From an early age, I was always fascinated with hair, especially Black hair with its variety of textures and the many ways it could be styled. While pressed and relaxed hair offered some styling options, I always loved natural looks, such as variations of afros, cornrows, braids, twists, twistrows and locs. I wanted to study cosmetology but was not as interested in learning to cut, style and care for hair that was pressed and relaxed.
When I was in middle school, I purchased a book on homemade recipes for hair and skin. Although it was not written specifically for Black hair, I used many of the recipes to condition, rinse and moisturize my hair. I wish I brought that book with me when I moved out of my parent's home. Since then, I have added similar books to my library.
Ever the entrepreneur, I started to braid hair with and without extensions in the late 1980s. To hone my craft, I attended seminars held by nationally-reknowned natural hair sytlists and learned techniques from local braiders. Braids by Michelle was a successful, at-home business for over 15 years.
A move and other business opportunities took my time and away from braiding for five years but not from my love for hair. I still study styling techniques and new natural hair trends and started braiding again in 2009.
I love the opportunity to share what I learn about all things natural hair care and styling through this blog and studying from others who do the same.
