Local Black Hair group hosts second annual hair show "Spring is in The Hair"

When Natural Hair founders Johannah Jelks and Marley Ariyahu, stylist and owner of Beauty of Tziyon, held the first ever Natural Hair GR “Spring is in The Hair” event last year, the mission was clear: to provide the Grand Rapids community with a social experience that energizes, educates, and empowers the creative love for natural hair and health. Natural Hair GR set the tone to create a culture that promotes self-expression and self-love. Historically, African American hair has played a major role in African American history, identity and culture. Jordoun Eatman, a Natural Hair GR board member and a stylist of Imprint by J. Travis believes, "NHGR is a much needed organization in Grand Rapids. Natural Hair GR sheds light on a culture that is underrepresented while also celebrating its differences within the culture of hair. When you feel good about your self-image and have support to re-enforce that, you have a positive view and impact on your friends, community and city. Impact is power." Throughout the Civil Rights Movement until the late 80s, campaigns for hair were used to encourage self-love. For example, "My Black is Beautiful." All over the nation there has been a resurgence of Natural Hair culture and embracing the authentic self. Johannah Jelks and Marley Ariyahu along with others combined efforts to create a similar community in Grand Rapids. After hosting a very successful Natural Hair show and benefit for “Kids Food Basket" at Wealthy At Charles with more than 200 people in attendance, there was a real desire to keep connection with the Natural Hair culture in Grand Rapids. Other Natural Hair entrepreneurs such as Della Marie Levi, who owns Rock Candy Earrings & The Dream Big Sister Circle, have been pioneering the Grand Rapids region for years. Some of the Natural Hair GR members are also involved in community outreach, urban gardening and marketing. Natural Hair GR uses a minority-owned Aurick brand development firm for Natural Hair GR marketing materials. 

On Friday, June 10, 2016, Natural Hair GR will partner with Beauty of Tziyon for the second annual "Spring is in The Hair" Natural Hair street fest located in downtown Grand Rapids between Weston and Oakes on Commerce Ave. From 5 to 9 p.m. guests will enjoy live art and the Natural Hair showcase which begins at 7 p.m. The event is free. Natural Hair GR encourages a diverse audience to attend and participate in the second annual natural hair show, while seeking to cultivate a creative culture centered on diverse art, natural hair and beauty and holistic health in Grand Rapids. This is an annual showcase that aims to celebrate African American identity, artists and businesses. The stylists include Keyionna Guydon, Kendra TheStylist, Cecil Jackson Jr., Jojos House of Beauty, Sheena Webb and Beauty of Tziyon. Stylists will showcase unique and creative hairstyles during the hair fashion show. Natural Hair GR will also honor hair pioneers and active community members including Della Marie Levi, Jerry White, owner and Stylist of Reflection Hair Salon and Lady Love Barbershop.

Natural Hair GR has monthly events where new and old members can join in the fun and celebrate culture. Every month there are Natural Hair GR outings in the Grand Rapids area. A popular monthly Natural Hair GR event is "Natural Hair GR Brunch + Hip Hop" held every third Sunday of the month at The Winchester GR. You can join as a Natural Hair GR member through the Facebook group and eventually through a website. Each member will have access to hair tips and cultural outings.

For more information please contact Natural Hair Grand Rapids [email protected].