Today we’d like to introduce you to Kimitria “Kimi Coke” Curney.
Kimi, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I was introduced to the hair and beauty industry at 15 years old by my father! My dad has been a well established international hair distributor and educator for over 20 years! He pioneered and was amongst some of the firsts to introduce hair replacement techniques and systems to the prestigious Bronner Brother Trade-show. He gave me the opportunity to assist with facilitating classes, advertising, driving sales, networking, and making work fun! I fell in love with the beauty industry and later attended Hogan Institute of Cosmetology and Esthetics, where I graduated with honors and attained my Master Cosmetology Diploma. While in cosmetology school, I focused on my studies as well as dreamt of becoming a leading lady barber in a male-dominated industry. After receiving my license, I apprenticed under my mentor, John “Legend” Washington, and learned the ropes of cutting hair quite quickly. Repetition, consistency, ambition, resilience, and perseverance have enabled me to gain a wonderful clientele and service the Gwinnett County area for the last three years. I aspire to not only be an amazing barber but specialize in hair restoration and micropigmentation to service those suffering from alopecia and help rebuild the confidence of those in my community who believe in me enough to do so.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc. – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
Being a lady barber is not for the feeble or meek. You’ve got to have extremely tough skin to overcome the obstacles faced. Believe it or not, men often get taken aback when they see a woman in a barbershop behind the chair. I will never forget how a guy made me secretly run to the bathroom and cry during my first few months of cutting because he said it was unusual to see a woman in such a profession and he refused to allow me to cut his hair. He had no choice at the time because he was in a rush and I was the only barber in the barbershop at the time. I gathered myself and gave it my best shot. I cut his hair so well that his wife called to make his appointments going further and I even gave his son his first haircut! I’ve learned to command the room by allowing my work to speak for itself. I try to diminish stereotypes about lady barbers by remaining extremely professional while putting my love and best effort into all of my haircut services.
We’d love to hear more about your business.
KimiTheKreator” has turned into my alter ego, like Beyoncé’s “Sasha Fierce”. I am an extremely passionate Master Cosmetologist & Barber. I wake up every day excited to “kreate” on my canvases, which are my clientele! I specialize in keeping my community crispy with kreative cuts, as well as building bonds through congenial conversation. Sitting in my chair is an experience in itself. I am proud to say that I have built lasting relationships with wonderful people who trust me enough to cater to their confidence by grooming them on a regular basis. I am proud to see my canvases on display, whether it be selfies for social media or them stopping through to get cleaned up for a job interview. My passion and drive to strive for near perfection is what sets me apart from the rest. I continually educate myself and take courses to keep me up to date and knowledgeable about this ever-changing industry. I care about hair retention, integrity, texture, porosity, moisture/protein balance, and the overall care of the hair, skin, and scalp. I have gone through every hairstyle and chemical process because I like to educate my clients based on experience as well as textbook knowledge, which creates a trusting relationship between us.
What were you like growing up?
Growing up, I was a popular nerd. Academics were very important, as well as self-expression and awareness! My mother is a Georgia State University graduate and nationally known corporate executive who instilled the values of independence, hard work, and staying true to self early on. I held offices in social clubs like FBLA and DECA as well as played instruments and cheered! I have always had a charismatic personality which allows me to get along really well with others. I have always been interested in my appearance and have always loved being different. Standing out is key to me because you lose your flavor when you stay in the mix. I would describe myself as eclectic and funkadelic. I love all genres of music! Museums and aquariums have always been my favorite places.
Pricing:
- Children’s (5yrs-16yrs) services begin at $20.
- Adult (17+) services begin at $30.
- Single process color services begin at $50.
- Double process color services begin at $80.
- Braid services (man buns) begin at $60.
- A family-friendly atmosphere, great conversation, and a wonderful haircut is priceless 🙂
Contact Info:
- Website: KimiTheKreator.setmore.com
- Email: kreateconkimi@gmail.com
- Instagram: @kimithekreator
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