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

Hi Lois, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
Starting my own barber school business was driven by a mix of passion for the craft and a desire to give back to the community. I’ve always loved the artistry of barbering and wanted to create a space where aspiring barbers could learn and flourish. Additionally, I saw a need for quality education in the field and believed I could offer something unique and valuable to students. By starting my own school, I aimed to not only teach the technical skills but also instill the importance of professionalism, customer service, and entrepreneurship in the next generation of barbers.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I’d be delighted to share more about Kindred Barber and Beauty Academy! What sets us apart is our commitment to excellence in both education and community engagement. We offer a comprehensive curriculum that blends traditional techniques with modern trends, ensuring our students are well-equipped for success in today’s competitive industry.

What I’m most proud of is the supportive and inclusive environment we’ve cultivated. Our instructors are not just skilled professionals but also mentors who genuinely care about the success of each student. Seeing our graduates thrive in their careers is incredibly rewarding.

Getting to where we are today wasn’t easy. Like any business, we have faced numerous challenges along the way. We actually opened our school just three months before the onset of the pandemic in 2020, which presented unexpected obstacles. Building trust with students in the aftermath required dedication and perseverance. However, we persevered by staying adaptable, learning from setbacks, and leaning on our passion for the craft.

One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is the power of community. Building strong relationships with fellow barbers, industry partners, and local organizations has been instrumental in our growth. Collaboration and mutual support have been key themes in our journey.

Ultimately, I want the world to know that Kindred Barber & Beauty Academy is more than just a place to learn a skill—it’s a hub of creativity, camaraderie, and opportunity. Whether you’re a student looking to launch your career or a seasoned professional seeking to expand your skillset, we’re here to help you succeed.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Upon my best friends arrival, I would plan an amazing week-long visit, with a special focus on black-owned businesses and must-visit spots. Here’s an exciting itinerary:

Day 1: Arrival and Relaxation

Morning: Arrive in Atlanta and check into your hotel.

Lunch: Head to Busy Bee Cafe for some of the best Southern comfort food in the city.

Afternoon: Relax and unwind at the hotel or take a stroll through Piedmont Park.

Dinner: Enjoy dinner at Slutty Vegan for a unique and delicious vegan experience.
Day 2: Historical and Cultural Exploration
Morning: Visit the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park.
Lunch: Grab a bite at Paschal’s Restaurant, a historic spot known for its soul food and role in the Civil Rights Movement.
Afternoon: Explore the Atlanta BeltLine, a vibrant hub of arts, culture, and community.
Dinner: Dine at Twisted Soul Cookhouse & Pours for a modern twist on Southern classics.
Day 3: Shopping and Pampering
Morning: Shop at the Sweet Auburn Curb Market for local goods and produce.
Lunch: Eat at Bar Vegan inside Ponce City Market, which offers innovative vegan dishes.
Afternoon: Treat yourselves to a spa day at Exhale Midtown Atlanta.
Dinner: Enjoy a sophisticated dinner at Eugene Kitchen, known for its farm-to-table cuisine.
Evening: Catch some live music at Apache Cafe, a great spot for local talent and a vibrant atmosphere.
Day 4: Adventure and Fun
Morning: Head to Stone Mountain Park for a hike and beautiful views.
Lunch: Picnic at the park with snacks from Homegrown, known for its fresh, local ingredients.
Afternoon: Visit the Georgia Aquarium or World of Coca-Cola.
Dinner: Experience the flavors of South City Kitchen.
Evening: Enjoy a show at the Fox Theatre, an iconic Atlanta venue.
Day 5: Haircut and Local Delights
Morning: Get an excellent haircut at the Austell Barber School in Austell, GA.
Lunch: Stop by Local Green Atlanta for a health-conscious and delicious meal.
Afternoon: Visit The National Center for Civil and Human Rights.
Dinner: Enjoy seafood at Atlanta Fish Market.
Evening: Have cocktails at The Sound Table, a trendy spot with great music.
Day 6: Exploring Neighborhoods
Morning: Explore the historic West End and visit the Wren’s Nest.
Lunch: Eat at Busy Bee Cafe again for more soul food.
Afternoon: Visit the Atlanta History Center and its beautiful gardens.
Dinner: Head to Mary Mac’s Tea Room, an Atlanta institution.
Evening: Enjoy nightlife at Cirque Daiquiri Bar & Grill.
Day 7: Farewell and Last-Minute Enjoyment
Morning: Visit Krog Street Market for last-minute shopping and snacks.
Lunch: Have a farewell meal at Sweet Georgia’s Juke Joint for live music and Southern fare.
Afternoon: Spend your last hours in Midtown Atlanta, perhaps visiting the High Museum of Art.
Dinner: Enjoy a final dinner at Staplehouse, a unique dining experience.
Evening: Reflect on the wonderful trip at SkyLounge with a view of the city skyline.
I hope this itinerary ensures your best friend has the best time ever in Atlanta, experiencing the city’s rich culture, history, and vibrant black-owned businesses.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My spouse Mrs. Patricia Reece

Website: https://Loisreece.org

Instagram: kindredbbacademy

Facebook: Kindred Barber & Beauty Academy

Image Credits
N/A

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 us know here.