Gift Guide: Nycole Mason of Elegant Boutique Beauty Supply Highlights their Top Product

Today we’re excited to be connecting with Nycole Mason again. We’re excited to feature one of their products in our gift guide – learn more below and we encourage you to use your gift budget to support small businesses & creatives whenever possible.

Nycole, thanks for joining us again. We’re so excited to have a product focused conversation today. Can you bring our readers up to speed on the product side?
My brand of braiding hair was inspired by the challenges I and many others have faced when working with traditional braiding hair products. I wanted to create a product that makes the braiding process easier, more comfortable, and enjoyable for both stylists and wearers. The result is a premium braiding hair that is **anti-itch, soft, easy to work with, 26 inches long, and pre-stretched and designed with the needs of the braiding community in mind.

One of the main problems this product solves is the discomfort and irritation caused by many synthetic hair brands. Traditional braiding hair often contains chemicals that can cause itchiness and irritation to the scalp, especially for those with sensitive skin. By having a braiding hair that is anti-itch, I’ve addressed a common pain point for many people who wear braids.

Additionally, the softness and pre-stretched design makes the braiding process quicker and more efficient for stylists. Pre-stretched hair eliminates the need for manual preparation, saving time and ensuring a more polished, natural finish. At 26 inches, it’s also versatile, allowing wearers to create a variety of styles from long box braids to intricate updos.

What makes this product truly unique is that it’s tailored for anyone who loves protective hairstyles but wants to avoid the discomfort and hassle that often come with synthetic braiding hair. Whether you’re a stylist looking for a high-quality product for your clients or someone doing braids at home, this product is designed to make the experience smoother, more enjoyable, and irritation-free.

Do you remember the moment you realized the world needed this product?
I vividly remember the moment I realized the world needed this product. During the COVID-19 pandemic, many beauty supply stores were closed, making it difficult to access quality braiding hair. I also noticed a recurring issue every time I or others got braids done: the discomfort and itchiness caused by the synthetic hair often available on the market. Stylists and wearers alike struggled with hair that was tough to work with, caused irritation, and required extra preparation to make it usable.

I thought, “Why isn’t there a braiding hair product that’s ready to use, comfortable, and doesn’t irritate the scalp?” That’s when the idea for my own brand was born—a product specifically designed to address these pain points. I realized there was a gap in the market for braiding hair that prioritized comfort and convenience while still being high-quality and versatile.

What I’ve learned along the way is just how much this product resonates with both stylists and wearers. Stylists appreciate the time saved with pre-stretched, soft hair that’s easy to braid, while customers love the anti-itch formula that eliminates irritation. It fills the gap for people who want to enjoy protective styles without sacrificing comfort or spending extra time prepping their hair.

This journey has reinforced the importance of listening to the needs of the community and creating products that solve real problems. It’s incredibly fulfilling to know that my product is making the braiding process easier and more enjoyable for so many people.

How do most people hear about your product?
So far, I’ve focused on building awareness and reaching customers through a combination of social media marketing, word-of-mouth referrals, and direct community engagement.

Social Media Marketing:
Platforms like Instagram and Facebook have been instrumental in showcasing my product. I regularly post visuals of the braiding hair being used, share customer testimonials, and demonstrate how it simplifies the braiding process.

Word-of-Mouth Referrals:
Many of my customers are stylists who appreciate the convenience and quality of the braiding hair. Their positive experiences have led them to recommend the product to their clients and peers, creating a natural referral network.

Community Engagement:
I’ve collaborated with local salons and participated in beauty-related networking groups to introduce my brand. These connections help me build trust and credibility within the community while allowing me to gather valuable feedback.

Website and E-Commerce Platform:
My Shopify store serves as the central hub for online sales and product information. Customers often hear about the product through social media or referrals and visit the website to learn more and make purchases.

Do you have any advice for folks who are just starting out?
Absolutely! Here are some key pieces of advice for those just starting out:

1. Start Small, but Dream Big: Focus on getting your product or service right before expanding.
2. Do Your Research: understand your market, competitors, and customers
3. Embrace Feedback: Don’t be afraid of constructive criticism. Listen to your customers, make adjustments, and use their input to improve your product or service.
4. Build Relationships: Network within your industry, whether that’s attending events, joining online groups, or collaborating with others. Relationships often open doors to opportunities and support.
5. Stay Consistent and Committed: Building a business takes time, so be patient and persistent. Show up every day for your business, even during slow periods or challenges.
6. Invest in Marketing: Make sure people know about your product. Social media, word-of-mouth, and community engagement are cost-effective ways to spread the word.
7. Plan for Challenges: Be prepared for obstacles like financial constraints or unexpected slow periods.
8. Celebrate Your Wins: Don’t forget to acknowledge and celebrate your progress, no matter how small. It keeps you motivated and reminds you why you started.

Starting a business is a journey and it’s hard, but with dedication and adaptability, you’ll see your vision come to life!