Today we’d like to introduce you to Emanuela Mullalli.
Hi Emanuela, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
My name is Emanuela Mullalli, I grew up with a deep love for creativity and connection, which eventually led me to pursue a career in beauty. Although I now call Nashville home, a piece of my heart will always remain in my home country of Albania.
So how did I end up here?
“I married young, at just 19, while studying French literature at a local university. My husband lived in the U.S. and encouraged me to think about the opportunities that would be available here. Deep down, I always loved beauty. I used to do my mom’s hair and makeup, and she always let me experiment — those moments still remind me of how long I’ve carried this passion inside me.
When I moved to Nashville at 20, I didn’t know a word of English. I couldn’t read, write, or speak it, and my diploma from back home wasn’t accepted here. So, I started over. My first job was as a cook at McDonald’s, then I spent five years as a server. During those years, I learned English little by little — but the dream of becoming a hairstylist never left me. Every time I sat in a salon chair, I would tell the stylist, ‘What you are doing — that’s my dream.’
Life changed again when I had my daughter. She became my biggest inspiration. I wanted her to see that no matter how difficult the path, you can always chase your dreams. Children don’t always listen to what we say, but they watch what we do.
When she was two, I enrolled in beauty school here in the U.S. It was the hardest year of my life — working, studying, raising her, and teaching myself English at the same time. There were moments of guilt, exhaustion, and sacrifice, but I never gave up.
After graduating, I worked in a salon in Green Hills, but the long nights kept me away from my daughter. That’s when I told my husband: ‘I’m opening my own space.’
It was scary — I had no clients, just me in a small suite. The first year was difficult, but it was worth it. And now, I’m opening MÜN Salon: a luxury space where beauty, transformation, and light come together. We’re set to open in early 2026, and I couldn’t be more excited for what’s ahead.
As for the name? Many clients ask me about it. I didn’t want to use my family name or personal name — I wanted something unique, something that resonated with me. I wanted a name that would capture beauty, transformation, and confidence. The moon is a symbol of cycles, change, and light — all things that connect with what a salon really does for people. I chose MÜN because it feels sleek, modern, and memorable. Every time someone visits, I want them to feel like they’re stepping into their best light — just like the moon at its brightest. It also resonates with me personally. It represents renewal, confidence, and elegance.
Today, I have no regrets about taking the leap. I love what I do, and I treat my clients like family. Without them, this dream wouldn’t exist. My journey hasn’t been easy, but it has been filled with purpose, love, and determination. And I hope it inspires others — especially my daughter — to believe that no dream is ever too far to reach.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
The biggest struggle for me was the language barrier. Even after I began learning English, I realized that words can carry different meanings across cultures, and that was another challenge I had to overcome. Building a clientele was also difficult in my first year — not many people wanted to trust a recent graduate with their hair. But I stayed consistent, worked hard, and slowly earned that trust, one client at a time
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
As a hairdresser and business owner, my passion is creating beauty while building confidence. I specialize in color, styling, and transformative looks that help clients feel like the best version of themselves. I’m also in the process of earning my hair extension certification, so I can offer even more options for my clients.
Over the years, I’ve become known for my attention to detail, my ability to truly listen, and my dedication to making every appointment feel like a luxury experience. What I’m most proud of is not only growing a successful salon, but also creating a space where people feel inspired, valued, and cared for.
What sets me apart is the combination of creativity and vision—I see hair as both an art form and a way to connect deeply with people. Owning a salon has allowed me to merge that artistry with leadership, and I’m excited to continue expanding while raising the standard for beauty experiences..
Are there any apps, books, podcasts, blogs or other resources you think our readers should check out?
I always enjoy seeing videos and podcasts about motivation, inspiration and successful people. I’m all about growth, strong habits and staying focused
Contact Info:
- Website: Munsalon.glossgenius.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ela18_hairstylist?igsh=YTNub213cXN0bGpm&utm_source=qr
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1GfHuTCGcY/?mibextid=wwXIfr
