Donloe's Lowdown: Thousands Flock To 3rd Annual Nappywood

Sunday, August 2, 2015

Thousands Flock To 3rd Annual Nappywood

By Darlene Donloe

The 3^rd Annual Nappywood Los Angeles Natural Hair & Lifestyle Expo took place in Los Angeles this weekend.

Thousands poured into the two-day event (Aug. 1-2) held at The Reef in the fashion district.

This year’s theme was “Natural Lifestyle Matters”.

The Natural Hair Expo featured more than 30 classes, local natural hair stylist showcases and live on stage consultations with top natural stylist.

In attendance were celebrity stylists and natural activists, considered top leaders in the industry including, Isis Brantley, Dr. Kari Williams (California Cosmetology State Board), Dr. JoAnn Cornwell (founder, Sister Locs), Bernard Bronner, CEO of Bronner Brothers and Publisher, Myco Branch, author and owner and Miss Jessies.

Activities included: The Boys & Girls Sankofa Natural Hair Parade, The Small Business CEO Boot Camp Series & Finance, hair workshops and demonstrations, natural hair competition, health and community panels and more.

“The LANX is only a thread to bring the community together to educate and empower,” said Regina Kimbell, founder of Nappywood. “Not only will the workshops, & summit improve their lives but where else can you see Natural Hairstyles from Anquity to modern day in one day and get a free hair consultation.”

Bronwyn Webber Gregg

Vendors on hand included Bronwyn Webber Gregg, a Silpada Designs Jewelry independent representative.

“I’ve been coming here the last three years because of the natural beauty of the women,” said Webber Gregg. “We have the jewelry to complement them.”

Yendi

Yendi, an artists specializing in hair accessories, footwear, clothing and artwork attended Nappywood for the first time this year.

“I wanted to be a part of the natural hair movement,” she said.

Black Don’t Crack Founder Debra Hubbard said her brand was about perseverance and resilience.

“We’re about creating a dialogue,” she said. “We need to stay together. But I tell everybody there is a warning when you wear our line – ‘You will be stopped’ because everyone wants to know where you got it and where they get one. It’s about a movement.”