Today we’d like to introduce you to Reneé Steed.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I learned how to braid when I was about twelve years old. I used to sit and watch my sister and aunt braid my various relative’s hair in amazement. Then one day I picked up my Kenya doll and started practicing on her. From there I began to practice on my own head, then my cousins and friends’ heads. Over time I began to notice that my skills were improving, and I wanted to learn how to add extensions. Slowly but surely, I learned how to add extensions within various styles and from there my confidence level increased dramatically. For a while, I was still only braiding my friends and family hair, but I would occasionally step out of my comfort zone and accept new clients. Around 2016 or 2017 a guy that I was dating suggested that I offer my services publicly after noticing how I was consistently getting DMs about my hair services, and I obliged. And my business took off from there.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Just as with every business, there have been highs and lows. Since I was working full-time, I was only servicing clients on the weekends and after work if my schedule permitted. But I was still booked, nevertheless. I can’t remember the exact year, but I believe it was around 2017 or 2018, I went from working a full-time job to two part-time jobs which enabled me to welcome more clients since I had more control of my schedule. During that summer, I made the most money that I’ve ever mad within a month and I was elated! Then things took a turn in 2019 when I was diagnosed with breast cancer and became pregnant. Unfortunately, I had to take some extensive time off due to my morning sickness preventing me from being able to function properly as a hair stylist. And from there my business slowly dwindled. In 2022, I returned to my hometown to get support with my daughter and since then, I’ve only been booked to do my family and friend’s hair primarily. However, I’m hopeful for the future and rebuilding my business to what it once was while navigating my new life as a mother.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am a natural hair braider that specializes in crochet braids, box braids, rope twists and cornrows. Currently, I’m in the process of learning how to start locs so that I can offer that service in the future. I’m known for my crochet braid styles, faux locs and rope twists. I’m most proud of myself for taking a chance on myself and starting a hair business. What sets me apart from others is my flexibility and understanding nature. In today’s world of hair stylists, there are a lot of prerequisites to complete prior to booking an appointment and quite a few fees that are associated with last minute changes and cancellations. Luckily for me, I’ve only experienced minimal last-minute cancellations and reschedules in which those clients had to pay a fee those instances. Because I work a full-time job and I’m also a single parent, I understand when schedules suddenly change and I don’t take it personal, especially when it’s a rare occurrence. And I believe that goes a long ways in terms regarding having great customer service and returning clients.
We love surprises, fun facts and unexpected stories. Is there something you can share that might surprise us?
That I love to write and I aspire to be an author one day.
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