Today we’d like to introduce you to Jada Nicole Ellis.
Hi Jada, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
As a child, I’ve always been interested in hair. It brought me joy to spend all day transforming my doll’s hair into various styles. I feel like a kid in a candy store while in the beauty supply, target, and Sally’s. After having breakage and unhealthy hair from years of relaxers, I was encouraged by my mom to go natural in 2015. It was scary at first. Free from harmful chemicals and embracing my God-given natural curl pattern. Intrigued by the health benefits, forms of expression and versatility, my love for Natural hair started.
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?
Andrew Carnegie once said, “anything in life worth having is worth working for.” There are struggles that come with being an entrepreneur. I’ve learned that it’s imperative to invest in yourself and your business and have time management skills. I purchased a cricut machine and heat-press to make the shirts myself instead of going through and third-party business. I also struggle with marketing. Having a product is one thing, but learning the ins and outs on how to grab someone’s attention, engage, and present my t-shirts is another. That’s why I’m so thankful for platforms like Voyage Houston to give someone like me an opportunity to share my story and help others. Through my struggles, I try not to dwell on the problem but more so the solution. I give my problems to God knowing that “For with God nothing is impossible” Luke 1:37. I know that it makes me a better person and business owner as I learn and grow.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I spent countless hours watching YouTube videos, bought many hair products, and learned through trial and error to find the best way to take care of my natural hair. While going natural it’s easy to compare your hair to those on social media. What social media and YouTube videos disregard are the struggles that come along with it. It’s time to normalize not only struggling but the growth from it. There are thorns and there are also roses. In 2019 I created Nicole’s Closet, a natural hair t-shirt line, for Naturalistas to express their natural hair journey. My first shirt was entitled “Don’t touch my hair… Period!!!” I have common thoughts, feelings, and sayings that’s known in the natural hair community put on t-shirts. I aim to provide a community for all naturals no matter where they are on their journey, praising their God-given kinks, curls, and coils. I truly enjoy helping Naturals be confident in who they are.
Can you talk to us a bit about happiness and what makes you happy?
I feel like happiness is conditional. Food makes me happy, going out on an outing makes me happy. What brings me joy is God, his grace and mercy, spending time with my family and friends, helping others and creating meaningful relationships. I want to serve and pour into others just as they have poured into me.
Pricing:
- All Natural Hair Apparel starts at $25
Contact Info:
- Email: Nicolesnaturalaffairs@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicolesnaturalaffairs/
- Youtube: https://youtu.be/zGujVWul81s
Image Credits
@Jaybrad_photography
