We had the good fortune of connecting with Trina Allen-Johnson and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Trina, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
The thought process behind my business was being able to help people that were in need. I wanted to provide services that not only made my clients feel beautiful but also give hope to those who felt they had no options. Being able to put a smile on someone’s face when they thought that it was nothing they could do is the best feeling ever. Doing what I do is a calling for me, a ministry that God has given me to provide services to those who may not have anywhere else to turn.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?

Minnie’s Natural Hair Lounge is a chemical free salon that provides natural hair services. My services include but are not limited to all phases of Natural Hair including Braids, Locs, both traditional and micro, and all-natural styling options. I also offer several shampoo & treatment options for clients suffering from hair and scalp issues. My specialty however is my Hair Restoration & Rx program which is a specialized program for those who suffer from alopecia and other hair loss conditions. My program is specifically customized to the client’s needs using products that are formulated and handmade by me. I have everything needed to keep your hair long strong and healthy from shampoo and conditioner to moisturizing spray and growth oil. I also have an all-in-one moisturizer that works for both hair and skin. Minnie’s is your one-stop shop for hair and skin products. I’m also a Certified Hair Replacement Specialist who can make custom wigs and hair pieces for both men and women who experience hair loss from thinning, chemotherapy, alopecia areata, chronic hair pulling, or female and male pattern baldness. This service allows the client to be in control and not let the hair loss control them. At Minnie’s Natural Lounge, I want you to feel like family not just a client. Your health and well-being is important to me. I believe that in order to have a healthy head of hair you must be in sync Mind, Body, and spirit. I like to think of Minnie’s Natural Hair Lounge as more than a salon. It’s a place with a warm and inviting atmosphere where you can come get your hair done, unwind, relax, and let go of whatever troubles or problems you’re going through if just for an hour or two. I’m building a foundation for lasting relationships and having a place for the community to come and feel their complete beauty inside and out is my main goal.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If I had a friend visiting I would definitely want to start them off by learning some of the history of our people by visiting places like The National Civil Rights Museum, Slave Haven Museum, and Alex Hailey Museum. After learning some history now it’s time for fun like Craft Axe Throwing, Sky Zone, and The Memphis Escape Rooms.

Then we’d hit the town for some good food, drinks, and dancing in the Cooper-Young and Overton Square with places like Bosco’s, Lafayette’s Music Room, or Tiger & Peacock

We’d have to hit some of my favorite breweries like Grind City, Soul & Spirits, and Hammer & Ale to name a few. Also RP Tracks and Old Whitten Tavern would definitely be on the list. There would definitely be enough to keep them occupied.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I want to dedicate this shout-out to my mom Minnie S. Heard. It is because of her resilience and faith throughout her life that has gotten me where I am today. My mom was the strongest woman I know. No matter what she went through in life she never gave up or complained. Her faith and the faith she instilled in me are why I’m the woman I am. My mom believed that putting her life in the hands of God and having the faith to believe that everything would work out was how she lived her life. Nothing and no one ever got her down. She believed that there was nothing she couldn’t get through and taught me the same beliefs. I would also give credit to my husband Mr. Kim Johnson, he is the strongest man I know. Like my mom he has an unwavering faith. No matter what this world throws at him he continues to put a smile on his face and push on believing that everything will work out. I often tell him that he’s just like Job from the Bible when most people would give up he stands strong in his faith and always says God will make a way. He keeps me grounded and believes that I can take my business wherever I want it to go. To know him is to definitely love him. And a big shout-out to all those that didn’t believe in me and tried to break me, thank God Im still standing.

Website: https://book.pockesuite.io/book/mnhl

Instagram: Instagram.com/mnhl1944

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mnhl1944

Image Credits
Minnie’s Natural Hair Lounge

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