Unbraiding the Magic: A Chat with GwenSue!
As the sun continues to shower us with warmth and those long summer days stretch out before us, many of us are looking for easy, beautiful ways to care for our crowns! What better way to embrace the season's adventures—from refreshing swims to energetic workouts—than with braids? While our blog on natural hairstyles celebrates the vast styles of braids, today we're diving a little deeper into natural braids that welcome added hair, like the versatile knotless, the free-spirited boho, the intricate crochet, and the whimsical bubble braids. These stunning styles wouldn't exist without the artistry of the braiders who create them!
We recently had the pleasure of chatting with GwenSue, a hairstylist who began her braiding journey at the tender age of seven and proudly earned her license in 2017. GwenSue offers a variety of services, including braiding and nail technology. She is also studying wigology! However, she prioritizes quality over quantity, ensuring that every client feels seen and celebrated. She has a unique gift for working with children and clients with disabilities, creating an inclusive and joyful experience for everyone who sits in her chair.
Turning Passion Into Profession
Tatyana, also known as GwenSue, has had a passion for hair since childhood. She started braiding at age seven, learning from her mom how to manage her and her sisters’ thick 4C hair. This knowledge became a career when she began working in a hair shop by the age of 13.
After life took a different turn from her original plan to become a nurse, Tatyana went to hair school, getting her license in 2017. Since then, she has been dedicated to learning and improving her skills.
“I always knew how to do hair, but hair was going to pay for me to go to nursing school. said Tatyana.” “I ended up having a baby when I turned 19, so unfortunately, I did have to drop out of my nursing courses when I got to college. But instead of me giving up and being discouraged about it, I went to hair school instead because I know nursing, but I know for a fact I know hair. I live and breathe hair. So I ended up going to hair school and graduated, and it's been up since. I genuinely love what I do, and I never looked back.”
Behind The Name “GwenSue”
Tatyana decided to change her business name from "Braids By Taty" to make sure there was no confusion with other stylists. She loved Gwen Stefani, so she naturally chose to include "Gwen." Her clients often commented on her almond-shaped eyes and Asian descent, which inspired her to add "Sue" (it was originally "Yeung"). Ultimately, she put it all together to create "GwenSue," a unique name that helps her stand out and makes it easy for her clients to find her.
Braiding Tips
Here are some tips from Tatyana for keeping your braids happy and healthy:
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Mind your wear time: To keep your edges safe and sound, try not to keep your braids in for longer than two months.
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Oil up regularly: Keep your scalp and hair moisturized with regular oiling sessions. Great options include castor oil, argan oil, and tea tree oil for that healthy boost.
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Pick your hair carefully: Not all braiding hair is created equal, so choose brands that work best for you and your curls.
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Soothe irritation: If you experience any irritation, apple cider vinegar or a gentle shampoo like Cream of Nature can help calm things down.
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Consider a hair detox: Sometimes, detoxing your braiding hair before installation can make a big difference in comfort!
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Boost from within: Support your hair health by taking helpful vitamins like biotin.
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Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate: Don't forget that drinking plenty of water benefits not just your hair, but your skin and nails too!
Tatyana also emphasizes that every curl journey is unique, so remember that different hair textures thrive with different care approaches.
Conclusion - On Braids
As we wrap up our chat with the inspiring GwenSue, it's clear that braids are more than just a style—they're a way to protect and celebrate your beautiful curls, especially during these long summer days. Tatyana's journey from a childhood passion to a successful career in hair is incredibly empowering. Her commitment to inclusivity and her deep knowledge, shared through valuable tips on braid care, make her a curl-care champ. Remember, taking care of your hair, no matter its texture, is an act of self-love. So, embrace those braids, keep them happy and healthy, and let your crown shine.
