Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Shenice “Tee Mora” Gammage. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Shenice “Tee Mora” , appreciate you joining us today. Do you have any thoughts about how to create a more inclusive workplace?

Absolutely. Creating a more inclusive workplace starts with listening and intentional action. It’s not just about diversity in numbers—it’s about making sure every voice is valued, respected, and heard. For me, inclusion means cultivating a space where people feel safe being their authentic selves, and where differences are celebrated, not just tolerated.

One moment that really shaped my perspective was early in my career, when I worked in an environment where natural hairstyles were subtly discouraged. It may have seemed small to others, but it sent a strong message about what was “acceptable” or “professional.” That experience stayed with me and fueled my passion to create a space where everyone—especially Black women—can show up fully as themselves without code-switching or hiding parts of who they are.

Now, as a business owner, I make it a point to model and promote inclusivity in my studio—from the language we use, to the way we embrace different hair textures, to making sure every client and team member feels seen and valued. True inclusivity requires constant reflection, unlearning, and a willingness to grow—and it’s worth every step.

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?

My name is Tee Mora, and I’m the proud owner and licensed loctician behind Locs of Love by Tee Hair Studio, located in Seminole, Florida. I specialize in natural hair care, with a deep focus on locs, protective styles, and empowering my clients to embrace the beauty of their crowns. My journey into this industry was born out of passion, purpose, and personal experience—I know firsthand how transformative it feels to be seen, heard, and celebrated through your hair.

I officially began my loc journey in 2019, but I’ve always had a creative spirit and a heart for healing through hair. For many in our community, hair is more than just a style—it’s a connection to culture, identity, and self-worth. I wanted to create a space that honors that truth. That’s why Locs of Love isn’t just a salon—it’s a sanctuary where luxury meets authenticity, and every client leaves feeling restored, valued, and more confident in who they are.

At my studio, I provide services such as starter locs, retwists, loc maintenance, kids’ styles, braids, travel appointments, and hair education. I also own a second brand, Essentially Natural Co., offering handcrafted hair and beauty products made with natural ingredients to support healthy hair care at home. Everything I do is rooted in intention, care, and excellence.

What sets me apart is the experience I offer. I don’t just “do hair”—I educate, uplift, and walk with my clients through every phase of their hair journey. I’m intentional about creating a luxury environment that’s also deeply personal and welcoming. From private evening appointments to curated aftercare plans, I aim to provide service that goes beyond the chair.

I’m most proud of the trust I’ve built in my community. Seeing my clients reclaim their confidence and glow up through their loc journey is the most rewarding part of what I do. My work is about more than just hairstyles—it’s about healing, empowerment, and legacy.

If there’s one thing I want potential clients and followers to know, it’s that Locs of Love by Tee is where crowns are cared for with love, skill, and intention. Whether you’re just starting your natural hair journey or looking to elevate your locs, I’m here to serve you with passion, knowledge, and a commitment to excellence. Your crown is your power—and I’m honored to help you wear it with pride.

Any advice for managing a team?

One of the most important lessons I’ve learned in managing a team is that leadership is about service, not control. You set the tone for the energy, work ethic, and culture—so staying grounded, transparent, and intentional is key.

Here’s my top advice for managing a team and maintaining high morale:

1. Lead with empathy and understanding. Life happens outside of work, and when you acknowledge your team as human first, you build trust and loyalty. Check in—not just on the tasks, but on the person.

2. Set clear expectations but give people ownership. People thrive when they understand their role and are trusted to fulfill it. I’ve found that empowerment, not micromanagement, leads to better performance and more creativity.

3. Celebrate wins—big and small. Recognition matters. Whether it’s a shoutout for consistent professionalism or appreciation after a long day, these moments of gratitude fuel morale.

4. Keep communication open and two-way. I always want my team to feel like their voice matters. Creating a space where feedback flows in both directions helps resolve tension before it builds and keeps everyone aligned.

5. Model the energy you want to see. If I want excellence, positivity, and growth from my team, I have to show up with those same qualities. You can’t expect what you don’t practice.

High morale doesn’t come from perks—it comes from purpose. When your team believes in the why behind the work and feels seen in the process, the motivation stays high even when things get tough.

Alright – let’s talk about marketing or sales – do you have any fun stories about a risk you’ve taken or something else exciting on the sales and marketing side?

One of my favorite marketing moments was when I decided—on a total gut feeling—to host my very first pop-up braid and loc event in the middle of the summer heat, right when I was still building my brand. I didn’t have a huge following, fancy setup, or even a fully booked client list yet. But what I did have was drive, skill, and a belief that if I showed up with love and intention, the right people would come.

I remember pulling up with just my tools, a fold-out table, samples from my Essentially Natural Co. line, and a small speaker. I promoted the event like crazy on social media the week before—posting reels, sharing client transformations, and DMing people directly to let them know I’d be there. I even offered discounted services and mini product bundles just to create buzz. It was risky—especially because I had to front money for supplies and had no guarantee anyone would show up.

But that day? It turned into one of the most powerful moments of my career.

People did show up. Clients brought friends, moms brought their kids, and I ended up doing more heads that day than I had in an entire week prior. Not only did I sell out of product samples, but I gained new repeat clients, grew my Instagram following, and received incredible word-of-mouth referrals. I even had one client cry in my chair because she finally felt seen and beautiful in her natural hair for the first time in years.

What made it special wasn’t just the sales—it was the connection. The risk taught me that when you’re clear on your purpose and you show up with heart, people feel that. They don’t just buy the service—they buy into you.

It was raw, unpolished, and straight from the soul—but it worked. That moment shifted my mindset and made me fearless when it comes to marketing. Now, every post, flyer, or campaign I create comes from that same place of passion and purpose.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://linktr.ee/locsoflovebytee
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/locsoflovebyteehairstudio?igsh=MWMzdHRkYXF0a3k4Zg%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/12KdYHcNirg/?mibextid=wwXIfr
• Youtube: https://youtube.com/@locsoflovebyteehairstudio?si=wzoM1c8-bkAOkvAB
• Other: Pinterest https://pin.it/5Bfwzn3J3
  TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@locsoflovebytee?_t=ZT-8wL75xDWVEU&_r=1