Natural Hair Freedom: Look Who's Coming to Dinner (Brunch)

Missed the first Natural Hair Freedom Brunch? Guess what? It's that time of year again!!! On Sunday, April 27, 2014 from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM, NHF will host its 2nd Annual Natural Hair Freedom Brunch.  We will have a great time mingling, socializing and learning about natural hair & beauty!  Get your VIP tickets here before they're all gone!  And just in case you can't hold your excitement, we've decided to give you a sneak peek and introduce you to a few stylists who will be on deck to answer all of your questions about hair and fashion!

And just in case you can't make this event... we have you covered!!! In honor of International Natural Hair Meetup Day, NHF will host BE YOUnique Celebration on May 17. International Natural Hair Meetup Day is an annual one-day event. Its purpose is to allow the opportunity for women across the country to meet in their own communities while networking, sharing and meeting (virtually) other women across the country participating in meetups on the same day.  For more information about Natural Hair Freedom and future meetups, join the group here! 

Deshonica Kerrie

What inspired you to become a stylist?  How long have you been doing it?

I have been doing hair since 1992. My inspiration is encouraging people to look and feel their best, and I do that by doing what I can to make their hair look and feel beautiful and healthy.

 How long have you been natural?  Who/What pushed you to give up the creamy crack?  

I have been natural since 2004. Well I don't really refer to it as "creamy crack". I just love my natural curl pattern and wanted to wear it. There is a healthy way to everything so I believe stylist should look for those ways.

You say that you specialize in Healthy Hair Care. What do you think is the misconception of black hair in the black community?

There are three misconceptions in my opinion. 1; That our hair can't grow. 2; That it can't have movement and 3; that we can't or shouldn't wear color.

As far as taking care of hair, what are some simple things anyone can do to pamper their hair on a daily basis? 

Make sure and use great daily and finishing products( i.e Design Essentials Daily Moisturizing lotion And also Silk Essentials). Another great thing to do is go to sleep with a silk scarf on to protect the hair from dryness and frizz, and give you better control for the following day.

Natural Hair… Here to stay or just a trend? 

It's definitely here to stay. It's always been around but now we are embracing it with more confidence. 

What are some of your favorite hair products?  What is your go-to hairstyle? 

Design Essentials.... Their products cater to all types of ethnicities. My go to style is my Locs lol.

What is the most rewarding part of being a stylist?

Meeting new people and knowing that the artistry of my hands can help them feel more beautiful and confident.

What advice can you give to somebody who wants to start their career as a hair stylist?

 Make sure that you LOVE what you do. Hair should be a passion. Patience is equally important.

 Where is your salon located and what kind of services do you offer? 

6600 Roswell rd  Sandy Springs Ga. We offer any service as long as we feel we are able to keep hair healthy.

How can people follow you? Facebook? IG? YouTube?

I can be followed basically on all social media sites under DeshonicaKerrie

What do you wish to gain from attending the 2nd Annual Natural Hair Freedom Brunch.

I love opportunities to network and meet new people. I especially love meeting new people that I can discuss healthy hair with.

 

FlyyandFrugal

How do you remain so fashion forward yet budget friendly?

Sometimes I read magazines and/or walk around stores such as Bebe, Cache, Aldo, and Nordstroms to see what is currently trending. Then, I go to lower-end stores to see if I can find similar pieces. I know that places like Shoe Land, Ross and Forever 21 and even thrift stores have items that are on-trend but sell them for much lower prices. It also helps to know how much I'm not willing to spend on clothes and shoes so I just stay out of certain stores entirely. I can't see myself spending $50 for a pair of shorts or a tank top!

What are your favorite fashion essentials?

They vary throughout the year, so I'll break my essentials down by seasons:

Winter: Pea coats, anything leather and structured handbags.

Spring: Cardigans, jean jackets, jumpsuits, bright colored dresses and blouses.

Summer: Maxi dresses, crop tops, rompers, sandals, and clutches

Fall: Blazers, riding boots, and scarves.

What are your favorites places to shop?

 My favorite places to shop are Value Village, Goodwill, Forever 21, Ross and Shoe Land. You can get nice pieces (and shoes) from these stores without spending insane amounts of money.

Who (or what) do you draw your style inspiration from?  How do you describe your style?

 My style is inspired by 'mileage.' What I mean by that is I pick pieces that I can get a lot of wear out of. Having numerous pieces that you can mix and match helps to expand your wardrobe without having to do unnecessary shopping. Of course, if you thrift shop, you can feel guilt-free about spending!

I would describe my style as being simplistic, yet classy and chic. I'm venturing into mixing prints, so I'm looking for style experts to help me with that!

How long have you been natural?  Who/What pushed you to give up the creamy crack?

I have been natural for a year and a half and I LOVE it! When I was relaxed, I used to love how my new-growth looked and wondered what it would look like if I was all natural. One day I put in a relaxer that pretty much took out a lot of my hair and it was left looking thin and scraggly. So not cute! A few months later, I walked into the salon at Walmart and had them chop it all off. I love the fact that I can walk in the rain, go swimming and workout without any worries.

What are some of your favorite CURLY girl products?

My favorite co-wash/leave-in conditioner is Tresseme's Luxurious Moisture Conditioner. My favorite styling product is Beautiful Textures' Curl Control. My new found favorite deep conditioner is Kinky Kashmere's Infused Hair Masque. That stuff feels like silk on your hair!

What is your go to hairstyle?

I'm currently in that 'awkward stage' where I'm growing out my TWA , so my go-to style is a wash and go that I wear with a headband.

What inspired you to start blogging?  What would you say to somebody who wants to start a blog of their own?

I was inspired to start blogging because my family and friends would simply complement me on what I was wearing any given day and would be floored when I told them how little I spent. They would always ask where I shopped and how did I know where to go to get the best deals. Instead of just telling a few people, I decided to start blogging so that everyone could see how easy it is to be 'Flyy and Frugal!'

If you want to start your own blog, write about what comes natural to you. Don't do what everyone else is doing unless you have a different approach. There are a ton of hair, fashion and beauty blogs that exist so come up with an angle to help you stand out!

How can people follow you? Facebook? IG?

You can follow me on IG: @flyyandfrugal, Twitter: @flyyandfrugal, Facebook: /flyyandfrugalcom, Pinterest: flyyandfrugal and, of course, visit the site flyyandfrugal.com!

What do you wish to gain from attending the 2nd Annual Natural Hair Freedom Brunch?

I hope to learn new tips for taking better care of my hair, to meet new vendors and purchase their products and, most importantly, meet everyone there!

Alecha Rice Gresham 

What inspired you to become a stylist?  How long have you been doing it?

My auntie doing press and curl for the elderly ladies In our community.

How long have you been natural?  Who/What pushed you to give up the creamy crack?

About 4 years; when I became a NATURAL STYLIST… couldn't straddle the fence. lol

Do you think the “Natural Hair Movement” is here to stay?

Yes just for the women 30 and up..

What are some of your favorite hair products?  What is your go-to hairstyle?

Design essentials, naked, shea moisture, she butter, and coconut oil...a twist out

What is the most rewarding part of being a stylist?

Seeing my client loving and embracing their Natural hair—making them beautiful

 What is the most drastic hairstyle you’ve ever done?

Hairshow styles....ugh

What advice can you give to somebody who wants to start their career as a hair stylist?

Seek and pray to God first and ask for directions and everything else will follow....YOUTUBE!!!!! LOL

Where is your salon located and what kind of services do you offer?

ROYAL EMPRESS

1601 3 RD AVE NORTH

BIRMINGHAM,  AL .35203

205-585-9434

All Natural Styles, sew in quick weave, silk press, individual braids, Marley twists,etc..

How can people contact you? Facebook? IG?

Alecha Rice Gresham. IG: Alechag

What do you wish to gain from attending the 2nd Annual Natural Hair Freedom Brunch

For ALL my Natural sisters get educated and embracing their natural hair

The Suit(e) Life

Move over guys!  Women have decided to take over... again! This time we decided to raid your closets and add a modern, chic flare to your boring pant suits.  We've added pops of color, prints, and tailored them to suit our frames.  

Get the same Blurred Spot Pant Suit I'm wearing here and here!

Let's face it... Nobody can rock a pant suit like Solange. But it's ok to try...right?

Photo from Lioness Blogs

Love Potion No. 9

What better way to transition into Spring than with a Skater Skirt... In fact, skater skirts are the perfect transition into any season--in Fall/Winter you can pair them with leggings and booties while during Spring/Summer you can dare to bare and give a little leg action.  Not only can you wear a skater skirt anytime, but anybody can dress a skater skirt to fit their style--sporty or feminine.  I'd been eyeing this ASOS Skater Skirt as soon as it hit their website, but anybody who knows me knows I despise buying items regular price... even if it's already a bargain.  So you can only imagine my enthusiasm when I saw they marked down the price.  Without hesitation I transferred the skirt to my shopping cart and the next thing you know I am trying on the skirt at home... but the excitement stopped there.  I could not find a top to pair with skirt.  It wasn't until I walked into H&M to celebrate a weight loss milestone that I found the perfect top.  I usually pass right by my H&M store because they only carry straight sizes, but since I had lost a few pounds I decided to give it a try.  The first item to catch my eye was the pink top with No. 9 written in black letters and to my surprise... it fit! The "No.9" reminded me of a bottle of Chanel perfume.  It was at that point that I decided to dress my skirt up with a more feminine flare in honor of Ms. Feminine herself, CoCo Chanel.

Curvy. Courageous. Curly. Couture. Cutie of the Month: Annisa LiMara

Last September I received a text from one of my line sisters.  I expected the usual, "Hey, just checking in... How have you been?" text that I receive once a week from at least one of my line sisters... But this one was different.  It was a text that asked me if I watched youtube videos and if so, what did I like about them? Of course I started listing: hair and makeup tutorials, vlogs, etc.  She then replied, well I'm starting a YouTube channel soon and would like to know if I have your support.  "OF COURSE!" I replied.

Fast forward to today, Annisa's youtube channel, AnnisaLiMara, is reaching almost 5000 subscribers with a little over 25 videos!  Check out her most watched video below reaching over 20000 views!!!!  

Not only have I had the opportunity to have this young lady as a sister, but I have also had the opportunity to work under her in the launching of her first Swim/Resort Wear Line. She is not only a sweet and wonderful person, but she is also very passionate about everything she touches.  Everything she touches turns to gold... just like her golden hair!  If you haven't already definitely subscribe to her YouTube channel , like her Facebook Page and follow her on Instagram. I imagine great things coming from this girl in the future!  

Want more information about Annisa's hair, future plans, and what inspires her?  Keep scrolling to read what she had to say during our interview.  

Annisa LiMara

1.    How long have you been natural?  Who/What pushed you to give up the creamy crack?

I have been natural since 2005 and gave up “creamy crack” because of major hair breakage and thinning from too many relaxers and permanent hair color from my senior year in high school. Looking back I had no idea it was “going natural”, I just considered myself going cold turkey because my hair had gone from being thick and medium/long length to thin and unhealthy. Almost a decade later, I’ve now transitioned AND big chopped so going back to my natural hair texture was a long process but well worth it.

2.    How do you keep your hair looking so fabulous? What’s your regimen?

Deep condition and moisturize! I wash and deep condition my hair every week (or every other week) and by deep conditioning for the past 6 months intensively, I’ve been able to retain moisture which really helps the upkeep of any hairstyle. I now can go two or three days without doing much to my hair and other days I just add water or leave conditioner and use my Peppermint Hair Butter for extra moisture.  My hair is also a mixture between curly and kinky so I can play up each part which makes styling my hair fun and versatile.

3.    What inspired you to start a YouTube channel?  What would you say to somebody who wants to start a channel of her own?

I initially began my channel because I wanted to share my experiences and thought it would be really a fun and challenging project. Watching Taren Guy, Andrea’s Choice and a ton of other channels really inspired me to be fearless in going after my goals. I also have a really big following on Instagram so I wanted to answer all of their questions through my channel and to connect with other natural hair and fashion lovers.

4.    What was the hardest part of starting your channel and how did you overcome that?

The hardest part was the technical issues such as editing, uploading, etc….not as easy as one may think. I’m a perfectionist so I used a plethora of resources for advice (other YouTube channels, videographers, friends) and did hours of research until I understood the process. Even though it is still challenging, I’m learning so much and have come up with a formula to create quality videos for my subscribers for which there is still room to grow.

5.    What are some of your favorite CURLY girl products?

This is a hard question because there are so many! I absolutely love Carol’s Daughter especially their Hair Milk and Tui Leave in Conditioner. I also love the Yes To line, specifically Yes To Carrots, Olive Oil Eco Styler Gel (a must!), and Wen Almond Mint Cleansing Conditioner! Of course, I also love my Peppermint Hair Butter which is a mixture of all my favorite hair butters and oils, especially peppermint oil which stimulates the scalp and promotes growth.

6.    Did you ever expect to see yourself featured on hair blogs all over the world?   How does the natural hair fame make you feel?

Absolutely not! I never expected any of the recognition I’m getting and it feels so surreal because it is hair! Of course hair is important to us as women but I didn’t realize it could generate this much “natural hair fame”, however, I don’t consider myself famous at all but count myself as blessed and extremely humbled that I’m able to reach so many people and be a leader in this movement.

7.    What can you say that will inspire others to follow their dreams?

Designer Tracy Reese once said that designs can be inspired by “a piece of music, a painting, a book, a vacation spot or a particular city”….every persons’ dream is developed from inspiration and discovering what you love can ignite hope and conquer fear. As I get older, I am finding that the common factor that hinders anyone from achieving their goals is fear. Fear of rejection, fear of failure, fear of succeeding and the responsibility that comes with success…fear of self. I am now striving to step out of all of my fears and becoming brave. My prayer is that everyone can see past their own fear into the bravery and courage that God has given us through Him. I am still learning and growing, therefore, I say this prayer every day to gain the faith to be brave and let that light shine to encourage others.

8.    So now that you have shared your hair with the world, when will you share your fashion?

I’ve actually already launched my first Swim/Resort wear collection March 2012 which introduced everyone to the A’LiMara (a-lai-mar-rah) brand. I took a hiatus after that to complete my Masters and to also refocus on what I want to accomplish with my brand. Therefore, I decided to do an exclusive collection of ‘Natural’ wear this year at my Natural Hair Forum & Fashion show titled Curls, Kinks & Fashion which included crop tops, fitted v-necks and high-low dresses. My goal now is to incorporate more of my style and fashion knowledge into my brand and hopefully produce another Swim/Resort wear collection in the near future.

9.    How can people follow you? Facebook? IG? YouTube? Purchase your homemade hair butter?

You can follow me on IG, Twitter & Tumblr as well as like my Facebook page at ilovealimara. My hair butter plus my exclusive collection of ‘Natural’ wear t shirts and dresses at www.ilovealimara.net

10. So what’s the next step for A’LiMara?

Growing and improving my YouTube channel, launching my next swim/resort wear collection (hopefully next summer), fulfilling my new position as fashion editor for Natural Hair Mag, and just expanding the A’LiMara brand…there are no limits!

Natural Hair Freedom MeetUp Vlog and Product Review

This past Sunday I went to my first Natural Hair Meet Up.  If you're unfamiliar with MeetUp, it is a website that helps groups of people with shared interests plan meetings and form offline clubs in local communities around the world.  It was one of the first tools I used when I moved to Atlanta to connect with people who shared the same interest as me.  The first MeetUp group I joined was Natural Hair Freedom,  the leading resource for supporting naturals, educating naturals and building camaraderie within the Natural Hair Community.  Check out my VLOG experience to see how my first meet up went! 

Top Left: Kinky Kashmere Founder  Top Right: CoCo Curls Founder
Botton Left: Event Coordinator and NHF Founder +Carnella Harvey Bottom Right: Cute As A Button Founder 

My sister and I snagging a few products from the Product Swap  

Atlanta Bloggers Crystal and Reese 

LINKS!!!

CoCo Curls

Kinky Kashmere

Chevelure by MiMi

Cute As A Button

Crystal's Blog

Reese's Blog

Comfy Chic... Again

Spring Break 2014 was a success!!! It definitely was great to take a break from pharmacy school and let my hair down for Mardi Gras in New Orleans, La.  If you've ever been to Mardi Gras you can understand that by the end of the week you are extremely exhausted!  

On our last day my friend and I decided to have a chill day... We went to Emeril's Restaurant for lunch and rode the trolley to the French Market afterwards.  On this particular day I opted for a more comfy look--a sweater I'd just purchased from +H&M , a t-shirt from Torrid and comfy jeans from +Forever 21 .  On our way to the flea market we passed a lot buildings with very rustic facades.  Of course I just couldn't pass by without snapping a few pictures.  I posted a few pictures on IG and received a lot of feedback about my outfit.  Everybody loved it and wanted to know where I purchased the pieces.  Skorch Magazine even reposted my pic stating that they loved the style.  So... Guess What? Now you too can have my outfit.  I've included the links to where I purchased each item below.  If you decide to purchase anything tag your pictures rocking your new fit on IG @lalatmr89 !!! :) 

Purse Jeans Shirt Sweater Shoes 

Breaking All The Rules!!!! Mixing Prints

Last Year +Alissa Wilson posted a blog entitled Breaking All The Rules. In the blog she urged curvy girls to break down the fashion barriers and wear clothes that we've been told our whole lives didn't look right on our shape--horizontal stripes, crop tops, tutu’s, bikini’s, mini skirts, and even skinny jeans.  Now, I've never been the type to feel insecure about what I wore, but as I read the post I began to realize that subconsciously I also believed that those items just didn't suite my curvy frame.

The other day while searching Facebook, I came across a picture of From The Rez to the City.  Her outfit was literally drop dead gorgeous!!! It took me back to the days when I believed that curvy women couldn't wear patterns--let alone mix multiple patterns.  Unfortunately, the first thing I said was, "I wish I could pull that look off."  At that moment I instantly recalled Stylish Curves blog.  Why did I believe I couldn't pull it off? I rushed to my nearest +Lane Bryant  to find the items she had in her picture.  At first I just wanted to try the outfit on...It was only supposed to stay in the dressing room, but to my surprise the outfit was EVERYTHING! It looked amazing on me as well.  It was at that moment that I realized Curvy Girls can wear anything... even mixed prints.

Top and Bottom: +Lane Bryant 

Top: Lane Bryant Skirt: +Old Navy Shoes: +Steve Madden