Today we’d like to introduce you to Kimberly Joseph- Rawlins.
Hi Kimberly, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
My journey into the hair industry began out of necessity. I was raised by my father, and at the time, he was unmarried and didn’t know how to style my hair. I had to learn how to care for and maintain it myself. By the time I was a preteen, I had started styling the hair of a few close friends as a hobby. I enjoyed helping other women achieve a polished look. There is something special about seeing the smile on a woman’s face after she has had her hair done, or witnessing the boost of confidence that comes from how a new hairstyle can transform her entire appearance.
I enjoyed hairstyling so much that it remained a hobby for many years. I never considered turning it into a profession.
It wasn’t until I attended Prairie View A&M University that I recognized the earning potential within the beauty industry and began to see hairstyling as a possible career. One day, my boyfriend—who is now my husband—gave me money to have my hair done by a stylist on campus. When I walked into the clubhouse where she worked, it was packed wall-to-wall with clients. I immediately began calculating the possibilities in my head. In that moment, I knew exactly what I wanted to pursue as my career Although the road was bumpy, I had to learn to follow before I could learn to lead. It was worth every detour, distraction, and road bump along the way. I still love this industry and wouldn’t trade it for anything. The sisterhood I’ve witnessed the beauty industry bring together has been more than a blessing.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
No, it has not always been a smooth road. When you are striving for success and innovation, challenges are part of the journey. One of the greatest challenges has been learning to remain adaptable throughout my career. Black hair care—and the beauty industry as a whole—is constantly evolving, with new techniques, trends, and improved methods emerging all the time.
To remain skilled and at the top of your profession, you cannot be afraid to continue learning, experiment with new ideas, or step outside your comfort zone. Throughout my career, I have watched hair extensions evolve into beautiful, nearly undetectable installations that flawlessly mimic natural hair. There is always a new twist on an existing idea, and you must be willing to discover that special element that sets your work and client experience apart from the rest.
As you know, we’re big fans of Kimistry Hair Studio & Kh2. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
Kimistry Hair Studio is a Houston-area salon specializing in healthy hair care, silk presses, hair extensions, and customized beauty services. I am especially known for creating natural-looking extension installations, including microlinks and K-tips, while prioritizing the health and integrity of each client’s natural hair.
What sets my work apart is the combination of artistry, education, experience, and genuine client care. My goal is not simply to create a beautiful hairstyle, but to help women feel polished, confident, and empowered. I continue to study new techniques and evolving trends so I can provide modern, high-quality services while educating my clients about caring for their hair at home.
My passion for the industry has grown beyond working behind the chair. Through Kh2, I have expanded into professional beauty products, education, and salon suites. The Kh2 product line includes our professional titanium flat iron and other tools designed to help stylists and clients achieve salon-quality results. Kh2 Salon Suites also provides beauty professionals with a polished, supportive space in which to build and grow their own businesses.
I am most proud that my brands represent more than beauty—they represent confidence, education, entrepreneurship, and opportunity. Whether I am serving a client, teaching another stylist, developing a product, or supporting a fellow beauty professional, my purpose is to help others recognize their potential and become the best version of themselves.
What makes you happy?
What makes me happiest is spending time with my family, creating, and knowing that my work has made a positive difference in someone else’s life. I find joy in helping women look and feel their best because confidence can transform how a person carries herself and approaches the world.
I am also overjoyed by teaching other beauty professionals, sharing what I have learned, and creating opportunities for them to grow. Watching a client smile after a transformation or seeing another stylist become more confident in her skills reminds me that my purpose extends far beyond hairstyling. Happiness, for me, is having the freedom to use my gifts, provide for my family, and leave a meaningful impact on others.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://KimistryHairStudio.com
- Instagram: @KimistryHair
- Facebook: https://Facebook.com/KimistryHair1
