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Hidden Gems: Meet A’Neshia Samuel of Styled By NeshiaRaye

Today we’d like to introduce you to A’Neshia Samuel.

Hi A’Neshia , so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
My journey didn’t start with a blueprint or a safety net. It started with survival, responsibility, and me knowing I wanted more for myself and my kids. I’ve always been a hustler in the purest sense figuring it out as I go, learning through experience, and trusting my instincts.

Becoming an entrepreneur wasn’t a trend for me; it was a necessity that turned into purpose. I had to create stability, and in doing that, I found my power. I started in the beauty industry, turning a skill into income and then into independence. What began as braiding hair grew into Styled by Neshia Raye. Not just a brand, but a standard. I wasn’t just doing hair; I was creating a space where people felt confident, comfortable, and seen. Over time, I realized my impact went beyond the chair, which led me into education and digital products focused on boundaries, professionalism, and sustainability in the beauty industry.

Writing became another outlet for me, a way to tell the truth without softening it. Becoming an author allowed me to process my experiences, my growth, and my healing out loud. My work isn’t about pretending life is perfect; it’s about being honest about the process and still choosing to keep going.

Today, I’m intentional about everything I build. I move with purpose, not pressure. I don’t rush what’s meant to grow, and I don’t speak on things before they’re ready. My story is still being written, but one thing I know for sure is this: everything I’ve been through shaped me into a woman who stands firm in who she is and what she’s building.

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?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. Building something from the ground up while being a mother, a provider, and still doing the inner work comes with its own set of challenges.

One of the biggest struggles has been doing things without consistent support financially, emotionally, and sometimes physically. There were moments where I had to choose between rest and responsibility, and responsibility always came first. I’ve also had to learn the hard way about boundaries, burnout, and the cost of overextending myself in the name of survival.

Another challenge was unlearning habits that no longer served me. I had to shift from just “getting by” to building with intention, structure, and discipline. That transition wasn’t easy, especially when you’re used to figuring things out on your own and moving in hustle mode.

Despite all of that, every challenge forced growth. It taught me how to be adaptable, how to trust my instincts, and how to move smarter instead of harder. I don’t see the obstacles as setbacks but they were necessary lessons that shaped how I build today.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
Styled by NeshiaRaye is a beauty brand built on professionalism, consistency, and confidence. I specialize in luxury braiding and protective styles, but what truly sets my work apart is the experience I create not just the service.

I’m known for attention to detail, clean work, and setting standards that protect both the client and the stylist. My brand prioritizes boundaries, time management, and quality over quantity. I believe beauty services should feel intentional, not rushed, and every client should leave feeling confident and cared for.

Beyond services, I’m proud of the structure behind my brand. I’ve focused on building systems, policies, and processes that allow my business to run smoothly and sustainably. That foundation has also allowed me to expand into education and digital resources, sharing what I’ve learned with other beauty professionals who want to elevate their work without burning themselves out.

What I want readers to know is that Styled by NeshiaRaye isn’t just about hair, m it’s about standards, self worth, and building something that lasts. Everything I offer reflects growth, discipline, and respect for the craft.

Where do you see things going in the next 5-10 years?
Over the next 5–10 years, I see the beauty industry continuing to shift toward quality, professionalism, and sustainability. Clients are becoming more intentional about who they book with, not just based on trends, but on consistency, trust, and the overall experience.

I think there will be a bigger separation between stylists who treat this like a hobby and those who treat it like a business. Boundaries, policies, and structure will matter more than ever, especially as burnout becomes more common in service based industries.

I also see education and digital resources playing a bigger role. Stylists are looking for ways to work smarter, protect their time, and create longevity beyond just being behind the chair. The industry is evolving from “just doing hair” to building brands, systems, and multiple income streams rooted in skill and experience.

Overall, the future belongs to those who are intentional, disciplined, and willing to grow. The industry will always change, but professionalism and integrity will never go out of style.

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