Support Small Business Saturday: @mayabstyles

Happy Saturday, Loves! Hopefully, 2023 has found you all blessed and highly favored. With the new year upon us, one of our initiatives is highlighting black-owned small businesses to help connect consumers and entrepreneurs who love black women!

First up is Miami-born and “Gwinnett County-raised” hairstylist Tamaya Byrd, owner of Maya B Styles. Located in Peachtree Corners, GA, Tamaya is a full-service stylist specializing in braiding, extensions, and natural hair care. We sat down with her recently to get the details on all things hair in Atlanta. Read on for more.

HBW:     Tell us more about yourself and your journey to this point.

Tamaya: I’m originally from Miami, but Gwinnett County raised me. I’ve been styling hair since I was ten years old. My mom burned me with a hot comb, and from there, I decided it was best for me to take matters into my own hands. I started doing my hair, then my sister’s, but it slowly turned into everyone in the family. After completing high school, I began a career in technology and eventually landed a job with IBM. I was 21, making an exceptional living in tech, but I just wasn’t fulfilled. After four years with IBM, I resigned to pursue my first love: hairstyling.
I studied at Kuene Academy in Lawrenceville, GA, and received instruction in haircare for all hair textures. From 2019-2022, I worked at numerous salons throughout the Metro Atlanta area, but I didn’t necessarily feel welcomed or supported in those spaces. Right before the pandemic, I discovered I was pregnant and knew I needed to create a legacy for myself and my daughter. In January 2020, Maya B Styles was born, and I’ve been at the salon ever since.

HBW:     What is your hair philosophy?

Tamaya:

Treat your hair like a flower. Love it, cherish it, water it, listen to it, touch it, feel it, give it sunlight, and nourish it. Be patient with your hair and watch it grow.

HBW:     And what is the biggest issue you see with clients caring for their hair at home?

Tamaya: Definitely, the overuse of products not suited for their hair texture. Many hair products are marketed for all hair types and textures but shouldn’t be used for all types and textures. It would be best if you educated yourself on your hair type and what products work best for your hair type. If you don’t care to do the research yourself, seek a knowledgeable stylist who can provide you with the tools and knowledge to best care for your hair. Familiarize yourself with the products that work best for your hair type. Don’t use products based on their marketing tactics or descriptions. Use products that are proven to work well for your hair type.

HBW:      What’s the best hair care advice you offer clients?

Tamaya: Be patient! When you rush your hair’s process, you can really make a mess. Don’t put a time limit on your results. Just trust the process and be patient.

HBW:      What brings you the most joy as a hairstylist?

Tamaya: I love meeting new people, making women feel beautiful, and bringing them peace. Many of my interactions with clients remind me always to be grateful.

HBW:     What are your goals for the rest of the year?

Tamaya: To speak more positively! I often remind myself that I am God’s success story. Most people wouldn’t even believe my story to this point. Everything I’ve gotten, I’ve achieved on my own – with the help of God. This year, I want to grow closer to Him to receive more instruction for my life. I want happiness for myself and my daughter. And I want more abundance in my life and business.

HBW:     How can potential clients get in touch with you?

Tamaya: Visit my website – www.mayabstyles.com or my Instagram pages – @mayabstyles and @toomuchbeaute