Today we’d like to introduce you to Jaelyn Taylor
Hi Jaelyn, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I started doing locs back in 2018 just as a hobby. I came from a family where you wouldn’t be successful unless you were a doctor, lawyer, or something of the sort so I never thought about truly getting into the field even though I knew it was something I’d love to do. Eventually, I started working and put doing hair on the back burner because I didn’t have the support I thought I needed to do so. In early 2022, the apartment I was staying in got caught in a fire, and I lost everything quite honestly. I took it as a sign to really go all in on the things I truly wanted because everything could be gone in a flash. So I went to cosmetology school, despite pushback from many around me, and continued to go even when people told me I was going for nothing. There’s just something about hardships that make you go even harder for your own wins. After finishing cosmetology school, I started to look around for opportunities that would help me get my feet in the door and start to offer my services to those who would need them, thus in 2023, Jae’s Boudoir was born. I worked in a shop for a little where I was making commissions, so that allowed me to start building up clientele, however, we went our separate ways only after a short time. It was and still is my mission to make sure I put my name out there and advertise myself. I ordered business cards, started posting on social media (which is something I hardly do), joined Facebook groups, and spoke to anyone I seen who had locs. One lesson learned, you’re going to hear “no” a lot, but instead of looking at it as a failed opportunity, I looked at ‘no’ as new opportunities. I didn’t think I would get far, I had so much stopping me along the way but looking back over the past year, I’ve come so far that even when I think about it, I can’t believe I really did all of this with so little support. It just goes to show that if it’s meant for you, you will have it no matter what naysayers think.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Not at all, I’ve had to deal with terrible management (working for someone who doesn’t value what you bring to their company and basically feeling like I needed them). I’ve dealt with booth renters who tried to just get me out of money despite having told me one thing and doing the next. My car was totaled, I’ve lost an apartment, and stayed with people who didn’t care about what I had going on, and just cared that I wasn’t helping them more than I could help myself. People count my pockets and expect me to do for them because they think I have the money, not realizing how expensive it is to run a business. Not to mention the slow seasons where I’m not making much, feeling like I’m not good enough because my books aren’t filled, and dealing with bad customers (not clients). Going from working 9-5 to being a full time entrepreneur is one of the hardest paths I’ve ever put myself on. In the beginning, there’s a lot on inconsistencies, but the main thing was to be sure I, myself, stayed consistent.
As you know, we’re big fans of Jae’s Boudoir. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
Jae’s Boudoir is a brand that cares for the beauty of natural. I am known for being a loctitian who also works with natural hair and I specialize in loc retwists, styles, and care. I’m known for my customer service and the care that I put into anyone who sits in my chair. What sets me apart from others is that this isn’t just a job for me, this is a passion. I always want to make sure that not only are my clients’ hair needs met, but they also leave my chair overly satisfied. I’m the stylist who will tell you no to certain things if it means harm to your hair in the long run. I am the most proud of the fact that every day, my brand is still growing. I’m also proud that people trust me with something as precious as their hair. I want readers to know that the brand is still growing and expanding. Although the focus, for now, is locs, be on the lookout as we expand our service list to offer more for those who may not have locs, but still want to come enjoy the experience. Also, classes will be available soon for those who want to learn how to better take care of their hair at home, how to start their loctitian business and more. I can’t wait to show everyone what’s in store.
Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out?
Don’t just listen to what one person tells you. Everything isn’t one-and-done and there are plenty of ways to accomplish the goal you’ve set forth. Never stop trying to learn and always give yourself grace. I wish I knew how to market myself a bit more before starting because just talking to people gets you so far. Also, don’t let anyone tell you, you can’t do it. If it’s in your heart to do it, you are more than capable. Keep learning, keep striving, keep doing what you feel is best for you. No one knows what you need better than God and yourself.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.fresha.com/a/jaes-boudoir-houston-3724-cypress-creek-parkway-j5hdd8t9/booking?menu=true&pId=698911&dppub=true&fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaajTiKiSDl5bwoeg7JMcQj8lYSnbHEIws0Z0q4s928S9gj5eZ1mIR3pEOE_aem_3FhmjUAHx2lif4wzTwc2OQ
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jaes.boudoir/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jaes.boudoir
