Meet Astoria Stubbs of IAmQueen

Today we’d like to introduce you to Astoria Stubbs.

Astoria, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I started my journey like most women wondering what the heck do I want to do with my life and how can I impact others? I have always had a knack for styling hair, so I got my license in High School as a backup plan so I though, and way to make money in college. I had no idea at the time where it would take me. I come from an entrepreneurial background, my father owned one of the largest black on bus companies in Houston, TX so my work ethic started at a young age.

I actually wanted to be an Attorney or Marketing Director after college, but God had other plans. I did a dual major with Marketing and Entrepreneurship, but it wasn’t until I pursued my Master’s Degree did I find my gift of teaching and inspiring others. I’m sure I always had it, just didn’t notice. With that I created IAmQueen and have continued to build the brand around what I do naturally with is style and cut hair, while teaching hair education that also empowers people to live their best life.

Astoria Stubbs is a proud Jackson State University alumni and experienced Hairstylist/Educator of 10+ years, who drew her inspiration for the company from her mother whose name is Queen. She feels empowered to have been raised by a woman who embodied the ideals of a true queen and wants to empower other women to feel that same way. She has turn Queenin’ into a way of life that she expresses through education class and products for women and girls. She is also a philanthropist and loves to give back to her hometown of Houston, TX.

As the founder and owner of IAmQueen LLC, a beauty brand that’s all about hair education for naturals, salon professionals and educators, providing great hair styling products and tools, to young girls, and women with empowerment. We also have the enrichment workshop called “The Natural You” among other classes.

Astoria is also an Industry Relations Coordinator for Great Clips, Advisory Board member of The Texas Black Women’s Expo 2017, Current Coordinator of “Little Miss Happy Head Pageant 2017 in Houston, TX

Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
NO, the road has not been easy, many sleepless nights, headaches, craziness you name it. One of the hardest moments was parting from my business partner we started it together and then her interest left which caused us to split. We are still good friends but picking up and revamping was a mountain to climb. It still is but its worth the journey.

Another thing is realizing that this is not a one-woman show and I can’t do it all. I mean I wish I was superwomen and I feel like it sometimes but I’m not. I can’t be great at everything. Once I realized that and started doing what I was truly good at business began to fall into place and the people I needed to create a great team just started to appear.

The thing I remind myself every day is “you are a master manifestor you got this!” everyday ain’t easier but I know where I’m going and that keeps me sane.

Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about IAmQueen – what should we know?
IAmQueen brand inspires all females to embrace the characteristics and traits of known Queens combined with their own personalities to become the best version of themselves. The top priority of IAmQueen is teaching “Hair Education”.

Our goal is to help women understand how to love everything about themselves even their naturally kinky curly big hair! “We believe that Hair Is Hair” no matter the skin pigment. There are several components to the IAmQueen brand. We have the product line that features Texture Hair Extensions detangling brush, mist bottle, and The Queen Box. We also have the enrichment workshops like “The Natural You” among other classes.

I’m most proud of our new addition Curly Conversations which is breaking down the bearers of color when it comes to hair and girl power. All people have hair and we want to may sure we embrace everyone in the natural community not just our melainated sisters but anyone with a curly texture.

What sets me apart from others is my diversity. I work with everyone. I’m a great cutter and I teach people to taper and clipper cuts some days and other days I’m working with natural textures of hair. I embody hair education from all aspects. mostly the fact that I want more hairstylist, in general, be able to be successful in all hair types, not just one.

Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
The first person that deserves credit would be my MOM she is my number one supporter she believes in me even when I doubt myself. She is the reason I even have Cosmetology license, teach and do hair the way I do today.

Second my dad for this Entrepreneurial spirit he gave me, I never would have learned hard work and discipline is not for him putting me to work at 12.

I also have some awesome mentors that have and still help me daily. I wish I could name everyone but that would take all day. Kim Roxie of Lamik beauty really took me under her wings and shares knowledge with me while building me up as a person. She really has a heart for young entrepreneurs, she supports my business the movement, and endeavors.

I’m able to not only ask questions, but she has put me in the right places at the right times to meet other amazing women. She has introduced me to a network of influence that is worth more than any price tag I can name.

Also, Mrs. Leola Anifowoshe allowed me to just watch her, ask questions and figure how she was a mastermind with expos and building up her Nzuri brand. To be a black product manufacturer of products that are on shelves in HEB is amazing and she allows me to not only tug behind her but shine in my own light as well. She gave me idea and direction I could go with my business to help set it apart from most beauty brands.

I have learned so much from both ladies and I know I will continue to learn more.

Pricing:

• One-on-One Classes and workshops Starting at $100
• Mist water bottle $12
• Detangling Brush $4

Contact Info:

• Website: www.theiamqueen.com
• Phone: 832-993-4265
• Email: [email protected]
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/theiamqueenhair
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theeiamqueen/
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/theiamqueenhair
• Other: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCfm4Y6cf95468haoqyxJ0ew?view_as=subscriber

Image Credit:
2911Media and True Vision Designs

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