THE REAL INSPO BEHIND GLL

Real Talk: My parents are the best. From a young age they always taught me to TRY, win or lose. My dad, Francois, passed away this past Christmas Day 2015, and even in his passing, I found the inspiration to once again, TRY. 

My dad was 87 years young when he passed away. He was a hairstylist all of his life, but his profession was more than a job, it was his reason for being. I grew up with a dad that could do my hair for all school dances, head the braiding booth every year at school festivals, give me the perfect Pippy Long Stocking hair-do for Halloween (along with my mom’s creativity), and even deal with my last minute cut/style emergencies as a dramatic teenage girl – all with a smile on his face (and an occasional roll of the eyes). In the final weeks and months of his life, all that kept him going was the idea that he could get back up behind the chair again. In the end, our roles switched places, as he insisted that I keep him properly shaven and his white locks perfectly moussed into place in the nursing home. The compliments from the nurses and fellow patients would make his day.

After being blessed with the experience of watching my dad’s passion persist and evolve, I finally realized that is what life is about. I wanted that same passion that keeps one going in sickness and in health, the thing that makes life worth living even in the worst of times. After some extensive grief and weeks in bed, all I could do is braid. I had always been pretty good at hair, thanks to my dad, but never took the time to actually try doing different styles. I bought a braiding handbook by Abby Smith of “Twist Me Pretty”, realized my dad had passed down his artistic hands, and not only could I do every style, but I absolutely LOVED doing it. The rest is history. I quickly integrated a plan in my head as to how I could make a brand that would incorporate all things that got me through this rough time in life: hair, passion, positivity, and a healthy, happy lifestyle. And there you have it, GOLDILONGLOCKS was born.  

I wish every single day that he was here to see what I’m building, the fact that I found what makes my heart light up – but then again I don’t think I would be here doing this, if he was still here. Funny how our lives work and evolve and fall into place so perfectly if you let the painful, excruciating negative energy things turn into inspiration, passion, and learning experiences. I am grateful for him (and my mom) every single day and this entire Goldilonglocks entity is in his honor.