Meet Mikesha Coby | Traveling Master Hairstylist/Creative/Salon Owner

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

Hi Mikesha, what do you think makes you most happy? Why?

What makes me happy is that I choose happiness every day. My life makes me happy. My job makes me happy. My daughter makes me happy. The person I see in the mirror every day makes me happy. The hard work I have been intentional about, makes me happy. Happiness is a choice we get to choose every day.

I no longer rely on things or others to validate or model what happiness is supposed to look like for me. Instead, I find gratitude in working hard to build a legacy for my family, manifesting the life I deserve, and knowing I have the ability to give back to the community I love so dearly. That makes me happy!!

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?

I’ve been in love with hair my entire life. From a young age the relationship with hair came effortlessly.  I remember before I became a hair stylist, I worked in corporate America. I was not the average hairstylist who liked to try all different styles on my own hair. I would prefer to go to a salon like everyone else. It was an experience for me. I remember sitting in salons thinking” One day when I have a salon….” I would allow my mind to wonder what it would be like had I had an opportunity to make the thing I loved so much a career. Hair is truly my life’s work.

Twelve years ago, I went back to cosmetology school, at 30, with an infant, new to being a single mom, unemployed, and determined to change the course in which my life was headed. I was sad, broken, and alone, but I knew I had to fight because giving up wasn’t ever an option. Looking back on when I started and where I am now, I realize that life itself is an obstacle and the only control I have is to be intentional about who I am going to show up as in the good and in the bad. That was a big lesson I learned.

The last few years have taught me to live boldly. To trust that no matter what it looks like, I will always WIN. Life was never promised to be painless so I had to stop preparing myself for the impact and start learning how to enjoy the journey. I am most excited about what the future holds. I have big dreams for myself.

The best advice I could give to anyone is there is no other person on this earth like you.  Don’t spend any more time giving power to the things that are out of your control and put that energy on the things you can control. You don’t have to be perfect at your gift. Practice makes perfect. If you allow life to take you on a journey, God will turn your imperfections into a masterpiece. Never give up on finding what makes you happy. Your brand evolves as you evolve so be prepared to pivot when necessary and do not be afraid to push past your level of comfort. Remember to let fear push you to take more risks and trust in yourself.

My story is still unfolding. This version of Mikesha Coby today is only a piece of my destiny.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.

I am originally from Dallas, TX. I currently live in Santa Clarita. I am still learning so much about LA. I love all the beautiful hills, overlooks and scenic drives. Everywhere looks like a photograph. I have a long bucket list of places I want to go.

When my friends and family come, I always take them on a guided city tour. It always helps me learn more about the history of LA and find new places to explore. I also get to scratch a few places off my bucket list.  Of course, I take them to some of my favorite local restaurants but when we are in the city, I have a list of favorites, including Taisho, Tao, Catch, The Strand House and District by GS, to name a few. I love going to Farmers Markets, Shopping on Melrose, Leimert Park, Little Tokyo, Koreatown, Rodeo Dr, The Grove, and 3rd Street Promenade. It’s always an adventure when someone comes to visit.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would like to shout out my parents Gayla Coby and Michael Clark (RIP).  God took two young kids and merged their lives together through love at 18. They were pillars of strength, love and gave so much to so many people. I always like to think I am the best version of them. I could never be me without them and for that I love them dearly.

Mega shoutout to My Creator. My God. My Comforter. My Lover and the source of my life. I honestly would not have made it anywhere without my heavenly Father. The force that gives me the ability to wake up every day, to keep growing, to keep shining, and the will to keep believing in myself.

Instagram: @mikeshacobysalon

Facebook: @mikeshacobysalon