The salon that would become Ladyz of Elegance didn’t start as a passion project. It was opened by Sandra Ballard and her sister‑in‑law, Linda Williams, then later sold to Lloyd and Phyllis Bell as a tax write‑off. Lloyd and Phyllis weren’t stylists; they bought the salon purely for financial reasons. But the values they lived by at home—family loyalty and unconditional love—quickly shaped the shop. What began as a line item on a balance sheet became a place where clients were treated like extended family, and where their daughters learned the importance of hard work and community.

In 2002, the Bell sisters—SoJohna, Lafeda, Jatrace, and Fartema—took over and gave the salon new life. They introduced the tree braid technique, a protective style in which only the ends of the extensions are visible . The style exploded in popularity, leading to three‑month waiting lists and cementing the sisters’ reputation as pioneers. Their mastery of this technique set them apart in the region and positioned the salon as a leader in healthy hair and innovative styling.

Today, what started as a tax write‑off is a thriving, multi‑generational business. The Bell sisters carry forward the principles their parents instilled in them—family, love, and integrity—while continuing to innovate. Clients appreciate the warmth, expertise, and authenticity that define every visit. Even as styles evolve, the salon remains at the forefront of protective styling and honors the legacy that changed their family’s course.

Our Legacy

Born from a transaction, built by family, and sustained by innovation and love. We’re grateful to our parents for the opportunity, and to our clients for trusting us. We remain committed to setting the standard for tree braids and other protective styles while treating every customer like family.