Curious about a building named after a beauty industry icon? This is the Paula Kent Meehan Historic Building. It stands as a testament to beauty pioneer Paula Kent Meehan. We are standing in front of a building with an interesting history.
Initially, this building served as the Beverly Hills Post Office. It proudly served the 90210 zip code after its construction in 1933. The 90210 zip code became synonymous with Beverly Hills. This was especially true after the TV series of the same name gained popularity.
But why is a post office named after Paula Kent Meehan? Paula Kent Meehan was the co-founder of Redken Laboratories. She made a generous donation to the Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts. The donation helped transform the center into a theater. It opened in 2014.
Paula Kent Meehan’s story is truly remarkable. In 1960, she launched Redken Laboratories with Jheri Redding. This small California-based company revolutionized the beauty industry. Paula’s sensitive skin and hair led her to create products respecting the natural pH of hair and skin.
Redken started with just three products. Paula pioneered teaching hairdressers the chemistry of hair. This enabled them to better serve their clients. It elevated hairdressing to a true profession.
Paula married John Meehan in 1971. John was an advertising executive. He helped her grow the company. He became CEO. Paula served as chairman of the board. L’Oreal USA acquired Redken in 1993.
Paula’s impact extended beyond business. She founded the Global Salon Business Awards. These awards honored leading salons worldwide.
Paula was a passionate philanthropist. She supported the Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts and the Beverly Hills 9/11 Memorial Garden. She even opened a pet rescue foundation called Pets 90210.
Paula Kent Meehan passed away in 2014. Her legacy lives on. She left an unforgettable mark on the beauty industry. Many remember her special workplace culture at Redken. Her passion for the industry flowed through every employee.
The Paula Kent Meehan Historic Building stands as a tribute to her. It reminds us of her vision and contributions. It reminds us of her dedication to Beverly Hills. It is more than just a historic building. It’s a symbol of innovation. It is a symbol of philanthropy. It embodies the spirit of Paula Kent Meehan.