Today we’d like to introduce you to Monica Okolo.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I am the owner and head stylist of Braid Bar Houston, LLC., a Certified Personal Trainer, and the Founder of the non-profit organization, STEPS 2 SWEAT, Family Advancement, Inc.
In 2000, before there was readily available information on natural hair care, I took the leap and did the BIG CHOP… I was in the 10th grade at Willowridge High School. This is when I first got teased and bullied for my unpopular hair choice, but I always knew who I was.
I started braiding hair over 18 years ago when all of my clients were friends and family. I went on to play basketball at Texas Southern University in 2002, and it was there that I really crafted my love for braiding out of necessity. I had a job as a hostess at Minute Maid Park and had a manager who constantly gave my hair disapproving looks and reminded me that I was the first person customers would see. I remember crying in the car because there was absolutely nothing I could do to make my natural hair “presentable” in time for work after basketball practice or workouts.
I struggled to find a solution that would last through my busy schedule. I decided to start installing my own twists and give my afro a break (little did I know I was learning how to do protective styling).
Playing in the SWAC with an orange, fully blown out afro, drew a lot of unwanted attention, especially at away games! People would crack jokes and call me Jill Scott or Macy Gray… I even lost twists out on the court and endured the painful laughs of an entire arena.
Through practice and braiding my basketball teammates’ hair throughout the seasons, I began to perfect my craft. In 2007, after college, I gave birth to my daughter, Phoenix, now 12. Little did I know, but this child would grow up to not only be tender-headed but to also have some of the thickest hair I had ever braided! As Phoenix grew older, we chose light-weight, and tension-free extensions, braids, locs, and twists for protective styling. I had to use delicate care when detangling & combing, as well as, take my time on her installs, especially around her edges. Her thick coils needed to be strategically TUCKED behind the extensions to reduce frizziness and extend the length of wear for her installs.
Over time, her hair just continued to grow and push past each length check. I attributed this steady growth to a few factors that I can mention quickly… A) I used to load her hair and scalp down with butters and oils before her braid installs; B) I created my own growth and scalp oils which she would use in her hair daily; and C) she would “water” her braids (almost) everyday with a spray bottle.
I jokingly, at the time, named this NURTURING and efficient process of braiding and up-keep, “PHOENIX CARE.” Through patience, research, and trial & error, my daughter has inspired these gentle and growing hands which I apply daily with my clientele who seem to share the same values at Braid Bar Houston, LLC.
There are many braiders who dislike adding any products before braiding because it causes the hair and weave to slip, making it harder to braid (grab every hair or put as tight to the root as possible)… this has also, in my opinion, caused a lot of Traction Alopecia in our community. I prefer health every time.
Speaking of Health & Hair, studies have shown that a major contributing factor as to why many Black women don’t workout is our hair. Trust me… I understand, but we can have BOTH beauty and functionality while still being physically active! I specialize in styles catered to what YOU need. Styles that will save you time and energy in the morning… styles that will have you looking amazing while you hit the gym or a professional setting!
As I enter my 3rd year of operation, I’m excited about bringing my organic butters and oils to market, as well as integrating my love for beauty, health, and community into Braid Bar Houston, LLC., STAY TUNED! Check my work out at https://www.braidbarhouston.com.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
I struggled with telling people “NO” when I first started braiding professionally. I’m naturally a people-pleaser so I try my best not to let people down, but I’m learning that saying “No” is not being “mean” to others, but being “nice” to myself. After three years of doing hair, I’ve run into some clients who are great “no-fuss” clients, and some who have tried to take advantage of my kindness. I was cutting deals and letting people slide on certain rules I had in place because I didn’t want any confrontation. That got old fast, especially when there were days and nights that I wouldn’t even get to see my child. I had to realize that I am worth every penny that I charge.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Braid Bar Houston – what should we know?
I specialize in pain-free braiding, twisting, and crochet loc installs on relaxed & natural hair. Through the process of adding extensions, I can create beautiful and tension-free strands customizable to each of my clients’ preferences. I strongly believe that getting your hair braided shouldn’t be an intimidating or painful process. I designed Braid Bar Houston’s service and decor to be a friendly and inviting one. We pride ourselves in Southern Hospitality and healthy installations of natural styles.
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
My childhood friend, Camille Lawrence, was instrumental in motivating me to take my passion from hobby to career. She was my first official client I physically trained after becoming certified. On one of our cool-down sessions, she literally spoke life into Braid Bar Houston, LLC., and gave me advice she herself had followed creating her successful make-up artistry company. I went out and got a shop space, an online booking service, and found a new way to merge my passions.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.braidbarhouston.com
- Phone: 8327095622
- Email: braidbarhouston@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/braidbarhouston/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/braidbarhouston/
Image Credit:
Sneedie Wonder Productions
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