Today we’d like to introduce you to Toya Willis.
Hi Toya, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I’m currently an entrepreneur working to build a business in braiding. I initially started a career in Retail Management just out of high school, and managed several retail stores beginning with BCBG Maxazria, at the tender age of 19. I went on to manage other companies such as White House Black Market, American Eagle, and most recently Target.
After managing the women’s department of Target for almost three years, overseeing as many as 250+ employees at a time, I decided to start my own business nurturing a talent that I’d taught myself. I am now the creator/owner of Mickey’s Braid Factory!
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
For the most part, it’s been a pretty smooth transition! I can honestly say that being in a managerial role my entire career has taught me a lot about running a business. Of course, there are always struggles! It’s never easy to leave a career that offers stability and get out there on your own. However, having support from family and friends makes the risk a little bit easier! I can say my biggest challenge has been budgeting and maintaining, while I grow my business. Thankfully, and by the Grace of God, I’ll be relocating to a new location as of May 1st and looking to do a soft opening in June! So, stay tuned!
We’ve been impressed with Mickey’s Braid Factory, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
I offer a wide range of services while specializing in Knotless Braiding. I’m located in the Humble/Atascocita area servicing both adults and children! Since we last talked, I’ve actually gained several children and their parents as clients! I often call the young clients that I service my “little besties.”
Servicing children can be a challenge! A lot of them are tender by the head lol and have a lot of hair (that’s never been processed), but it’s rewarding seeing both the child and their parent’s happiness and excitement over the finished product. I take pride in giving parents a load off and taking at least one task off of their plates. I also know it helps a great deal, as a lot of braiders or stylists, in general, don’t service children or they have an age requirement (sometimes not servicing any child younger than 13). As a mother of an almost 12-year-old, I know firsthand what it takes to keep our babies up and I know that it can be a lot!
“Patience is a virtue!” Parents love to see how patient I am with their babies and I believe that’s one thing that sets me apart from others. I talk to my “little besties” while styling their hair, especially during touch-and-go moments if you know what I mean, lol. We even talk about whatever show or movie we’re watching at the time! I really try my best to make their experiences as pleasant as possible!
Do you have recommendations for books, apps, blogs, etc?
I am super active on Instagram, mostly, and Facebook and would recommend those apps first and foremost. We all scroll on Instagram or Facebook multiple times a day so of course that’s great exposure. I also utilize the neighborhood app in my community to post about my business and any special offers I may have at the time. I’ve gotten many referrals that way! Parents have referred me to others in “Mom” groups on Facebook, as a suggestion to those looking for braiders in the area. Family and friends will literally send me posts where clients have boasted about me and I have to say it feels pretty awesome! Most importantly the relationships I’ve gained with those individuals are even more exciting!
Pricing:
- Pricing typically ranges from $35-$400
Contact Info:
- Website: https://
mickeysbraidfactory.as.me/ - Instagram: https://instagram.
com/mickeys_braidfactory? igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=
Image Credits
Business Look: Stefanie Uribe (Instagram @sd_slowmotion_pictures)
