Meet Anniya Long | Stylist/Braider

We had the good fortune of connecting with Anniya Long and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Anniya, what is the most important factor behind your success?
The most important factor behind my success in my business that I started knowing nothing 😂 . I went to cosmetology school for 13 months , I learned soooo much while in school but the craft I’m pursing today. Yes they taught us the basics of braiding BUT I wanted to know more . I started from the very bottom and have found a true passion for braiding . So every head I touch I make it a PRIORITY to put my all into that style . Look at where I came from and today , my most important factor is to make sure my clients are happy and feel themselves after leaving my chair .

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
What sets me apart from most that’s a plus for me is that I taught myself how to braid in 6 months . So the way I taught myself I automatically tuck hair !
NO IT’S NO EXTRA FEE ! Why ? Because that’s the only way I know how to braid ! Now tucking is like the hottest thing going so I didn’t feel behind ! When I stepped back and looked at my business I said to self “ I WANT MORE “ . I needed to do something that was different but catchy ! It was one of the most scariest decisions to make because at that time I wasn’t bringing in enough to take from that for a big investment . I invested in a braiders travel suitcase that opens up and turns into a table with braid hooks ! Once I made everyone aware that I have made a great investment but didn’t have many travel clients . I learned a lesson along the way which was it’s ok to INVEST no matter what it is. The more I went out and talked self to others and referrals from others I have a successful travel base clientele and they love me . I would like everyone to know that I’m a self taught braider that will go out her way to make sure you get the best customer service experience with me . Even if I have to travel to you I love to make it easy I provide the hair and everything I just need the space !

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend was in town for a week I would find soooo many different restaurants to try out . I’m not a club/bar type of person anymore just due to the gun laws and stuff so I just don’t put myself in those places . A few places we would go is first downtown Dallas enjoy the scenery and the great vibes . I love Lazy Dog they have the best fried deviled eggs with the special sauce for the salad . Benihana or any hibachi place , I’m more home base so we do a lot of cooking at home so I don’t know many places 😅 .

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?
Omg I have sooo many I can recognize honestly . First I would like to thank my husband Kadeem , he’s been a soldier during my time of braiding . When it comes to this industry you have those down times where you may not even bring in $300 . So just having a mate that is as supportive as he I’m so appreciative . I will always recognize my mother Tomeka she just my backbone since birth . When I told her I wanted to do braids she laughed and said you don’t have no patience 😅 . Now look at me getting her out the chair in less than 4Hrs , she’s always always been my biggest supporter of all . I have so many returning clients that has always supported me regardless of my price and I would love to name a few . Soooo Monaè , Jordan , Brittany ( cousin ) , Brittany ( friend ) , Brittley , Monie , Mya Lashae , Rochelle , Candace , Ashley ( cousin ) , Shaneen , Krissy , Ms. Norma , Mrs. Karen , Kia Kelly , Shaay Thomas , I mean I have a handful of you ladies can’t name them all . I am so grateful for you all above and the ones I didn’t mention it’s soo many of you . I wouldn’t be this far without you ladies I always say I take care of you ladies and I will continue 🧡 .

Website: https://book.heygoldie.com/Hairstyles-By-Anniya

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hairstyles_by_anniya?igsh=bmcwdzBkbWxwN3c4&utm_source=qr

Twitter: https://x.com/missing_some?s=21&t=46h8rUHIx-lFbeXqJYKDFA

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lovely.wilson.378?mibextid=LQQJ4d

Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@dopebraider15?_t=8pxojsGFfA6&_r=1

Image Credits
Anniya Long