Meet Jessica McIntee of Natural Hair Academy in Lithia Springs

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jessica McIntee.

So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I am originally from Atlanta, Georgia. I first begin experimenting with hairstyles at the age of 12. My mother would not allow me to relax my hair, so I had to learn how to deal with my natural curl. I found that I really enjoyed braiding and creating protective styles. While attending Lithia Springs High School, I was a member of Skills USA and I was able to participate in a National Competition for Cosmetology. After completing courses in high school, I immediately attended Powder Springs Beauty School. Once I earned my Master Cosmetology license, I went to the University of West Georgia and received a Bachelor’s in Business Administration and an MBA. While going to school full time, I also worked multiple jobs and built a clientele. Before graduating with my masters, I begin working a 9-5 and I was totally grateful for the opportunity.

While working, I went back to school and earned my instructional license in Master Cosmetology. I opened my first business “The Boss’s Shop”, located in Lithia Springs, and utilized my skills to style hair for weddings, fashion shows, tv appearances and of course, my private clientele. I found another gift that I truly enjoyed and decided to open the Natural Hair Academy. The courses aim to help newer stylists build their clientele through teaching & revamping older techniques. I also assist experienced stylists with learning recent trends in order to maintain current clientele and advance their skills. Participants do not have to have a license in order to complete the courses. Recently I left my job to follow my dream and become a full-time entrepreneur. I plan to open several schools across the country to help those who may not know how to style and protect their natural hair. I want to help others learn so that they can feel more comfortable and love what they have.

Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
It has not been a smooth road. I grew up in a lower-income area, so being without was not a challenge for me in my later years. I learned how to become creative and use my ambitions to work. I overlooked myself and my abilities because I was afraid. Most of my challenges were mental. Before stepping out, I really did not believe in myself and did not really trust my own talents. As I grew more confident and more knowledgeable about my gifts, I became fearless and my passion became stronger than my doubts. I also became very serious about growing in my career and living in my purpose through God.

Natural Hair Academy – what should we know? What do you do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
I am the proud owner of the Natural Hair Academy & The Boss’s Shop. The Natural Hair Academy aims to help newer stylists build their clientele through teaching & revamping older techniques. Courses also assist experienced stylists with learning recent trends in order to maintain current clientele and advance their skills. In the state of Georgia, a license is not required to operate on natural hair. Braiders or natural stylists may have to learn from experience or their own research. I want to help those who may not have received prior training especially in infection control, alopecia/ hair loss recognition/coverage and business practices. This also gives a chance to those who may not be able to afford Cosmetology school and only want to style natural hair. My company is designed to help people learn a skill that will help them make money, whether part-time or full time.

My company is also designed to show others that natural hair is nothing to be afraid of and should be embraced. Both of those qualities are what I am most proud of. What sets my company apart from others, I am not teaching chemical services and I am only teaching natural styling and protective services. As far as The Boss’s Shop, this is a full-service salon offering; kid’s styles, special occasion styling, natural hair services, chemical services, extension installations, alopecia/hair loss coverage, & make-up & lash services. I truly enjoy styling my clients, listening to them about their personal goals, and helping them accomplish what they seek the most. I am proud that I am not just a stylist to my clients, I also aim to support my clients especially in their business endeavors.

What is “success” or “successful” for you?
I define success as freedom & when an individual reaches their God-given purpose. The criteria or the markers that I search for when speaking of success is having peace with God, peace with yourself and peace with others around you. Being mentally free and operating in one’s gift.

Contact Info:

• Address: Natural Hair Academy 3622 Houston St. Lithia Springs, GA 30122
  The Boss’s Shop 351 Thornton Rd. Lithia Springs, GA. 30122
• Website: mynaturalhairacademy.com
• Phone: 706-402-8359
• Email: [email protected]
• Instagram: mynaturalhairacademy; thbosshop
• Facebook: Jessica McIntee (Natural Hair Academy); Jessica McIntee (Thbosshop)
• Twitter: Natural Hair Academy; The Boss’s Shop

Image Credit:
Hebron Vincent Tate – photographer

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