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

Hi Kim, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
The idea for my brand really came from a personal place. Growing up in Los Angeles, a bi-racial girl with “combination” hair, finding the right product to style my desired look was never consistent. My bathroom looked like a beauty supply store! Shopping products from the “general” aisle that “dry” the hair out due to their ingredients and products from the “ethnic” aisle that contained a bit too much oil, didn’t allow me to have the flawless, free flowing style I craved in this “fun in the sun” city.

The search for the right concoction was not only expensive but wasteful when products did not work. This was normal for me, so there was never a complaint out loud however I realized that the beauty industry really did not concentrate on texture yet they did on race.

What should our readers know about your business?
From the beginning, Mixed Chicks made it our mission to cater to a customer base as diverse as the colors of a rainbow. Through a brand statement that resonated with souls across the globe, we proclaimed loud and clear that our products were not limited to a particular race or ethnicity. Black, White, Latin, Asian, Mediterranean, Native American, Pacific Islander, or any glorious combination thereof, all found solace in welcoming arms of Mixed Chicks

True to our word, we expanded our range of products to accommodate the myriad of textures that adorn our customers’ heads. Our shelves have become a treasure trove, overflowing with solutions to cater to the unique needs of every strand, wave, and curl. As our product line flourishes, one thing that remains constant—our unwavering commitment to unity

The road has not been easy however it has not been impossible. Trial and error and downright commitment has been a key to success. I do believe authenticity plays a big role but the true desire to satisfy and stay true to who we are is what sets us apart from others.

As a 21 year old brand, we have experienced being popular and not so popular but one thing that has remained is we continue to make quality products with quality ingredients and our products work! We do understand that everything is not for everybody but there is a product in our line that anyone can use that caters to their hair style.

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.
If one of my friends came to visit me, our perfect day would begin with a hike right outside my door here in the Valley . I live close to a trail and I have not taken the time that is necessary for me to clear my mind and work my muscles so a hike with a friend would do me good. We’d then jump in the jeep and head over Topanga Canyon straight to Malibu! A moment to stare at the ocean, with a nice breeze is heaven! We’d next make our way over to Mastro’s Ocean Club, have a few cocktails, a little bite to eat and enjoy the live music!

Los Angeles and it’s surrounding areas have so many laid back and beautiful places to enjoy great food, drinks and music. It also has tons of spaces to enjoy an intimate or group setting to spend a quality and memorable time with loved ones.

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 am mate to Kilimanjaro, Fujiyama, Mont Blanc and sister to Everest, He that is daring and brave shall know what to do!”- Maya Angelou

This quote has stuck with me for years. It really explains it all when describing me but I have to credit my ancestors from close generations to generations before. I believe my blessings come from their sacrifices, determination, will and existence.

Website: https://www.mixedchicks.net

Instagram: @mixedchickshair, @kimetheredgemixedchick

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kim-etheredge-677b4a1b9/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MixedChicksHairCare/, https://www.facebook.com/kim.etheredge.5

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@mixedchickshaircare

Image Credits
Kim Etheredge and Wendi Kaaya co-founders and co-owners of Mixed Chicks

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutLA is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.