Monday, March 10, 2014

Diamond Discussions: The Queen of Hair Extensions

I am ecstatic to bring you a new feature to the blog today, The Diamond Discussions will be where I bring you advice straight from industry professionals. I can blog all day about what I love, recommend and have experienced but I think there is something much more valid when it comes from a professional. I have had the pleasure of coming across many people in their field whom I admire greatly, with this feature I will sit down with them to chat about things I love. Enjoy!
Today I'm bringing you the inside info on all things Hair Extensions with The Queen of Hair Extensions herself; Zachqulynn Kinney. Zach was my hair stylist when I lived in Shreveport, Louisiana and has been the best that ever SLAYED this head. I admire Zach not only as a super talented stylist who is passionate about her craft and clients but also as a very intelligent business owner and genuinely kind and amazing woman. From the moment I first went to Zach she was thorough, professional and most of all encouraging, I felt comfortable with her and trusted her with my hair. With Zach you are more than a client, you are one of her 10s and everyday she puts her all into making you feel like the 10 you are. While I was in Shreveport last weekend I just knew I had to have her on the blog to pick her brain about all things hair. She is someone I trust completely with my hair and someone whos advice I value 100%. You dolls enjoy and be sure to leave your thoughts or additional questions down below in the comments section!
How did you get started doing hair?
When I was younger I would practice on my own hair; eventually, I started doing the hair of other girls in middle and high school. From there, it was an easy and natural decision to become a hair stylist. 

How did you grow your large, loyal customer base?
It’s been a mix of word-of-mouth and creative advertising. I pride myself on being the best at my craft and providing excellent customer service. My 10s get the best from me, and in return, they tell others about me. 

What makes you the Queen of Hair Extensions? 
My job isn’t complete until I deliver the Perfect 10 hair service , and that’s only half of my goal! You see, when a woman schedules a hair date with me, I don’t want it to be just about getting extensions. I work hard to create new names, new definitions, new ways to make my clients feel special, feel that they are more than JUST customers. They’re my 10s, and I want them to feel just as, if not more, beautiful than that celebrity they admire or that cruel person who broke their heart and made them feel worthless. I don’t want to give my 10s just another hair style. That’s part of it, but that’s not the main picture. I want to build them up to face the world as the beautiful, capable 10s they are. Only a Queen can understand the importance of this aspect of the job. 

What advice would you give to women who are shopping around for a stylist? 
Always do your research. Word-of-mouth is an important tool to use here, but also character and professional references. If a potential stylist is posting about how they don’t want to be at work that day or constantly complaining about clients, you might want to look elsewhere. 

What are you top five MUST-HAVE hair products for women with hair extensions?
  1. Sew-In Spray - Stop patting your hair today! Purchase HERE
  2. It’s a 10! - leave in conditioner
  3. Kinky Curly Not Today
  4. & 5. Paul Mitchell daily moisture shampoo and conditioner

What advice would you give a Diamond Doll on the go who wants to look put together but doesn’t have much time?
For that straight look, wrap your hair at night with a silk satin scarf. For curls, use flexi rods, and sleep with a silk bonnet. 

How do you stay current with the latest trend, and what are some of your favorites?
Every month, I purchase all the new hair magazines, and I follow all the hot social media sites dedicated to hair. Facebook, Instagram & Twitter are my favorites. 

What advice would you give to someone who is nervous about trying the latest trends?
By my way of thinking, you only live once, so you need to have fun with it! That said, be smart. If you are the preacher’s wife or the CEO of a major corporation, you might not want to go with the bright red, 30-inch extensions! Sit down with your stylist, and discuss what works best for you. 
What are your top 3 tips for maintaining “celeb-worthy” hair extensions?
Shampoo and condition every two weeks, and use bio silk oil to prevent your hair from drying out. Always comb through your extensions at night, starting from the weft to the ends. Wrap or braid your hair at night to prevent tangling. 

What are some tips you have for maintaining your hair extensions and staying fit?
Well, the same as above, but also, exercise, drink plenty of water, maintain a healthy diet, and try to get plenty of rest!

How long can I leave my extensions in? 
8 to 10 weeks is recommended if you are trying to grow your natural hair. The max is 3 months, if you have a full weave, the weave may still look good, but your hair underneath is the main concern. Matting, tangling, dreading and believe it or not mold (which leads to hair loss) may be a result if you leave your weave in too long. 

You can find Zach and all her amazing work on Instagram (@QueenofHairExtensions), Facebook and her 100% Virgin Hair and Perfect 10 Sew-In products can be purchased HERE, be sure to check out her out!! 
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2 comments

  1. Your hair always looks soo gorgeous. Its so sad when I was in college my best friend was my hair stylist and when I was moving back home I literally felt like we were breaking up I was so sad!

    xo
    Maggie A
    LOVEMAVIN/YOUTUBE || LOVEMAVIN/BLOG

    ReplyDelete
  2. This is such a great resource that you are providing and you give it away for free. I love seeing blog that understand the value of providing a quality resource for free. weave

    ReplyDelete

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