The Life of a Hair Designer

Even after becoming a fixture on the Beverly Hills beauty circuit, Beshara Haddad remains true to himself.

I always bring my styling bag to a filming location. If I am missing something, there is no substitute, and I may have to come back. One time a film producer asked for me to come to his house for his wife and him. I was just coming in from a trip, so I brought my luggage, and to my surprise, there was no styling bag, not even a pair of scissors. It could have been embarrassing, but we turned it into a party, drinking all day, telling stories and getting to know each other. The next day, I went back, and we are still friends today.
I’m well known in the Middle Eastern communities and many of the pop stars call on me—Haifa Wehbe, Regheb Alama, Nawal Al Zogby and Elissa. Now I call many mainstream stars clients, as well as film producers and directors, Adrienne Bailon from the “Cheetah Girls,” Jo Frost from ABC’s “Supernanny,” and more.

The secret to my success is routine. Every day I am up at 6 a.m. exercising and getting my mind moving. From 9 to 7, I am at the salon (Besha Beauty Design Beverly Hills), helping create the ideal look for my clients and dancing at work for optimum energy. Everyone is different and requires specialized attention. Having structure surrounding my life allows for the creativity that lets me find that perfect combination for a makeover. I don’t have or need a hobby because my career is my hobby.

My favorite time is when I can work on someone for a wedding or fancy glamour event. I love up-dos and coloring. I feel my best when I can make clients look better and feel better.

Believe it or not, I have no formal training. My career is a gift sent down to me. I always say that I am blessed to be where I am and what I have become, because fate and destiny put me here. Follow your dreams, and if they are meant to be, they will happen somehow, some way.

Home has been all over the world—Dubai, Milan, Saudi, Cannes, Los Angeles—but Lebanon is my favorite, of course! If you mix Miami with Los Angeles and the Middle East you get Lebanon. Everything is beautiful. The old town of Byblos, next to the Mediterranean, is my favorite. The peaceful nature and antique beauty sets it apart from the rest. I love to ski, and there is some of the best skiing there. It’s the smallest country, but it has the biggest heart.