#NINMeetup Spring 2014: FAQ's and Schedule of Events

Like y'all, listen, it's a whirlwind over here! This is the VERY FIRST event we've ever hosted on our OWN!! I thought I'd answer some questions I've been getting through the Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter accounts. So let's go:

Question 1: I thought you guys hosted an event before? - Umm . . . about that . . . yeah, We've CO-HOSTED or have been MEDIA PARTNERS for other natural hair events around town.

We were co-hosts for an event last May called 'The Music City Naturals' event and we helped promote a huge natural hair event last October called the 'Nashville Natural Hair & Wellness Expo'. We aren't the only natural hair blog, group, or website in Nashville, but we pride ourselves on being the most comprehensive website in the city. We thought it was time to host an event for our fans and readers. This is our FIRST natural hair event hosted by this blog and it's writers.

Question 2: If it's FREE why do I need a ticket? - Simply, our venue is small. The Aveda Institute was a sponsor and they so graciously sponsored our venue. The room  holds 150 people. Including the NIN team, volunteers, vendors, and speakers we only had about 120 tickets available. Due to fire code regulations we can only admit those who have a ticket. Please don't make us be mean and have to turn people away. No ticket, no entry. However, we are planning an event in the summer (June or July) we'll keep you posted.

Question 3: Do I have to have the PAPER ticket? I can't make it, can I transfer my ticket to someone else? Help, I can't find my ticket! - No worries! All tickets are registered through the EVENTBRITE website.

• If you lost your paper ticket, you can re-print it through the eventbrite page - click here.
• Can't make it? You can release your ticket to someone on the waiting list just go to the eventbrite page and cancel your ticket order.
• You can also show you confirmation email via your phone or with the eventbrite app on you iphone/android.

Question 4: Where is the Aveda building? The Aveda building is across from the Cool Springs Mall near the Macy's entrance. If you are familiar with the area, it's on the other side of Pier 1. But for those of us who have GPS, just type this address in:

Aveda Institute Nashville
1765 Galleria Blvd
Franklin, TN 37067

Question 5: Do I have to be on time? Can I come and go as I please? Is this just a vendor showcase? - We've planned a nice afternoon for you! This is truly a 'girls day out' networking type of event. There will be a networking/ice breaker activity, Q&A with our featured speakers, shopping our vendors, and natural hair demos. Below is the agenda for the day:

• 2:45 - doors open for guests
• 3:00 - guests arrival & shopping vendors
• 3:45 - icebreaker/networking game
• 4:15 - raffle/giveaway
• 4:30 - hair demo w/ Aveda student stylists
• 5:00 - Q&A/panel discussion ft. Kenya Patterson (@halfietruths) and Kristi Alderson of Kinky Rootz Salon
• 5:45 - 7:00 closing remarks, pics, & guests can shop vendors

Question 6: I heard about a gift bag - will there be samples? Yup, we have a small gift bags available for guests who arrive early. The bags are first come/first served. There will be a sample from our event sponsor Alikay Natural and Aveda along with some coupons from our vendors. In addition, we will have a raffle for a huge gift basket featuring full-size products! So get there on time!

Question 7: Why can't I bring my child? NIN loves the kids, we do! However, the event will take place in a working cosmetology school/salon that has chemicals and sharp things. We'd hate for your child to be injured because of curiosity.

Question 8: I didn't get a ticket! When's the next event? Once again, I'm so sorry you didn't get a ticket! However, due to the overwhelming response, we are planning another meet-up/event in June/July. We'll keep you posted. I can tell you we like small-ish gatherings - it's easier to manage and create meaningful experiences. Tickets will go fast, so be on the lookout. Follow our Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram accounts.

I think that's about it. If you have ANY other questions, email me at melissa@natural-nashville.com. We can't wait to see you there!

EVENT: Natural in Nashville + Shea Moisture at the Southern Wowmen's Show!

This year is going AWESOME for me! As a blogger and writer, you wish and hope that your words reach people. You also hope your words can make you some money. Real talk!  

That's why I was honored when the folks at Shea Moisture contacted me about being a brand ambassador for their products at the Nashville Southern Women's Show! Amber and I will be at the Shea Mositure booth on FRIDAY, March 28, 2p-6p. 

If you've ever been to the Southern Women's Show, you must attend! It's an shopping expo catered just to women! Lots of samples, exhibits, fashion shows, and shopping! Major brands come down to appeal to women in our area. 

Shea Moisture is going to be in the Walgreen's booth during this year show.  Shea Mostuire has become more than a natural hair brand catering to women of color, it's a bath & body brand that appeals to all women. They even have a men's, kids, and baby line. 

Make sure to come visit me at the Shea Moisture/Walgreens booth (#100). We'll be snapping pics, handing out samples, and kissing babies - well not all that, but we can chat it up. So make sure to come by and say "hi!". 

#NINmeetup: Meet our Speakers

Kenya Patterson aka @HalfieTruths and Kristi Alderson of Kinky Rootz Salon

With less than 5 days away from the big event - I wanted to introduce you to our FEATURED speakers for the #NINmeetup Spring 2014: Kenya Patterson and Kristi Alderson! During the event we'll have a panel discussion where our guests and the NIN team will answer your natural hair questions. So let's talk about our featured guests.

Kenya Patterson, aka @HalfieTruths is the hostess of Curls & Cocktails. Kenya is a writer and blogger in her early 30′s, living in-love, here in Nashville. She describes herself as brassy, loyal, hilarious, and honest. Some think that Kenya is a "natural-hair enthusiast," but she likes to think of herself as a "self-enthusiast" who loves natural hair and uses it as a platform to discuss all things beautiful & real! Her hope is that people are comfortable with who they are, by nature, so if she's guilty of promoting anything, it's self-awareness, growth & happiness by any means necessary! Kenya is looking forward to exchanging energy with you!

Kristi Alderson, owner of Kinky Rootz Hair Salon, an all natural hair salon concept created in October 2004. Kristi is a Licensed Natural Hair Professional and a pioneer in the natural hair community. Her salon is located in the historical Music Row area in downtown Nashville. Kristi has been a licensed professional for 10 years offering chemical-free natural hair services (with the exception of color) to men, women, and children to include  Kristi takes a unique approach providing salon services that "Redefine beauty....Naturally". Her ultimate goal is to educate and nurture individuals on their natural hair journey providing complimentary consultations and salon services without the use of pressing combs, blow dryers, or flat irons.

I selected these two ladies for our panel discussion because every time I've talked with them they ALWAYS kept it real about natural hair and the lifestyle that goes along with it. Kenya and Kristi will be available to answer your questions and offer advice on living this natural hair journey.

 

Of course, the NIN team will be available to answer questions as well. Together we have more than 20 years experience dealing with natural hair. In addition, we all have different curl patterns, styling routines, and experiences as writers for this blog.

We hope this panel discussion is informative and FUN! We may not be able to answer EVERY question, but we will be able to share info.

We can't wait to see you at the #NINMeetup, Sunday, March 30, at the Aveda Institute in Cool Springs!

HAIR LUST: Short & Sassy Coils

I've been talking to some friends as they are transitioning into the #naturalhair life. Some have gone from always having long hair to now having short coils and some are growing out their hair and having to deal with it for the first time. To both I say, be patient! 

Be patient with your hair, yourself, and those around you. There's nothing wrong with short hair! Everyday won't be a "what the crap is going on with my head" day. And, yes, one day it will all come together. 

This hair lust photo is dedicated to all my transitioners, my "I didn't think my hair was THIS kinky" girls, and 'everyone hates my hair' except for me. I'm thinking about you! 

CELEB STYLE: India Arie at Celebration of Gospel

India Arie always switches up her hair selections clearly living the life of her famous song, "I am NOT my hair!" Last time I saw her she was sporting locs, now, she's sporting a short and sassy look. How many times has India 'Big Chopped', lol! I always say, spring is the perfect time to rock a short cut.

India looked gorgeous on the red carpet for BET's Celebration of Gospel program! I'm in love with her African-inspired mudcloth evening gown. Plus, it has POCKETS!! Looking good!

 

View more red carpet images on www.theybf.com

HAIR LUST: Free Forming with Style

Amber and I started planning our first steps in my loc renewal.  One of my goals is to grow my roots out on this level.  I love the ways she is working with her new growth!

HAIR LUST: Elegant Loc Inspiration

In celebration of Ashiya's loc and regeneration and renewal, I thought I'd post this pic as a source of inspiration for our fellow writer. As Ashiya strives to have her best head of hair ever - we want to send her positive vibes as she goes through the trials, errors, and successes of transforming. This photo spotlights an amazing updo and shows that locs, as a natural hair style, can be elegant!

Be inspired!

ASHIYA'S HAIR DIARY: Combining Lessons

For better or worse, I am attached to my locs.  Over the last year, I've gone back and forth about what to do with my hair because I can see some of the issues that longer locs suffer already starting to manifest.

2009.  My best loc season.

I've looked back at tons of pictures of myself to try and figure out where the change happened and I think I've narrowed it down.  My hair locs really began to change at the end of 2009 for a few different reasons I'm starting to realize.


Size and Length Matter.  When I started my locs, I wanted them to be manageable and easy to style so I asked for what I thought was a good size.  Until my locs were shoulder length, their size didn't seem to be an issue.  Not only did the weight of my locs become more of a factor, but the ability to pull them up easily started to work against me.  Because of the length, I wore buns and ponytails often.  If I had been more conscious, I would have wrapped my locs with a scarf more often than apply the stress of pulling them up or back.

2009

Balance Techniques.  When I discovered interlocking, I completely abandoned palm rolling. Because my locs were already small and interlocking can be such a harsh process, I should have maintained a better balance between interlocking, palm rolling and free forming.  With the right regimen, I'm quite sure I could have given my hair more rest and lessened the effects of the interlocking process.

Honor Your Challenge.  It seemed so insignificant many nights, but I had a terrible habit of working late and crashing without covering my hair for the night.  Allowing that to slip for a consistent time period was really a challenge to my hair.  I've since found a simple solution.  After my last video conference of the day, I take the time for my hair ritual and wrap it for the evening.  That simple shift made a all the difference.

Shoulder length locs on me and he was just getting started.  2009.

There are times in life when we wish we could go back and do it all again.  Well, I've finally decided that I'm going back and doing my locs all over again.

I cried at the thought of cutting my locs, but when you have know fabulous stylists who educate like Amber, you find a way to achieve your goals in a way that is authentic and comfortable for you.  I'm happy that I don't have to make any dramatic changes to achieve my goal.

Stay tuned to my hair diary as Amber and I revive and regenerate my locs.  It is going to be a journey, so if you've ever considered starting locs, come along for the ride!

Roots & Rhythm: Kelis - Jerk Ribs

Kelis is back on the scene with a new album called food and a new cooking show called Saucy & Sweet.
I have always been a Kelis fan as she was rockin funky colored curls before it was cool. Her first single from this new album titled "Jerk Ribs" further solidifies just how cool, eclectic, and soulful Miss Kelis is.

I dig the new retro look on her curls. Her hair is big and beautiful and I love it! If for no other reason,  I will be keeping up with the cooking show to get inspired by her style, but I must admit her food and recipes look mighty tasty.

Kelis is the child of mother who owned a catering business and a father who was a musician. I have to say this makes the perfect combination platter for her new project! Kelis has me looking forward to the summer months, with good food, good company, good music and fabulous hair.

You can find the Jerk Ribs video below. Enjoy!

LINK LOVE: Annie - Official Trailer feat Quvenzhané Wallis

Last year, Quvenzhane Wallis won everyone's heart in the movie Beasts of the Southern Wild - so much so she was nominated for an Academy Award. Of course, the talented lil miss was offered one of the best roles of a young actor's career - the roll of Annie. The 1985 classic has been re-made and updated featuring Jamie Foxx, Cameron Diaz, and Quvenzhane. 

With this update, Annie as a little black girl, we get to see Quevenzhane rock a natural hair look. The original Annie head a head full of ginger coils, our new Annie has a head full of coils. Too cute! It's a great representation of natural hair for lil girls to see. 

Take a look at the official trailer for the new movie coming out December 2014.

From the Stylist's Chair: The Sometimes UGLY Politics of Natural Hair

I am two months away from being done at Aveda! I am so very excited and also slightly leary. When I first began at Aveda the majority of my clients had natural hair.  It was strange because while I was initially the student I had also placed myself to be in a position to educate as well, as Aveda doesn't currently have a natural hair curriculum.

As school progressed my educators spoke to me about taking less natural hair clients to make sure that I was developing a well rounded talent.  At first I didn't want to hear anything about it, and then after some further thought I realized they were correct.  While I love natural hair I didn't want to confine myself to just one aspect of hair, because honestly I love it all. Having the ability to work with different textures of hair has truly help me to develop. I now ask questions from all sides of the equation.

I am very adamant about natural hair and the ability of all hairstylists, yes all hairstylists being able to handle all hair types, no exclusions or excuses.  While I realize that this will never be the case, a lot of the women in my class have reached out to me with open arms wanting to know more. I have been more than happy to share my knowledge.

But I also have concerns with attitudes of some of the natural hair and relaxed clients that come into the salon.  There are two specific instances that have happened numerous times that make me cringe:

• The COST of Natural Hair styling: If you had to pay yourself for the time spent on hair and products I guarantee you it would not be cheap. We all know how much time a effort natural hair takes. Every head of hair is different and has different needs. At Aveda we charge $30 for natural hair styling, and the students don't get any of that money.  We are allowed to accept tips and that's it.  I have watched numerous women with natural hair act so ugly over this price! I've heard rude comments from clients and even had women refuse to pay the price while torturing their stylist through the entire service. Why is this necessary and why is this the reaction from some naturals? If you are going to a salon you aren't (and shouldn't be) just paying for hair.  Its about the service, the added benefits and little treats, and the relaxation that you get as a part of that service. It also about the true talent of a stylist! He/she may be able to learn your hair and perhaps tell you things about your hair that you didn't know. Eventually giving you an action plan to provide you with the best hair possible.

• Your hair should be an investment, and if you are willing to take the time to supplement some of your hair maintenance to a salon throughout the year then you should budget accordingly. We as stylists invest in continuing education, keeping up with current styles and trends, and also study to learn how to keep your hair healthy and to look out for unhealthy warning signs. Doing hair may seem like an easy job to some but myself along with the stylists I work with - we provide a luxury service, one that isnt just about hair but your entire experience from when you walk in the door to when you leave. We not only educate you on your hair but we pamper mind, body, soul.  

• The RACE card: The best hairstylist you might ever have may not look like you or have hair like you.  Some of you may never know that stylist because you are too consumed with what you want to see behind the chair. I can understand wanting to see and to have someone like you working on your hair, but this doesnt mean that there aren't others who are equally as qualified and  have a talent and knack for your hair even if it is different from their own.  I have watched some of my fellow stylists literally be intimidated and ripped to shreds by women who felt that because of the color of their skin they were inadequate to deal with their hair. I don't know how being rude is doing anything to futher the cause for acceptance of natural hair. 

As a stylist and a natural hair wearer, I want to put natural hair on the worldwide map. Every school should have a curriculum for it, every salon should be able offer services that are of a high quality with an immaculate end result. I don't by any means seek to remove the history or the culture that has come along with our hair. There is a freedom that comes with natural hair, a chance to remove the chains that have held us back in the past, embracing that freedom should mean less fear and more love. After all you have learned to love yourself in its truest and most natural form.

Natural hair is political, there is no doubt about it but, how you share and grow those politics is up to you. No one is saying that you can't be protective of your hair and who you allow to work with it, but everyone deserves to be treated from a place of love and respect whether you think they hold the same knowledge you do or not, and what purpose does that knowledge hold if you only keep it to yourself?      

 -Amber

HAIR LUST: Wild Red

I just love finding photos of natural hair. Natural curls, coils, and kinks are just so fabulous - no two heads are alike. I don't know who this lady is, but I this photo shoot is great. So, be inspired!

MELISSA'S HAIR: No heat, Low Heat - it's a challenge!

Oh my! February came and went so quickly! I almost forgot it was my turn to post a Hair Diary. So here we go.

So last month, I talked about the various ways I've styled my hair since shaving my sides. This month, I really focused on not using heat on my hair. I love flat-ironing my hair - but I suffered some heat damage, so I had to stop doing that. I decided to challenge myself not to use heat. There's no way to FULLY recover from heat damage, but you can take extra care of the ends so your hair doesn't break off.

I did alright. I didn't use the flat-iron at all during February. I used the blow-dry, on a lower heat setting, one time because I had to leave quickly and it was really cold outside. Here's the two looks I rocked during February:

Here's my super puff. Basically, I two-strand twist my hair with Miss Jessie's Baby Butter creme. Click here to read my review of Miss Jessie's Baby Butter Creme. This look usually lasts about three days. This photo was snapped on Valentine's day. As each day passes, my hair usually gets more and more fluffy. Then I wash it, and start the process all over again. I usually put flexi-rods on the ends of the two-strand twists in order to disguise some of my straight pieces.

I call this look, The Johnny Bravo! Basically, I'm growing my hair as long as possible so that I can have the SUPREME pompadour! This look was achieved by blowing my hair (almost) straight using Dr. Miracle's Curl Care Blowout Foam. Then securing my hair with a small hair comb. It's super easy, and I can create this look in five minutes. If you have shaved sides, I suggest you perfect this look, it's super easy and looks very polished. You can make the pompadour as big or as small as you'd like.


So, I'm going to keep this NO/LOW HEAT party going. I did experience some nice growth. In addition, after a couple deep conditioning treatments, some of my straight pieces are getting wavy again - YAY! I'll keep you posted on my NO/LOW HEAT challenge.

Oh yeah, March 30th is our first meet-up! I can't wait to meet everyone! YAY!!!