Wednesday, August 1, 2012

Naturally Happy Hair's Natural You Mixer

I'd attended these mixers before, but for some reason, I was more anxious and excited this time around.  I planned well in advance to be sure I had all things in order so I would NOT miss this event.  Babysitter...check. No work or school...check  Hair twisted the night before...check. All that went out the window the day of the event, hair was all wrong and my oldest son had to watch my 2 year old, but I still managed to pull it together to get to the Ensemble Theater to mingle with my fellow naturals and offer help where needed.

Naturally Happy Hair

Upon entering the building, I was first greeted by Wu and then Crystal.  It was 5 o'clock and the mixer wasn't scheduled to begin until 6 but, there were already people there collecting their swag bags and shopping with vendors.  Chari of CIC was the first vendor I ran into and I quickly let her know that I would be placing a custom order very soon.

Chari T's Inspirational Creations

Riyike Faleti of Jewels by Anike was also a vendor at the event.  Her beautiful pieces of abstract jewelry are to die for! In addition to Chari and Ri, Dope Crochet, TatusWelle, Jewelry Creations by Astella 19, Jhari Designs, and Ear Cookies by Drea were also vendors.  Each and every one of them had beautiful pieces on display.

Jewels by Anike



I had come prepared to work in whatever capacity I was needed, but I was able to get in for a few minutes during a couple different demonstrations.  I missed Markeita Pruitt of Touch of Heaven Salon but as usual, I heard she was great.  I was able to sit in on a presentation made by the Paula, owner of the fabulous new shop dedicated to curly girls (and guys) Tendrils and Curls.  She not only made me eager to get over to her shop, but that lipstick she was rocking was coaxing me outside of my comfort zone. Not everyone can wear bright reds, but she wore it and she wore it well!


Soul Sister

I believe NHH hit the nail right on the head when they asked Georgette Whaley, Soul Sister, to emcee this event.  She was definitely in her element! In a room full of people where seats went quickly and many were left standing due to the growth of attendees with each mixer, she kept everyone involved and engaged.  Truly a natural (no pun intended) at her craft, she can pick up a mic and and make you feel like you've known her for years.  As a part of the discussion panel, she along with Markeita of Touch of Heaven Salon and  Valencia of Moore unique Dermatology gave valuable information and answered questions relating to any and all natural hair issues.







It was evident when the event was over, no one was really ready to leave.  NHH is continuously growing and their fan base which was around 100 strong when I joined a little less than a year ago has now reached over 6,200 fans on Facebook alone.  These ladies continue to be a positive force in the natural hair community and I am excited to see what's next for them.  Congratulations Crystal, Wu and Tierra on ANOTHER great event!