Today we’d like to introduce you to Stephanie Hicks.
Stephanie, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
My journey began with a simple passion for hair and a love for making people feel confident. I officially stepped into the industry in 2018, and by 2020 I was working in a barbershop doing all types of styles. When COVID shut everything down, I turned a small shed in my parents’ yard into a salon in Bowman, SC and kept building from there.
As a mother, my daughter has been my biggest motivation to keep going, even when things weren’t easy. In 2024, by the grace of God, I got the keys to my own building, and in 2025 I opened GOATED Loc Bar in Orangeburg, SC.
What started as a one-woman hustle has grown into a salon and brand built on faith, authenticity, and excellence. My vision has always been to create more than a salon — a safe space where people can embrace their natural beauty, feel at home, and leave empowered.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
The journey definitely hasn’t been smooth. Being a single mother while trying to build a business has come with plenty of sleepless nights, financial struggles, and moments where I wanted to walk away. Sometimes I still feel that way, but I always remind myself of my “why.” My daughter, my faith, and the vision I have for GOATED Loc Bar keep me pushing forward. Every obstacle has taught me resilience, patience, and the power of not giving up, and I carry that with me every day.
As you know, we’re big fans of GOATED Loc Bar. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
GOATED Loc Bar is more than just a salon… it’s a space built on culture, confidence, and community. We specialize in locs and natural styles, helping clients embrace and love their natural hair while feeling at home the moment they walk in. What sets us apart is not only the quality of our work, but the energy and atmosphere we create. My goal has always been for clients to leave not just with a style, but with confidence and a reminder of their beauty.
I’m most proud that what started as a one-woman operation has grown into a brand that represents authenticity, excellence, and empowerment. At GOATED Loc Bar, it’s about more than hair — it’s about creating safe spaces, building relationships, and leaving a legacy.
What matters most to you?
What matters most to me is my daughter, my faith, and the legacy I’m building. Being a single mother has taught me the importance of showing her that no matter how hard life gets, you can still create something beautiful. My “why” is making sure she knows that her mom never gave up, and that she too can chase her dreams. I also want to inspire others in my community to embrace who they are, trust God’s timing, and believe that their passion has a purpose.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.abegoated.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/step.dalocgoat/?igsh=MWF5c2h1cGhhMTJlZg%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Step-Da-Loc-Goat/100094760626617/?mibextid=wwXIfr&rdid=bt0jqR0sdly97rYh&share_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fshare%2F16qVGRWouU%2F%3Fmibextid%3DwwXIfr
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@step.dalocgoat
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@step.dalocgoat?_t=ZP-8zmuz8BFueM&_r=1
