Hi Street! highlights

Nana’s Hair Salon - Kettering

Did you know that October is Black History Month? This is a time to honour the history, achievements, and cultural traditions of the Black community. We’ve had the privilege of meeting the wonderful Nana at her fantastic Afro-Caribbean hair salon in Kettering, to find out more about hair braiding.

Stepping into the salon was an amazing experience. Watching the talented team weave intricate braids to transform their clients’ hair was fascinating. Nana specialises in hair braiding, a technique for Afro-Caribbean hair with deep roots in African culture. We loved meeting her and learning more about her craft, her business, and the important role she plays in the local community.

I have always had a passion for hair, and I learnt the art of styling Afro-Caribbean hair and hair braiding at college in Africa. Braiding is a tradition that helps to protect Afro-textured hair, and it also serves as a form of self-expression. It’s a protective style that helps maintain moisture and prevent breakage due to the unique structure of the hair, which tends to be more fragile.

Braiding appointments can take anywhere from four to six hours, but the results are well worth the wait. I stock a variety of hair in different colours and lengths, allowing my clients to create braids that reflect their personal style. That’s the beauty of braids, they’re unique to each person. Clients choose their preferred colours and braiding styles, and my hands bring their vision to life!

I’ve had the salon in Kettering for nearly six years and have seen the business grow in that time. We have moved a few times to accommodate more clients. Alongside my work at the salon, I also teach others the art of braiding and styling Afro-Caribbean hair, and I often join local events, with live demonstrations that are always well-liked!

While braiding has its roots in African culture, it’s also becoming popular with people from other backgrounds. We welcome everyone here and love seeing how clients feel when they leave the salon, a good hair day really makes a difference.

Afro-Caribbean hair requires specialised care, and I offer a range of products to help clients maintain healthy hair. From moisturising creams and oils to shampoos and conditioners, we stock everything needed to keep hair strong and vibrant. I’m always ready with advice, and my clients trust my expertise.

Different techniques can be applied to my clients’ hair including braiding, twists, cornrows, and weaves. Each one reflects individual style while protecting and celebrating Afro-Caribbean hair. Cornrows are popular with boys, including my own three sons! Children often have their hair braided from a young age, continuing a tradition that celebrates beauty, self-expression, and identity.

My salon is located at The Yards in Kettering town centre which is a complex of independent businesses that support each other. It’s a wonderful place to visit and we all recommend each other to our customers. There is a real sense of community here which makes Kettering’s small business scene so special, and I’m proud to be part of it.Nana - Nana’s Hair Salon

With a successful hairdressing career, Nana dreams of expanding to a bigger space one day to accommodate the growing demand for her services. The salon’s positive reviews and word-of-mouth referrals show just how much her work is valued!

Open Monday to Saturday from 9:30am to 4:30pm, Nana’s salon welcomes both adults and children, with appointments and walk-ins available.

Support this wonderful local business by:

• booking an appointment with Nana, call her on 07944 425972
• popping in to say hello - find Nana at the salon in The Yards, Kettering
• following Nana's Hair Salon on Instagram and engaging with their posts
• leaving a positive review online
• telling your friends about them

Last updated 21 October 2024