So since my feet were planted firmly on my living room floor here in NYC, I asked our fabulous LA correspondent Alicia of Instant Vintage to attend Miss Jessie’s curltastical (yes, I made that word up) event at Wilshire Beauty a few weekends ago. Alicia (who in addition to showing off her cool fashion style on her site also designs gorgeous accessories at her Etsy store) was armed with some questions I had about common issues for you curlies and transitioners out there. And who better than to ask but the curl queens themselves!

Here’s her report on the event:

After years of me waiting, Miss Jessie’s owners Titi and Miko Branch made their first trip to the west coast to introduce the curly, coily, kinky, and straightened ladies of Los Angeles to the glory that is their product line. Before addressing a completely PACKED Wilshire Beauty Supply with their team, I was able to sneak in a quick interview with the equally gorgeous and dynamic duo (that is, after I fan-girled for about five full minutes after meeting them). At no other time have I felt more regret at switching my ‘fro for my current hairstyle.

For those of you who are unfamiliar, Miss Jessie’s was born a salon in 1997 as a response to the needs of clientele desiring more options and solutions for textured hair. By 2004, it had grown into a product line offering cleansing, conditioning, and styling treatments that allow women to embrace and work with their natural texture instead of fighting against it. Since then, they have been at the forefront of the natural movement winning numerous awards and being featured in several magazines.

Before going on to consultations with the attendees, Titi and Miko were gracious enough to have a little Q&A session with me.

Miss Jessie’s creators Titi and Miko Branch

Q: Many black girls have had their first perm as early as 3 years old in order to have “more manageable hair.” What are some tips for parents caring for little girls with kinky or curly hair without having to go to relaxers?

Titi: For anyone with curls, you have to rely on product to make the hair manageable. Miss Jessie’s Baby Buttercreme is what we recommend for children because it gives great moisture to the hair and it becomes much easier to work with. After using the product, you can do two-strand twists or some other style.

Q: Great. So what tips do you have for women transitioning from relaxed to natural hair? Is it possible to transition without doing the “big chop?”

Miko: Braids and weaves are great ways to transition. They both get your mind off of the process and when you take them out, you have all of this great new growth! They’re the most graceful ways to grow out your hair since you don’t have to think about it as much.

Titi and Miko with Alicia

Q: Very true. What are some tips for boosting the self-confidence of transitioners who will eventually get flack from their friends and family about their hair style choice?

Miko: You have to do research and stand by your decision.

Titi: You also have to do something beautiful with your hair. When your hair looks good, it knocks down criticism and insults. Take time to experiment with curly styling while you’re transitioning to get a sense of how you will look in different hair styles.

Miko: Playing with accessories, enhancements, and color are also good ways to draw attention to your overall style instead of just your hair.

Q: What are the most important hair care tips that every curly/kinky girl should know?

Titi: Moisture is NUMBER ONE thing you need to have for shine and manageability. You can’t skip out on moisture. Our products are all based around this principle and offer great moisture for your hair.

Miko: Work in sections! Having a stragtegy is also key when styling your hair. If you go in sections systematically, you’ll end up with better results.

For more information on Miss Jessie’s products, check out www.missjessies.com.

And don’t forget to check out Alicia’s Etsy store where you can purchase these HOT Silver Bell Shoe Chains.