Today we’d like to introduce you to Darius King.
Hi Darius, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
My story, unlike a lot of hairstylists, never started from me wanting to do hair at a young age or at all honestly. The thought of me becoming a hairstylist actually came about while being in a state of depression, shortly after graduating high school a year earlier than expected! In that time, I was in between jobs, tried the military, and even attended college for a short term. Still trying to find myself and my calling, I began to build a closer relationship with God and continued to ask him for guidance which catapulted me into what I didn’t know was my passion! In 2018 I began attending Paul Mitchell where I began paving the way to do hair and honing in on my craft. Although I didn’t complete the program or keep a job *chuckles*, I took a leap on faith, STILL obtained my cosmetology license, and became a hairstylist and full-time entrepreneur at 19 years old! Believing in myself, trusting God and never giving up play a huge role in how I got to where I am today! Through my charismatic and energetic personality engaged an audience on social media that showcased my skills and skyrocketed me into my own brand, KiltxKing.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Chal when Mary Mary said, “nobody told me the road would be easy” I felt all that! These past five years in the industry have been a complete rollercoaster to say the least, I’ve experienced and endured so much, good bad and indifferent! One of my biggest struggles as a hairstylist was that at one point I didn’t know how to braid so with that came a lot of backlash on social media back home in North Carolina. Believe it or not that took a huge toll on my business, however I did not allow this to be a roadblock but used it as a stepping stone. And because of that, I’ve been able to accomplish so many things such as working with the likes of Bravo, VH1, TV ONE, & WWE just to name a few.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I am THEE king of the Carolinas (and all the surrounding areas *chuckles*). I specialize in all things extensions and natural hair care! The name KiltxKing (Kilt by King) came to me in college. It’s a play a word which means I’m killing any insecurities or low self-esteem in a woman and enhancing their beauty! Humbly speaking, I’m known for killin sh*t! Melting laces, giving iconic content and giving looks! I’m most proud of everything I’ve accomplished so fast and I’m so young, I often have to remind myself “you’re only 22…relax.” I’m more so proud that looking back, I never threw in the towel and kept in mind that I can do anything I put my mind to! What sets me apart from others, in my opinion is the fact that I purposely don’t try to fit in. I’ve always been different. I don’t like to follow trends, and I’ve always been that way with everything I do so with my career, I make sure my content stands out, my work stands out, and me as a hairstylist stand out, because if there are a million people that do the same thing as you, what would make people want to choose you in particular?
Alright so before we go can you talk to us a bit about how people can work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
I gain a lot of collaborations via social media and/or email is the best way to reach me for all things business!
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @iamdariusking
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBObCTBUf5HW9l3CyveqgiQ
- Other: TikTok @iamdariusking
Image Credits
@photosbynina @treyshotme @fbstudios @rootheshooter
