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

Hi Irene, what’s the most important thing you’ve done for your children?
The most important thing I believe I have done as a parent is to allow my kids the freedom to make choices on their own. This means they got to own their success, but also their failures. It required working through the hard stuff that life throws at all of us. This has made them courageous and empathetic, and also humble. Because they know what it takes to succeed and also to stumble at times.

What should our readers know about your business?
I’m in the early stages of building my brand, AISATOU Living, though it’s a continuation of a journey my sister and I began 30 years ago. In the mid-90s, while living in Germany, we opened one of the country’s first Black hair salons, Body & Soul, near U.S. military bases. Despite not being American (we’re German/Greek/Senegalese), we saw the need for Black hair care, and the salon became a success. After selling it, we moved to the U.S., pursued education, and raised our families. Now, in Atlanta, we’re returning to our roots and launching AISATOU Living in summer 2025.

AISATOU blends a Braiding Boutique with a Concept Store, offering professional salon services alongside artisanal products and home goods from diverse cultures. We combine modern braiding and loc styles with traditional beauty practices, creating a unique space for individuality, inspiration, and rejuvenation. We aim to be a sanctuary where clients are pampered and recharged.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Wow, that’s a tough question… Atlanta has so much to offer, and I love the many layers and distinct features of the city. When family and friends visit, we often find ourselves exploring Buford Highway. I love the neighborhoods and unique food experiences along that stretch, where we make random stops to discover hidden gems in unassuming strip malls. The DeKalb Farmer’s Market is also a must—we pick up flowers, spices, tea, fresh produce, seafood, and everything else we need for family-style meals.

Brunch is another favorite, usually tucked between strolls through neighborhoods and parks like Inman, O4W, Piedmont, and Midtown. Furniture shopping on the Westside is always fun—Howell Mill has great options with CB2 and other big names, while the Westside Market offers unique finds.

I also love Atlanta’s expanding art scene. Our friends Anja and Jumbe Sebunya run a thriving contemporary African art gallery, aKAZI ATL. I live above Zugot Gallery in Castleberry, which always features exciting exhibits from up-and-coming artists.

Most weekends end with tea and family time—my sister N’dine Drame owns PlantNomad, an artisanal tea business. She spoils me with her amazing blends, and I love winding down with her teas and close family.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Shoutout to all the women, who have mothered me. Too many to name, but women have played a pivotal role in my life. I can’t overstate the importance of having strong, kind, caring, and empathetic women in your corner. Women in general – and my mother(s) in particular – have been the most influential force in my life.

Instagram: @aisatouliving

Image Credits
Iman Sebunya, Marie Thomas

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