Today we’d like to introduce you to Sz’nyia Williams
Hi Sz’Nyia, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
When I was younger, everything about beauty and fashion piqued my interest. I was a true girly girl: I loved playing dress up, doing my nails, and styling hair (mainly my dolls’) for as long as I can remember. As I got older, I took an interest in beauty competition shows and movies such as Beauty Shop and Hair Show. Little did I know, a career in cosmetology had been calling my name. Fast forward to my high school years, I got the opportunity to enroll and be accepted into North Technical High School’s Cosmetology program for my Junior and Senior year; just as my mom had been. Being in the program allowed me to gain more knowledge about the industry and helped me further develop my skills. I became more confident and prepared for salon life outside of the classroom. I received my cosmetology license at 18 in 2020, in addition to my braider’s certificate. I was gifted my first salon chair a few months later for my 19th birthday, and that’s when everything began to really sink in: I am really a licenced hairstylist. Thus, Slay’d By Sz’Nyia Zhiané was born. I began working as a stylist assistant to Tay of Tay Renee Beauty & Braids, while simultaneously practicing my craft in the “work room/office” area at home. Watching Tay and working with her has truly taught me a lot. She gave me insight on things she has learned from being in the industry, and put me in a position to progress tremendously. A lot of the styling techniques I use today have come from us working hand in hand. My work started to intrigue others and I got the chance to branch out on my own. In the midst of building my clientele, I even started my own lash brand in 2022, that is now known as The Signature Mink Collection! Even though I am servicing clients on my own, Tay and I still work very closely with each other, as we are suitemates! I plan to keep expanding my brand and soaking up all the knowledge this industry has to offer. My ultimate goal is to own a full service salon, just like the ones in the movies, for beauty professionals to call their home.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Being in the industry, and being an entrepreneur as a whole, has definitely come with its share of obstacles. There have been times when I have doubted myself and my ability to meet my clients expectations; I have struggled with fear and worrying due to lack of support, or feeling as though I should have spent the last few years gaining more experience and knowledge to be able to have the answers my clients search for. As an independent stylist, I take care of all of my own overhead costs: restocking the products I use, providing the braiding hair for my guests, upgrading my tools, and of course booth rent. That’s just half of it. At times, it can all be a little overwhelming, but being able to meet new faces, build those interpersonal relationships and trust between the client and myself is what I live for. My passion for this industry goes beyond anything I could ever imagine; I really can’t see myself on any other career path. I am reminded that this industry is forever evolving. You have to be willing to adapt and pivot, so that you won’t feel stuck. Bookings are slow? Take that time to invest in a class or two; learn those new techniques, brush up on those skills. Never be afraid to change your game in order to achieve your dream!
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
Slay’d By Sz’Nyia Zhiané offers a variety of services, however I specialize in braid styles. I am more recently known for my spin on the viral “Boho Knotless Bob” seen all over TikTok and Instagram. It has been one of my most booked styles over the course of the year. I am proud of how far God has brought me, and I am excited to see what else is in store for both Slay’d By Sz’Nyia Zhiané and The Signature Mink Collection. It puts a smile on my face when new clients come in and they’re like “I found you on {Tiktok, Instagram, Facebook} and I fell in love with your work!” or the compliments I get on my professionalism and my workspace. I believe what sets me apart is the style of my work, and just the overall experience I provide: I take the time to develop meaningful relationships with my clients. I go above and beyond for them and I love how they love on me in return: always referring me to new people, making sure they pre-book, and just being amazing!
Pricing:
- Shampoo service- $25
- Quickweave- $75
- Boho Knotless Bob- $160
- Feed In Braids (varies- see website)
- Knotless/Boho Knotless Braids (varies-see website)
Contact Info:
- Website: https://slaydbysznyiazhiane.as.me/schedule/7e7144aa
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/slaydbysznyiazhiane/
- Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/sznyia.williams.9/
- Youtube: https://m.youtube.com/@sznyiazhiane
- Other: https://thesignatureminkcollection.myshopify.com
Image Credits
Photo of myself: India Harris
Other photos: myself
