Today we’d like to introduce you to B. Thomas.
B. Thomas, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I started doing braids in a salon in Inglewood, CA called Braids Your Way, at the age of 13, and learned a lot of techniques while I was there. I worked there for six years until I went on tour with the Black Eyed Peas as a background dancer, and on other projects for the next five years. During that time, I did my own hair for performances, and during the off time while in LA, I still serviced my own clientele. In 2014, I decided to transition from primarily dancing to doing hair full time. My clientele grew tremendously, with most of my clients coming from my relationships built from being in the entertainment industry and word of mouth. I now have a private studio in Sherman Oaks and work on celebrity clients like Rapsody, Lil Nas X, and Leslie Odom Jr. on music videos, tv shows, tours and photoshoots.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
The road has actually been kind of smooth. It was a natural transition to go from primarily dancing professionally, to doing hair in the same environment I worked in previously. I believe there was a sense of trust I had already established with a lot of people because I had made a name for myself working in entertainment, and my work was seen on me while on different gigs.
Braid Artistry – what should we know? What do you do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
Braid Artistry is a company specializing in natural hair and protective styles for the everyday person, and the entertainment industry, known for speed and precision in braids, twists, and locs. We are most proud of our wide spectrum of clientele and 20 years of experience. What sets us apart from other companies is our CEO’s experience as a performer, so working with performers on set comes easy.
What is “success” or “successful” for you?
Success to me is setting goals, then accomplishing and exceeding them. The criteria for success in my field is the feedback, return, and referral from my clients. I know I am doing well and providing a great service if my business is growing.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @braid_artistry
Image Credit:
@BrandonHicks @MaxPhotoStudio @LanceGross @Samantha_J @J3collection
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