Meet Millie Pessima | Braider & Master Cosmetologist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Millie Pessima and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Millie, what’s something about your industry that outsiders are probably unaware of?
One major thing I feel outsiders are unaware of is the amount of time, energy and effort it takes to be a hairstylist. The Cosmetology field is a very strenuous career, nevertheless the results that we create is always worth it. I would recommend all braiders and upcoming hairstylists to get get health and hand insurance for preventative measures. I would also recommend listening to your body, staying hydrated on the job, and being your own advocate – nobody knows your body better than you.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I am most proud of being able to not only have a store front but watch it grow with clientele that has tripled since I first started braiding hair. I am also grateful to be able to advance and absorb many new styles that have evolved in the braiding industry. Professionally, I have gotten where I am by diligence. By understanding that a storefront, website and clientele would not come overnight, I have spent countless days and nights assuring that I was in the presence of those who had already had stability and gathered as much as I could in order to assure that I was making the correct decisions and putting myself into the correct head space. In all honesty, I would not be here today if I did not believe in myself. As cliché as it may sound, looking back I can recall countless times having to recreate my version of a “sound mind” in order to support my vision and bring my goals to fruition. A big lesson that I have had to learn and overcome was understanding that I have stagnated myself and in some cases succumbed to my own demise by not taking more risks in life and in my industry. I’ve learned over the years that my accomplishments and failures are what pushed me along to be the best version of myself. More than anything I want Millz Creationz Braiding to be known for key values which include passion, hard work, relentless energy and effort that is brought forth in every hairstyle.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.

If I had a friend visiting Atlanta, the first place I would take them to is the Battery. The Battery is an inclusive experience where you can eat, shop, and play. We could enjoy a braves game at Truist Park, a live performance at the Coca-Cola Roxy, or even a movie catch a movie at the Silverspot Cinema.

After that I would probably take her to visit is Little Five Points, where we could go shopping at the many small businesses there, and if we are lucky we can enjoy some of the live musicians who sometimes frequent the area.

There are plenty of restaurants in Atlanta that serve the best food. Some of my honorary mentions include: Mirko, Toast Lenox, and Café Bourbon St.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
From a young age, especially growing up in a West African household – hair has always been the center of my attention. I was always intrigued by the technique, craft and rhythmic hand movements that I watched my mother and sisters perform to complete styles. Everything I am in hair is because of my mother, Ms. Lottie Wills. She molded my hair journey and ultimately branded my business for what it is today. When I first started braiding and would get discouraged about the over saturation of the braiding industry, she would always tell me that ,“Everyone can do hair , but not everybody is you. Your sense of style and knowledge in replicating styles without tutorial is what makes you different, follow your dreams never look to the next person for acknowledgment”. As I look around at all of my accomplishments I am beyond happy and grateful that I listened to her directions. Thank you mom.

Website: https://millzthebraiderbooking.as.me/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/millz_thebraider/

Yelp: https://yelp.to/tCDwSsG1Rqb