Today we’d like to introduce you to Milaine Boyer.
Hi Milaine, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I started working on hair 17 years ago. I’m from Ontario Canada, and my mom was a single parent who also worked in the beauty industry, so in many ways, this career path was already in my DNA. Watching her work, hustle, and make something out of nothing resonated to me at a young age. I began playing with hair during my childhood, braiding friends’ hair after school, helping out in salons whenever I could, and I knew right away that this was not a hobby but a calling.
For me, doing hair is about so much more than the final look. It’s about helping women feel seen, beautiful, and empowered. Whether it’s a fresh style that boosts someone’s confidence or a moment of connection in my chair, I’ve always believed that beauty is a powerful form of self-expression. Being part of that transformation, both inside and out, is what keeps me passionate every day.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Is anything in business ever a smooth road? I can certainly say I’ve had my share. One of the very first major challenges was moving from Ontario to Miami. I had to re-register my licences, adapt to a completely different market, and learn how to handle new personalities and cultural dynamics which was a huge change.
And then, about a year after I had my salon, I experienced a massive walkout in February 2024. It was something I never experienced before, and it hit hard. Especially because my support system was all the way on the other side of the country. That period was incredibly challenging, but it forced me to reflect deeply. I took it as a lesson and, in hindsight, it was a blessing in disguise. It pushed me to reevaluate my leadership style, my boundaries, and the culture I wanted to create within the salon. From that point on, I became more intentional about who I brought into the space and how we worked together. It helped me step into a stronger, more aligned version of myself, not just as a stylist, but as a business owner.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Gleam Hair Studio?
Gleam Hair Studio is an inclusive salon that welcomes both men and women. We specialize in professional color services, from natural tones to bold transformations. We also offer precision cuts, styling, and treatments. As a proud L’Oréal Concept Salon, we’re backed by one of the industry’s top brands, giving us access to high-quality products and continuous education.
What sets Gleam apart is our deep commitment to listening. We prioritize each client’s voice and focus on building meaningful relationships. Every appointment is a personalized experience, not just a service.
Our space is warm, welcoming, and designed to fit your needs whether you’re here to unwind or catch up on emails. We want every guest to feel at home, cared for, and confident. Gleam isn’t just a salon, it’s a community built on trust, authenticity, and the belief that beauty starts from within.
Can you talk to us about how you think about risk?
When I think about risk-taking, I think about the decision to invest in my salon and completely uproot my life. My family and I were fully settled in Ontario, Canada. I was working as an independent stylist, my husband previously operated his businesses on sight, and our kids had grown up on the same street with close friends and a strong sense of community. We truly thought that was our forever.
Then an opportunity came along, one that stirred something in me. Within just a few months, I packed up my car, donated most cherished belongings to a local women’s shelter, and made the 24-hour drive to Miami. In less than six months, everything we had built in Canada was left behind, and we were starting fresh in a new country, new city, and new chapter.
It was the biggest risk I’ve ever taken but also the most rewarding. I believe risk is necessary for growth. It’s rarely comfortable, but it forces you to rise, to stretch, and to discover what you’re truly capable of. For me, taking this leap wasn’t just about opening a salon it was about choosing a life that aligned with my purpose.
Pricing:
- Prices starting at…
- (Full) Highlights $249
- (Full) Balayage $269
- Keratin $300
- Wash, Cut, Style $135
Contact Info:
- Website: https://gleamhairstudio.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gleam.hair.studio/#
Image Credits
All credits go to the one and only Angie Flores.
