Conversations with Latoya Taylor

Today we’d like to introduce you to Latoya Taylor.

Hi Latoya, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I knew from the age of 7 years old that hair was something that I was going to be doing. I was always styling and cutting my Barbie’s hair. Giving them French rolls at that time lol. I performed my first relaxer on my mom when I was 12. From there, I began extension braiding.

My hair has always been thick and long so it had been a struggle to find someone that could manage it being my mom did all she knew how to. During high school, I was always the girl in the neighborhood that was braiding all the girl’s hair. I had developed scoliosis throughout middle and high school. During the final year of high school, I had to have spinal surgery because it had progressed so badly to where it had nearly crippled me.

I crossed the stage that year not thinking that I would, then within the same year began cosmetology school. I started working at a small booth rental salon as soon as I graduated from hair school not thinking that I would need established clientele. I had the heart of a hustler! I had to eventually leave because well it just didn’t work. I started at what was then called smart styles and grew from there.

Learning many techniques in hair, color, cutting, styling, silk presses, and more. When I turned 21, I became pregnant with my daughter. I was so unprepared and I had relocated to NY a year later in 2014. I became licensed in New York and Connecticut and worked for a few establishments there. I then became pregnant with my son so I had to leave my job. Some things happened in NY that I’d rather not discuss so I returned to NC in 2015. Began at another franchise salon but didn’t quite work out for me. For some reason, I just knew I was destined for more. Just didn’t have it yet.

I began working in La Creations Hair Studio in the summer of 2016 and started establishing clientele. That following year in 2017 I became engaged and relocated back to NY. Things became a lot worse. My situation turned into an abusive situation and I knew that’s not how I wanted to live my life nor, let my children see. I returned to NC with maybe $20 for my children and a suitcase. I had begun writing my dreams and goals.

I worked for a franchise for a while just to get myself self-established. It was a great experience and ended well. I had a camera but wasn’t sure what to do In March 2019, I made an investment and gained my LLC. La ’Serein HMP Studios LLC. That same year I leased my first vehicle. I tried booth rent again but was not ready.

I relocated back to La Creations and where I am today. Now clients won’t let me take a vacation. Knotless braids, sew-ins, micro links. You name it! Lol. As of 2021 I’ve recently renamed my business to LATUCKETT Hair. Makeup. Photography. LLC.

I will now be relocating to my new business salon suite on April, 26, 2022 in Phenix Salon Suites at 7361 Six Forks Rd Suite 107 in Raleigh, NC!

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Oh, definitely not smooth. From losing my car, to being homeless. I guess that is the price of the assignment that is in my life. Daycare was my biggest struggle when my son was young. Having to take the bus to work and or rely on others to get me there. People taking advantage while you are struggling. I’m sure I’m not alone.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
So I am known for my knotless box braids.

The reason being is because I am one of very few if any that shampoo condition and braid and include hair. I believe in providing quality for a reasonable price. I am a hair care professional. Not just a hairstylist or braider. I believe in treating not only the hair and scalp but what is underneath as well.

What you eat and drink and intake in your body is definitely told through your hair. As well as outside factors. I love creating and seeing color, but I like to custom look based on the individual’s style, personality, and lifestyle.

What’s next?
I am planning to do more teaching going forward and more event hosting and networking.

Contact Info:

• Email: [email protected]
• Instagram: @Latucketthmp

Image Credits
LATUCKETT