Today we’d like to introduce you to Brianna Robinson.
Hi Brianna, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I always knew I would have a passion in doing hair. When I was younger, I used to watch my mom braid hair and always wanted to learn. I am a self-taught braider; I learned by watching videos or watching other moms in my neighborhood. I have always prided myself on the upkeep of my hair; I never thought I was the prettiest girl so I figured if my hair was done, that gave people one less thing for them to talk about. It wasn’t until my braider canceled an appointment on me and I was forced to learn how to braid my own hair. That was 15 years ago while I was a freshman in college and ever since then, I’ve made it a point to make women feel beautiful starting from their hair.
Fast-forward to 2017, I worked with at-risk youth who resided in residential facilities. While working there, the girls used to beg me to braid their hair and that’s where I got my practice. I would braid their hair and while doing so, I would build relationships as well as instill common life skills. The smiles on their faces when I would finish brought me so much Joy that I said why not make a business out of it. Not to mention it’s like a weight lifted off your shoulders when you can vent to someone and get advice outside of your inner circle. I always thought that was a plus to be able to talk to your braider, gain insight on different things going on in the world, and just be able to talk without feeling judged.
In 2020, I finally decided to put my ideas on paper and make Braids by Bri a business and not just an Instagram page. The pandemic hit hard and although I was still employed, it wasn’t what I wanted to do. I took a leap a faith and quit my job (I would go back 2x/ week to do hair and see the youth). I started Braids by Bri full time and it was AMAZING. Being able to make my own schedule, be my own boss, and make people feel just that much great about themselves.
Going forward, I would like to open my own beauty bar. A place where people can go to get their hair done, self care, grab good food, purchase hair product/Braids by Bri merchandise, and just enjoy the environment. I want a place where people can feel comfortable while being serviced. My goal is to have “Braids by Bri Beauty Bar” established by 2024.
Alright, 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?
It definitely has not been a smooth road, but it has been rewarding! Starting a business from scratch is hard work and takes a lot of dedication. Two years later and I am nowhere near done. There were times where I was nervous about not making rent, having to “rob Peter to pay Paul”, and just not being in the greatest space because my business was on a rollercoaster. I didn’t let any of that discourage me! I still have things to learn, new styles to incorporate, and new adventures to embark on.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am a braider; I don’t use stylist because I don’t work with heat outside of using the blow dryer. I specialize in box braids, knotless braids, cornrolls, etc. I also specialize in locs and have been a loctician for four years now. I’m proud of ALL my work but what I can say I’m most proud in is my ability to learn new things and execute. What sets me apart from others is my work ethic. I will not QUIT no matter the circumstances. I believe in myself and my capabilities. Yes, there might be people out there that do exactly what I do but they don’t have the same drive, come from the same background, or have experienced what I have; so I believe that’s what sets me apart from everyone else.
What do you like and dislike about the city?
I love LA! It’s the most diverse place where you will find a little of everybody. I would say the best thing I like about LA is the food and traveling places. No matter where you go in LA, you can get a great view and some good food all in the same place. I dislike the TRAFFIC the most! It’s like where does everybody have to go, lol.
Contact Info:
- Email: brirobinson27@yahoo.com
- Website: https://Braidsbybri.as.me/
- Instagram: @__braidsbybriiillc__
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/braidsbybriii/
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