Today we’d like to introduce you to Keaja Mathis.
Keaja, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
played basketball all through high school with big dreams of taking my talent to the college level—until COVID hit and flipped everything upside down. Schools shut down, classes moved to Zoom, games and tournaments were canceled or constantly rescheduled, and exposure became limited, making it harder to get recruited and earn offers. At the same time, I was enrolled in a high school cosmetology program, which was also delayed due to closures, pushing back courses and licensing. Being home so much gave me time to reconnect with another passion of mine—hair. What started as just doing family members’ hair for fun quickly turned into something bigger. I began posting my work on social media, and before I knew it, clients were reaching out. That fun hobby turned into a full-time business. I leveled up step by step—working full-time as a braider and stylist, expanding into three suites, and eventually building my own SheShed and transforming it into my very own salon. COVID may have changed my original plans, but it helped redirect me into a purpose I never imagined—and I wouldn’t trade the journey for anything. 💕✨
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Every business comes with its ups and downs—there are always pros and cons, and starting out is usually the hardest part. When I first began, my work wasn’t perfect and I had a lot of room to grow, which could definitely feel discouraging at times. But the clients kept coming, and that’s how I knew I was doing something right. The real challenge was comparing myself to experienced stylists and forgetting that I was still at the very beginning of my journey. Once I learned to stay in my own lane and move at my own pace, everything changed. With each new client, my confidence grew, my skills improved, and my work kept getting better and better. Growth didn’t happen overnight—but it happened consistently, and that made all the difference.
As you know, we’re big fans of I have 2 businesses , Hairstylist & Tax Professional. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
As of 2026, I proudly run two active businesses—working full-time as both a hairstylist and a tax professional. In the beauty world, I specialize in braids of all kinds, including knotless braids, soft locs, ponytails, Fulani braids, and more. I’m best known for my flawless stitch/feed-in braids, creative designs, and eye-catching precision. To make things even easier for my clients, I also offer hair-included styles for a smooth, stress-free appointment. On the finance side, I specialize in business taxes and Schedule C filers, helping entrepreneurs stay organized and confident. As a business owner myself, I understand the stress that comes with keeping up with documents, expenses, and write-offs. That’s why, as a tax pro, I take pride in maximizing every credit and deduction my clients qualify for—so they can keep more of what they earn and focus on growing.
Before we go, is there anything else you can share with us?
I seriously can’t thank my clients enough—y’all are the reason I get to do what I love every single day! To anyone out there scared to start that business… stop overthinking it and JUST DO IT! You never know what amazing opportunities are waiting until you put yourself out there. Stay consistent, keep showing up, and trust me—someone will notice your grind.
Pricing:
- My starting price for stitch braids is $125 hair included , price varies on design , length , number of braids & etc.
- Tax Prep fees vary on filing status , amount of forms , & etc.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://keeeslayss.as.me/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/keeslayss_
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1AjHUrULsa/
- Other: https://www.cognitoforms.com/KeajaMathis/KeajaMathisClientIntakeForm
