Meet Jhordan Harris: Braider & Protective Stylist

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

Hi Jhordan, is your business focused on helping the community? If so, how?
Braids and protective styles have become increasingly popular in recent years. We have seen more braided styles on screen in films, within the media, and in fashion. Aside from their aesthetic appeal, there has been more education around the benefits of these styles specifically for people of color. We have such unique hair textures. For many years, we truly have not had the proper education or even products available to maintain our hair in it’s natural state. Our hair and the way that it’s styled has always been so controversial. There has been such a huge shift in the way we view natural hair, braids, and protective styles. It’s so beautiful to witness and I feel so blessed to be apart of what feels like a black hair Renaissance. Braiding styles typically take a few hours to complete and it’s a very intimate experience. It’s not your typical in and out salon service. I have the pleasure of sitting with so many different people and getting to know them on such a personal level. Many of my clients have become extentsions of my family and I’ve become extentsions of theirs. I’ve braided a daughter’s hair which led to me braiding her mother’s hair and grandmother. I am in the business of connection, healing, loving, and family. I’ve cultivated so many beautiful relationships, I could do this forever. It is truly magical.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am most proud of my attention to detail and my ability to listen to my clients and to make their vision come true. I’m never afraid of trying something new or out of my comfort zone. I appreciate my clients so much for letting me use their hair as my canvas. Getting to where I am today was not an easy journey, but I can credit my husband for helping me figure out a plan that would allow for me to work for myself. It took some time and patience, but it was all worth it. Nothing beats waking up and doing something you truly love. I’ve learned that we are only able to see things from as far as where we are currently standing. You have no clue what the next day, month, or year has in store for you. Stay the path and you will Always be headed the right way. I have really fallen in love with what I do and I am always hoping that my love is felt and is uplifting to the people I have had the pleasure of meeting and connecting with.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I would definitely visit Leimert Park on a Saturday or Sunday. It’s such a gem here in South LA. There are a lot of amazing vendors where you can buy jewelry, clothing, and food. It’s so rich in culture. Occasionally there are live bands and poetry. We could pop in to Hot and Cool Cafe for a small bite to eat and coffee. Then, pick up a book from Eso Won Books. For lunch there’s Taco Mell, right on Crenshaw Blvd. We could also explore downtown LA. I’m a huge fan of the Arts District. It’s a great place to find food and random events. It’s also a great place to take photos, people watch, and just soak in the scenery. In the evenings I love watching the sunsets in Malibu. 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 wouldn’t be where I am without God and my family. I have always relied heavily on my faith and would not be where I am today without it. I’ve been in the right place, at the right time, and with the right people. My faith has allowed for me to stay the course and see everything all the way through. It has allowed for me to keep going even when I felt unsure or like giving up.

Instagram: @jhordanharrishair