Meet Maribel Tellez | Hair Architect & Barber

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

Hi Maribel, what do you want your legacy to be?
“I want people to remember me as someone who was passionate. Someone who made people feel seen and valued. That I didn’t just chase success, but I built meaningful relationships, showed empathy, and brought positive energy to every room I walked into. I want to be remembered not just for what I achieved, but for how I treated people and the difference I made in their lives.”

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My art is my work. It’s transformation. It’s confidence. What I do goes beyond hair—it’s about helping others feel seen, empowered, and beautiful in their own skin. I specialize in full-service hair artistry and barbering, including custom color, precision cuts, hair extensions, non-surgical hair replacement, lash and brow services, and now scalp micropigmentation.

Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP) has become one of the most meaningful additions to my work. It’s not just about creating the illusion of fuller hair—it’s about restoring confidence in those struggling with hair loss, thinning, or scars. It’s precise, artistic work that blends technical skill with deep empathy, and I’m proud to be one of the few women in my area offering this service.

What sets me apart is my ability to truly listen—not just to what my clients want, but to how they want to feel. I create a safe, welcoming space for every guest—especially those who may feel overlooked in traditional salon or barber environments. Whether it’s restoring confidence through SMP, crafting a seamless extension blend, or giving a tired mom a moment to feel like herself again—I treat each transformation like a custom piece of art.

Getting to where I am today wasn’t easy. IAs a single mother who returned to school to learn more and working, those long hours while raising a family, and sacrificing a lot to pursue my passion. There were times I felt unseen, underestimated, or stretched thin—but I never gave up. I kept evolving, kept learning, and trusted that the work would speak for itself.

Some of the biggest lessons I’ve learned? Stay humble. Stay teachable. Be kind, even when it’s not easy. And always stay true to your purpose—because when your work comes from a place of love, people feel it.

What I want the world to know about my story and my brand is that I didn’t build this overnight. I built it with intention, late nights, and a deep commitment to others. “Maribel’s Chair” is more than a business—it’s a space of restoration, style, and soul. And with the launch of my SMP brand CROWNED by MT, I’m continuing to expand that mission, helping clients reclaim their confidence—one follicle, one story, one person at a time.

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.
If my best friend came to visit Borrego Springs, I’d treat them to the perfect blend of relaxation, natural beauty, and small-town charm. We’d start with a peaceful brunch at La Casa del Zorro, then explore the Borrego Art Institute before wandering through the iconic metal sculptures at Galleta Meadows—a surreal and inspiring outdoor art experience.

No visit would be complete without some self-care at Alicia’s Desert Spa, where they’d be pampered head to toe—expert nail and skin care with Alicia, and custom hair and beauty services with me at Maribel’s Chair. It’s a serene, one-on-one space where beauty and wellness meet.

We’d spend time reconnecting with nature—hiking Borrego Palm Canyon, catching sunset at Font’s Point, or just taking in the quiet beauty of the desert. A visit to the Borrego Springs Farmers Market would be part of our local experience—supporting small businesses, enjoying fresh produce, and picking up handmade goods.

Evenings would be reserved for delicious meals at places like Carlee’s Place, The Red Ocotillo, or Carmelita’s Mexican Grill. For a quick bite, Los Jilbertos always hits the spot. And for dessert? Definitely a visit to the Fudge Factory or a scoop of local ice cream to cool off after a warm desert day.

One night, we’d stargaze under Borrego’s world-renowned dark skies—no city lights, just peace, constellations, and quiet wonder. It would be a week filled with connection, beauty, and memories neither of us would forget.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
First and foremost, I want to dedicate my shoutout to my children—they are my “why,” my constant motivation, and the reason I keep going even when things get tough. Their love and presence in my life keep me grounded and inspired.

I also want to recognize my clients, both loyal and new. They trust me with their transformations, their stories, and their energy. That trust has allowed me to grow—not just as a stylist and barber, but as a person.

To my mentors, teachers, and fellow beauty professionals throughout the years—thank you for sharing your wisdom, pushing me creatively, and reminding me that there’s always more to learn. Special thanks to those who stood by my side through my rough moments. Also organizations that helped a long the way.

Website: https://www.maribelschair.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/maribelschair?igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/maribelschair?mibextid=ZbWKwL