Meet Camille Thomas | Hair-preneur & Stylist

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

Hi Camille, as a parent, what have you done for you children that you feel has had the most significant impact?
The most important thing I’ve done for my children is show them the example of entrepreneurship and business ownership. Growing up, I was not aware that is was possible to thrive and flourish as a business owner. I am proud that business ownership is apart of their norm. As a matter of fact, they’re already budding entrepreneurs! They have a t-shirt line called DK Designz. They have a website that they designed and everything! I am proud that I set the template for their success as future successful business owners.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Right now I am most excited about the expansion of my brand, Carmelique & Co. into accessories. Currently my focus is on how the right pair of glasses, prescribed or not, can elevate your whole look. Accessories are a vibe. The right earrings paired with the right glasses and the right hairstyle can take you from drab to fab in the blink of an eye. I am as serious about accessories as I am about hair. Sometimes I pinch myself because I am so happy that I get paid to do what I love. I am definitely an accessories kinda girl. No one has ever accused me of minimalism, that’s for sure! One of the challenges that come along with running a business is running a business. It’s not all excitement and glitter and glamour. There are taxes, and salon fees, and accounting and all the things that come along with running a successful business. One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned so far is that I can’t do it all, and I’m not good at everything. In order to prevent burnout and operate efficiently, I need a team of people around me that are excellent where I’m not.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Well. If I had a friend visiting for a weekend I would first bring them to my shop and doll ’em up a little bit! I’d start with a latch hook style for easy, on-the-go style and convenience. Then, I would do their make-up because hair and make-up go together like biscuits and gravy. Then, I’d accessorize them with some earrings and glasses. Then we’d head to dinner looking, smelling like a million bucks at my favorite Thai food spot, where I’d suggest my favorite: pineapple fried rice. Afterwards we’d go somewhere for live music and dancing. But I wouldn’t dance because I’m shy.

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 like to shout out my mom for her prayers and support. She has been a steady foundation. I want to send extra love to my clients, especially Kayla, who nominated me. Thanks for thinking of me, girl! I want to shout out all the beautiful black in all of their glorious splendor. We (black women) deserve the best of everything. One last shout out to my boys who push and inspire me to be better in every way.

Website: carmeliqueandco.com

Instagram: carmelique.co

Facebook: facebook.com/HairbyCarmelique