So many are embracing the freedom, flexibility and the beauty of Sisterlocks. It really warms my heart to see couples supporting each other in the decision to wear natural hair. Back when I first started Sisterlocks I met far more women who were hesitant to lock because they didn't know how their decision would go over with their loved ones. Today, thankfully, we encounter that challenge far less. So, what changed?

I talk to couples all the time where at least one partner who has locked and I usually ask the men how they initially responded to their mates decision to lock. Answers range from, "it took me a while to understand where this was going; or, "I just wasn't feeling it; and on occasion, "it was MY idea because I knew she would look beautiful.

We know that's true because women who embrace their natural hair usually develop a deeper level of confidence they didn't have before. That confidence is born out of making a decision they know is right for them and it really doesn't matter if anyone else agrees. That's the change! Making the decision and allowing nothing else to matter! This happens when we are right with ourselves.

How did your mate react to your decision to lock? Did they need or have an attitude adjustment? Have they joined you on the journey and locked also? Sound off on how you're living and loving while locked! #letstalk

“I believe the children are our future...!” Those are some of the most profound Whitney Houston lyrics ever. I believe that children benefit from Sisterlocks and those who are fortunate enough to wear them will grow up with higher self esteem.
In past generations little girls were encouraged to wear natural hair. In fact, many weren’t allowed to wear anything but - no heat, no chemicals, etc.; just pom poms, ponytails and braids. When heat and chemicals became “the easy fix” (we were trying to fix something that wasn’t broken) and increasingly popular in the 1960-70s we, in large numbers, jumped on the bandwagon without much protest. Unfortunately, many took the children on that ride, too. If we’re honest the heat and chemicals altered our natural hair with detrimental side effects. Following that trend, our youth have been allowed to wear weaves, extensions and even dye. It’s sad to see young girls with broken edges and hair loss due to unhealthy hair care practices.
Everyone benefits from Sisterlocks, especially children. The sooner the appreciation for our natural hair is instilled in children the less likely they are to want to alter their texture. It is not recommended to establish Sisterlocks in children younger than 5 years old, however, many moms have. (A Consultant will be able to advise appropriately on a case by case basis).

Are there challenges with locking children? Yes, there can be, as there can with anything you do in life. The most common challenge children must overcome is sometimes being “the only one” with locks. Their peers sometimes do not understand the benefits and tease because the child with locks is “different.” Sometimes, this teasing is further spurred by a “green eyed monster.”

Here are some tips to making life easier:
1.) It’s usually best when a child chooses locks for themselves rather than the decision being made for them. This is best accomplished when they are pre-educated and made a part of the decision making process. Show them photos, the Sisterlocks videos and calendars, etc. Attend Sisterlocks and natural hair events where they can interact with other children/adults who have them also.
2.) Explain the benefits of having Sisterlocks, i.e. being able to participate in sports and exercise (track, swimming, etc.) without worrying about the hair reverting; having versatile styling options and having unlimited hair growth. The list goes on and on.
3.) We’ve discovered children have an easier time when other family members also wear locks and encourage their decision. This is often a family affair and children feel there’s safety in numbers. A strong community of support helps to build a child’s self esteem.
4.) Address bullying, immediately. If a problem arises, discuss the matter openly and offer to educate those in authority (teachers, administrators, etc.). Lack of knowledge can worsen any situation. Bullying is often seen around the middle school ages - when their peers have weak, damaged hair (from heat and chemicals, braids too tight, etc.) and haven’t been taught the beauty of natural hair and Sisterlocks. Meanwhile, your child’s Sisterlocks are “down their backs.” Help your child to recognize that this is not a reflection on them, at all - translation: haters gonna hate!
So, spare your child the unnecessary heartache of burns on her ear and neck; hair loss and pain and suffering. Teach them that their hair is beautiful! Besides, “...learning to love yourself, it the greatest love of all!”
​
For more information on all things Sisterlocks and to order products go to www.sisterlocks.com and thank you for sharing.

One thing I know for sure about Sisterlocks wearers:  We dance to our own beat!  This is because when we make the decision to lock  the benefits of wearing our natural hair far outweigh any of our choices in the past.

I've personally witnessed women getting Sisterlocks and having their self esteem and confidence soar through the roof!  I mean, you can't tell them anything!  If you don't believe me, check out Sisterlocks wearers in your world.  She/he is unapologetic about their decision to lock.

Sisterlocks brings about a lot of "firsts," for many of us.  We can remember the first time we didn't have to bundle to shampoo; the first time we shampooed our hair in the shower!   Rarely had we ever done that!  What about the first time you realized you couldn't find a comb anywhere in your house?  And I can remember the first time I was able to go swimming without that undying fear that an unplanned drop of water would land on my scalp!    Freedom!

It's a kind of freedom you can't explain to anyone, especially not to the people who look at you in wonder.  You just have to them look.  Occasionally, people will watch long enough to get it and they will often link their arm through yours and join you in the most liberating dance for people with nappy hair.  

Check out our training opportunities and Consultant Registries.  #sharethedance #unapologetic #sisterlocks  www.sisterlocks.com

 First of all, I want to tip a lock to every person out there doing Sisterlocks. Being a Consultant takes a special person with a heart for people.  I tip another lock to Sisterlocks' wearers.  These are the soldiers who were looking for something, anything to answer their hair care woes.  After battling the “what do I do with it” question for years, the real question usually comes down to:  What do Black women want when they think about their hair?  

It usually boils down to the desire to stop looking at our hair as a source of bewilderment, something to figure out…to be dealt with.  At the end of the day, we just want peace!

​If I were to poll Sisterlocks Consultants across the globe, I believe many of them would say the common declaration shared by their potential clients is that they say, “I’m tired!  Just plain tired and I don’t want to run from my hair, anymore.”  That’s the common theme.  That fatigue has usually been caused by years of trying to “fix” their hair and the issues that accompanied the “fix.”

There have been an abundance of fixes, over the years.  She’s heat straightened it, only to discover that repeated straightening can cause long term damage including burns (ear, neck, scalp, etc.), split ends and breakage.  Plus, this style often required sleeping with your head hanging out of the bed and avoiding perspiration just to preserve the “style.”  

Out of sheer frustration, many move over to chemical straightening because that process will last longer and will be more convenient.  Then she learns the dreaded term:  “over processed.”  This tiny little side effect of chemical straightening  can have irreparable consequences, sometimes resulting in an unplanned hair cut  - “the big chop” because she could no longer wear the lie - lye! 

So, she braids it to cover up the damage and to also buy some time before doing the inevitable big chop.  Then there are hats, scarves and protective styles.  The endless attempts to deal with her hair.

As fate would have it, one day while in the mall, grocery store, park or the library, she meets someone who has Sisterlocks and O.M.G. - the bells of freedom ring, the heavens open up and voila!  She’s discovered the next best step.  Sisterlocks!

Of course, once she’s in the Sisterlocks family she discovers that it’s not just about her hairstyle.  Her life changes.  She finds peace and serenity (usually, after the settling in phase of her locks :-).  She's dancing like nobody's watching, swimming, she's on time for appointments.  She's loving life and her Sisterlocks!

She also becomes an ambassador for Sisterlocks.  Spreading the word, alerting others that there really is a better way.  Many of these ambassadors become, you guessed it, Consultants.  They know what it means to yearn for hair care peace.  They develop a heart for people!  And they do it all while maintaining their peace!

Did I know this would be the result when I started Sisterlocks?  No!  What I did know was how Sisterlocks made me feel and I knew I had to share it.  Today, I'm just happy to see so many of my sisters and brothers reaping the benefits, too!  Are you reaping the benefits?  Have you experienced peace of mind?  Comment below and let me know.  Peace!

It's exactly one week until my Sisterlocks family will converge on San Diego to celebrate Homecoming 2017!  This event is the culmination of months of planning the classes and activities that we can all enjoy, learn from and experience together.  I love it when people come to Home Office for this event because they get to experience, "coming home to Sisterlocks."  That phrase originally meant embracing Sisterlocks the hairstyle.  For Homecoming it means, come home, learn, grow, celebrate, laugh, love and kick up your heels!  This is another important element of the Sisterlocks Lifestyle.

Hopefully, you're planning to join us in San Diego, July 7-9th for all the festivities and excitement we have planned.  Let me know in the comments.  Also, look out throughout the weekend for different messages from Homecoming Live!  I've got to get back to tending to these last minute details!  See you next week, Dr. C! #SLHomecoming2017 #kickupyourheels #letskickit ​​

"Specialty Classes" at Homecoming Event
​July 7-9 / Home Office
2043 El Cajon Blvd. San Diego, CA 92104
When people pay for Sisterlocks services, they expect professional services! When people choose to wear Sisterlocks, they expect good information on how to care for and maintain them in the healthiest way. These are a couple of reasons why we offer "Specialty Classes" during the Sisterlocks Homecoming. Our courses are taught by Sisterlocks professionals, and follow consistent, tested guidelines and procedures. Here's what's in store at this year's Homecoming:

"Hands on Styling"
Official Sisterlocks Class

​This class covers basic principles for styling Sisterlocks. The majority of techniques taught can be applied to other natural locks and twists. The class focuses on proper care and prep, using the right styling aids and techniques, using proper products and styling for the face shape. Both Consultants and clients are welcome to enroll.  
​Hands on Styling

Business Coaching Workshop

Could your business use a shot in the arm? Sit with Michelle Bryant, the Sisterlocks National Training Supervisor for this intense, practical workshop on ways to maximize the success of your Sisterlocks practice. Open to Sisterlocks Trainees and Consultants, active or inactive.
Business Coaching Workshop

"Cuttin' & Stylin' with Calla
Two Cutting/Styling Classes for Cosmetologists / Professional Stylists

​For Cosmetologists/Professional Stylists wanting to learn more about how to achieve professional styles with properly cut/shaped Sisterlocks.
​Cuttin' & Stylin' With Calla  - Part 1: Cutting
​Cuttin' & Stylin' With Calla  - Part 2: Styling

On July 7-9, 2017, we will celebrate our annual Homecoming celebration.  The Friday kick off will be a casual, festive BBQ to welcome guests to Home Office and the San Diego area.  The Live Life Locked theme will provide educational classes and thought provoking, solution oriented panel discussions. 

We welcome our special keynote guest actor/comedian Phyllis Yvonne Stickney.  Ms. Stickney will participate in various activities at Homecoming including hosting the Saturday evening event featuring our Styling Showcase throw down.
 
The Sisterlocks Trichology Analyst Certification class is offered to Certified Consultants.  Trichology Analyst (TA) students will be armed with the ability to work with clients experiencing hair loss.  TAs work directly with Sisterlocks approved Trichologists.
 
“Cuttin’ and Stylin’ with Calla” is a 2-part class for Sisterlocks Consultants and Cosmetologists.  Attendees will learn to properly cut and shape locks and proper roller placement for various types of curls.  Various workshops, games and entertainment will be featured throughout the weekend.  Sisterlocks Master Stylists will provide activities including pop-up styling demos, contests and games. 
 
More information is available on our home page www.sisterlocks.com #SLHomecoming2017

I can not say enough about how much I admire and love this Sister!  For years we have seen her boldly and unapologetically show up and be herself.  Phyllis Yvonne Stickney has graciously agreed to accept our invitation as our special guest at Homecoming.  If you've never experienced her acting or comedic performances, you've missed out.  Fortunately, she will be up close and personal at Homecoming, July 7-9, 2017.  Don't miss out.  Register at www.sisterlocks.com.  Her details will show just how powerful a presence Ms. Stickney is.  See you at Homecoming!
                                                              
PHYLLIS YVONNE STICKNEY has longevity and staying power in the industry. Phyllis began her education at the University of Delaware, where she became an Associate in the Theater Department. She was soon called to New York City where she continued her studies at the Institute of New Cinema Artist but Hollywood would soon take note of this dynamic performer.
 
A decorated Actress/Director/Author/Producer/Community Activist/Motivational Speaker and more, Phyllis is best know and respected for her work in film, stage, television and comedy.

THE ACTRESS
A diverse and acclaimed actress, Phyllis has an unmatchable range from an articulate attorney to a feisty comedy club diva, to a Jamaican mother of class and status to one of the most intelligently hilarious comic talents recognized in HBO’s The History of Blacks In Comedy. Phyllis’ most notable roles are in films such as New Jack City, Die Hard With A Vengeance, How Stella Got Her Groove Back, The Inkwell, What’s Love Got To Do With It? and Malcolm X, among her in-depth film credits. Her recent contribution to the screen is Gun Hill written and directed by Reggie “Rock” Bythewood starring Larenz Tate BET’s first dramatic series. Phyllis made television history by portraying an African Centered character on The Cosby Show spinoff A Different World. A trend setter, a visionary and a consummate artist, Phyllis was named by ESSENCE MAGAZINE 25TH ANNIVERSARY ISSUE “One of 200 African American Women Who Changed the World.” An ambassador of arts, Phyllis has performed comedy in Israel, danced in Senegal and studied the European form of cabaret production in Germany.

THE DIRECTORIn 2001, Phyllis directed the stage show BEEN THERE DONE THAT with Judge Mathis and gospel artist Fred Hammond. The production was the first of the genre to sell out the Paramount Theater at MADISON SQUARE GARDEN. She received special notices and favorable reviews for bringing integrity to gospel stage play.

THE AUTHORA writer in the anthology, “Nine Black Comedy Plays” Phyllis is also a published author of “Loud Thoughts for Quiet Moments”--a collection of poetry and personal perspectives. Selected pieces are recorded on her CD with the same title which Phyllis performs during live events. She is currently writing a book for aspiring performing artists.

THE PRODUCERIn 2013-2013, Phyllis produced “Calling All Comics”, “Are You Kidding Me” and “Comedy Revue” at MIST Harlem of the Interactive Comedy Show & Clinic . She is also the driving force behind the Soulful Saturday Series in Los Angeles, “Laughter and Lyrics” in Jamaica, “The Upper Room Poets and Playwrights Workshop” in NYC/LA, Host of “The Comedy Connection” at the world famous Cotton Club in Harlem and “P.S. I’m Still Standing”—a one woman production set to tour 2015.

Through all of her accomplishments publicly, Phyllis is a Community Activist who has taken on the “crack houses” and “shooting gallery” in Harlem to help the local community establish and organize a Tenant’s Association. Completed just three (3) years ago, the building now has 52 livable units, safe for families to reside.

MOTIVATIONAL SPEAKERA crowd pleaser for over seven (7) years, Phyllis was the keynote speaker with African-American Woman on Tour and had been a part of the Essence Musical Festival Empowerment Seminars for four (4) consecutive years.

In addition to a wide range of talents, Phyllis developed an entertainment industry training program--Alternative Careers--that offers hands on training in the technical and administrative discipline of television/film and record production. She has also developed a clothing line of affordable coutour—Culture Chic by Phyllis Stickney—a line designed for fuller figured women. She also designed Anointed Adornments Fashions Fit for the First Lady, scheduled to launch in Fall 2014.

We've got our noses to the grindstone working out the final details for Homecoming.  Stay tuned for the announcement of our special celebrity guest.  With that said, we feel that everybody who attends Homecoming is a star...a Super Star!

There have been many details released about the activities and classes planned for this year's event.  Friday, we'll welcome you with a special backyard BBQ.  There will be choices for everyone from meat to veggie options.  Saturday kicks off our classes, workshops, photo shoots and activities with the Sisterlocks Master Stylists Team.

Saturday evening we'll commune together at The Lafayette Hotel for horderves, entertainment and our Styling Showcase Throw Down!  Guests stylists will present their styles on the runway.  This is always a guaranteed blast!

Please register by clicking on the Homecoming link on our Homepage.  Early registration entitles you to a few bonus gifts in your grab bag.  Don't miss out, register today!  I look forward to seeing you, Dr. C

Sisterlocks has developed a Sisterlocks Trichology Analyst certification to address the matter of hair loss among our natural hair care clients.  The class is offered to Certified Sisterlocks Consultants and will be held during Sisterlocks Homecoming, July 7-9, 2017 in San Diego, CA.  Lock Trichology Analyst Certification students will learn:

1. To provide hair loss advice and provide the right products for your clients.
2. Learn how to do an in-depth analysis of your clients’ scalp conditions and partner with a Trichologist to address these conditions.
3. Learn how to properly measure and fit your hair loss clients with a “Compliment” unit. The Compliment is a hairpiece that uses either the client's own Sisterlocks or donor Sisterlocks. 

 
​Through the years, Sisterlocks Consultants and Trainees have encountered the issue of hair thinning, alopecia and a plethora of conditions causing these visible symptoms.  We have all commiserated with our clients over what causes hair loss, what to do about it and how.
 
Clients may have consulted with medical professionals including general practitioners, dermatologists and gynecologists.  Most are told they have traction alopecia and should remove their “braids.”  This advice may be valid for some, except, Sisterlocks are not braids and do not cause damage to the hair follicles.  We concede that former braid wearers may have residual side effects, i.e. thinning at the edges.

In 2015 Sisterlocks collaborated with beauty expert, Cheryl Morrow, to create the certification course.  The Lock Trichology Analyst course will be offered over a 3-day period, July 7-9, 2017 at the Sisterlocks Homecoming event.  This class is open to Certified Sisterlocks Consultants who will be taught to work with a Sisterlocks Trichologist Partner to perform a proper analysis of the scalp, using a scope to take photos of affected areas.  Trichology Analysts will work closely with the client.  When necessary they will consult with a Trichologist partner who will advise on treatment.
 
This class also provides attendees training to become Sizing Technicians for The Compliment - Sisterlocks' answer to hair thinning and hair loss.  This customized prosthetic unit provides fullness and confidence, and “compliments” a hair loss client’s Sisterlocks.
 
To learn more and enroll in the Sisterlocks Trichology Analyst class on the Sisterlocks website 
http://2017hc.sisterlocks.com/uploads/8/3/4/6/8346058/trichology_2017_cert_use.pdf 
For registration information:  ​http://2017hc.sisterlocks.com/