Today we’d like to introduce you to Chavonne White.
Chavonne, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
Doing hair has always been a passion for me. I became interested in Cosmetology my senior year of high school, but my path was already decided by my parents. I was to attend college and get a degree to be a teacher or work in some type of corporate environment. I only attended a few semesters of college and in turn, ended up working in Corporate America for 10 whole years. Throughout those years doing hair on the side became my hustle and I fell in love with it even more.
In 2009, I decided to enroll in cosmetology school at Atlanta Technical College and I went on to become a member of the National Technical Honor Society and graduated in 2010 with a 3.5 GPA! Upon completion of school, I successfully passed the State Board of Cosmetology exam becoming a GA Licensed Master Cosmetologist.
After becoming a licensed professional, I landed a job for a Corporate Salon, even managed to become the Manager of the Salon after a year of being employed. I’m the type of person that can’t be placed in a box and appreciation of my existence for anyone I “work for” is a must. I realized after two and a half years, it was time for me to spread my wings and become an Independent Contractor.
That’s how Chocolate Gurl on Hair became my new reality. In 2013, I decided it was time to build my own brand!!!
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc. – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
EASY?!… NO SIREE BOB!!! It has been everything but EASY!. A constant pull on my faith in myself, in my decisions and in my craft. I often think even now, after being in this field for almost ten years, I get overwhelmed with possibly making the wrong choice. Prayer is important, every time I think I’m going to give up here comes more clients or a better opportunity for me to become elevated in this field.
In the beginning, I worked a lot to make sure my daughter and I didn’t lack but in the process, I’m not making time for her. Lately, I’ve created a balance between work, my life and our lives as Mother and Daughter and everything is working out for the better. I am still growing and intend to do so daily.
We’d love to hear more about your business.
Chocolate Gurl on Hair is a Professional Hairstylist, Colorist, Educator, and Advisor. I specialize in Healthy Hair with style. I remember being in cosmetology school and a salon owner came to speak to us and told us that anyone who says they specialize in healthy can’t do hair. When she said it, I began to think ok sooooo don’t say I specialize in Healthy hair, but now that I’m in this field, I’m thinking why not!!!! These days, everyone is so infatuated with weaves, lace fronts, and wigs and there is absolutely nothing wrong with that but why not have healthy hair???? I believe in hair growth but with style because you can definitely have Stylish and Healthy hair.
What were you like growing up?
I was very insecure as a child, that’s basically the basis of my name Chocolate Gurl on Hair. I had a complex about the color of skin and now that I embrace it, I use it as the being of existence for my business. Although I was insecure, I’ve always had a bossy like personality and I believe that trait is what keeps me focused on my goal.
I remember braiding my “My Little Pony” and my baby dolls hair in kindergarten, lol, so I was destined. I think the fear of failure is what made me go into the corporate field. I didn’t think I was good enough to make it on my own and look at me now…I encourage anyone to follow and pursue their passion. It won’t be easy at all! The ones closest to you may doubt you but if you have a firm foundation in a higher power, combine that with faith and belief in yourself and you too can DO IT!!!
Contact Info:
- Address: 1450 Mount Zion Rd Morrow, GA 30260
- Phone: 4048192758
- Email: chocolategurlonhair@yahoo.com
- Instagram: @chocolategurlonhair
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/chocolategurlonhair
Image Credit:
AMJ Photography, Makeup – IbrowQueen, Makeup – Shear Glam & Charm, Logo – The Inkwell Creative
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