Natural Curly Hair Solution

On Wednesday, our baby turned 13! Does it seem like yesterday when we brought her home?...not really, but it's certainly been fun. However, one of the challenges we've had along the way is HAIR. Oh my gosh, this girl was born with hair enough for three people and on top of that, it's as curly as a corkscrew. Let's just say in 13 years, we've spent our fair share of time and money trying to tame those locks. And being The Everyday Organic, chemical solutions were a NO-NO!

Since she was approaching her 13th and 7th grade can be an oh so self-conscious year, I new it was time for some aggressive action. I had a list of salons I'd been saving for awhile. I grabbed the list and got online. As soon as I opened the Urbanbella website, I knew this was it. They claim to be specialists in curly, kinky, wavy hair. THAT'S US! I can't remember how I originally found Urbanbella so if it was one of my girl's out there, I O U!

Fulton County was thoughtful enough to give the kids an early release on Sydney's birthday so that would be the perfect afternoon for a visit to the salon. After school, we headed to Buckhead for lunch at Golberg's deli (YUM!) and then around the corner to meet Giselle at Urbanbella.

We had a 2hr. reservation and no overbooking here ladies. If your appointment is at two, you'll be seen at two. How revolutionary is that? Oh, one note, when you book your appointment, you'll be asked to give a $50 deposit on a credit card. Different, I know, but don't be put off. Just reserve your spot and go.

We meet Carol, Giselle's assistant and she takes Sydney back to wash her hair. Now, if you're like me, it always matters how adults service your kids. We've all been places where people seem put off to be working with kids or on the other hand treat them like their adults and that doesn't work either. Not here. Carol was gentle and kind and explained to us both everything she was doing and why. Like why she was washing her hair 4x-YA, 4 times...to get all the old product out. How many salons will take the time to wash your hair 4x. Seriously, she probably used an entire bottle of shampoo. But Carol was cool about the whole thing and not once did I feel like a bad mom who's daughter's hair was uncared for. Thank you Carol!

After four shampoos with non-sudsing shampoo (that's right, no sodium lauryl sulfate), a detangling conditioner,and a deep conditioner it was Giselle's turn. She worked her magic trimming and shaping. Then we tested products to see which gave the best curl. We found it! I know right now you want me to tell you what it is. You know, everyone's hair is different so what works for Sydney might not work for you. Stay with me though.

All the time Giselle explained the what, when, why, and how of everything she was doing so when we left we would know exactly what to do. Now moms, you have to really appreciate this next one. Instead of pushing me to buy all 6 or 7 products she used, she suggested we start with one and finish the products we have at home. Then come and add a few more. WOW! Her emphasis was on technique versus the exact product. Now don't get me wrong, products matter-good quality, as natural as can be product. But, I didn't feel pressured to buy theirs or condemned cuz' we're using "those". From all of us on a budget, thank you Giselle!

After two hours, we were ready to go. Sydney's hair looked great, she had a smile on her face and the confidence of looking good and I felt well equipped to help her continue with her new routine. I had to hug Giselle when we were done. I was so grateful. Honestly, how often do you walk into a salon a stranger and have to hug your stylist when you leave? Now pick up that phone, dial 404-255-5022 for Urbanbella and tell them The Everyday Organic told you to call Giselle. Remember, I want to see your before and after photos. See Sydney's after photo below.




These pictures were taken this morning, two days later, which is the true test for any hair style and routine. Forgive the forced smile on missy's face. It was 6:45 and somebody was still a bit grumpy...her hair was looking good though!