Today we’d like to introduce you to Adefunke Bimbo Akintola.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Adefunke. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
Firstly, I am a Nigerian; it all started when I relocated to the united state after getting married to my husband, who happens to be my number one supporter. I am an attorney in Nigeria before I relocated, when I got to Houston I tried to secure a job at a different law firm but I was turned down because I did not get my degree from the united state, this made me feel bad and devastated, So I stopped going for interviews.
So one day, I was talking to my mum on the phone, and I told her my challenges, and she told me to use my hands to work, at first I didn’t understand what she meant, so I was confused then she said use your talent. Then I said it time to braid.my braiding skills started when it was eight years. I will always braid my aunty Funke hair and my course mate hair in college. So I started braiding with the support of my husband, braiding became my profession, and I love it.
Later on, I got my salon and employed my beautiful stylists Maggy, Grace and chichi, who are now more like sisters to me. I loved them all. My braiding profession and skills have made me connect with so many beautiful women out there. With this profession, I was able to create a group called braidershelpingbraider with about 164 braiders as a member. , this group was created to help and assist each other in one way or the order, also giving back to our community I’m also happy teaching my students how to braid, being a mentor and helping others get better in their craft.
At first, I was ashamed of my profession as an attorney becoming a braider, but now I am super proud of what I do and what I am today. Yes I am proudly a BRAIDER. Never give up no matter the challenges, you will always scare through.
Great, 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?
It has not been easy, though, especially at the beginning of my braiding life. Getting clients was one of the most significant challenges because you have to earn their trust so they can be loyal to you. You have to be able to convince them that they are in the right hands. There are times I get disappointed when they don’t show up for their appointment. There times, some clients won’t want to pay and end up picking up a fight with me. Regardless of all this, I was patient and never gave up. I kept on moving and striving hard. I will always say to myself there is a light at the end of the tunnel.
We’d love to hear more about your business.
I’m the owner of tobs braiding salon, we specialize in braiding we braid all kinds of hair, shorthair, alopecia, hair loss, natural hair and no edges. I am known for neat and perfect braids.
Do you look back particularly fondly on any memories from childhood?
Playing with my auntie’s hair, learning my craft by using her hair. I never thought I was going to be a braider. I never knew God was preparing for the future.
Pricing:
- I teach how to braid $250
- mastering braiding craft $200
- marketing strategies $150
Contact Info:
- Website: https//tobsbraidingsalon.as.me/
- Phone: +13468039832
- Email: bimboakintola19@gmail.com
- Instagram: tobbraidingsalon
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