Meet Zaria Graham of Lookz By Zaria

Today we’d like to introduce you to Zaria Graham

Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I’ve had a passion for hair since I was a kid, but always faced an obstacle when I tried to pursue it as a career. In 2020, I dropped out of school and randomly quit my job as a store manager @ T-mobile. I didn’t have any money saved or plan- literally quit on a random Tuesday with $60 to my name. I spent what I had on a desk, put it in my room, started telling people I did hair, and got a part time over-night job to help cover bills. I did hair from 12pm-8pm and worked 3am-11am at Krispy Kreme. Within 6 months, I was able to quit and do hair full-time. I made enough money to start saving up for my own salon suite. I couldn’t find one that worked best for me, until Salon Studios Marietta reached out to me via instagram and offered one. I’ve been leasing a space there for 3/4 years now and moved into a bigger suite earlier last year. In 2023, I decided to go to cosmetology school. I didn’t have any money saved or plan for this either. I found a technical college that offered the program for much cheaper than any school I’ve visited, and was only 5 minutes away from my suite. While still doing hair full-time, I enrolled in January 2024, paid my tuition & fees on a payment plan, and graduated in December of 2024. I am now waiting to take my state board exam to become a Master Licensed Cosmetologist.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
I’m not going to say it was the bumpiest road, but it sure wasn’t smooth! I have struggled mentally, physically, and emotionally…..but that’s just part of the journey. As a business owner, I’ve learned that you have struggles every day, it’s simply just another obstacle to overcome. Last year was one of the most challenging years I’ve had. I made the decision to go to school so fast because my dog passed away and I needed a distraction to keep my mind off of it. Trying to juggle school, my business, and living a healthy lifestyle all at once was one of the hardest things I’ve ever done.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
I am a professional braider and soon to be Master Cosmetologist, focusing on natural healthy hair. I specialize in natural hair care and providing luxury services. The luxury is in the all inclusiveness my business offers. All styles include a shampoo, steam treatment, and whatever hair is needed. I am also one of the most professional braiders in Atlanta. My passion for hair is shown in my work. My clients don’t have to worry about getting themselves ready for their appointments, enjoy the experience of being taken care of, and see a difference in their hair. Encouraging others to take care of and embrace their hair is what I’m most proud of. Although my work and brand is worth bragging about, I want readers to be inspired to go after their dreams and, most importantly, believe in themselves. Just like your hair journey, it doesn’t matter where you start…cut the dead ends, learn, and grow.

How can people work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
I’m willing to collaborate with anyone! There is always a way to bring things together. Reaching out via email or DM is best. People can support me by liking, sharing, and reposting anywhere on social media. It’s a double win if you book an appointment yourself!

Contact Info:

• Website: Https://lookzbyz.as.me
• Instagram: @Lookzbyz
• Facebook: Lookz By Z
• Twitter: Email: [email protected]
• Other: Tik Tok: 678zbabyyy