Check Out My #HairStory on the IAM MY Hair Blog!

I'm so excited to have been featured on the IAM MY HAIR Blog to share my #HairStory!  The creator, Janae, is a sweetheart, and I was lucky enough to have met her at #Curlfest. :)

Anywho, make sure you swing by the IAM MY HAIR Blog, and check out my feature. :)

Until next time,

Ashley, xo.

Make sure you swing by the IAM MY HAIR Blog to check out my feature as well as some other naturalistas, tips, and advice.  Do you have any questions for me about my feature?  Comment below!

Spotlight Monday: Andria

Tell us about yourself.

> My name is Andria; I'm from Chicago, but I hope to move to New York in the near future.  I want to become an editor for Vogue or Teen Vogue.  I'm a very shy person and become really reserved in huge crowds.

How long have you been natural?  What is your hair type?  Describe your curls!

> I have been natural for a year and a half.  It will be two years in July!  I don't hair type because I can never find my hair on those darn charts, but I would fall in the 3 range.  Part of my hair is wavy with spirals at the end and other parts are just spirals.  My edges don't really curl at all; they (for the most part) stay semi-private, which is why it's so easy to lay my edges down.  The front of my hair doesn't have deep waves like the rest of my hair. 

Did you transition or big chop?  Why did you take that route?

> I transitioned but wanted to big chop so bad, but my mother wouldn't allow it.  Had I been who I am now, I wouldn't have listened and just went for it lol.  Hair played a big part of who I was; I was always that dark skinned girl with "good hair".  So when I told my mother I wanted to cut my hair off, she had a fit and gave me an either or situation.  So, I waited until my hair was to my ear and cut it.

On big chopping-- how did you feel?

> I was so excited when I saw my curls.  I wasn't a child getting relaxers when I was younger, but I always got my hair pressed, which damaged my curls.  I remember growing my hair out and posting it on hair blogs asking my type, and I would always get that it wasn't my real curl pattern, and that I was black so my hair would be much nappier than that 4 inches of growth I had.  Funny thing-- that was really my hair texture.  Either way, I was willing to accept whatever grew from my head.

What was it like when you experienced your natural hair for the first time?

> When I cut my hair I felt so happy because I did it for me.  I didn't care about how long my hair was; I didn't even do it for the health of my hair.  I just wanted my hair to be curly.  When I wore my first wash n go I was so excited; I didn't care that it stopped at my ears!  I loved my curls.

What are some of your favorite products? (top 3)

> Cantu Shea Butter leave-in repair cream, Shea moisture curl enhancing smoothie, Eco Styler Gel

What are your go-to hairstyles?

> My go-to styles would have to be braids, buns, and wash n gos.

What is a haircare lesson that you'd share with someone who wants to go natural?

> One hair care lesson I've learned is to NOT FOLLOW HAIR TRENDS!  I can't stress this enough.  I do not believe in only buying products geared towards African Americans, nor do I believe in not clarifying your hair with a shampoo.

What are your hair goals?

> I just want my hair to remain healthy and to grow out.  I recently cut it just because, so now I just want to get back to the length it was before.  Anything longer would be a bonus.

How do you feel about your hair today?

> Since I cut it and it's growing out, I'm back in the "awkward stage".  But I have to say I'm enjoying it.  I didn't realize how much I missed my hair at this length.

Instagram: anicolec_

YouTube: andriachildress

Do you have any questions for Andria about her natural hair journey?  Comment below!

Spotlight Monday: Courtney

Tell us about yourself.

> My name is Courtney and I was born and raised in Dallas, TX.  I graduated from Prairie View A&M University in May 2011 where I received a B.A. in Accounting.  I’ve been working in Finance for almost 3 years now.  However, I’m currently changing my career field and going into nursing.  I realized quickly the cubicle life is not for me and I need to do something that allows me to help and interact with people (nursing was my original major at PV haha).

Spotlight Monday: Michelle

Tell us about yourself.

> My name is Michelle, and I am a recent Syracuse University grad; I majored in both Information Management & Technology and Women & Gender Studies.  I live in Long Island, NY, and I believe 50 Cent is my soulmate!

A Transitioner's POV Submissions

Transitioning?  No worries!  There is a Transitioner's Point of View feature for you as well. :)  Please send me an email at curlsfothegirls@gmail.com with Transitioner's POV (Your Name) as the subject:

1. Tell us about yourself.

2. How long have you been transitioning?

3. What influenced you to transition?

4. What has been the most difficult part of your journey thus far?

5. What have you learned about your hair since transitioning?

6. Have you ever thought about big chopping?

7. What are some of your favorite products so far? (3-5)

8. What are some of your favorite hairstyles?

9. What are your hair goals?

10. Any advice for new transitioners?

(Optional, but encouraged) How can you be reached? (Twitter, Instagram, etc.)

Don't forget to share with your followers that you have also been featured.  Shout #curlsfothegirls out on social media & let everyone know that they can be featured, too!

Xo,
Ashley

Spotlight Monday Feature Submissions

Interested in a Spotlight Monday feature?  Send me an email at curlsfothegirls@gmail.com with Spotlight Monday (Your Name) as the subject:

1. Tell us about yourself.

2. How long have you been natural?  What is your hair type?  Describe your curls!

3. Did you transition or big chop?  Why did you take that route?

4. If you big chopped-- how did you feel?

5. What was it like when you experienced your natural hair for the first time?

6. What are some of your favorite products? (Top 3)

7. What are your go-to hairstyles?

8. What is a haircare lesson that you'd share with someone who wants to go natural?

9. What are your hair goals?

10. How do you feel about your hair today?

(Optional, but encouraged) How can you be reached? (Twitter, Instagram, etc.)

Please include 3-6 photos that highlight your hair throughout your journey (options are always best!).

Don't forget to share with your followers that you have also been featured.  Shout #curlsfothegirls out on social media & let everyone know that they can be featured, too!

Xo,
Ashley

Spotlight Monday: Qubilah

Tell us about yourself.

> My name is Qubilah, but I like to go by Lady/Sister Shabazz.  I am a recent graduate from UNC-Chapel Hill, and I am currently interning with the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation in Washington, D.C.  In the meantime, I’m looking for employment in the non-profit or public service sector.

Spotlight Monday: Nisha

Tell us about yourself.

> My name is Nisha and I am a third-year graduate student, currently studying Criminology and Justice Specialization. I am 23 years old and I love all natural everything!

Check Me Out On NaturallyFromMe.WordPress.Com!

Hey lovelies!

This is a quick post to tell you all about my feature on naturallyfromme.wordpress.com.  I was lucky enough to get in touch with Sarie, the creator of Naturally From Me, through twitter for a chance to feature on her blog.  It's was a nice change to be in the spotlight. :)

You can check out my feature here, but also check out the other stories and information that Naturally From Me has to offer.

You can also check Sarie out on Twitter.

Until next time,
Ashley, xo.

Head to naturallyfromme.wordpress.com to get in touch with Sarie.  If you have any questions for me about the post, feel free to comment below OR send me an email at curlsfothegirls@gmail.com!

Spotlight Monday: Flose

Tell us about yourself.

> My name is Flose, and I am a recent Syracuse University graduate, where I double-majored in sociology and public relations.  I currently reside in Rockland County, New York, but I was born on the beautiful island of Hispaniola.  Poetry is my life and the answer to all my woes; I aim to share her with all who are willing to listen.  If there's one thing I want the world to know about me, it's that I'm a lover of humanity, and I am continuously looking for ways to help us all advance as a people.

Check Me Out on FashionRoyaltyBlog.Wordpress.Com With 3 Spring/Summer Trends!

Hey all!  This is just a quick post to tell you about my feature on FashionRoyaltyBlog.Wordpress.Com.  This time, I'm highlighting what I think will be the most common, yet fun, trends for this Spring/Summer.

The chosen trends are very simple to do and can be pulled off by anyone, which is why I love them!  So let's get those pouts, flirty eyes, and flawless complexions ready! ;)

Best,

Ashley, xo.

Do you have any questions for me about the Spring/Summer Trends?  If so, comment below!

Spotlight Monday: Callie

Tell us about yourself.

> Hey, I'm Callie-- a Brooklyn girl with a random, carefree spirit.  I am a junior at Syracuse University, majoring in Child & Family Studies as well as African American Studies.  If I'm not eating, I'm probably watching movies (or both lol).  I LOVE music, books, new places and new things.

Check Me Out on FashionRoyaltyBlog.WordPress.Com!

Hey beautiful people!  This is a quick post to tell you about my feature on FashionRoyaltyBlog.wordpress.com.  My friend, Jair, is the creator, and asked me to share some easy products to use during spring/summer since no one wants to spend so much time doing hair during warmer temps; I definitely have to agree with this.

Aside from beauty, my friend Jair has a keen eye for fashion, styling, and trends, and offers great advice and insight on the industry.  She is able to put together some fab pieces and I definitely encourage you all to swing by and take a look!

If you have any questions, you can reach Jair via email (jneverson1004@gmail.com) or twitter @FPR_Royalty!

Until next time,
Ashley, xo.

Do you have any questions for myself or Jair?  If so, comment below, OR shoot us an email!

A Transitioner's Point of View: Niaya

Tell us about yourself.
> Hi Guys :), My name is Niaya.  I was born and raised in NYC.  I am a currently a first year graduate student, and I love, live, and breathe all things fashion.

Spotlight Monday: Stephanie

Tell us about yourself.

> My name is Stephanie, but everyone calls me Steph.  I'm 20 years old from NYC!  I am the youngest out of 6 girls and I'm always getting picked on lol.

How long have you been natural? What is your hair type?  Describe your curls!

> June 2nd will make 2 years of me being natural.  The top of my hair is 3c and I would say the back and sides are 4a-4b.  I love my hair, but I'm still trying to figure out what to do because the top of my hair has looser curls than the rest.

Did you transition or big chop?  Why did you take that route?

> I transitioned for a little while during my first year of college.  One day, I decided to just cut it all off.  I could have transitioned longer, but I was far too anxious to feel my hair texture and not have to worry about my natural hair and the permed hair, too.

On big chopping-- how did you feel?

> When I big chopped on June 2,2012, I was terrified!  My mom made it even harder.  I thought she would be so supportive of my decision, but she wasn't.  She told me she didn't like it and that I looked like a little boy.  Feelings hurt much?  Yes!

What was it like when you experienced your natural hair for the first time?

> Above all of that, I was so in love with my little afro lol.  I washed it every single day to keep my curls poppin'. 

What are some of your favorite products? (top 3)

> My favorite products now would have to be anything from the Shea Moisture line, as well as Curls Unleashed.

What are your go-to hairstyles?

> I don't think I have any go-to hairstyles, but I do like putting my hair up in a puff, or a twist across the front and my puff in the back.

What is a haircare lesson that you've learned that you'd be willing to share with someone who wants to go natural?

> I think a really important lesson is don't go natural in hopes of having hair like someone else.  You will come into the natural hair world hating yourself.  Your hair is YOUR HAIR and only your hair.  Your hair is unique and you should love it regardless whether it's kinky, coily, curly, or very loosely curled.  It'll be hard at first, but I think it gets easier with time.

What are your hair goals?

> My hair goal would probably be to get BSL (bra strap length) but above all else I just want to maintain healthy, natural hair.  Keep in mind that Black hair does grow!

How do you feel about your hair today?

> Being almost 2 years natural, it's the best decision I've ever made, I lovvvvvveeeee my hair, and I love everything about this little natural hair movement that keeps growing.

Until next time,
Ashley, xo.

Do you have any questions for Stephanie about her natural hair journey?  Comment below!

Spotlight Monday: Kenvi

Tell us about yourself.

> My name Kenvi (IG: naturallykenvi) & I am from Houston, TX.  I am a girly girl that loves shopping, natural hair & everything beauty!  I am currently preparing to apply to Physical Therapy school with hopes of graduating & owning my own physical therapy clinic.

How long have you been natural? What is your hair type?  Describe your curls!
> I decided to go natural by accident.  As a college undergrad, I didn't have time to keep up with my hair so I stopped getting relaxers.  Once I stopped, I fell in love with my natural hair pattern.  After a year without chemicals, I cut my relaxed ends off & became fully natural.  That was January 2011 & I have been natural ever since.

Did you transition or big chop?  Why did you take that route?

> I transitioned with my hair because I was too afraid to do the big chop.  However, I had no fears about going natural.  I liked my hair, so that was all that mattered to me.  I get more compliments on my hair now than I ever did while getting relaxers.  

What are some of your favorite products? (top 3)

> My favorite hair products are virgin coconut oil, African Pride leave-in conditioner & Shea Moisture's kids shampoo & conditioner just to name a few. ;)

What are your go-to hairstyles?

> My go-to styles are twist outs, flat twist outs on a blow out & my all time favorite is a big, curly bun. 

What is a haircare lesson that you've learned that you'd be willing to share with someone who wants to go natural?

> One lesson I've learned is that you have to be a product junkie.  You have to try different products to see what does & doesn't work for your hair.  No two naturals have the exact same hair.  Find out what works for your hair & rock it! 

What are your hair goals?

> My natural hair goal is to always have healthy hair.  Of course, we all want long or "big" hair, but your hair must be healthy in order to reach those lengths.

How do you feel about your hair today?

> I love my hair.  My hair is constantly changing & I love the fact that I have so much versatility with my hair.

Until next time,
Ashley, xo.

Do you have any questions for Kenvi about her natural hair journey?  Comment below!

Spotlight Monday: J'Lisa

Tell us about yourself.
> My name is J’Lisa and I am from and currently reside on St. Croix, US Virgin Islands.  I have a BS in Health and Exercise Science from Syracuse University and I am currently pursuing my Physician Assistant Certification/Masters in Clinical Medical Science.

How long have you been natural? What is your hair type?  Describe your curls!

> I have been natural for 2 years and 3 months.  I think my hair type is 3c/4a-- somewhere in between there lol.  My hair type is sort of kinky-curly.  They (my curls) have a mind of their own depending on which part of my head they are on!

Did you transition or big chop?  Why did you take that route?
> I big chopped after about 2 months of no relaxer.  I am sort of impulsive and couldn’t wait to transition lol.  It was and still is one of the most liberating things I’ve ever done.

What was it like when you experienced your natural hair for the first time?
> I was natural until about 17yo and then relaxed my hair before I went to college.  I actually big chopped as I was finishing up my degree.  It was weird to see my natural hair again because while I was natural for a long time, I had heat damage because I would mainly blow dry my hair.  It was really eye opening to see my natural texture.

What are some of your favorite products? (Top 3)
> My top 3 products would have to be the Shea Moisture Curl Enhancer Smoothie, the Shea Moisture Reconstructive conditioner and any leave-in conditioner from Blue Magic.

What are your go-to hairstyles?
> My go to hairstyles would be twist outs or just wake up and go’s lol.

How do you feel about your hair today?

> As of today, I feel really proud of my hair length and strength.  I think back and can’t believe it’s already been 2 years!  Looking back at pictures it was a long road but I am more than happy with my decision and plan to keep it going!

Here are a few more pictures of J'Lisa and her glorious hair:

                            

Until next time,

Ashley, xo.

Do you have any questions for J'Lisa about her hair?  Comment below!

10,000K+ VIEWS!

OMG!

Yes, it was all the way necessary that I wrote that in all caps.  We have reached 10,000+ views on curlsfothegirls.blogspot.com!

I just want to thank everyone-- for all the reading, tweeting, emails, IG tag features, posts, and love.  I am truly grateful that you all believe in my word, and take the time to read my posts and come to me with questions.  It really means a lot to me.  I am especially grateful because you all believed in me enough to support me and support the blog.  I can't tell you how much it means to me when I see people tweeting about the posts or retweeting them after I've just published one.

I am NOT going to leave you all hanging after all the hard work you all have done.  I definitely want to share some love and some of MY favorite products with you all!

Yes, a GIVEAWAY is coming!

Stay tuned for official rules, details, and prizes.  You do NOT want to miss this one!

For now-- send me some of your BEST hair pics via Instagram @curlsfothegirls #curlsfothegirls AND I will definitely take email submissions at curlsfothegirls@gmail.com.  Let's celebrate!

Thank you all so very much, from the BOTTOM of my heart!

Ashley, xo.

Spotlight Monday: Cheryl

For this week's Spotlight Monday post, I've decided to do a loc edition.  Woo!

The first Loc Edition Spotlight Monday post features my older sister, Cheryl :)  She's done some of the most creative and pretty things with her locs, and I'm glad she was willing to share her story with us all.  Let us begin..

How long have you been loc'ing your hair?

> I've been loc'ing my hair for 7 years.

Why did you make the decision to do so?
> Truthfully, I was tired of combing it!  There was no grand epiphany this wasn't my calling.  I was really tired of perms and braids, and just refused to comb my hair any longer, but I wanted my Locs to be nice, not crazy looking.

How did you feel after beginning your journey?
> At first I was excited because this was something new. It wasn't at all what I expected since the goal was no work or maintenance.  It was actually a lot of work that needed to be done, and several times I started to forgo Locs and go back to a perm.

What are your hair goals?
> I have commitment issues (including an ex husband, lol), so it started by proving to him that I could follow through with something.  The more I saw it annoyed him, the better I felt about them, but with all the complements I've received, and people asking me could I help them, I feel this is the hair for me.  I didn't start from scratch with the close cut knobs, I still had some perm in it and I would just cut the ends every 6 weeks and I began to see the transformation; I love them!  Currently, I'm trying to see how long I want to let them grow so that's my next challenge.  At this point, they are midway down my back, but I want them even, so by this time next year, I will check to see if I'm any closer to where I draw the line and clip them.

Do you try different/creative styles?  If so, what is/are your favorites?
> At first I didn't; I just curled them and was ready to go!  Now that they are longer, I love a Mohawk, or spiral curls.  The Mohawk is my favorite.

How do you feel about your hair today?  
> My hair is like a tree-- I water, nurture it, and watch it grow.  I love being natural and the different scents I can use as well as the shine which let's me know it's healthy.

I love the way my sister colors her locs!  They've been brown, blonde, and I believe some shade of red at a point.  I also love when she curls them with pipe cleaners (very creative I must say)!  She also has 177 locs.  She counts them when she styles 'em! :)

Until next time,
Ashley, xo.