Meet Shakerria Sims of Ruthless Braids in Oak Cliff

Shakerria, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I’ve always known how to braid hair. I just never had enough faith in myself to take it up professionally. Well, about three years ago, I decided to step out on faith and become self-employed. I started out working on family for little to no cost, and I just kept pictures of my work posted on Facebook; eventually, I had so many clients coming to my house for appointments that I decided to move to a shop. The first shop I was in was Newsoms House of Beauty owned by Curinda (she’s awesome) I then moved on to my brother, Mike TheBarber’s barbershop New Cuts Barbershop in Oak Cliff. I’ve now been there for about two years, and although I’m still learning about entrepreneurship, I have a strong support system, and they always encourage me to keep my faith and keep striving for success!

Has it been a smooth road?
It has not been a smooth ride at all! I’ve had days where I was ready to just stop and go back into the regular 9-5 working field. I’ve had days where I felt like this is what God put me here to do then I’ve had days where I felt discouraged and overlooked. I’ve had days where I make almost $1000 over the weekend, and I’ve had days where I make absolutely nothing for weeks. But overall, I keep pushing and learning to expand my knowledge of this field.

So, as you know, we’re impressed with Ruthless Braids – tell our readers more, for example, what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
I’m a professional hair braider. I specialize in all types of braids, and I also promote healthy hair. I would say I’m most known for my feed in braids. I recently became a brand ambassador for the hair brand EZ Braid I was super proud about that! And I wouldn’t say anything sets me apart from any other braider or hairstylists, I just stay in my lane and even tho we’re all in the same business I’m all about women empowerment and entrepreneurship!

Let’s touch on your thoughts about our city – what do you like the most and the least?
I love my city! I’m a born and raised Dallas girl. I love how my city is big enough for everybody to succeed! What I like least about my city is lack of unity.