Today we’d like to introduce you to Desiree Sanchez-Harvey.
Hi Desiree, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
My name is Desiree Sanchez-Harvey.
I was adopted at the age of 5 by my mother ,Felecia Harvey, who is an African-American woman. My mother was a Hairstylist who owned her own Hair Salon for 15+ years I grew up (Rocking side to side) focused on watching her do Hair all my life and she has taught me everything I know. I started braiding at 8 years old and by the time I was 10, I was braiding my friends’ hair at school for little to nothing. Lol, I didn’t mind because I enjoyed doing it, and I was really good at it. From there my mother slowly taught me other things besides braids to get me familiar with other hair textures that didn’t match mine and she always explained why. See, being raised as a Mexican-American daughter with an African-American mother in the 90’s was not a familiar thing. So at that time, I thought I was African-American too. My mom always said I had an Identity Crisis so she made sure to educate me on different cultures and hair types. Throughout the years I would braid different types of hair to help me perfect my craft. In 2007 I was accepted to attend Barbara Jordan High school where I started taking Cosmetology classes.
In 2009 I transferred to Contemporary Learning Center to finish my hours. They also had cosmetology classes but I graduated school before I could complete my 1500 hours. In 2011, I attended Houston Community college for cosmetology but later found out I was pregnant. I decided to put a pause on my dreams and deal with real life situations. In 2013 I attended Greater Jerusalem School of Cosmetology. With my mother being the instructor, I Graduated from Cosmetology School in 2014. Although I was talented, I would get these discouraging moments when different cultural clients wouldn’t give me the time or day to show my skills. I strongly felt that it was due to the fact I was Mexican-American. My mother vouched for me and explained to the clients, how she was my mother and teacher. That alone would help the client feel more comfortable, but it didn’t make me feel secure. I knew right then that I didn’t want to live in her shadow for the rest of my life. I wanted to create a name for myself based off my skills and hard work.
After I graduated I had my second child and when your a stylist, if you don’t have clientele already then your bag is not secured. So I put a pause on elevating my career because being a stylist takes a lot of sacrifices. Sacrifices I couldn’t make being a single mother of 2 children. Years passed by and I still had a few clients I would do here and there, but mostly I punched the clock to provide for my babies. I was fired and laid off from multiple jobs due to single mother Problems like no babysitter, sick kids. Lacking a support system in general.
Finally, In 2021, I did a lot of self-reflecting after being fired from the best paid job I’ve ever had. I remember sitting there thinking to myself, “what am I doing?” God blessed me with a gift a long time ago, and most people don’t have that. At times I would get discouraged when I think back to all the people who didn’t give me a chance, instantly disliking what they don’t understand and I’ll start to fold. Then my 29th Birthday arrived and I started looking at my children, my life, my circle of friends, and realize that it was time for me to stop being scared and just trust that God will lead way. I knew at that moment I was ready to jump off the porch, as I like to call it. Most of my friends at this point are entrepreneurs, and with their help, I was able to launch my business. Genesis Creations was established April 1st, 2021. Later that year I did a Natural Hair photoshoot with previous clients to introduce myself to the public and was blown away from all the positive responses I received. Shortly after that my clientele started to expand and I couldn’t be more grateful. I can honestly say this year has been the best year by far financially, spiritually and Mentally.
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?
Honestly, nothing worth having is easy, so of course I have encountered a few bumps in the road, but I’ve honestly have been thriving and I can thank God for that. I strongly feel this is my calling so it really comes more natural to me. Although this world carries a few rotten apples, God has been so good to me and I’m so Happy. Most times once the clients actually meet me and talk to me than they usually feel more comfortable. I have clients who have been with me through Genesis first year and we have created friendships and bonds.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I’m a Natural Hairstylist That Specializes in African-American Natural Hair. I’m known for my “Growing hands” and knowledge about Natural Hair. What sets me apart from everyone else is, most professionals get in this business for the fast money and that’s great, but I don’t just “Do” my client’s hair. I grow and take care of their hair. I provide the knowledge and products that are necessary to help keep the hair healthy and strong. I’m most proud, when my clients are fully satisfied with their experience and leave with smiles on their faces.
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
My mother has always been my mentor, but lately I’ve been trying my best to educate myself so that no one will take advantage of me.
As for Networking the best way to help with that is being open-minded to new things and be willing to listen and understand other people’s struggles and misleads, so that you know not to go through similar situations. Also being an positive individual period as well being professional at all times.I’ve always been helpful and kind so meeting new people and being able to network hasn’t really been that hard for me. I can thank my mother and God for that.
Pricing:
- Loc re-twist $75
- Loc styles $30 & up
- Kids natural Braids $50
- Natural twist $60
- Starter Locs $100 & up
Contact Info:
- Email: creationsgenesis4@gmail.com
- Website: https://desireesanchezharvey.glossgenius.com/
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/_genesiscreations?utm_medium=copy_link
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/desiree.sanchezharvey
Image Credits:
Felecia Harvey
Desiree Sanchez-Harvey
