Today we’d like to introduce you to Tosin Oyedele.
Tosin, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I’m the founder of The Crochet Specialist. The Crochet Specialist came to fruition many years ago, because my mother had grown tired of paying for my two sisters and I to have our hair braided monthly, so she insisted I learn to braid. I also had something better than a mannequin, I had two younger sisters to practice my skills. My high school offered an amazing Cosmetology program that allowed me to perfect my skills during school hours and to fuel my desire of becoming a renown beautician. During that time, I was able to expand my skill base, I would do sew-ins, quick weaves, and cornrows. While in college, I would style hair for some of the ladies on the campus, however, I put it on pause to focus on my studies. After college, a shift was happening and many African American woman were becoming natural and embracing more protective hair styles. It was then that I decided to go back to my roots and my first love. I love specializing in crochet styles; I love how it provides protection for your natural hair and also offers versatility. Present day, I offer a variety of crochet hair styles servicing the DFW Metroplex.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc. – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
It has not always been a smooth road, because I have always worked full time while doing hair during my personal time. Doing hair has always been a passion, so it didn’t seem taxing to me, it’s more than the physical act of doing hair but more so the opportunity for my clients to feel good about themselves and step out of their comfort zone. My advice to other women during this journey is to be patient in perfecting your craft and never compare your success to others.
So let’s switch gears a bit and go into the Crochet Specialist story. Tell us more about the business.
I believe what sets me apart from most stylists is I’ve decided to hone in on one type of service, which is crochet styles. Most stylists provide more than one service which is awesome, but I love the fact that I can perfect my craft and put all of my energy into perfecting my crochet styles. I also believe it’s my customer service skills. I am always willing to go and above for my clients because they’re my first priority when it comes to my business. I am certain that when my clients sit in my chair and all of their questions are answered and they fill confident that their stylists has their best interest at heart, they are comfortable and trust me with their hair.
Do you have any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general? What has worked well for you?
I’ve found that connecting with other stylists on social media is a great place to learn about the latest techniques and styles. I also use YouTube to learn different methods of crochet, because the videos are very informational.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.styleseat.com/thecrochetspecialist?utm_campaign=vanity
- Phone: 4692350114
- Email: thecrochetspecialist@gmail.com
- Instagram: @thecrochetspecialist
Image Credit:
Tosin Oyedele
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