Today we’d like to introduce you to Nita Stowe.
Nita, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
Back in the gap, probably when I was 9 or 11 older, my interest started with my Mom’s or my Aunt’s Barbie doll heads. I would always see them (the heads) at my Grandpa’s house and I finally asked, “May I have these?” He said, “Sure, I don’t care,” and I felt like “Man! I finally got ’em!” and made sure I left with them! Held them tight! Their was one in particular that I loved how thick her hair was and how I could do different styles on her and not be in fear of “messing up” her hair like I was with my own (hair). My family was big on “don’t mess up your hair!” Meaning treat it right, be selective with who you let in it, etc. So, in turn, having the heads was priceless because I was able to do as I pleased. Everybody was getting crochet braids and micro braids, so I asked my Mom how to braid. She patiently showed me and that made me curious about doing more because it removed my fear of “messing up.” Eventually, I started doing braided French rolls (nostalgia) with bangs and swoops as well as teaching myself to add hair and that was my start!
I’d do classmate’s mother’s braids and family. Eventually, in high school, I’d do braids on breaks in class or after school. Fast forward to college and I was doing relaxers and sew-ins in my dorm or apartment after class. People would drive from 30min to 5 hours just to come to me, I never took that for granted. Braids wasn’t a passion so I let that go and did more weft extensions and chemicals. After college, I applied for both graduate school and Cosmetology school and decided I would attend the one that contacted me first and would leave Illinois. Grad school called first but hair was the main goal and passion so I enrolled after grad school and quit corporate America almost two months after graduating. Tried out a few salons and decided on a suite near downtown Dallas to foster the vision I desired for my clients.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
No! It hasn’t been a “smooth road” and I don’t mind that. Learning to navigate this industry presents new challenges daily but having a great support system, God and my background of attending an HBCU (The Grambling State University alumnae here!) shaped greatly and provided me with great tools and skills to navigate opposition and its challenges successfully. For anyone interested in this industry or in becoming an entrepreneur in any aspect, always welcome challenges; you’re about to learn something!
Influential highlights experienced along the way were; Deciding if I needed a mentor or not; it’s imperative to pick a good one or at least a few people you can turn to. Everyone that comes before you is not meant to be a mentor. Location – You want to be everywhere, but when you build it they’ll come. When to say yes and no – Do all you can but take a break and regroup, refocus and revamp if you need to. Trusting the process – Never let go of God or your higher power and remember everything is trial and error and a scared person never grows.
COVID-19 – This has been an experience because our industry was mandated to sit down, stopping us from working. Although some are able to practice again, new rules and guidelines are in place for everyone’s safety. Having to stress this is a task in itself, COVID-19 has greatly affected the industry and economy.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Healthy Hair Couture – what should we know?
Healthy Hair Couture by Nita S, “Come get crowned” is my mantra; I’m in the business of hair! The name was chosen to let women know I will keep you beautiful but most importantly your hair will be healthy. I’m known for Color, Cut and Extensions annnd Fingerwaves. 😉 “The Cut Up Queen” is a name I have donned.
Throughout my years I’ve become most proud of my ability to learn and do a few hair shows! I take at a minimum, 3-4 classes a year. This sets me apart because it aids in educating my clients and helping them achieve their hair goals. If you care about your hair, I’m the stylist for you.
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
Yes! All of them! My village is small but it’s strong. They are there for me as well I am them. They are made up of family, friends and associates I’ve gained in the industry and past Cosmetology and Collegiate instructors. One in particular, Ms. Cunningham, is a force that still backs me to this day. She still teaches; the upcoming beauty professionals should squeeze her for knowledge, she has a lot! I’m thankful for all of them. They ground me and challenge me… they’re my sounding board. You need a village. They will not always be made up of who you think, some come along the way. You know who to keep.
In the future, helping stylist just starting out is a must. I want to aid in their transition from school into the industry. Within the next 5-10 years classes will be implemented and working behind the scenes of film and television are a couple of goals. Being a traveling stylist is one as well, whether it be to different cities and states or for someone. Ultimately, I want to continue providing a great space for clients to come, create unique products for them and make them look and feel good!
Contact Info:
- Address: Healthy Hair Couture
1400 Hi Line Dr. Suite 100 Studio 38
Dallas, TX - Website: http://www.styleseat.com/i/nitas2
- Instagram: @urstrulynitas
- Facebook: Healthy Hair Couture by Nita S
Image Credit:
Deon Casey
Guillermo Resendiz
Third Eye Vision Media
Nita Stowe
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