We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Tichina Thomas. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Tichina below.

Hi Tichina , thanks for joining us today. undefined

Adding Customized Loc Care Plans at SimplyLoc’d

At SimplyLoc’d, we knew early on that no two loc journeys are the same. That’s why we introduced Personalized Loc Care Plans – a unique and thoughtful innovation that ensures each client receives hair care, styling, and maintenance guidance tailored to their specific hair type, lifestyle, and loc goals.

This wasn’t just about standing out – it was about truly serving our clients. From assessing scalp health and loc maturity to offering product recommendations and loc options, each plan empowers our clients to care for their hair with intention, even between appointments.

While the beauty industry often thrives on one-size-fits-all solutions, we chose to do things differently – and our clients love us for it.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

Shina – Founder of SimplyLoc’d

Hi, I’m Shina – a licensed natural hair stylist, microlocs specialist, and the heart behind SimplyLoc’d by Shina. My journey into the natural hair industry started with a deep love for textured hair and a desire to help others embrace their beauty, naturally and unapologetically. I’ve always believed that our hair is more than just a style – it’s a story, a legacy, and a form of self-expression. That belief pushed me to turn my passion into purpose.

How I Got Started:

Years ago, I found myself frustrated with the lack of quality, specialized care available for loc’d individuals – especially those interested in microlocs like I had. I dove deep into learning everything I could about the art, technique, and science of interlocking, and eventually became licensed to bring my vision to life. SimplyLoc’d was born out of love, education, the desire to learn about my hair and also help to serve textured hair women in my community with care and integrity.

What I Offer

At SimplyLoc’d, I specialize in microlocs and sisterlocks, offering professional installation, maintenance, and styling services using the interlocking method. I work from my salon suite, where each client receives a personalized, relaxing, and affirming experience.

Beyond styling, I am working it expand the brand to include digital products like ebooks to educate and empower individuals to care for their own hair, understand their loc journey. I’m also working on launching a natural hair care product line that features nourishing ingredients like Jamaican Black Castor Oil and Coconut Oil to keep locs hydrated, healthy, and happy.

The Problems I Solve:

So many of my clients come to me unsure of how to maintain their locs, struggling with dryness, breakage, or just wanting to feel confident and beautiful in their natural crown. I solve these problems by providing professional care, consistent education, and customized guidance every step of the way. For my DIY clients and long-distance supporters, my ebooks and online content offer accessible solutions and trusted knowledge.

What Sets Me Apart

What makes SimplyLoc’d different is the intentionality and heart behind everything I do. I don’t just do hair – I build relationships. I create safe spaces for Black women and men to feel seen, celebrated, and cared for. I blend professionalism with authenticity, and I use my skills not just to make clients look good, but to help them feel good and empowered.

I also prioritize innovation – from developing personalized loc care plans to creating digital tools and expanding into natural hair products – my brand continues to grow with my clients in mind.

What I’m Most Proud Of

I’m most proud of the trust my clients place in me and the transformations I witness every day – not just physical, but emotional and spiritual. Watching someone fall in love with their natural hair again (or for the first time) is what keeps me going.

What I Want You to Know

SimplyLoc’d is more than a salon. It’s a movement of love, education, and empowerment. Whether you’re looking to start your microloc journey, maintain your current set, or just want to learn how to care for your natural hair better – I’ve got you. I’m here to walk with you, educate you, and celebrate every stage of your journey.

Thank you for being here. Let’s grow – beautifully, intentionally, and simply loc’d.

Can you talk to us about how you funded your business?

Starting SimplyLoc’d wasn’t backed by a big investor or a fancy business loan. It was built from hustle, strategy, and a whole lot of faith. When I decided to go all in on my natural hair business, I knew I wanted to do it debt-free – or as close to it as possible – so I used what I had and made it work.

I started by using my own savings. I was still working full-time as a Senior Loan Processor, so I dedicated a portion of each paycheck toward my dream. That meant cutting back on extras, budgeting intentionally, and saving for the tools, certifications, and products I needed to begin.

I also leaned into what I could do without a large upfront investment. I started with the essentials: a high-quality interlocking tool, the best products I could afford, and a few clients who trusted me. I worked from home and eventually transitioned into a salon suite when I had enough steady income to support it.

Everything was strategic – from the timing of my product purchases to offering specials that brought in consistent business. And because I understood credit and finances from my professional background, I made sure my business foundation was solid. No risky credit cards, no unnecessary debt. Just smart moves and long-term vision.

Looking back, I’m proud that SimplyLoc’d was self-funded from the ground up. It taught me discipline, resilience, and resourcefulness. And now, as I continue to grow the brand – expanding into products and digital education – I’m doing it with the same mindset: build smart, grow intentionally, and stay rooted in purpose.

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

There was a time early in my journey with SimplyLoc’d when I was fully booked for the month, riding the momentum, and finally feeling like things were flowing. Then—out of nowhere—I experienced a major setback. I was in a car accident and broke my left hand. I had to shut everything down for over a month . No clients. No income. Cancellations piling up. I was frustrated, anxious, and questioning everything I had worked for.

But instead of sitting in that frustration, I pivoted.

I used that downtime to strengthen the business from behind the scenes. I updated my booking process to make it more client-friendly. I started to work on my first digital ebook. I engaged more on social media to stay visible and keep my clients inspired. And I reminded myself why I started: to create a space where natural beauty is honored and loc journeys are celebrated.

When I got back into my suite, hand heeled but still with a broken bone; not only did I bounce back—I came back stronger. More organized. More confident. More connected to my purpose.

Resilience for me hasn’t always looked glamorous. It’s looked like adjusting to working with a broken bone in your hand, handling slow shifts , having to be still in real-time, and showing up even when I was tired or just not feeling it. But every challenge has shaped me and strengthened the foundation of SimplyLoc’d.

I’m still standing, still evolving, and still loc’d in love—with the process, the people, and the purpose.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://simplylocd-102418.square.site/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/simplyy_locd?igsh=MWhpOWV1cDZtcnR0bA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1Dc4awp9xh/?mibextid=wwXIfr
• Other: https://my.sisterlocks.com/tichina-thomas.html

Image Credits

N/a