Today we’d like to introduce you to Bradacia McCray
Hi Bradacia , so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
As a child, I was taught to braid by my grandmother. She would always braid my hair and my mom would always give me ponytails. One day I asked my grandmother to teach me to braid like her. I was no more than 7; from then on I fell in love with being creative with hair. Everyday I would practice on my Bratz doll. Sasha was my first mannequin. From then, I knew I wanted to be a cosmetologist. Most kids that age changed their mind frequently about their career choices, I wasn’t one of them. Years later I saw the movie Beauty Shop, from there, I wanted to be a salon owner. I was always smart in school and wanted to continue my education. Graduating high school as a licensed cosmetologist was the first step in making my dream come true. After high school I graduated from USC Sumter with an associates degree in Fine Arts. After those two years, I transferred to USC Aiken and graduated with my bachelors degree in Business Management in 2018. In 2021, while working in a salon and in education I graduated from Strayer University with my master degree in Digital Entrepreneurship. That same year I took a leap of faith and worked in a salon setting full time. Three years later I took another leap of faith and opened my own salon on July 20, 2024. I’ve also created a natural hair care line called lady D’s potions in 2020, which now sits on the selves in my salon.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Making your dreams come true will always be a lot of work. I’ve had many obstacles throughout my journey but my Lord and Savor Jesus Christ has always seen me through. I have had my fair share of challenges but, through prayer and the decision to not give up has made this journey worth it. After graduating USC Aiken I landed a job in Marketing. I knew that wasn’t my calling at all. I hadn’t forgotten my dream I just knew that I needed to support myself. In doing so, I became comfortable after a period of time. Getting uncomfortable was the hardest part because the faith was there I just needed to activate it. From working three jobs to working as stylist and now and owner required receiving a yes from God, good stewardship, and discipline.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about BeUty Beyond?
BeUty Beyond is a full service salon that caters to men, women, and children. The atmosphere is peaceful, clean, and appropriate for all ages. I specialize in natural hair with an emphasis on locs. Though, that is my specialty I am more than capable of maintaining relaxed hair as well. My goal is for the hair to continue to flourish as healthy as possible. While the style may look nice, my main concern is to ensure the hair isn’t being damaged by the amount of tension or manipulation being performed during service. Within my brand, I’m most proud of being able to give back. I’ve created a scholarship for high school seniors exclusively for those graduating from my alma mater, Georgetown High School. At BeUty Beyond, not only will you receive great service but, it’s a place to unwind, receive advice, laugh and engage in conversation. This is your time to relax. I offer a wide variety of services and creativity.
Any big plans?
For the future, I’m prepared to do what God will have me to do. I am preparing to become a cosmetology instructor. Being in education for a short period of time, I didn’t realize how much I enjoyed it. Becoming an instructor will allow me to teach again. Making someone great in this industry, as someone has done for me, is a great honor and privilege.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.beutybeyond.org
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/beutyfied_by_bradacia
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/BeUtyfiedByBradacia
