Braided and Dreaded: A Journey of Serving and Preserving Culture and Authenticity
In the heart of Puyallup, Washington, Sharron Hayes, owner of Braided and Dreaded, has cultivated more than just a hair salon; she's built a sanctuary for cultural preservation and authentic self-expression. Her journey, marked by unyielding resilience, empowers Black and brown individuals to achieve success while honoring their heritage with top notch hair care, on braid and dread at a time.
After 13 years of service in the Army, including two combat tours, Hayes embarked on a sobriety journey while transitioning to civilian life as a mom. Inspired by the strict Army regulations governing wear and appearance, she recognized a critical need: to help service members maintain their braids and locs within strict military regulations without compromising their cultural identity.
"I hope that people can understand that adversity can excel creativity. That no matter what you go through, it's never in vain," Hayes said, reflecting on her own strength and determination in becoming sober and starting her own business from the ground up. "You don't have to be one thing. It does take time to figure out what your thing is, but do it, whatever that looks like and whatever that may be".
Braided and Dreaded quickly grew from a home office with minimal equipment into a thriving business, driven by the community's demand for skilled braiders and loc technicians. It's a place where military service members can continue to excel professionally while looking and feeling their best.
Hayes's dedication to her craft and her community has earned her a roster of high-profile clients, including Seattle Mariners shortstop JP Crawford and Seattle City Councilmember Joy Hollingsworth, even working with renowned basketball player Jewell Loyd. JP Crawford lauded Hayes as "the best hairstylist he's ever had," commending her unwavering dedication to authenticity as clients navigate their personal hair journeys.
Joy Hollingsworth emphasizes the crucial importance of supporting Black businesses, and expresses deep appreciation for Hayes's professionalism, as well as the comfortable and safe space she meticulously creates for her clients.
Sharron Hayes's gift is truly more than just hair; it's about fostering meaningful connections between culture, individuality, and people through what she does best. Her journey stands as a powerful testament to resilience, authenticity, and the profound protection of Black joy, proving that honoring one's culture can indeed lead to the highest levels of success.
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