


By Lynn Jones – As more African American women release their natural hair styles to gain traction to free Black women from the stigmas of their kinky/coily/curly hair, the 5th annual ‘Natural Beauty and Wellness Festival’ was held to infuse natural beauty products and services for every level of hair, age and genre. The celebration included an array of vendors showcasing hair types, skin/beauty care, fashion, art, jewelry, food and onsite health/fitness demonstrations and entertainment. Held inside the Jacksonville Equestrian Center, hundreds of attendees rushed the main stage to hear featured R&B artists Lyfe Jennings and saxophonist Imani Lauren perform. “It was hot, hot, but the networking and learning about hair options was a plus. I’m just now releasing my perm and excited to learn about protective styles for my hair,” said Melanie Thurman.
Heading downtown, entrepreneur and boutique owner Nicole Smith, presented her ‘Carmen on The Run Styling’ boutique pop-up-shop featuring current nouveau fashions: kimonos, jewelry and perusal of health/wellness and refreshment vendors. When asked how you create a winning style, Smith smiled, “Wearing head turning apparel is a conversation piece and exudes confidence,” she said.
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