We had the good fortune of connecting with Genesis Goncalves and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Genesis, do you have any habits that you feel contribute to your effectiveness?
What helped me succeed is definitely consistency. I still remember my first braids and how terrible they came out. Practicing and embarrassing myself is part of the process. I still have my very first braids on my platforms to remind myself and others that we never stop growing. With hard work and dedication, everything is possible.
I also saved up money before I decided to freelance. Not knowing when your next client will be, can be stressful, having some extra cash secured will guarantee a more peaceful journey.
The customer is always tight approach is also important. Though I don’t always agree, I do try my beat to make the client happy and moat of all, I try to remember my clients. People now a days can get anything online so for services, people want an experience and getting to know your client helps you figure out who your target market it.
Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
What sets us apart is our customer service. We are always thinking of new accessories and colors and requests.we never stop learning and we do our best to create along with our clients.
I live for festival seasons! Festival braids is where our creativity flourishes. Its when clients have every excuse to wear all the cool colors and styles. Last EDC Orlando landed at the same time my baby Enzo was born. I worked till the last moment of my pregnancy because festival season is chaotic. ( in a good way)
I got to where I’m at because I truly love braiding. I’ve always loved to create and getting payed for it, is even better. Its not easy to find your niche, juggle friends, work, family, school, etc. if you love what you do, working till the last day of your pregnancy is a breeze 😅
I managed to involve my mom into the business and now we split the responsibilities. She learned how to braid, and now takes my place when im gone. I have been learning how to balance my business, without having to miss any milestones and moments with my family. Having my mom as my right hand allows me to do both.
I learned we have to get uncomfortable to get comfortable. I had a boring 9-5 i hated every second of it. One day i realized I didn’t even want to go for ice cream because $7 was equivalent to 30 minutes of a job that made me miserable. I had 2 jobs, 1 wine tasting gig, and still braided on the weekends.
When i began school full time and braiding on the side, i would braid at home or sometimes do house calls. I asked for braiding hair and work material for my birthday. I missed important dates and festivities. It wasn’t easy but it definitely motivated me that I loved my job. I knew that the dedication and hard work was going to allow me to enjoy my $7 ice cream with extra toppings and more importantly, enjoy my time with my family.
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.
Ouu this is a great question. I’m a Miami girl and I’m proud of our beaches and parks. When I have visitors, first things first, a braid by yours truly. Next we hit up Key Biscayne. It has some calmer beaches and incredible landscapes.
Next up, We can have a paint night And play board games with friends, I always like to meet people from the area when I visit new places.
There’s always the tourist attractions that are accessible but my top activity has to be Key Largo. Kayaking in the mangroves with some mimosas. To catch the sunset we can have some key lime pie.
*assuming baby Enzo is with grandma 😂
Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Im thankful for each and everyone of my clients for believing in me. The person who encouraged me to open social media platforms was my ex boss, Janettsy. I worked in a gym and she was a trainer who always needed her hair out of her face. She managed her social media and believed in my craft and the power all of these platforms have. I owe this one to her, braiding was just a fun hobby and she totally helped me transform it into my full time.
Website: Www.braidaidme.com
Instagram: Braidaid
Twitter: Braidaid
Facebook: Braidaid
Youtube: Braidaid
Other: Tik tok: braidaid
Image Credits
Caldera films