Today we’d like to introduce you to Aliah Faulkner.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I started my journey in the beauty industry at just 16 years old as a salon assistant. Even at that young age, I realized that doing hair came naturally to me, and more importantly, I had a real passion for it. While building up my clientele, I was also working full-time in the banking industry. Eventually, I decided to take a leap and get my cosmetology license. From there, I transitioned to working part-time at the bank, which gave me more time to focus on my growing client base.
After a while, I was in a position where I could fully leave the corporate world and commit to beauty full-time. I gained experience working in a few salons, and during that time, I developed a strong interest in makeup artistry. That led me to attend makeup school—and that’s actually when TrueCombo was born. I created the concept to offer clients a seamless, all-in-one beauty experience: hair and makeup in a single appointment. That’s what I call the TrueCombo Experience™.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
For the most part, I consider myself extremely blessed, and I truly believe the good has far outweighed the challenges. I try to focus on the positive because it’s easy to get stuck dwelling on the obstacles. That said, the journey hasn’t always been smooth.
After earning my cosmetology license, I went back to obtain my senior cosmetology license, which allowed me the opportunity to mentor and train five apprentices under me. That experience really pushed me to grow as a leader and solidify my foundation in the industry.
Eventually, I decided to step out on faith and build my own brand. With my husband’s support I opened TrueCombo Salon & Beauty Bar, and seven years later, I expanded and launched TrueCombo & Co. Beauty Suites—both located in Glen Burnie, Maryland. It hasn’t always been easy, but every hurdle has been a stepping stone to something greater.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
TrueCombo is more than just a salon—it’s a God-given vision turned reality. At TrueCombo Salon & Beauty Bar and TrueCombo & Co. Beauty Suites, we specialize in both hair and makeup services, offering clients a one-stop shop for their beauty needs. Our signature service is the TrueCombo Experience™—a unique offering that combines professional hair and makeup in one appointment, making beauty both efficient and elevated.
I’m also the owner of MariElle Extensions, a premium hair extension company providing high-quality, long-lasting, and versatile extensions. MariElle was created with the combinations of my daughter’s names. MariElle Extensions is to give women the confidence to embrace their beauty, inside and out. By incorporating this line into the TrueCombo brand, we’re able to offer a complete, luxury beauty experience—from styling to products—guided by excellence and purpose.
What truly sets us apart is the foundation of faith that everything is built on. I believe that God has ordered my steps, and every part of this journey—from being a young salon assistant to now owning two beauty locations and an extensions company—has been led by Him. Prayer, obedience, and purpose have been the core of my business decisions. This isn’t just about hair and makeup—it’s about ministry through beauty, and using my gifts to pour into others, whether that’s a client in my chair or a young stylist finding their way.
Brand-wise, I’m most proud of the community and culture we’ve created—one that uplifts, empowers, and makes every individual feel seen and valued. I want people to know that TrueCombo and MariElle Extensions are built not just on talent and service, but on faith, integrity, and a deep passion for helping others walk confidently in their God-given beauty.
Can you tell us more about what you were like growing up?
Growing up, I was always a loving and nurturing child—my mom says I was constantly checking on her and making sure everyone was okay. I was friendly, full of life, and very family-oriented. I spent most of my time playing with my siblings, not glued to screens or social media like kids today. We created our own fun—whether it was dancing, singing, or just being silly together.
I’ve always had a creative spirit. I loved to sing, dance, and express myself, and I think that naturally evolved into my passion for beauty and making others feel good about themselves. Even as a child, I found joy in connecting with people and bringing light to any room I walked into.
Looking back, I can see how those early parts of my personality—being caring, joyful, and creative—shaped who I am today as a business owner, mentor, and woman of faith.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Www.truecombosalon.com
- Instagram: Truecombosalon
