Today we’d like to introduce you to Twyling (Chelle) Baugh.
Hi Twyling (Chelle), please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
My journey in the beauty industry began in high school, when I discovered my gift for doing hair. Word spread quickly, and before long, I had a steady flow of clients coming to me. Although my dream at the time was to become a lawyer, my mother strongly encouraged me to pursue Beauty college. In 1994, I officially became a licensed cosmetologist, and by 2008, I earned my license as a cosmetology instructor.
Straight out of beauty college, one of my clients—a retired barber—offered me a small space that she owned. In that moment, I stepped into entrepreneurship, ready or not. At the time, I was a young mother with a baby boy, determined to make things work. Those early days were filled with challenges. I walked over a mile to work, pushing my son in a stroller, only to arrive at a space without the basics—no proper restroom, no cell phone to stay connected, and not many clients willing to follow me from home into that tiny shop.
But I refused to give up. With God’s help, I developed a plan, a vision, and a strategy. The first six months were tough, but slowly, the seeds of faith and consistency began to bear fruit. Clients started to return, my business picked up, and I was finally able to afford childcare, transportation, and eventually a home. That season taught me that faith and perseverance will always outlast obstacles.
As my clientele grew, God led me to relocate to Angleton. My reputation began to spread, and people started to recognize me as one of the greats in the area. Still, the journey was not without trials. I faced racism and had to protect my image and character while still growing. When I found myself back at home, I turned that setback into an opportunity—transforming my living space into a full salon. There, I hired my first set of stylists and barbers, expanding my vision beyond myself. That home-based business grew so quickly that I eventually moved into a storefront, where I remained for 12 years.
After more than a decade of success, another challenge forced me to close abruptly, when I discovered that the owners of the building had been taking advantage of me financially. But even in that, I chose not to focus on the loss, but on the fact that I had still prospered. By then, I had matured financially—learning to pay myself a salary, save consistently, and steward my resources wisely. I even hired my mom as my secretary and treasurer, and let me tell you—she kept me in line! Her discipline taught me valuable lessons in structure and accountability that continue to shape me as a businesswoman.
The last few years stretched me even further. I worked in Sweeny and also took a suite at Salons by JC in Pearland, Texas. Balancing two locations was demanding, but once again, God’s favor went before me. The word spread quickly, and clients began to pour in. My goal was to build clientele in Pearland, knowing that I was eventually going to plant roots and build a home nearby.
Today, I stand as the proud owner of a barber and beauty salon at the historic Manvel Mansion in Manvel, Texas. Looking back, every struggle, every obstacle, and every victory was part of the journey. From walking to work with a stroller and no phone, to leading a thriving salon in a beautiful mansion, my story is one of God’s faithfulness, resilience, and vision.
While also adding a few other programs to the business, I have incorporated the Aftermath Scholarship Program and a Sassy Senior Group to build community and create healthy relationships. I am living proof that with faith, hard work, and persistence, what begins as a dream can grow into a legacy.
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?
I’ve had several obstacles along my journey, but three really stand out:
1. Facing Racism – I’ve had to overcome prejudice and discrimination that could have easily discouraged me. Instead, I’ve used those experiences to strengthen my resolve and prove that my work and purpose speak louder than any bias.
2. The Closing of My First Storefront – Losing my first storefront was one of the hardest moments. It felt like a major setback, but it taught me resilience, adaptability, and how to build back stronger.
3. Moving Into My Current Location – Transitioning into my current space brought new challenges, from finances to logistics, but it also pushed me to grow as a leader, think creatively, and trust God through uncertainty.
Each of these obstacles was difficult, but they also helped shape who I am today. They’ve built my perseverance, faith, and determination to keep moving forward.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
Motto: Working in the Spirit of Excellence while Creating Beauty and Building Lasting Relationships
Philanthropy – Annual Aftermath Scholarship $1000
Sassy Senior Group which consist of 65 years and up ( A brunch and movie date)
Im known for precision cuts, vibrant hair color, quickweaves, relaxers, healthy hair and edgy creative styling.
One of my most proudest moments was winning 2nd place in Fantasy hair at the Bronnerbros Hairshow.
What sets me apart from other stylist from what is said, the atmosphere is always positive inspirational and relaxing along with great customer service and exceptional HAIR services. With your salon experience, light snacks and beverages daily with competitive affordable prices
Can you talk to us a bit about happiness and what makes you happy?
Being able to serve as a hairstylist in a lot of different ways makes me happy especially when you client leaves happy
Being with my family is a joy and it makes me happy even in tough moments because we still express love
I love to worship in dance, flagging and singing…it makes me free and liberating
Contact Info:
- Website: https://hair-illusions-by-chelle.square.site
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hairillusionsbychellellc/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100054476920214
Image Credits
Pictures
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