Today we’d like to introduce you to Alicia Hughes.
Alicia, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
My name is Alicia Hughes and I am the blogger behind Joy Personified. I’m a millennial naturalista learning to love something new about myself each day while living in a society that perpetuates the idea that I shouldn’t. Joy Personified is an inspiration-led community for women who embrace their natural hair, as well as women who are committed to self-care.
I began transitioning from relaxed to natural hair in 2014 and I have been on my own intentional self-care journey for the last two years (the best of my entire life, might I add). I’m blogging the rest of my natural hair and self-care journey on joypersonified.com.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
My journey has not been an easy one. Much of what I discuss on my blog and my Instagram account is my own experience; for instance, healing from past situations, going to therapy, contemplating suicide after filing for divorce and advocating for women to make mental health and practicing self-care a priority. I’m still healing from past hurt and at times I find myself feeling unworthy of trying to uplift and encourage women when I could use a little bit of the same. Figuring out exactly what to share and what not to share is also a constant struggle.
Also, blogging, itself can be a lonely experience, especially when you’re just starting out. Putting yourself out there as a blogger and/or influencer can be a one-sided experience. You share a piece of your life with the world but in the beginning, there’s no reciprocation from another party. But, once I was able to find my groove by just being myself, my tribe quickly began to develop. I have built genuine friendships with some of my followers and even found a local community of bloggers that have become good friends.
So, as you know, we’re impressed with Joy Personified – tell our readers more, for example what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
Joy Personified is a community for women like me who are dying to have conversations about topics that widely affect women yet are rarely discussed, who put the needs of others before their own, or feel guilty about asking for what they need from the people in their life, or insert any activity or interaction with another human being that causes YOU to dim your inner light or question whether you’re worthy of living the life you truly want to live; and, quite possibly love a good wash n’ go, twist out or protective hair style.
I’m most proud of the genuine tribe of women that has supported Joy Personified. I think what sets Joy Personified apart from most blogs is the fact that my subject matter includes parts of my personal life most people wouldn’t share and obviously goes deeper than niches like fashion, food or makeup.
So, what’s next? Any big plans?
I’m most excited about the upcoming series of events I will be hosting that will all be centered around an aspect of self-care or natural hair. My first event, #blackgirlfeelings, will be held on June 9, 2018. More information can be found here: https://blackgirlfeelings.eventbrite.com.
Please be sure to follow me on Instagram and subscribe to the blog to be kept up to date on those events.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.joypersonified.com
- Phone: 8325175835
- Email: alicia.joypersonified@gmail.com
- Instagram: @itsjoypersonified
Getting in touch: VoyageHouston is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
