Captured

Ebony Essence

 The Next Day 

10 am

Shanice checked the time on her watch. She had a meeting scheduled with a salon owner to discuss the use of CC products. She was particularly excited because Mickayla's salon, nestled in the heart of the city, was a haven for women with type 4 hair - a sanctuary where coils, kinks, and curls were not only celebrated but lovingly nurtured.

As Shanice stepped into the stylish salon, the bell above the door chimed softly, announcing her arrival. Mickayla flaunts the beauty of her Type 4 hair with a stunning wash-and-go style. Her natural curls are defined and full of life, exuding confidence and celebrating her unique texture. Shanice was greeted with a warm smile and the two exchanged pleasantries before settling into the cozy lounge area of the salon.

A small sound system plays a curated mix of soul, and Afrobeat music, Laughter and conversations flow freely, by the other stylist and a few clients 

As clients wait for their appointments, they flip through magazines featuring the latest trends in natural hair care and beauty. The energy is contagious, and it's evident that the salon is more than just a place for hair maintenance - it's a cultural hub for self-expression and a celebration of Black beauty in all its forms. The atmosphere is electric with positivity, forming a sisterhood that extends beyond the salon chairs.

Shanice admired the sleek decor of the salon, her eyes drifting to the array of hair products neatly displayed on the shelves.

"Can I get you anything?" asked Mickayla. "Coffee? Tea?"

"Tea, please," Shanice replied.

As they sipped on fragrant herbal tea, Mickayla got straight to the point. "I've been hearing wonderful things about Curls and Cares, and I would love for us to collaborate. As you may know, my salon is focused on the proper care of black women's hair."

As a Black woman herself, Mickayla understands the unique challenges and beauty of type 4 hair. Her journey into specializing in this hair type began with her struggles to embrace and care for her curls. Determined to make a change, she immersed herself in the world of natural hair care, attending workshops, and collaborating with other experts.

"So to have your products that work so well with hair texture like yours and mine will be a big deal for both of us."

"sounds good..How did your salon her this popular?"

The salon was more than just a place for hairstyling; it was a space for empowerment and self-love. Mickayla would often host workshops on natural hair care, inviting influential speakers from the community to share their wisdom. She believed that educating her clients about their hair was just as important as styling it.

"After years of struggling with her natural hair, a young lady named Tasha walked into my salon feeling defeated. I listened attentively to her journey and understood the emotional weight that often accompanied the quest for self-acceptance. With gentle guidance, I shared my own story and explained the beauty and versatility of type 4 hair. Then, I worked my magic, transforming Tasha's curls into a stunning afro that framed her face with confidence. I'll never forget how she admired herself in the mirror with tears welling up in her eyes. I knew that the true transformation wasn't just in the hairstyle but in Tasha's newfound self-love.

As my reputation grew, women from all walks of life sought my expertise. My salon soon became a community hub, promoting a sense of sisterhood and pride in natural beauty. My passion and dedication transformed the salon into more than just a business; it became a movement celebrating Black women and the unique beauty of their type 4 hair".

Wow, that's truly inspiring. Incredible! "

"Thank you. I still pinch myself sometimes to make sure this is real. 

I want to do something like that with my products." 

"you should, Can you tell me more about your products?

Curls and Care is a hair and skincare brand. The formulas for each are enriched with natural and organic everyday ingredients that you'll find around your house. Our products promote healthy hair and skin. I started making these products in my studio apartment in Jamaica, and now, here I am. The feedback from customers has been overwhelmingly positive".

"I believe there is great potential for Ebony Essence to both use and retail your products. This could be a mutually beneficial partnership.

"I'm glad to hear that! Would you mind sharing more about how our partnership would work?

 Mickayla presented an outline of the proposed partnership, emphasizing the advantages for both parties. She proposed that her salon would have privileged access to the new product line before its release, and in return, Shanice's brand would gain exposure and credibility through the esteemed salon".

"That's amazing"

The two women collaborated on generating ideas for promotional events, developing marketing strategies, and seamlessly integrating Shanice's products with the salon's existing services. 

I have drafted the contract and can have my team send it over to your legal team for review.

"That sounds fantastic. I'll have them reach out to you, and we can hopefully get everything sorted by the time I fully relaunch CC. We can announce it at my relaunch event.

 That sounds perfect. Let's do it"

Shanice and Mickayla shook hands, sealing the deal with their shared vision for a successful partnership. As Shanice left the salon, she couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to join forces with a businesswoman like Mickayla. She knew that their collaboration had the potential to elevate both of their ventures to new heights.

12 pm

"Hey, Daniel."

"Hi ladies, is Boss Lady back yet?"

"Yeah, she's in her office."

*knock knock*

"Come in."

"Hey, Mamaz."

"Hi Babe, are you ready for lunch?"

"Yeah, just let me get my bag then we can go."

"Okay."

At lunch:

"How was your meeting?"

"It went well. I'm really excited to be working with a powerhouse such as Mickayla. She's so incredible, and her story is inspiring. I hope to have the impact that she does one day."

"I'm happy you loved it. You know you're a powerhouse too, right?"

"Yeah."

"You're doing a great job, and I'm proud of you."

"Thank you, baby."

"Mickayla did draft up a contract. I need your legal team to take a look at it before I sign off on anything. Do you think you can get me a meeting with them?"

"Of course. How does tomorrow sound?"

"Sounds like a plan."