Conversations with LaShone Kates

Today we’d like to introduce you to LaShone Kates.

Hi LaShone, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Hi LaShone, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.

I was born in Ft. Lauderdale, FL. I now reside in Jacksonville, FL. I have been living here for 6 years.Hair has always been apart of my family on both my mom and dad’s side. I originally learned braiding techniques from my mom at age 11. I remember braiding me and my sisters hair because my mother had to work late.I can also remember spending some weekends at my cousins house on my dads side and all of us braiding each others hair.

I didn’t pursue my passion for hair straight out of high school. I received my education in the medical field after being told:

“Hair is just a hobby and not a career.” I should have followed my passion because I did it anyway.

Quote: Do it right the first time, so you don’t have to return and do it again.

When COVID came, I was furloughed from my job, and that’s when things took off for Hair By Shone K, LLC. I was able to focus solely on my craft. Take braiding classes and build my business. As well as care for my autistic son in the comfort of our home. I never returned to work as a medical assistant. I have been a braid hairstylist for 6 years, I am no longer a home based Braider, I have built a consistent clientele base and business as well as expanding my braiding techniques. I wouldn’t change a thing. Always follow your dreams no matter what.

Habakkuk 2:2 Write the vision and make it plain. 🙏🏾

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The road has gotten a lot smoother thanks to my phenomenal support team. However, some struggles I face are being an autistic mom, and I wouldn’t call it a struggle; I would say it’s more of a challenge. And I love a good challenge, lol, but having to shorten my schedule at times to accommodate my son and ensure we survive financially and learn to cope with life mentally and emotionally without returning to where I started. I have doubts and question my ability to keep moving forward every day. But my strong belief in god keeps my faith strong, and that is what keeps me going. 💪🏾

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I specialize in braiding services. I am mostly known for my soft Loc styles and stitch braids. I am also known for the neatness of my craft and the speed at which you will be in and out. I include hair with every service I provide. So, my clients have a one-stop shop. All they have to do is come in, sit down, and vent. I also offer a safe space and a private setting for my clients. I am most proud of my resilience. I keep going no matter what. Quitting is not an option. What sets me apart from others is that I’m persistent, meticulous, and detailed in my braiding skills and techniques. I’m also sincere. If my clients want a particular style and I can’t execute it, I will refer them to a stylist who can accommodate them.

Who else deserves credit for your story?
God for giving me the gift, of course. I would like to thank my clients who have been consistent and trusting me with their crown. I appreciate all of you I am so grateful. I have to thank my girl Sarai Jackson IG: Styles_By_Sarai. The owner of the shop I work in now. She has shown me so much, from mastering different braid techniques to testing my gangsta (mental) with challenging braid styles to get me where I am today. She keeps me on my toes; another braider who lives in New York. Joelly Graham, IG; Therealbraidvixen. Who I became excellent friends with on Instagram, who helped me with my braid techniques, product usage, and advice on different aspects of the business. I appreciate her very much as well.

Pricing:

• Stitch Braid Styles start at $120 and up
• Soft Loc Styles Start at $250 and up
• Invisible Loc Styles start at $280
• Knotless Braid Styles start at $350 and up
• Teen braid styles (ages 11-15) start at $180 and up

Contact Info:

• Website: https://hairbyshonek.as.me/
• Instagram: Www.Instagram.com/shonekthebraider
• Facebook: LaShone Kates
• Youtube: http://www.youtube.com/@shonekthebraider5179
• Other: https://linktr.ee/shonekthebraider

Image Credits
Image credits: LaShone Kates, Ipic art app: to create the back grounds and Air brush app: to do the make up details.