Today we’d like to introduce you to Aneesha Williams.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I was born and raised in Dallas (OakCliff) My love for hair started at a very young age. I had a lot of hair to maintain, so it was important to have a style that was protective and would last.
My sisters used to braid my hair and it was like the hair was a canvas. They wove intricate cornrow designs into my hair and adorned those braids with colorful beads. It was intriguing to see a formless afro transform into a work of art. As I got older, the styles evolved and I played with color, cut, and form.
At 18 years old (in 1996), I “big chopped” and went natural- stopped using a chemical straightener. At the age of 19, I went to cosmetology school. Upon receiving my license, I went to work as a natural hair care stylist and have since served hundreds of clients and put in thousands of hours behind the chair. I’ve learned so much throughout the years. I look forward to continuing to grow, create, and educate. So Stay Tuned…
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
The road has been…interesting lol! I started my professional career as a licensed cosmetologist in 1999 in Houston while single parenting twins. I was also attending Texas Southern University full time. Upon completion of my undergraduate degree (2004), Stay Tuned Natural HairCare was born. With very little money but a whole lotta heart and an even bigger dream.
I passed out cards everywhere I went (malls, restaurants, night clubs, on campus- to build my clientele). I advertised on facebook, through word of mouth, took photos of all my clients and built a portfolio which is helpful to keep track of personal progress. (There was no Instagram back then – so we had to get pics developed LOL)
My struggles were finding a work-life balance and learning when to take off to avoid burn out. It is very easy to book clients after hours and on holidays and that can be a recipe for disaster in the long run. I had to remind myself often that rest is necessary to continue to perform at a high level as a stylist and be available and effective to my family.
Stay Tuned Natural HairCare – what should we know? What do you do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
Stay Tuned Natural HairCare provides natural hair care and loc services, We serve the Dallas and Houston area and offer comprehensive consultations to assess current hair condition and product do’s and don’ts and develop a plan to help clients reach their goals.
Our specialty is loc care which includes starter locs, healthy loc maintenance, loc styling, twists, coils, and our signature line of handmade, all-natural hair care products, created by me.
I have had my own hair locked for 20 years. So I’m not only a stylist but I’m also my own client. I’ve cultivated locs that are healthy after decades of growth. I have over 20 years of experience in the natural hair care industry and have researched the most effective ingredients for locs and developed my skills over time that keep locs looking their best and growing healthy and strong.
I use the highest quality products and my shampoos are bomb! Ask somebody 😉
I am proud that I’ve earned the trust and respect of clients that return year after year and many are traveling hundreds of miles for appointments. I’m grateful for clients who refer family members, coworkers, and friends. I’ve been privileged to go through so many life seasons with my clients. Many are now extended family. I’ve been blessed to find my passion. I can’t even call it “work.”
We provide excellent, patient customer service and verified 5-star reviews.
What is “success” or “successful” for you?
Success for me is freedom to live a fulfilled life. I have that freedom. I built my career around my life. I have been able to travel, meet amazing people from all walks of life. I’ve been able to enjoy the sweetest moments with my family because I’m my own boss. I’ve grown as a hairstylist and person. I have a talent that makes room for me wherever I go. God is gracious.
I developed a work ethic that has been hard to beat. I’ve gone from doing hair in kitchens to owning my own salons and a lot in between. I’ve lasted decades in this business. That is success.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.staytunednaturalhaircare.com
- Phone: 832-235-8216
- Email: staytunedsalon@gmail.com
- Instagram: @staytunedsalon
- Facebook: @staytunednaturalhair
- Twitter: @staytunedsalon
Getting in touch: VoyageDallas is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
