Naturally Fierce Feature: Gwen

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1.Tell me a little about yourself and your hair journey. (Name, where you’re from, etc)
My name is Gwen Poe. I am a natural hair and fashion blogger (The Fabmrs Life). I am also co-owner of Big Lion Software, a website design and marketing firm that caters to small businesses and non-profit organizations. I am from Wilmington, Delaware.
2.How long have you been natural? Have you always embraced your curls?

I have been natural for a little less than a year. Initially, I did not embrace my curls. I saw so many YouTube videos and Instagram pics of women with natural hair and was discouraged because my hair did not look the way the way I imagined it. I foolishly thought that if I used the exact same products or techniques as some other naturals, that my hair would look the same way. I was very close to ending my journey because I did not realize the amount of effort it took to properly care for my hair. Moreover, I had expectations for my hair that were unrealistic. However, I came across an Youtube video from one of my favorite Vloggers, Jouelzy, who gave some excellent advice. That advice was to follow people that had your similar hair texture and embrace your texture no matter how kinky or curly it may be. From that point on, I didn’t care about what everyone else’s hair looked like. I embraced every part of my hair from the shrinkage to the curls. It’s all mine and it’s unique just like me.

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3. What motivated you to transition? Were you a transitioneror a Big Chopper& why?    

I decided to transition because I wanted to try something new. I had been on a vegan cleanse and during that time I wanted to embrace my natural hair. I also discovered how amazing my hair was and was compelled to continue on my natural hair journey. Growing up I never wore my hair natural so it was sort of a spiritual awakening for me.

4. How would you describe your hair?

I would describe my hair as a curly, coily mix. I have a tight curl pattern and also a looser pattern in the front of hair. It’s medium porosity, and it retains a nice shine.

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5. What do you love most about your hair?

What I love most about my hair is the texture and shine of my hair. I don’t really mind the shrinkage either. I’ve learned to style my hair in its shrunken state by creating a faux tapered fro.

6. What has been the most memorable part of your journey? Has it been easy, difficult or both?!

My most memorable moment was when I decided to embrace my texture. My hair idol is A Belle in Brooklyn Demetria Lucas. Her hair is so thick, big, and kink, coily. My hair is almost the exact opposite. When I decided to embrace my hair and work with what I got, everything just clicked for me. No more comparing or wishing for a different texture of hair. I just simply began to love my hair and do what works for me. I’ve learned that everything isn’t for everybody. When wearing my hair natural, I had to find the styles and products that best complimented my hair.

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7. What are (or were) some of your favorite transitioning hairstyles or current dos’?

Sewed in weaves and braids worked the best for me. I love them for the versatility. You can wear weaves in natural textures and style braids in beautiful updo’s.

8. What have your experiences been as a ‘natural.’ Any memorable reactions from family or others?

My best reaction is watching my daughters embrace their hair. I remember when my 8 year old told me she wanted to wear an Afro like me. That was so amazing! My girls love their natural hair and that makes me proud. Knowing that I’m raising girls that feel beautiful without a relaxer is a good thing.

9. What is your hair regimen (including fav products)?

I live by the L.O.C. Method. I usually twist my hair everyday using this method. I love coconut oil, my hair loves it! I currently use Cantu Shea Butter Leave-in conditioner and Cantu Shea Butter Shampoo and Conditioner. I wash and deep condition my hair once per week using a mixture of coconut oil and Cantu SheaButter Deep Conditioner. I don’t co-wash too often, maybe once per month.

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10. What are some of your favorite natural hairwebsites,YouTuber’s, or blogs?

A few of my favorites are the Curly Nikki website,Youtube, Donedo, Mini Marley, My Natural Sistas.

11. Anything you want the readers to know? Inspirational words?

Be confident, own your kinks, coils and curls! Wear them proud because it is a beautiful part of you!

 

– For a beautiful faux tapered fro, make 12-15 small to medium bantu knots instead of unraveling and separating all of the bantu knots leave some intact and pick out the front and top of your hair for an edgy look.

12. Where can people find you for more information?

Facebook Page- The Fabmrs Life

Blog- www.thefabmrslife.com

Twitter- @thefabmrslife

 


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