Luxury Braid Bar Showcases African Diaspora Talents in Phoenix

By Dee Ford Byas

Entrepreneur Moteez Wilson from Michigan has brought her business acumen to Phoenix, establishing the Luxury Braiding Bar at 2535 N. Central Avenue.

At the Luxury Braiding Bar, clients are treated to premium customer service, comfort, refreshments, and entertainment while they get their hair styled in various protective styles such as cornrows, micro braids, box braids, French braids, locs, and twists, tailored to withstand the harsh Arizona climate.

“This is a braid shop, not a salon. We exclusively have braiders and locticians. Braiders do not need a license, so we welcome individuals aged 16 and up,” Wilson stated.

Though Wilson is neither a licensed stylist nor a braider, she founded and manages the business. Her foundation in the hair industry comes from growing up around family-run hair salons and other businesses.

“I am a third-generation entrepreneur. My family has owned various businesses, including gas stations, cleaners, barber shops, and salons. I have been involved in the salon environment since I was ten,” Wilson shared. “I know hair, I understand hair, I know the industry.”

Wilson describes the shop as more than a mere braid bar; it’s an experience for both staff and clients. She collaborates closely with the African diaspora community to integrate diverse braiding styles and talents.

“We are a family involved with our community,” she said, positioning the venue among the “finest African hair braiding shops in Phoenix.”

Wilson’s experience in the industry highlighted a gap in the market for reasonably priced professional services, spurring her to research and eventually establish the Luxury Braiding Bar to address these issues.

“Luxury Braid Bar was developed and launched out of necessity,” Wilson explained. “I couldn’t find any convenient services in the Phoenix area that matched the pricing and customer service I was used to in Michigan.”

The Luxury Braiding Bar offers a distinctive business model, with its menu featuring services categorized as entrees and appetizers. Prices are based on the service type and style, generally not exceeding $300 unless for special services.

“We surpass customer service expectations. Our business focuses on the customer’s needs with knowledgeable and passionate staff,” Wilson said. “We are a community. Entering Luxury Braid Bar, you feel part of a family. We provide not just a service but an experience!”

Wilson also includes a mentoring program for 16-year-olds, helping them develop creative skills, financial literacy, and soft life skills. Born and raised in Flint, Michigan, Wilson relocated from Detroit to Phoenix in 2022. She is the mother of two adult daughters and two adult sons, and grandmother to nine grandchildren.

For more information and to book an appointment, call 602-842-1622 or email luxurybraidbarAZ@gmail.com.