‘Everybody’s Beautiful in Their Own Way’: Harlem Hairstylist Uses Beauty to Give Back

(NEW YORK.) —  Hadijatou Drammeh is the founder of HD Beaute and HDHair.NYC, a hairstylist and makeup artist who has made her mark in Harlem. 

Drammeh, who styles clients at B’Krowned Beauty Bar, has built her business from the ground up relying on talent, hustle and the love of making her clients feel their best. At the salon located at 14 East 125th Street, Drammeh sat down with the Click to discuss her inspirations, challenges and how she’s using artistry to give back to the community. 

This interview was edited for clarity and length.

The Click: What inspired you to become a hairstylist and when was the moment you realized you could turn it into a career?

Drammeh: I always loved getting my hair done…washing sets, silk presses, braids. I felt beautiful after each style. At first, I just knew how to style my own hair, but I took a class in school which made me grow into it. My clients kept telling me that I was good at what I do. Even though it was difficult at first, I just kept going. Honestly, I really like what I do, so it doesn’t feel like work–it feels like making women feel beautiful. 

What are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced as an entrepreneur?

At first, I was nervous about talking to clients and giving directions, like telling them to keep their head up, so the style comes out right. I felt like I was annoying but I learned not to be scared. If you want your work to look good, you have to speak up.

How would you describe the community you’ve built through the salon?

It’s like family! We celebrate holidays together, support each other— it feels like a home. Clients aren’t just appointments they become a part of something bigger.

How would you describe your signature style? 

Wigs! I am fast and versatile when it comes to my clients. I do wigs in less than two hours and I recommend them because that’s what I first started styling. I love doing natural hair as well. I don’t aim to change people, I just want to bring out their inner beauty by enhancing the physical.

What do you say to clients who struggle with confidence in their appearance?

I tell them,  ‘Everybody’s beautiful in their own way.’ I try to lift them up with words of encouragement. If they feel like something needs to change physically–their hair or look–we can always work on it together. 

What role does social media play in your business?

A big one. Clients aren’t with me every day, so they expect to see my work on Instagram or TikTok. It’s a way to show what styles are new, what I’ve been working on, and it gives them ideas for their next appointment. It’s also a marketing tool. If people like what they see, they book. 

In what ways do you use your business to give back to the Harlem community?

I love to do makeup and hair for student events such as proms, graduation and senior pictures helping parents who may not be able to afford it for their daughters. These are big events and the girls want to look nice, so it makes me feel good that I can assist in that area and take relief off [of] the parents. 

What advice would you give to young stylists just starting out?

Work hard, don’t be afraid to make mistakes, welcome them. Most of the best things come from mistakes. You just have to keep going until you get it. Keep learning, taking classes, studying, and watching videos to stay up to date with the trends. No matter what, always uplift yourself.