Besa Gordon met up with Melody Brown, a Portland-based entrepreneur and hairstylist who created a haven for Black hair and beauty with her salon, L&M Hair Company. 

Brown’s journey began in elementary school, where she faced teasing and insecurity about her hair, a common experience for many young Black girls navigating predominantly white spaces. Determined to take control of her narrative and embrace her natural beauty, she started practicing braiding on her own hair, discovering a hidden talent and an unshakeable passion that would ultimately shape her future.

As Melody honed her braiding skills, she began to realize the transformative power of hair. A good hairstyle could do more than just enhance one's appearance; it could boost confidence, shift perspectives, and empower individuals to embrace their unique beauty. This realization fueled her desire to create a space where Black people could feel seen, heard, and celebrated for their authentic selves.

In 2020, amidst the uncertainty and challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, Melody took a bold leap of faith and launched L&M Hair Company as an online store. The overwhelming response from the community affirmed her belief in the need for such a space. The following year, she opened her first brick-and-mortar salon in Southeast Portland, a vibrant hub of Black culture and community. The success of this location led to the opening of a second salon in 2023, further expanding her reach and impact.

Learn more about L&M Hair Company here. 

Catch Back2Besa every Saturday at 10:30 p.m. on FOX 13 Seattle and Sundays at 10 a.m. and 8 p.m. on FOX 13+. Viewers can also stream episodes anytime on the FOX Local app.