Carmen: Loc'd Entrepreneur

I personally have lusted over many items in this loc'd entrepreneur's store. She has a variety of items that compliment any loc'd or natural style.

Meet Carmen of Tomoka's Twists

Q: When and why did you decide to loc your hair?

A: My loc journey started March 2007. I had been natural for a few years and at the time my hair had grown longer than it had ever been. I was a die hard no-pooer doing it two to three times a week. Protective styles did not stay long in my hair, two-strand twists would unravel the next day. It seemed the longer my hair got the more problems I had. Sorta like mo' money, mo' problems. I would use hemps of conditioner, finger comb, and maybe try to get a wide tooth comb through it. Something had to give. I have had a twa twice in my life and didn't want to do that again. I thought about relaxing it for a hot second. Then I began to research locs and how to start them. I tried braidlocks and wouldn't stay. I kept looking, found Sisterlocks and wanted them immediately.

Q: Did a professional start your locs and what method did you use to start?

A: Yes and Sisterlocks. I am currently a Certified Sisterlocks Consultant and I did the front and a classmate did the back.

Q: What are three products you can't live without for nurturing/styling your locs?

A: My locks really don't crave products like my loose hair did. Sisterlocks/interwoven locks don't need products to hold them while they lock, so shampoo is about all I really need. I recently tried Bobeam shampoo bars and they will be a staple for me. Paul Mitchell Awapuhi Moisture Mist is cool for bead head and winter dryness. Jamaican Mango Lime Leave-In Conditioner for the ends since they curl a little.

Q: When and why did you start Tomoka's Twists? And how would you describe your work?

A: Summer of 2007 is when Tomoka's Twists made it's debut. I started making hair accessories for myself. I wanted something that would hold a puff without pulling the hair. It had to be strong, flexible, and fashionable. I to make them wearable for all natural women. TTs are like the women who wear them. They are unique, beautiful, playful, sophisticated. To sum it up they range from electric to elegant. From the Twists, I added matching earrings, hair ties, There's something for everyone.

Q: What would you say to someone who's thinking about locking?

Or someone struggling with their locs?

A: Give them a try! There's a lock out there for everyone, from organic to cultivated You can DIY or go to a salon. Some say that they are too permanent, but relaxers are permanent. When you're ready to switch to natural you have to wait it out or cut it off. Locks with some time and effort can be picked out. Locks look good just stepping out of the shower and many do elaborate updos and curly/crinkly styles. For those struggling, just hang in there locs don't lock overnight. They are worth the wait and patience. It's helpful to have a role model to follow and learn what you can about them. There are several natural hair communities online with folks knowledgeable about locks so you're not alone. If one lock start doesn't suit you, pick it out and try another one. Also, remember no two people are alike so your locs will be unique to you. When mine were having a hard time locking, I just reminded myself of those days when I untangled my loose hair.

Q: How can we keep up with you and your journey?
A: I blog, tweet, and do an occasional video. You can find me me at the following links.

http://tomokastwists.com/

http://carmennc.blogspot.com/

http://youtube.com/carmennc

Facebook ~ Tomoka's Twists friends page

http://twitter.com/tomokastwists

To My Readers: Make sure to check her out and show some love by visiting her sites and leaving a comment! Tomoka's Twists has a few sales on items that are low in stock along with free s/h on orders $25+. Be sure to become a Facebook and Twitter friend to get the latest product updates and sales on Tomoka's Twists.

To Carmen: Thanks so much for sharing your journey with us!