TEAM NAPPY HUTT

Shawntel M. Waajid, founder of Nappy Hutt LLC and natural hair expert, smiling in a professional headshot.

Shawntel Waajid - OWNER

Savannah/Atlanta

With four decades of expertise, Shawntel Waajid is an educator, entrepreneur, and co-owner of The Nappy Hutt. Beyond the salon chair, “Ms. Shawn” is a national speaker and the creator of the Shawntel Marie and Kings Solution grooming lines. Her mission is to inspire the next generation of stylists through accessible education and a commitment to independent business ownership.

Tiffany "Reese" Jackson, Director of First Impressions, in a headshot.

TIFFANY "REESE" JACKSON

Savannah

Known as the “shining face” of the brand, “Reese” ensures a warm and seamless experience for all. She is a co-founder ofJelani Beauty Supply Store and the operational force behind The Nappy Hutt. Whether she’s coordinating appointments or managing the salon floor, Reese’s legendary positivity and commitment to service make her an invaluable asset to the team.

Ashley "LayLay" Staples, professional natural hair stylist and loctitian at Nappy Hutt LLC, in a professional headshot.

ASHLEY "LAYLAY" STAPLES

Savannah

Affectionately known as “LayLay,” Ashley Staples brings a burst of positive energy and nearly a decade of experience to The Nappy Hutt. As a dedicated loctitian and natural hair specialist, she is known for her creative flair and meticulous focus on hair health. Book with LayLay for a fresh, modern approach to natural styling delivered with passion and personality.

Jibril M. Waajid, natural hair specialist and team member at Nappy Hutt LLC, in a professional headshot.

JIBRIL WAAJID – CO-FOUNDER

Savannah/Atlanta

Jibril “Weo” Waajid is a premier master loc technician and co-owner of  The Nappy Hutt with over 37 years of industry expertise. A legendary figure in the natural hair community, Jibril is a national educator and assistant instructor for the Shawntel Waajid seminars. Beyond the salon, he is a visionary committed to cultural empowerment as the co-founder of Juneteenth Atlanta.

Eryka "Tommy" Neal, professional natural hair specialist at Nappy Hutt LLC, in a professional headshot.

ERYKA "TOMMY" NEAL

Savannah/Atlanta

A stylist with 14years of history at The Nappy Hutt, Erykalyn “Tommy” Neal is a master loctitian renowned for her quick wit and expertise in long-term protective styling. When she isn’t in the salon, Tommy is a dedicated Law and Forensics student, athlete, and dancer. Her unique blend of technical skill and professional charisma makes her chair a high-demand destination whenever she is home from university.

Trent Tate, professional natural hair specialist at Nappy Hutt LLC, in a professional headshot.

TRENT TATE

Savannah

A true creative “chameleon,” Trent Tate joined  The Nappy Hutt in 2025, bringing with him a lifelong passion for beauty and a talent for vivid hair color. Whether he is designing his own crochet clothing or delivering a world-class shampoo experience, Trent’s charismatic demeanor and fresh perspective make every appointment unique. He combines generational expertise with a dedication to the latest in natural hair care.

Chrys LaVonn, professional natural hair stylist at Nappy Hutt LLC, smiling in a clean, professional headshot.

CHRYS LA'VONN

Savannah/Atlanta

Affectionately known as “Chrys,” this master loctitian transforms natural hair care into an art form. Specialized in foundational microloc artistry, Chrys La’Vonn is a multi-talented creative—ranging from poetry to photography—who brings a unique, soulful presence to every appointment. At The Nappy Hutt, she balances her expert loc artistry with a deep devotion to her family.

Ireaile "Ire" McKinley, Styist Manager for Nappy Hutt LLC Savannah and Atlanta (Stone Mountain), in a professional headshot.

IREAILE "IRE" MCKINLEY

Savannah/Atlanta

A powerhouse at just 22, Ireaile “Ire” McKinley is a master loctitian and the current floor manager at The Nappy Hutt. After making an immediate impact with her leadership and artistry, she is now preparing to transition to her future role as the manager of Nappy Hutt Atlanta. Her dedication to hair health and her focused “youngest old lady” wisdom make her a standout talent on the team.