-being. Our environment is created for self-care, where everyone is welcomed and encouraged to grow. We believe in the power of connection and in meeting each individual exactly where they are at on their unique path to self-actualization. As Personal Service Providers, we're more than just informed; we're friends inspiring our community to embrace their true selves and discover a more fulfilling lifestyle.
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We are Wholehearted Service Providers in a tenacious pursuit of technical, professional, and personal excellence and our mission is to empower individuals to strengthen the community.
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We provide high quality educational hair care services through modeling kind, vulnerable and authentic communication skills that help facilitate trust and collaboration. We use math, science and psychology to ground all of our practices and believe that wisdom is best when shared with others.
What we do best:
We provide cut, wash + style, and naturally enhanced color services as well as access to clean hair and scalp care products.
We welcome you to come visit us and experience the vibe that is created when psychological safety is prioritized. We value and respect ourselves so that we may value and respect you. Thank you for taking the time to get to know us and if you're into it we welcome you to begin your journey with us. Whether as a client, friend, employee, community member or virtual fan, we welcome you to the Left Coast Salon community. <3​
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Level 8 Stylist
**PNW Local and Army brat
**Millennial, Leo☀/Cancer⬆/Aquarius 🌙
**Wannabe Fitness Junkie
**Mother of 4 (ages ranging from 5 to 24 years)
**Proudly Half Samoan (2nd Gen) and Idahoan
**Palms trees over pine trees, for sure.
**Loves British murder mysteries
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A personal Note About Me & My Mission
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I’m Kristina Malolua, the founder of Contextual Salon Education™ (CSE), a program designed to fill the gaps in traditional beauty education by focusing on critical thinking, technical mastery, and personal service principles.
My approach goes beyond techniques—I train professionals to understand hair in all its textures and patterns, master client consultation, and create sustainable, thriving careers. Through our Salon Residency Program and business coaching initiatives, I empower stylists to build confidence, elevate their craft, and navigate the realities of the salon industry with clarity and purpose.
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At Contextual Salon Education™, we believe that every hairdresser deserves an education that prepares them to serve every client with excellence. Whether you're a new stylist looking for foundational training or a seasoned professional refining your skills, CSE offers practical, real-world education that transforms careers.
Let's shape the future of the beauty industry—one stylist, one client, one conversation at a time.
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With purpose and passion,
Kristina Malolua
Kristina
Level 8 Stylist
Owner and Mentor
Fern
Educator
Level 5 Stylist
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**Raised Army brat
**Naturalized PNW Local
**Youngest Sibling
**Aquarius☀/Cancer⬆/Gemini 🌙
**Gen Z
**Black Cats and Energy Work Enthusiast
**Studied Psychology at PLU
**Fascinated by the Math and Science of Hair Styling
**Dreams of Building a Tiny Home for Themselves and Their Cat​
Howdy!
I'm Fern (formerly known as G), a queer, genderfluid individual deeply passionate about the world of hairstyling. My journey in this creative field is driven by a profound desire to empower individuals emotionally, boost their confidence, and create meaningful connections.
A bit about my background: I've been exploring the art of hair for over a decade, beginning my experimentation with my own locks long before entering the professional world. My journey began during a period of self-discovery amidst the chaos of the pandemic, and since then I've uncovered immense joy in unraveling the mathematical and scientific aspects of this craft.
My passion for hair comes from understanding the "why and how" behind it all, but creating a safe and welcoming space for you is my utmost priority. I want every moment in my chair to be more than just a haircut: an opportunity for genuine connection. Your feedback is invaluable to me, as it propels my continuous growth and development, ensuring that I provide top-notch services.
My specialties are currently emerging in the realms of tight textures and working with the youth. Assisting the tight, coarse-textured community in mastering their strands is a special privilege I hold with utmost respect. Additionally, I find great fulfillment in guiding coming-of-age youth who are just beginning their hair journey, being able to potentially save them years of struggles while fostering a positive relationship with their hair, salon, and stylists for a lifetime of having curly hair. There’s a way to make curly hair not only manageable, but fun and empowering, and I love assisting people in learning how to manage and play with their looks.
In parallel to my hairstyling journey, I've embarked on a new path as a coach in training. I'm thrilled to assist during training days and further hone my skills to better serve you.
I'm here to listen, engage, and ensure that your hair journey is not only exceptional but also an unforgettable experience.
I’m stoked to get to know you, your unique hair needs, and together create a look you can wear with pride.
Warm regards,
Fern
Navy
Level 5 Stylist
Salon Manager
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- **Washington Native**
- **Leo ☀/ Millennial**
- **Youngest of Four, the Only Girl
- **Firm Believer in the Law of Attraction
- **Devoted to Serving People
- **Passionate about Dance, Weight Training, Journaling, and Meditation
Personal Note:
Greetings! I'm Navy, and my name is pronounced Nah-Vee. As a proud 100% Cambodian native, I have a deep love for learning and an unwavering commitment to my personal growth journey. My life is dedicated to inspiring and uplifting others.
My journey to the salon world was a challenging one, especially during the pandemic, but I'm incredibly grateful to be here now, serving my community in a profession I'm passionate about. I approach my craft with immense pride and a dedication to excellence. You can trust that I'll work diligently to ensure your satisfaction.
At Left Coast, I share a profound love for cutting and working with all hair textures, assisting people in finding solutions to their hair and scalp concerns, making their lives easier.
I also find great joy in working with color, creating natural, lived-in looks, from sun-kissed curls to brightening highlights and bold all-over color changes. Throughout the transformation process, I'll be there with you, fostering conversations and comfort to make these longer services as joyous as possible.
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I'm eagerly looking forward to collaborating with you, using my skills to craft a look that inspires and enhances your life.
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Hope to see you soon!
Navy
Martha
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Level 4 Stylist
Asst. Salon Coordinator
**Leo☀, Gen Z
**Mexican American
*Hispanohablante
**Foodie
**Daughter of a 30 year hairdresser and salon owner
**Spooky movie, doing nails and Friends
**Personal Note:
Hello, I'm Martha, and I was raised with a deep appreciation for the beauty industry and the transformative work that takes place in a salon environment. I bring a unique energy and enthusiasm to Left Coast. I love cutting and am really enjoying creating fun youthful shapes!
I've been working as a dental assistant since obtaining my cosmetology license, and I'm thrilled to be a part of the Left Coast team, where I'm learning about every hair texture and finding my own path within the salon world.
Currently, I'm finding immense enjoyment in providing wash and style services, scalp detox treatments, and creating stunning blowouts. Styling curly hair is especially exciting for me because of the endless possibilities it offers.
In addition to hairstyling, I have a passionate side gig in acrylic nails as an artistic outlet. Feel free to ask me more about it; I'd love to share.
Outside of the salon, I find joy in exploring new restaurants with my family and friends. I have a particular fondness for spooky things, scary movies, and simply having fun!
I'm eager to bring my dedication and creativity to your beauty journey. Let's explore the possibilities together.
Take Care,
Martha
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Amy
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Level 2 Stylist
Logistics Support
**​​​​Sagittarius☀
**Gen Z
**Cartoon Enthusiast
**Body Mod Lover
*Born and Raised in Tacoma
Personal Note:
Hey!
I'm Amy. I was born and raised here in Tacoma, and I started out as a client here at Left Coast back in 2021. I have always had a love for styling all curl types and dream of helping people feel confident in themselves and their hair. I am so passionate about self-expression, and hair can be such a key part of that puzzle. Crafting unique shapes and styles and forming connections with each and every client in my chair is my happy place.
I am also a huge lover of alternative subcultures, from the music to the fashion and everything in between! In my free time, I enjoy exploring nature, thrifting, baking, and going on adventures with my friends. I am also a huge fan of all things artistic and love drawing, painting, and sculpting.
I would be delighted to meet you and help you in your journey of achieving the hair of your dreams!
Sincerely,
Amy
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Sarah
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Level 3 Stylist ​
**West Coast Native & proud Gen X’er (yes, I remember dial-up internet)
**Scorpio☀-Sag/Virgo⬆/Cancer 🌙
**Married and mom to 5 girls (3 adopted, 2 bonus) + 3 grandbabies
**Plant, dog and animal enthusiast (if it has paws or leaves, I’m in)
**Passionate about astrology, holistic healing, and meditation
**Professional dancer in my living room (the neighbors are definitely watching)
**Obsessed with Egypt, ancient megalithic structures and civilizations
Hey there!
I’m Sarah, and I’m beyond excited to have found my salon family here at Left Coast! I’ve always had a love for the beauty industry and the arts, finding inspiration in just about everything around me. With over 13 years of experience as a stylist, I’ve discovered my true passion: making people feel their absolute best. After overcoming ovarian cancer and coming out the other side stronger and cancer-free, I’m even more passionate about empowering others to live their best lives. I specialize in curly hair, short styles, bangs of all kinds, and shags—but honestly, all textures and lengths are welcome!
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When I’m not in the salon, you’ll find me at home or in my backyard, playing with my German Shepherd, tending to my plant babies, or binge-watching Ancient Aliens. (Because who isn’t curious about the pyramids, right?)
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Can't wait to meet you exactly where you're at!
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Sincerely,
Sarah
Heather
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Level 4 Stylist
She/Her | Leo ☀ | Scorpio⬆| Virgo 🌙
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Hi, I’m Heather! I’ve spent the last 10 years behind the chair, fueling my passion for hair, education, and personalized client care. I’m a true hair nerd, and I love teaching and learning—whether it’s helping fellow stylists refine their craft or guiding my clients to feel confident in their own hair routines.
I grew up in a small town in Wyoming and couldn’t wait to move to the Pacific Northwest. Since landing in Washington, I’ve built a home, community, and career that align with my values of growth, inclusivity, and connection. My approach to hairdressing is all about customized solutions, making sure every client leaves the salon feeling seen, celebrated, and confident in their natural beauty.
What I Do Best:
specialize in dimensional color, bold transformations, and precision cutting.
I’m obsessed with at-home hair care and will always help you find the best products for your hair’s needs.
I love teaching my clients how to recreate their looks at home with ease.
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A Little More About Me:
-Favorite Things: Board games, live music, and espresso martinis (send me your favorite spots!).
-Dream Destination: Thailand—let’s go!
-Favorite Holiday: Halloween forever.
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I love creating a safe, inclusive space where people can express themselves freely.
I’m currently accepting new clients and would love to bring your hair dreams to life! Book your appointment with me today!
Melissa “Mel” Rich
Level 4 Colorist & Level 3 Stylist
Taurus Sun | Sagittarius Moon | Cancer Rising
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Hey there, I’m Melissa, but you can call me Mel! I’m a proud first-generation Korean and a Tacoma native. Growing up, hair was my favorite way to express myself and accessorize my personality. That passion led me to leave my career in elementary outdoor education and embark on my cosmetology journey—and I’ve never looked back!
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For me, hair is about more than just looking good; it’s about connection. I thrive on forming deep, authentic connections with my clients. It brings me so much joy to create looks that reflect who you are, inside and out.
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When I’m not behind the chair, you can find me baking cheesy sourdough, camping under the stars, crafting up something creative, or doting on my fur and fish babies. I’m a proud servant to two cats, a senior dog, and one resident betta!
Whether you’re looking for a bold transformation or a subtle refresh, I can’t wait to connect with you and bring your hair vision to life!
Let’s make some magic happen!
Jade
Level 1 Stylist
Cancer Sun | Taurus Moon | Virgo Rising​​
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Hi, I’m Jade! I’m a hairstylist, makeup artist, and contemporary artist with a passion for creativity and connection. I’ve always been drawn to the art of hair and beauty as a way to empower people to express their individuality.
One of my main goals as a stylist is to become a curly-haired specialist and texpert. I’m passionate about defying toxic beauty standards, embracing natural hair and beauty, and helping guests create personalized routines and solutions for their hair needs.
I believe in creating a safe, inclusive space for everyone. I thrive in team-oriented environments and value open communication, continuous learning, and giving each guest a luxury experience—from creative color services to unisex haircuts and, of course, an unforgettable scalp massage!
When I’m not behind the chair, you can find me crafting, exploring the great outdoors, listening to live music, or diving into a creative project. I also have a soft spot for animals and am known for dreaming of one day having a pet turtle and a little aquarium of fish!
I can’t wait to bring my passion and artistry to Left Coast Salon and help you embrace your natural beauty with confidence!
Let’s create something beautiful together!