We recently connected with Kiolli Sydnor and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Kiolli, thanks for joining us today. Taking care of customers isn’t just good business – it is often one of the main reasons folks went into business in the first place. So, we’d love to get a conversation going around how to best help clients feel appreciated – maybe you can share something you’ve done or seen someone do that’s been really effective at helping a customer feel valued?

I show my appreciation for my clients in several intentional ways. One of the main ways is by accommodating their schedules and giving them priority access to book future appointments. I also offer a referral program, where they receive $20 off their next service when they refer a new client, In addition, I enjoy surprising clients with complimentary services-whether it’s for their birthday, a special occasion or simply as gesture of gratitude. Showing appreciation for their continued support truly brings me joy.

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 background and context?

I’m a dedicated natural hair care professional with over 15 years of experience snd the proud owner of Golden Rootz LLC specializing in braids, microlocs, and sisterlocks. My journey into this industry started from a genuine love for natural hair and a desire to understand how to properly care for it in a healthy, sustainable way. Over time, that passion grew into a purpose—helping others embrace their natural beauty while maintaining the integrity of their hair.

I provide personalized natural hair care services that focus not just on style, but on the overall health of the hair and scalp. Every client I work with receives an approach tailored specifically to their hair’s needs, whether that’s starting or maintaining locs, protective styling, or educating them on proper hair care routines. I also incorporate guidance and knowledge so my clients can feel confident managing their hair beyond the chair.

One of the main problems I solve is helping clients who have experienced damage, confusion, or frustration with their natural hair. Many people have been misinformed or haven’t had access to proper care, and I take pride in restoring not only their hair, but their confidence as well.

What sets me apart is my commitment to individualized care and long-term results. I don’t believe in one-size-fits-all solutions—every head of hair is unique, and I treat it that way. My approach is intentional, educational, and rooted in building trust with my clients.

What I’m most proud of is the relationships I’ve built and the transformations I’ve been able to witness—both physically and emotionally. Seeing my clients grow to love and understand their natural hair is incredibly rewarding.

I want potential clients to know that my brand is built on care, consistency, and authenticity. When you sit in my chair, you’re not just getting a service—you’re getting an experience focused on healthy hair, empowerment, and lasting results.

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

Absolutely! My journey started when I was about 12 years old, just playing in my cousins’ and sisters’ hair. What began as “playing beauty salon” quickly turned into a real passion as I started practicing different styles and techniques. Before I knew it, my family became my first paying clients, and that’s when I realized this was more than just a hobby.

For years, it remained a side hustle while I worked a corporate job. Then in 2019, I made one of the biggest and boldest decisions of my life—I quit. I didn’t have a 3- or 6-month savings cushion, but what I did have was faith, a clear Plan A, and the courage to send that resignation email. My initial goal was simple: gain 5 new clients a month. But 5 quickly turned into 10, and things began to grow faster than I imagined.

I started consistently posting my work on Instagram, which helped me reach a wider audience and build my brand organically. From there, everything began to align.

One of the most defining moments in my journey was during the COVID-19 pandemic. Being unable to service clients was both mentally and financially challenging, but it also strengthened my resilience and deepened my purpose. It reminded me why I started and pushed me to keep going, even in uncertainty.

Now, here I am 7 years later—grateful, blessed, and proud of how far I’ve come. This journey hasn’t been easy, but it’s been worth it, and it continues to inspire me to grow, evolve, and serve my clients at the highest level.

Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?

One of the most powerful moments that truly tested my resilience was during the COVID-19 pandemic. At the time, my business was growing, my clientele was building, and I had fully stepped out on faith after leaving my corporate job. Then suddenly, everything came to a halt. I was forced to close and couldn’t service clients, which meant no income coming in. It was one of the most mentally and financially challenging seasons I’ve ever experienced.

There were moments of uncertainty where I questioned what was next, but I refused to give up on something I had worked so hard to build. Instead, I leaned into my faith and reminded myself of my “why.” I used that time to reset, refocus, and pour into the educational side of my craft—learning more about hair care, strengthening my skills, and thinking about how I could come back stronger.

When things began to open back up, I didn’t just return—I returned with more intention, more knowledge, and a deeper appreciation for both my clients and my purpose. That season taught me that resilience isn’t about avoiding hard times, it’s about pushing through them, growing from them, and trusting that what’s meant for you will still be there on the other side.

Looking back, that period didn’t break me—it built me. It strengthened my mindset as a business owner and reminded me that no matter the circumstances, I have the ability to adapt, rebuild, and keep going.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://goldenrootz.glossgenius.com/
• Instagram: Goldenrootz_