-Chicago-
About
Hi there! 👋 I’m Zhanna, the heart and hands behind Braidapalooza. For me, braiding is more than just hairstyling—it’s a vibrant celebration of color, self-expression, creativity, and joy. Nothing lights me up more than crafting beautiful braids, sharing laughter, and seeing the confidence they bring to every face (especially happy kids!).
My Story
My braiding journey began in the early 2000s in Belarus, where I was born and raised. There, as a teenager, I fell in love with intricate hairstyles. After my first braiding experience, I was hooked—so much so that I traveled to Moscow to attend braiding school just so I could style my own hair (back then, braids were as pricey as they are today!). What started as a personal passion soon turned into a small business, with clients dozing off on my couch as I put the finishing touches on their 300(!) braids.
In 2009, life brought me to the U.S. after winning the Green Card lottery. I studied at Aveda Institute, earned my cosmetology license, and started working as a hairstylist. Unfortunately I stopped focusing on braids and was mostly doing regular hair services. Until....
I discovered music festivals, and everything clicked. The pulsating lights, the freedom of the music, the sea of people expressing themselves without limits—it felt like home. Festival culture showed me a community where everyone belonged, no matter their background, style, or story. It was pure magic: a place where self-expression wasn’t just accepted—it was celebrated.
Seeing so many festival-goers rocking bold, beautiful braids reignited my passion. I started braiding my own hair again, experimenting with colors and designs that matched the electric energy around me. Before long, Braidapalooza was born—a fusion of my craft and the culture that inspired me to embrace it fearlessly.
Today, I channel that same spirit of creativity and acceptance into every braid I create. Whether it’s a whimsical updo, a bold geometric design, or a glitter-streaked masterpiece, my mission is simple: to help you shine as brightly as you are.
Let’s create something unforgettable together! ✨