CN: When you first chopped, what were your thoughts and feelings? How do you feel now?
Well it all started on a day I like to refer to as “The Day of Rejection”. I was sitting at work, about to check my application status for a top design school in Atlanta. I was so anxious, because I knew today was the verdict day. I speedily typed in my username and password, clicked “check status” and….in huge red letters, next to the word ‘Decision’, read – DENY. Nikki I wanted to crawl under a rock and stay there. Design is my life! And I had been rejected from my dream school. After running home and crying..I prayed and realized that everything happens for a reason. If I didn’t get into that school, perhaps there is a bigger reason behind it. With this epiphany in mind..a huge feeling of empowerment in my soul..and scissors in my hand, I began to hack away to my future.
CN: How have you coped with the responses from your family and friends?
My sisters LOVE my hair. I have nothing but support from them. I love them so much. (there’s seven of them!). None of them have ever done anything as extreme as this to their appearance, so I was an inspiration to them all. Now my mother on the other hand..hates it. I like to knit and crochet things, so she basically told me to make a hat, in every color and hope for the best..she even dropped a tear. Also she told me, my boyfriend should leave me for doing this to myself. Lol She’s a trip. He happens to love it. Haha, I love her still. I know it’s going to take some getting used to, but I’m sure she’ll come around. My friends threatened to harm me, but they all love it. My dad added light-heatedly that he’d always wanted another son.
CN: What are your plans for your hair?
I can’t wait to see my progress. Length is my goal. I love the versatility of having long hair. When I had a relaxer, you’d never see the same hairstyle on my head for my than two weeks. I love trying new things, and I can’t wait to experiment with my natural hair. Making sure it remains healthy is my main goal.
CN: Do you find it necessary to ‘doll up’ your look to feel more feminine?
NOPE. I’m a really simple kind of girl. I’ve never worn a ton of makeup, or jewelry. My mom always encouraged us to rock our “natural”, and to embrace what God gave us. My maintenance routine hasn’t changed significantly. I have however; found a new love for funky earrings

Here is my trademark transition style before I BC’d.

CN: How do you keep your TWA moisturized?
I’m still experimenting with products. I’m not a PJ at all. Simplicity is my policy. So I’ve been using Cantu Shea Butter’s leave in conditioner. It seems to be working well for me.
CN: What products and techniques do you use to style? How often do you style? I looovvvee Miss Jessie’s! She hasn’t done me wrong yet. It’s actually funny, before I started getting relaxers, my hair was some kind of crazy. I had no idea what a curl pattern was, or felt like for that matter. But since I BC’ed, I have this cool 4a coil. I love it! As for styling…I’m mainly focused on keeping it healthy and strong. Wash n’ Goes are my trademark at the moment.
You are a beautiful woman… and you are definitely rocking your twa (just found out what that was). I hope everything works out with scad. ily alot
Lovely hair! Keep that confidence. You look great! ~KF519
SO glad to see another TWA wearer who doesn't feel she has to compensate by piling on the makeup and jewelry. When I first went natural that's what I did but it didn't last because that just wasn't my style. Yeah, I got mistaken for a boy twice…but that was it and I kept it moving.
Glad you have a sense of humor re your mom. You look great.
Nice hair do on you….You know I once chopped off all of my hair out of frustration and I notice great things started happening to me. I think it was because my energy and authentic self was released. I think the same will happen for you. Keep me apprised of your journey.
pretty curls! I think its safe to say almost everyone uses the cantu shea butter leave in. lol
Im very happy and excited for you. When life gives you lemons, make lemonade. And you did just that. So glad you turned a negative into a positive. Stay strong and motivated. May all your design dreams come true.
You are courageous in my eyes. I'm transitioning right now and still haven't found the courage to BC yet. So this definitely encourages me to what I can look forward to.
the natural exhaudes something in you
i'm not sure what but it's gorgeous
You look beautiful with your TWA girl!! It fits you nicely and your curls are gorgeous! Congratulations!! :))
I love that first pic, the profile shot. The TWA is so stunning on you! Enjoy the journey. 🙂
She's weird, I know. Funny thing is, she's natural! It's definitely the length that upset her.
Why was your Mom upset if she encouraged you and your sisters to rock a "natural" and sport waht God gave you? Confusing, eh?
Your hair looks adorable and you are beautiful a natural. Enjoy it!! It suits you well. Good luck with future plans for Design School.