Meet Ne’yanna Williamson | Master Loctician, Salon Owner, Instructor

We had the good fortune of connecting with Ne’yanna Williamson and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Ne’Yanna, have there been any changes in how you think about work-life balance?
My work life balance would be unrecognizable to the woman I was in 2020 or 2021. When I first started my business I wore all of the hats. Most people think running a salon only consists of doing the clients hair then going home. Most days I would be there between 12 and 16 hours of the day sometimes even longer. Some nights it was late last min clients getting worked in. Other nights it was cleaning or shipping out online orders for my product line. I even teach classes to new stylists. Currently I am now embarking on a new journey. I have a beautiful 5 month old daughter named Nola Reign. Before I was a workaholic, I would miss holidays and birthdays because I was always booked in advance. Though i’m still on a high from welcoming home my baby girl i’m also rearranging the structure of my business. I’m working less in the salon and stepping more into the management roll in the company. Although its hard to cut back on the only thing I loved, theres a new sheriff in town. Nothing brings me more joy than being able to mold and watch my little girl grow daily. I mostly work online tending to the other avenues of my business.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Owning Knottyheadz Salon has been an incredibly rewarding journey, built on my passion for the beauty industry and a desire to create a space where both clients and staff feel valued. I started as a stylist and eventually realized my true calling was to build a supportive, creative environment where people could grow—both as professionals and individuals.

The path to owning a salon wasn’t easy. It took hard work, sleepless nights, and overcoming challenges like managing finances and hiring the right team. But the most fulfilling part has been watching my team succeed and seeing clients leave feeling more confident and beautiful. I’ve learned that success comes with patience, consistency, and always staying true to your values.

What sets us apart is our commitment to creating a positive, empowering experience for every client who walks through the door. My goal is for people to not only look great but feel great, and I want my team to feel proud of the work they do every day.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend were visiting Memphis for a week, I’d show them the city’s rich history, music, and incredible food. We’d explore Beale Street for live blues, visit the National Civil Rights Museum, and tour Graceland and Sun Studio. We’d enjoy classic Memphis BBQ at places like Central BBQ and Gus’s, and spend some time outdoors at Tom Lee Park and Shelby Farms. I’d also take them to hidden gems like the Dixon Gallery & Gardens and the Cooper-Young neighborhood. Most importantly, I’d want them to experience the vibrant culture and unique energy that make Memphis so special, ensuring it’s a trip full of fun and lasting memories.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Id have to start off by thanking God for seeing me through all the changes that entrepreneurship comes with as well as life.
My second huge thank you is to Choices Reproductive Center. I received my care during my pregnancy from the wonderful ladies here. It was by far the best care I have received and Nola is perfect. My last shoutout will be to the clients and vendors that has patronized my business. Since becoming mom and needing more flexibility than ever nobody has understood the assignment netter. I truly appreciate you all.

Website: https://www.knottyheadzsalonandspa.com

Facebook: Knottyheadz Salon