Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Kendeja Ealy. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Kendeja , thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today What do you think it takes to be successful?

I think it takes a lot of hard work, dedication, and consistency to be successful. Whether it’s in your personal life, career, or relationship, success will not be easy. There are a lot of people that give up and I feel like if you don’t put in the work and determination, you will never be successful.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

KenDe’ja is my name, but I go by Ken for short. I am a Hair Artist specializing in Knotless/box braids, natural locs, faux locs, sew ins, and anything braid related. I am the oldest sibling of 6 and I have 2 children. I learned to braid at about age 12 and have done my own hair since. Having experience with different types of hair, you will have multiple satisfied clients. “Growing hands” is a phrase we use. I help them grow their hair, feel beautiful in protective styles, and create looks with many different colors.
When you sit in my chair to be serviced, it’s an experience like no other. Gentle hands with a pain free protective style.
When you book with Ken, just bring yourself. Hair, snacks and drinks provided with your choice of movie/tv show. Have you had an experience like that? Seeing my clients leave with a smile on their face is what keeps me going.
I am very proud of my growth and am always open to learning when it comes to getting better at my skill. For my future clients, followers, and anyone reading this, never limit yourself. You can be and will be who you want to be. Can’t wait to service you all.

What else should we know about how you took your side hustle and scaled it up into what it is today?

Learning how to braid at a young age has made me who I am today. I express myself through my hair and have always had a passion for it. With my skills, I help others feel beautiful. After I had my 2 children, I wanted to keep them home instead of enrolling in childcare. Since they were home, I always had time home to do my hair. Braiding my hair turned into me braiding family and friends for a small fee.
Being consistent and always practicing is how I got to where I am today. Always be open to constructive criticism and wanting to be better at what you do, I never would have thought I would be where I am today within a year. I am very very thankful for my clients for believing in me. Within a year, I went from braiding at home, to a barbershop, to now a very spacious suite that feels like home. Next up is a salon.. My very own salon.

Any advice for growing your clientele? What’s been most effective for you?

I would say transparency. When you are transparent, upfront about everything, and presenting your work in a neat and clean manner, your clients will see exactly what they are getting. Cater to your clients and treat them as if they are family because that’s what they will grow to become. Create a safe space and a bond that most people don’t experience with their stylist.

Contact Info:

• Website: kenthebraider.as.me
• Instagram: Kenthebraider
• Facebook: Ken The Braider
• Other: Email- [email protected]