If you are tuned into the natural hair blog sphere and social media world you have heard of Karen Wilson. With over 15 years of experience, the licensed cosmetologist and instructor has blended her passions with her ever growing career in hair.
She is the owner and operator of Karen Wilson Natural Beauty. A natural hair salon that educates and promotes healthy hair care.
We recently had a chance to catch up with Wilson. Our conversation was like friends catching up on old times. During our convo, we were seamlessly agreeing and understanding each others points of views. while sharing hair stories tagged with “ I was thinking the same thing too! “ š Her caring spirit radiated throughout our interview.
Originally from Virginia Beach, Virginia, Wilson was born doing hair. Starting at the age of 8 or 9, she taught herself hairstyles and trends. This talent filtered into high school. Then she made her way to Norfolk State University and became the “dorm stylist” š Wilson shares “I always
did hair in the dorms and on the side.” Her college friends became walking advertisements for her skills.
In 2008, she ditched the relaxer. Like many of us, this decision came after constant hair drama that we all know about. As a well known stylist, Wilson began to receive more questions about natural hair. So she started exploring everything there was to know about it. Wilson told me she realized “its not enough to be a stylist.” I fully agree š Clients want to have healthy hair in addition to a great style to love.
In 2010, Wilson left her full time job and launched Karen Wilson Natural Beauty. The mission of her business is to help those identify important ways to care for their manes. Within KWNB, she has also created a workshop series called “Kurl Talk.” These classes and information sessions provides answers to questions clients may have.
In January of 2012, she cut off all her hair for the Grow Out Challenge or “A Mane Change.” I asked her why she did this and it was for two reasons: length and grown comments
Wilson received questions like “Why won’t my hair grow out long?” Or “Why isn’t my hair thick?” I honestly get these questions too and fully agree with this——->
She explained to me that she wants people to understand that healthy hair doesn’t happen over night. So what better way to show her audience how it’s done than to show them. That’s right Karen! Seeing is believing.
Check out the initial video here and the additional videos on moisture and styling.
I asked her where she see’s natural hair in 5 years. Wilson feels it will continue to grow and education, “I think there will be even more women wearing their natural hair. It will be the norm. It feels like its the norm to me now.” In addition to the popularity, she makes a good point in many mothers will now educate their children, “This generation of girls will grow up with their natural hair and their natural hair will be the normal!.”
We couldn’t agree with you more Karen!
As her business grows, Karen adds with excitement “it feels good to know, beyond a shadow of a doubt I am doing what I am suppose to be doing.” Well Karen, we are glad you have created such a powerful movement in hair education.
Wilson has also taken her knowledge on the road, visiting expos and natural hair events in Florida, Georgia and Texas. So be on the look out for her. I am sure she will be in a city near you soon. Her future plans include focusing remaining focused on educating women about natural hair.
Update: Mark your calenders, on January 26, 2013, February 2, 2013, Wilson will be hosting her Annual Education Expo. This will focus on the importance of protective styling. We will have more details as the date draws near.
Need her expertise? Stay in touch with Karen Wilson via facebook, twitter and of course www.karenwilsonbeauty.com
Thanks so much Karen for the interview.
We are looking forward to your new projects and business endevours for natural hair.