We hosted Michelle Tran, owner and founder of Meraki Beauty Bar, for headshots and a quick chat about her journey and passion.
Michelle’s first “job” was serving frozen yogurt on pineapple cans her dad placed so she could reach the counter when she was just seven years old. Her parents were Vietnamese refugees who built everything from scratch. She learned hard work and family values from her father, an optical technician, and her mother, a seamstress. In high school, she did nails for prom classmates before officially launching Meraki Beauty Bar with her sister Jenny in Burnaby in 2016.
| Session Type | Industry | Company | Role |
| Personal Branding | Beauty | Meraki Beauty Bar | Owner |
Passion with purpose
Michelle loves fine lines and drawing, which started her, but she says the real reward is in the connection and confidence she gives clients. Changing someone’s look can transform how they feel inside. She thrives in a welcoming salon where everyone belongs.
Started in 2016, Meraki has over 300 five‑star reviews and has been named Burnaby Now’s Best Lash Care and Best Brow Bar. Today a team of 21 aestheticians delivers a wide range of services from brow and lash treatments to lip blush and laser tattoo removal. Michelle also launched an education program guiding students after graduation, five out of six continue in beauty careers.
Michelle Tran in her own words
She’s been running the salon for about ten years. What she loves most is the moment a client sees a transformation—and the confidence that lights up her face. That’s her why. For anyone following in her shoes, she advises consistency (“fall off, hop back on, do it again… until you succeed”) and balance. Keep work and personal life in check so you can last—otherwise burnout will come quick.
Michelle turns fine art skills into confidence, one client at a time and builds community by training her team with mentorship and ethics. She combines passion, consistency, and entrepreneurship to grow an award-winning studio rooted in care.
Michelle Tran’s Links:
We captured Michelle’s warmth, professionalism, and creative edge with our Vancouver headshot service. Whether you’re a salon owner, beauty pro, artist, or educator, let’s help you shine.
