Meet the Team
Click a photo to learn some thoughtful details about each stylist. Each stylist brings something unique to the table, if you need help matchmaking please let us know by emailing or texting.
Our Story
Left Coast Salon is your local ALL-Texture Salon focused on providing the community with affordable, top notch scalp and hair care experiences in a safe + inclusive environment.
We believe clients deserve a wholehearted approach that allows professionals the chance to to see, hear and thoughtfully hold space for our community.
We believe hair professionals are more satisfied and perform better when able to be vulnerable and authentic. Finally, we believe there is an intentional way to create these exceptional service experiences for both the client and the stylist.
Left Coast Salon is on a mission to resolve preventable problems plaguing the salon industry which are directly related to abysmal statistics regarding turnover, job satisfaction and employee experiences and are in turn,directly related to dissatisfying client experiences.
Left Coast Salon sets itself apart with an innovative advanced training program for new stylists call The Salon Residency Program™, created by veteran stylist and educator, Kristina Malolua. Since 2003 she has been developing the skills, information, strategies and business acumen necessary to bring this vision to life.
As a solopreneur, Kristina founded Left Coast Salon in 2017 in the Theatre district of Downtown Tacoma in the back space of a photography studio. The pandemic created a unique opportunity to get into a space large enough to house a training program and the intense social/economic upheaval was the catalyst needed finally get the ball rolling and in September of 2021 The Left Coast Advanced Training Salon and The Salon Residency Program were launched!
The Salon Residency Program welcomed it's first residents in April of 2022 and has proven the ability to produce Wholehearted Hair Professionals committed to service, community, teamwork, authenticity, accountability and fun. With a tenacious penchant for excellence in the areas of personal, professional and technical development, the Salon Residents and Left Coast Salon are positioned properly to efficiently create sustainable solutions for improved futures and fulfilling lifestyles.
We welcome all to come visit us and experience the vibe that is created when the psychological safety of ALL 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
Hair Experience: 20 Years
Service Rate: $150/Hour
**PNW Local and Army brat
**Millennial, Leo/Cancer/Aquarius
**Zumba Instructor + Wannabe Fitness Fanatic
**Mother of 4 (ages ranging from 3 to 23 years)
**Proudly Half Samoan (2nd Gen) and Idahoan
**Palms trees over pine trees, for sure.
**Loves British murder mysteries
A Transformative Journey:
Greetings! I'm Kristina, and my two-decade journey in the world of hairstyling has evolved into something truly special. Beyond the scissors and salon chair, I've discovered my passion for personal development and growth. While I'm dedicated to making your hair look fantastic, my focus extends to empowering you on your unique life journey.
Life Coaching Behind the Chair:
When you choose to work with me, expect more than just a haircut; anticipate candid conversations about your life trajectory. I'm here to explore the factors that may be holding you back and help you embrace change and growth. It's like having a life coaching session during your hair appointment, but without any formal commitments.
Your Journey, Your Priorities:
Your hair is a reflection of your individuality, and I respect that. Before we even touch your hair, we'll have a lifestyle consultation to align our goals and create a personalized plan. Whether you're seeking a bold change or a subtle transformation, your priorities come first.
My Purpose:
I'm not just a hairstylist; I'm a visionary and Learning Leader at LCATS, where I'm on a mission to shape a new generation of wholehearted hairdressers. My goal is to ensure safe and equitable access to hair professionals who not only excel in their craft but also provide a psychologically safe environment for our diverse community.
The Future:
As I transition towards a new phase in my career, I anticipate retiring from behind the chair within the next 2 years. During this transition, I'm excited to introduce you to my highly trained Salon Residency graduates who share my values and techniques. They're the future of our salon, and I'm proud to pave the way for their success.
Join Me on this Journey:
Thank you for taking the time to get to know me. I look forward to the opportunity to connect with you, support your hair needs, and empower you on your path to personal growth. Feel free to reach out to me at kristina@leftcoastsalon.com.
Warm regards,
Kristina, Founder of Left Coast Salon
Kristina Malolua
Master Stylist
Mentor
founder + CEO
G Eastlake
Assistant Educator +
Level 3 Resident
**Kentucky Born and Youngest Sibling
**Aquarius / 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
**Personal Note:
Greetings! I'm G, a non-binary 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, even experimenting with my own locks long before entering the professional world. My journey began during a period of self-discovery, and since then, I've uncovered immense joy in unraveling the mathematical and scientific aspects of this craft, understanding the "why and how" behind it all.
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; it's 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, potentially saving them years of struggles and fostering a positive relationship with their hair, salon, and stylists.
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 eagerly anticipate the opportunity to get to know you, your unique hair needs, and together, create a beautiful transformation.
Warm regards,
G
Navy Dorn
Salon Manager +
Level 3 resident
- **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.
Future: I do have plans to someday move out of state and have an adventure, but for today I am loving being here for you and to be close to my family.
I'm eagerly looking forward to collaborating with you, using my skills to craft a look that inspires and enhances your life.
Hope to see you soon!
Navy
Erika Gilbert
Scheduler +
Level 1 Resident
- **Level 1 Resident
- **Millennial, Capricorn
- **Mexican American Twin
- **Passionate about all things beauty!
- **Dreams of someday starting a family ❤️
**Personal Note:
Hello, I'm Erika, and my journey to this point has been one of discovering my passion for serving people and helping them feel beautiful. It's taken some time to find a place where I truly feel that my unique gifts are recognized and valued. I couldn't be happier to be here, and I'm eager to explore all the ways I can contribute to the salon, our talented stylists, and every valued client.
My commitment is to ensure you feel as comfortable as possible during your time with me, and I promise to deliver my very best work from behind the chair.
I have a deep love for education and teaching, and I'm particularly enjoying working with tight textures, transforming curls into a lush and juicy experience. Short cuts have also captured my interest, and I find kids' services enjoyable:). Educating parents on how to care for their kids' hair and establishing the best at-home practices for your family are among my priorities.
I aim to be your partner in finding solutions and creating a consistent and enjoyable salon experience for you.
Best Wishes,
Erika
Martha Chavez
Assistant +
Level 1 Resident
**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. While I'm one of the younger members here at 20 years old, I bring a unique energy and enthusiasm to Left Coast.
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