Today we’d like to introduce you to Monique Lashea
Hi Monique, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I’ve had a passion for hair and hairstyling for as long as I can remember. At just 10 years old, I taught myself how to braid, starting with my own hair and then moving on to my little sister’s. Over time, I began styling for neighborhood friends, family, and eventually college roommates. Even while pursuing my studies, I was the ‘go-to’ stylist for friends and relatives.
It was during nursing school that I experienced a pivotal moment. I realized that while I had initially been drawn to nursing, my passion for it had faded. I found myself naturally gravitating back to hairstyling, which reignited the spark I had from a young age. That’s when I knew it was time to make a change, and I enrolled in cosmetology school.
Fast forward to 2024, I’ve now been a hairstylist and business owner for 5 years. In 2021, I received my cosmetology license, and since then, I’ve fully embraced my passion and purpose in the beauty industry. Building a career that allows me to express my creativity while helping others feel confident and beautiful has been incredibly rewarding.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It certainly hasn’t been a smooth road, but every challenge has shaped me both personally and professionally. One of the biggest turning points was when I decided to shift from nursing to pursue my passion for hairstyling. Making that leap was daunting, and I quickly realized that passion alone wasn’t enough—I had to develop the business acumen to turn my creativity into a sustainable career. From learning how to market myself and build a clientele to understanding the financial aspects of running a business, there was a lot of trial and error along the way.
On top of that, I was navigating a major life transition as a newlywed and starting a family. Balancing the demands of entrepreneurship with motherhood has been one of the greatest challenges. I’ve had three kids under the age of three, which meant juggling sleepless nights, family responsibilities, and the growth of my business. It wasn’t easy, and there were moments of exhaustion and doubt, but I was determined to make it work.
Through these challenges, I’ve learned the importance of time management, patience, and the power of perseverance. Building my business while raising a young family has pushed me in ways I never imagined, but it has also given me a deeper sense of purpose and drive.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
My work is centered around enhancing natural beauty while delivering a holistic experience. I specialize in natural hair care and bridal services, and I also offer a range of beauty products, including extensions and satin hair care products. My signature services include Silk Presses and Luxury Extension installs, which have become my specialties.
One service I’m particularly known for is my ‘Mo Silk,’ a deluxe silk press that plays off my nickname, ‘Mo.’ It’s become a client favorite because it delivers the smoothest, silkiest hair—often the ‘most’ silk clients have ever experienced, which is where the name comes from.
What truly sets me apart, though, is my Godly persona and the holistic approach I bring to each appointment. For me, it’s not just about hair; it’s about creating an uplifting and positive experience for my clients. I believe in nurturing the whole person, so every client leaves my chair feeling not only beautiful but also renewed and confident. What I’m most proud of is the relationships I’ve built over the years and the trust my clients place in me. Many of them have been with me since the beginning, and seeing them leave my chair feeling more confident and radiant is the most rewarding part of what I do.
Are there any important lessons you’ve learned that you can share with us?
The most important lesson I’ve learned along my journey is the power of perseverance and faith. Starting a business, especially while navigating the challenges of being a newlywed and raising three young children, has taught me that there will always be obstacles—both personal and professional. But what matters most is how you handle those obstacles.
I’ve learned that resilience, combined with the ability to adapt and grow, is essential. There were times when things didn’t go as planned, whether it was juggling my responsibilities as a mother or facing setbacks in the business. In those moments, I leaned on my faith and stayed focused on my long-term vision. I’ve also realized that embracing challenges as opportunities for growth can be transformative, not just for my business but for me as a person. Each challenge has pushed me to become more resourceful, patient, and intentional in everything I do.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://moniquelasheabeautyco.as.me/schedule/7993b4a0
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bymoniquelashea/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/moniquelashea7/
