This article is the first in our series of supporting our #Black Southern Belles also known as BSBs for short. One of the reasons why this site was started was to showcase #Black Southern Belle entrepreneurs and give them a platform to highlight their businesses. We wanted to start off our first post with a Black Southern Belle contributor and #hair expert, Gabrielle Todd. If you any of you BSBs are in #atlanta, make sure to check her out!
Business Name:
Glam hair by: Gabrielle
What You Provide:
Hair services
Where are you based?
atlanta, GA
Why did you decide to start a business?
I just wanted to do what I love everyday and use the talents I have been blessed with. I plan on starting many other businesses to expand on my other aspirations, so stay tuned.
What is your favorite client story?
I do not have one particular story because honestly all of my clients provide me with the best feeling when I finish their hair and they feel beautiful It is the simple things just to see their faces light up and how much gratitude is shown when really the pleasure is all mine. My customers allow me to do what I love and that’s all I can ask for. It’s an amazing feeling.
What is your website?
still currently working on getting my site up and running, but all of my work can be seen on my instagram page hott_toddy89
Who are some of your business idols?
I don’t have any in particular, but I admire anyone who has the courage and determination to follow their dreams. That stands out to me. A dream is only a dream until you allow it manifest into reality. I applaud all business men and women out there following their dreams and making a difference, especially my people of color.
Do you have any mentors?
Yes, I would have to say my mother, Darnell Todd and my former girl scout leader, Nina Goody who is like a second mother to me. They have given me a lot of life lessons and they have always believed in me and my dreams and aspirations and have pushed me past my limits and allowed me to see my true potential in everything I have and will accomplish in life.
What is your favorite thing about being southern?
I love how humble and down to earth I am. Being southern has allowed me take my time and appreciate everything and I may be being a little bias, but there is no place like the dirty south! I will forever be a Georgia peach southern belle.
What is your favorite southern dish?
mac n cheese… yum!
What is the most important thing you have done to build your business?
I definitely try to practice my craft as often as I can and learn new techniques and I also like to keep in touch with my clientele and build new relationships everywhere I go and advertise in as many ways as I can.
What are your favorite southern brands?
If you know me, you know I love food and I love to cook so of course my favorite brands would be food brands such as White Lily. I use their flour and cornmeal. I also love the classic BAMA apple jelly, nothing can compare.
What is your favorite item or piece of clothing to wear/use while doing business?
I’m all about comfort when I am working, so anything comfortable yet still stylish works best for me.
If you know of any other great Black Southern Belle who are small business owners and entrepreneurs, please email us at michiel@blacksouthernbelle.com. We would love to feature them and support our BSBs!
Comments
Michiel is a Black Southern Belle living a lowcountry life. I love all things fashion, home decor and southern! When I am not running around doing fun stuff for Black Southern Belle, I live in antique stores and have a minor obsession with historic homes :)
