Today we’d like to introduce you to T’Nique Bell.
T’Nique, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
Becoming a Cosmetologist was inspired by my grandmother. As a mother of 11, she always had kids in tow. She was brought up in a time when ladies went to the salon for a weekly shampoo set. At some point my grandmother couldn’t take her 5+ grandkids into the salon with her, so she showed a few of us how to do her hair. Nana picked me often because I loved making her smile. In 2002, I enrolled in a local Cosmetology school in my hometown of Fresno, CA. My first 6 professional years were mostly behind the salon chair in Fresno. After the first big on-location Wedding experience it was clear that Freelance Hairstyling was my true love. Bringing the good feels to women in their element is a rapturous experience. In 2009, I moved to Los Angeles to pursue Freelancing on a bigger scale.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Obstacles are definite in any service-based industry.
A past struggle occurred when I was 16. My mother was physically and mentally disabled in a car accident. As a result, our family suffered so much loss and needed public assistance. I received grants and financial aid to attend Cosmetology School and to take my State Board Exams.
A present obstacle is that our State Legislature issues dated laws and mandates against Freelance Beauty Professionals. Like myself, so many Freelancers need the help of individuals to let the California State Board of Barbering and Cosmetology know that laws need to be adjusted and updated. The regulations do not allow for hairstyling outside of a salon – which is unrealistic because not everyone or everything can afford time or space in a salon (weddings, events, productions, etc) in regards to non-chemical services. If you want to support and protect your favorite Freelance Pro, check out ImIndependent.co
Please tell us more about your work.
I bring the hair glam to ladies wherever they need it. Whether at an event, on a production set, on the red carpet, or in their home or job site, helping women flex their tresses is my jam.
There’s a broad range of services in my repertoire. From casual hairstyling to extensions services, Bridal hairstyling, photo-shoot set haircare, keratin treatments, and formal hairstyling. I’m also very passionate about Natural hair and Highly textured haircare. Youtube haircare advice and tutorials are underway to further assist in hair love and maintenance.
Listen, honey, a lady’s hair is her crown and I’m here to help adjust it into perfection.
Do you look back particularly fondly on any memories from childhood?
My dad combing my hair. He was terrible at styling my hair but it felt nice and gentle. My mother was better at styling my hair, but boy was it painful!
Contact Info:
- Website: http://www.tniquejhair.com
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: @tniquejhair
Image Credit:
Jenna Veroni, Eleonora Barna Photography, Travis Tanner Photography, Chandler Perry Photography
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