We had the good fortune of connecting with Porsha Renae Hall and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Porsha Renae, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
I wanted African American women to feel just as confident as I do within my natural protective styles.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I was inspired to start my business, The Curly Fashionista while in college. When studying Fashion Merchandising at Kent State University, I often saw black women with unique versatile styles I’ve never tried before. One day I decided to try Senegalese Twists which from there became my all time favorite protective style and most loved when I started my business. I loved how confident I felt with my styles and I wanted other women to feel the same way. I focused on my studies and a year after graduation, I took the leap of faith and started my hair business. It was the best decision Ive ever made because now my clients feel just as confident and beautiful as I do wearing my styles. I was raised by a natural born hairstylist and a past generation of beauticians. Starting my business as a self taught stylist and offering rare styles most braiders prefer not to do sets me apart from others. My clients thank me for offering the styles I do because they can never find them. This is so rare I have clients who drive 2hrs to across the state to come be styled by me. Very grateful for God’s favor.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Starting the week off with a Sunday walk in the park in my hometown of Sheffield Lake, Ohio. Monday we would take a pilates class and visit First Watch in Crocker Park. Tuesday we will visit the Cleveland History Museum until it closes. Wednesday is vintage and thrift shopping at the local boutiques during half off day. Thursday is for Rollerskating at my childhood rink Lorain Skate World. Friday & Saturday would be shopping, movie nights, and creating fashion content.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I would love to dedicate my story to my family and boyfriend Eric for supporting my dreams.

Website: https://www.curlyfashionista.com

Instagram: @the.curlyfashionista

Youtube: With Love Porsha

Other: My personal Instagram & Tik Tok: @porsharenaehall Pinterest: With Love Porsha

Image Credits
All images are my own.

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