We had the good fortune of connecting with La’Keisha Hobbs-Joseph and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi La’Keisha, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?

1. What was your thought process behind starting your own business?
I’ve always wanted to own my own business since I was a teenager. I remember telling my mom that I will own a bookstore and coffee shop one day. As a child, my mom taught me to speak life into my situations. Look at me now, owner of Virtuous Crown Hair Boutique. As I speak for self, I know many ladies can relate especially my sisters serving domestic and abroad in the United States military. While serving in military, it was difficult finding consistent quality hair bundles, closures and frontals; especially those that shipped to APO. Not saying there wasn’t any diamonds in the rough, I just didn’t have the opportunity to experience such appreciation of sort. Inspired by unsuccessful attempts to find consistent quality hair bundles, closures and frontals all while admiring the strength and faithfulness of two amazing women, Aunt Brenda and cousin Sheria, both cancer survivors, this online hair boutique was created. Please visit Virtuous Crown Hair Boutique website at https://www.virtuouscrownboutique.com to learn more about the company mission and values.
2. Social impact: How does your business help the community or the world?
The name Virtuous Crown Hair Boutique came to me while sitting in church—providing greeting services during the Developing In Virtuous Ability (D.I.V.A) graduation ceremony. When God speaks, HE speaks! This was confirmation that I needed to enter the haircare industry as a haven, providing consumers with a peace of mind. In the mist of customers purchasing (putting back into the economy) quality products, VCHB promotes self-love and care through templates via social media and packaging, which in return uplifts one’s spirit and displays agape love. I get to spread the love of God through, Thank You messages, You Reign Mondays, Awareness Fridays and any given time on all VCHB social platforms. Yes, I’m feeding God’s people while doing something I like.
3. Risk Taking: How do you think about risk taking? What role has taking risks played in your life/career?
Risks are a part of life. However, from a business perspective you have the option to take them or not. In light, Abraham (Abram), Esther and many others stepped out in faith—they leaned in and trusted God! That’s exactly what I’m doing, leaning in and trusting God, while standing on Malachi 3:10. Of course, a solid business plan and maintaining a SWOT analysis are good business practices.
Over the span of my military career, there were risks associated to serving our great nation. I took an oath to protect and defend—a welcoming risk I will happily do again with no reservations. Keep in mind, freedom isn’t free! Many paid the ultimate sacrifice for the luxuries and amenities this country offers and that we indulge and bask in the ambiance without hesitation. So, yes, stepping out on faith with Virtuous Crown Hair Boutique has been a blessing and a childhood achievement.
4. If you are a parent, what do you think is the most important thing you’re done as a parent in terms of the impact on your child?
My husband and I continue to set the example and show our kids what right looks like on many levels; manhood/womanhood, instilling wisdom, building wealth, humility, character, incorporating God in every decision, etc. However, sacrifices have been made. As a result, continuous opportunities are provided to our kids, which we didn’t have growing up. My husband and I grew up poor but wouldn’t change our past for anything—it molded us into who we are today. The fruit of our labor, given that we’re connected to the blessing (Jesus), is to impart godly morals and generational wealth nuggets (i.e., skills, knowledge, monetary, etc.) that position and elevates the kids to do Kingdom Business and have a fruitful livelihood!
5. What is the most important factor behind your success/the success of your brand?
Consistency and JBDigital, among others, have contributed to the success of Virtuous Crown Hair Boutique. Being consistent, from start to finish, reinforces brand awareness. Having integrity, being trustworthy and the ability to be unique and identifiable in a fierce industry speaks volume. With years of experience and savvy techniques, JBDigital has been instrumental to Virtuous Crown Hair Boutique penetrating the market. Positioned for elevation, Virtuous Crown Hair Boutique sits at the table humble and always readily available to fulfill your beauty needs.
6. How do you know whether to keep going or give up?
There’s been many days, I’ve cried out to God. Starting a business isn’t easy! There’s been times I’ve been discouraged but quicken by the spirit, family, friends but most importantly when I’m reminded of the amount of money I’ve invested over the years (lol). I refuse to accept defeat and Satan’s lies. Knowing that God goes before me opening doors and floodgates of heaven pouring out blessings keeps me going. God said he’ll never leave nor forsake me. I believe that with every fiber of my being. Plus, I don’t want to let my family down, they are my #1 supporters.
7. Work life balance: How has your balance changed overtime? How do you think about the balance?
I’m currently enjoying life with my family, working on my doctoral degree and running my business. I’m truly grateful for my supportive husband. Between him and my mom, I can’t thank God enough for my support system. At times I am stretch thin but understand it’s only temporary. Small business owners don’t get the credit they deserve. From one small business owner to the next, keep going it will pay off!
8. What makes you happy? Why?
Knowing that I didn’t succumb to the setbacks and constraints that presented itself along the way makes me feel really good. However, I’m happy knowing that I’m providing quality products to the consumers. Just as I served our great nation, I want to extend that selfless service to the consumers, while earning their trust.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?

Regardless of how many people are doing the same thing, there’s still room at the table to eat. While enjoying being a part of my customers beauty needs journey, I get to spread the Gospel—planting seeds. Regardless of my platform size the intent, outside of promoting VCHB products, is to encourage and let customers, including those that happened to stroll across my socials, know that they are loved.
Nothing is easy about starting a business, for sure. I questioned myself time-and-time over the years but was quickened to dig deep and keep pushing—especially when I came close to losing my life. Just know God makes no mistakes—HE’s the author and creator of all things. What’s meant for you can’t nobody take that away.
VCHB Vision:
To be a trusted, valued and preferred source in the virgin human hair industry.
VCHB Mission:
Virtuous Crown Hair Boutique’s mission is to provide the finest virgin hair that compliments and captivates the inner and outer beauty of every woman. This is done through acquiring premium hair around the world, affording women the opportunity to ‘Decree Your Crown’. Customer service is second to none and will exceed the expectations of my customers. At Virtuous Crown Hair Boutique, we decree our crown!

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.
I’m fairly new to the Augusta (Fort Gordon), Georgia area. However, to show visiting family and friends a good time, I would explore ideas, such as, enjoying Downtown Augusta attractions, The Riverwalk, Kayaking and a Paint Party. But truly, I would love for them to experience fine dining at its finest in the comfort of my home with Chef Darrin West and Momasboy Event Planning & Coordinating. An experience they will indeed remember!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I would like to thank God for ordering my steps and being with me every moment of the way. I would also like to thank my husband, mom and prayer warriors for their continuous support and encouragement. God is indeed an awesome God. He strategically placed the right people at the right time in my life to groom Virtuous Crown Hair Boutique. I’m grateful and credit goes to:

1. JB Digital Brand & Marketing

2. Photographer: Denisha McCauley @dmccauleyphoto @dmccauleyweddings

3. Videographer: Dantana Smith, Cultivating Perception

4. Wardrobe Stylist: Crystal Knox @christyle_ray

5. MUA: Unique Red @glammedbyuniquered

Website: www.virtuouscrownboutique.com

Instagram: VirtuousCrownHairBoutique

Facebook: Virtuous Crown Hair Boutique

Other: Email: info@virtuouscrownboutique.com

Image Credits
Photographer: Denisha McCauley @dmccauleyphoto @dmccauleyweddings

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutAtlanta is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let