Today we’d like to introduce you to Deonna Simon
Hi Deonna, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I genuinely enjoy sharing my journey when others ask, because it is truly unique and serves as a testament to God’s grace in my life. My story began around the age of 12 or 13, shortly after I relocated permanently to the United States from the West Indian Island, Antigua when I was 11. My father, the primary parent for my siblings and me, entrusted my aunt Cathy with the responsibility of finding a reliable braider for my sister and me. At that time, the cost of our braiding appointments was $150 per person, totaling $300 every couple of months. During these sessions, I would observe the African braiders a lot, spending hours in the salon, learning the process of separating hair, starting the braids, and dipping the ends. Little did I know, these long days were a part of a divine plan that would unfold later.
In mid 2009, our family faced financial difficulties following the sudden passing of my grandmother. As a result, we began extending the duration between appointments to three months. One day, my father asked if I would be open to braiding my sister’s hair using leftover braiding hair from previous appointments. Without hesitation, I agreed. I felt calm and confident, since I would braid my braid dolls’ hair for fun, unaware that this small act would set the stage for something much bigger. With my father’s help, my sister’s hair turned out well, and soon after, he suggested I try braiding my own hair. The process was surprisingly easy and natural for me.
From that point onward, I began braiding my sister’s and my own hair throughout middle and high school. Over time, my skills naturally improved, although it never occurred to me to pursue a career in hairstyling. I was more focused on academics and never considered hairdressing as anything beyond a practical necessity.
In my senior year of high school, I was a top achiever, excelling with A/B Honor Roll grades, AP classes, dual enrollment, scholarships, and multiple college acceptance letters. My dream of becoming a neonatal doctor seemed within reach. However, due to financial constraints, my family made the difficult decision that they would be unable to financially support me and my siblings through college , and I was left to let go of my lifelong dream of pursuing a medical career. This setback led me into a period of depression, and I struggled to find hope.
Despite my feelings, I continued braiding my hair. Over time, my talent was noticed by cousins and friends, who encouraged me to promote my skills. Initially, I was hesitant, feeling insecure about my abilities and reluctant to pursue hairdressing as a career. But as I worked through my depression, I came to a turning point. I realized I could no longer dwell on what I had lost and had to embrace the gifts I had. With this renewed perspective, I created an Instagram page, showcasing my work and promoting my services. Slowly but steadily, new clients began to book appointments.
By 2018, my business gained significant attention on social media, mainly due to the viral popularity of lemonade braids which was a service I was offering. From that moment, my business grew exponentially. Over time, I discovered that my passion for braiding hair was not just a hobby I could be paid from, but part of a greater plan for my life. Although initially resistant, I now recognize that this journey was always meant to be part of God’s plan.
Today, I am grateful for where I am. Trusting in God has led me to incredible personal growth, the opportunity to build meaningful relationships with my clients, and the financial ability to support my family. Additionally, God has inspired me with new business ideas, such as Dees Heavenly Bites, a cookie business that combines my love for the word with delicious cookies. I have also begun pursuing personal aspirations, including modeling and dance.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
After seven years as an entrepreneur, I can honestly say the journey has been far from smooth. This journey has tested me emotionally, spiritually, financially, and physically. Despite the challenges, I am grateful for every moment because all of it has shaped me into the woman I am today. Throughout this journey, I’ve gained invaluable insights about both myself and the world of business. Some of the key challenges I’ve faced include learning how to truly rest without guilt, finding a work-life balance that suits me, setting boundaries with myself and my clients, battling imposter syndrome, navigating comparisons with others, determining the right timing to launch campaigns, and managing finances effectively.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I’m a braider specializing in knotless braids and design braids, and I would say I am most recognized for creating the viral Tetris braids, a style that my followers helped name. I enjoy doing unique braid patterns, such as heart-shaped braids, snake braids, stars, spirals, letters—truly anything that allows me to express my creativity. In addition to braiding, I am also a makeup artist, and I find fulfillment in both crafts for different reasons. What I love most about them is that they enable me to channel my artistic abilities. I just love starting with a blank canvas and creating something unique out of it. Over the past seven years, I am particularly proud of my dedication to my business and the bold, challenging styles I’ve had to create. What distinguishes me from other creatives is my authenticity. No one else shares the same personality, look, or drive that I bring to my work. I believe I am beautifully and wonderfully made in God’s image, and everything He has for me is mine unless I separate myself from Him. I am blessed to have an amazing business partner in God, who is my CEO. This journey was intentionally designed by Him, and I am fully aware that my success is a result of His guidance and grace. All He asks is for my participation and commitment to the process.
We’d love to hear about how you think about risk taking?
As a business owner, I believe that taking risks is an essential part of the journey, and is very necessary at times. The decision to become an entrepreneur and start a business is, in itself, a significant risk, with no guaranteed path to success. However, I believe that risks should be strategic, well-thought-out, and executed at the right time. In the early years of my entrepreneurial journey, I was certainly a risk taker, but many of my decisions were made naively, without thorough planning or multiple contingencies in place. This is where I encountered setbacks, but those experiences provided invaluable lessons. One notable risk I took was when I decided to launch a line of braiding tools, including a braider comb, a braider band, and edge brushes. At the time, it was a costly investment in my business. Looking back, I recognize that I could have done more research and developed a more intentional strategy—particularly in terms of profit planning, marketing, and creating backup plans for outreach. These lessons have shaped my approach to future risks, ensuring that I make more informed and calculated decisions moving forward.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/deesbeauties/profilecard/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/Uw4xXQ6fFLY3SHpU/
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@deesbeauties
- Email: info@deesbeauties.com
- Other: https://linktr.ee/deesbeauties
Image Credits
Image Credits For Professional Shoots :
Instagram : @pablofilmz_
