Conversations with Brittiney Cousin

Today we’d like to introduce you to Brittiney Cousin.  

Hi Brittiney, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I’ve always possessed artistic talents as far back as I can remember. In seventh grade, I drew up a floor plan of what I envisioned my salon to be. It was called ‘Hip Hop Hair & Nails’ and was going to be the most frequented salon in history! However, as I reached my early twenties…career goals changed drastically. The beauty industry didn’t quite fit into the bubble in which I visualized for myself. I didn’t believe it held the prestige nor income I wanted to possess. I am an entrepreneur and define myself as an ‘artist.’ An artist creates, and I’m the most creative person I’ve had the pleasure of knowing lol. However, I still don’t know what I want to be when I grown up (go figure). I’ve gained stellar performance records in sales over the years and began to implement my knowledge through my many different crafts, one being the beauty industry. I started an e-commerce brand KYNDALL KOLLECTION, a luxury hair extensions line in 2018. It did well! I noticed that much had changed within the market, and it could in fact be extremely lucrative. After much thought, I decided to resign from corporate America in order to enroll into Cosmetology School. I completed Paul Mitchell The School-Columbus with a 96% GPA and Honors on Color. Also, I became certified in Hair and Eyelash Extensions. Upon graduation I was faced with the inevitable decision of working for an already established salon or taking the risk of owning and operating my own…you guessed it! I chose to open EGO Beauty Bar a mere two months after becoming a licensed cosmetologist. EGO, which is an acronym for ‘Every Girl’s Obsession,’ serves as an Urban Upscale Full-service Salon. One of the only Woman and Minority owned luxury salons in Columbus. I am extremely proud of this accomplishment and my team of industry professionals that were willing to join this journey with me! They are the sole reason of the salon’s continued success. 

We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The road has been enough to take me right to edge, but not over! There were plenty bumps and barriers in the renovation phase of the salon, as well as after its opening. Being sure to find the right team, not stressing over finances, profits, losses, supply and demand, the works. I struggled with “why aren’t the stations filled yet” syndrome for a while. However, I trusted the process. Slowly but surely, my woes and worries because nonexistent. 

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar, what can you tell them about what you do?
I am a Natural Hair & Extensions Specialist… 

I am known for my remarkable strategies in working with textured hair, as well as my ability to create flawless and seamless ‘natural looking’ styles using hair extensions. 

I am most proud of being sought after for Workshops, Classes, and Women Empowerment events based on my professional career. Also, I recently became the Professional Development Specialist at Paul Mitchell The School-Chicago!!! Can you say, OMG! Definitely a huge accomplishment after a short year and a half as a beauty professional. I am extremely grateful! 

Do you have recommendations for books, apps, blogs, etc?
Yes, all social media platforms!!! (Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, etc). How can you not like FREE marketing?! I utilize them daily to create content, drive in consumer sales, and generate a following of supporters. Also, specifically to the beauty industry is a platform called CANVAS ME. It is a wonderful way to show off your personal portfolio as an artist or as a business owner. I highly recommend them! 

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://instagram.com/cakecartel?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kyndallkollection