July 28, 11:59 join us virtually to start the celebration by posting a photo of yourself in braids or a beautiful photo of braids with #ILoveBraidsDay2023
Brooklyn NY- Oh My Heavenly Hair Inc. is thrilled to announce the annual celebration of International I Love Braids Day on July 29, 2023. This highly anticipated event is a vibrant tribute to the artistry and cultural significance of braided hairstyles, particularly within the African diaspora.
International I Love Braids Day serves as a platform to honor the rich heritage and diversity of braided hairstyles. From intricately woven cornrows to stunning Ghana braids, this event showcases the breathtaking beauty and versatility of braided art. With each braid, a story unfolds, representing personal style, cultural pride, and self-expression.
On this day, individuals, families, and communities come together to appreciate and explore the world of braided hairstyles. Attendees will be treated to awe-inspiring displays of braided art created by talented stylists and braiders from around the world. The event promises a visual feast of intricate designs, incorporating various patterns, colors, and accessories that showcase the boundless creativity and skill of the braiding community.
In addition to the stunning displays, International I Love Braids Day offers a host of activities and opportunities for engagement. Panel discussions led by industry experts will provide valuable insights into different hot topics, scalp health/ alopecia and styling inspiration and more. Guests will have the chance to connect with fellow hair enthusiasts, stylists, and braiders, fostering a sense of community and sharing knowledge.
International I Love Braids Day is not just about celebrating hairstyles; it is a celebration of cultural heritage and self-acceptance. It encourages individuals of all ages and backgrounds to embrace their natural hair and appreciate the diverse beauty of braids. By promoting inclusivity and self-expression, the event seeks to inspire confidence and empower individuals to embrace their unique identities.
Join us on July 29 at Bed-Stuy Restoration for a day of inspiration, education, and celebration. Experience the breath-taking artistry of braids, engage with industry professionals, and connect with a community that shares a love for braided hairstyles. This is an event you won’t want to miss!
For more information and updates on International I Love Braids Day, please visit or follow us on @intlilovebraidsday
Oh My Heavenly Hair A Vegan Lifestyle Brand
Oh My Heavenly Hair Inc. provides holistic hair care solutions that prioritize the health and well-being of the hair and scalp. Their product line includes nourishing shampoos, conditioners, moisturizers, and skin care products made with carefully selected natural ingredients that support vegan, natural and organic lifestyle. These products are designed to enhance and maintain the health, strength, and beauty of natural hair.
OMhh has become a trusted brand within the natural hair community, known for its dedication to authenticity, inclusivity, and promoting self-love. The company’s mission extends beyond hair care, advocating for overall well-being and confidence. Through their products and services, OMhh strives to empower individuals to embrace their natural beauty and feel heavenly in their own hair.
OMhh has become a trusted brand within the natural hair community, known for its dedication to authenticity, inclusivity, and promoting self-love. The company’s mission extends beyond hair care, advocating for overall well-being and confidence. Through their products and services, OMhh strives to empower individuals to embrace their natural beauty and feel heavenly in their own hair.
OMhh Presents 7th Annual International I Love Braids Day + Braid Love Celebration
Theme: In the Eyes of Nina Simone
Date: Saturday, July 29th, 2023
Locations: Bedford Stuyvesant Restoration Plaza, Outdoor Concourse & The All Purpose Room, 1368 Fulton St Brooklyn, NY 11216
Time: 12 – 5 pm
Cost: FREE
Join the Celebration…Live DJ, Mannequin Models, Live Braid Art Hair Show, Book Signing. Meet & Greet Natural Hair Industry Leaders, Panel Discussion- Hot Topics, Giveaways, Games, Shopping, Delicious Eats, and so much more. #ILoveBraidsDay2023
“Unlocking New Heights: Sponsor International I Love Braids Day Celebration and Connect with the Vibrant Natural Hair Community”
Join forces with us as a sponsor for the highly anticipated International I Love Braids Day celebration. This exceptional opportunity allows you to engage with the influential natural hair community and establish a meaningful connection between your brand and an unforgettable experience. By supporting this event, together we can achieve remarkable feats and leave a lasting impact on both our community and industry.
Furthermore, our sponsors will have the exclusive chance to showcase their brand through on-site activations and prominent signage at the event. This offers a unique platform to engage directly with attendees and leave an indelible impression on their minds. By participating in this celebration, you’ll foster a positive association with the natural hair community and enhance your brand’s reputation as a supporter of diversity, empowerment, and self-expression.
Don’t miss this extraordinary opportunity to align your brand with the powerful natural hair movement and be a catalyst for positive change. Together, we can create something extraordinary and inspire countless individuals on their hair journey. Contact us today to discuss sponsorship packages tailored to your brand’s objectives and join us in unlocking new heights of success.
Sponsorship Deck supplied upon request. Contact Debra Hare-Bey directly: info@ohmyheavenlyhair.com
What is International I Love Braids Day (IILBD)?
July 29th is International I Love Braids Day. It is a joyous occasion to honor the history and design of Braids as a cultural and artistic expression of beauty. Braids have a long, proud history that can be traced as far back as 30,000 years ago.
Founder Debra Hare-Bey created this day as a reminder of the importance Braids once held in the past, and the self-confidence, empowerment and beauty they spark and inspire today. Braids are an integral part of culture and world history.
International I Love Braids Day is dedicated to the cultivation of Braids. It is the crowning glory for the legacy of Braids. To date, IILBD has received two Proclamations— Trenton, NJ (Mayor Reed Gusciora) and Brooklyn, NY (Borough President Eric Adams). July 29th is the official day to celebrate International I Love Braids Day. Now 48 more states to go and the continent of Africa!
Who is Debra Hare-Bey?
Debra Hare-Bey is an industry leader with over two decades of advocating for women and their crowns. Debra is best known for creating the signature look for Erika Alexander—Maxine of Living Single one of the most iconic and recognizable hairstyles in television history. Erika recently credited Debra on social media for creating her signature Nu-Loc style. Debra’s work has graced the pages of countless fashion magazines. In addition, she has created her own line of products that are completely vegan–OMHH.
As the former Associate Editor of Braids & Beauty Magazine, Debra was a strong supporter of professional natural hair care. Debra used her columns to address important issues, provide accurate hair care information and create a standard by which all other hair care magazines were judged. Braids & Beauty Magazine was the first of its kind with the most anticipated pictorials, and hair care information.
Debra was one of four women instrumental in changing the Cosmetology law in NY. The law was changed to include Natural Hair Styling as a viable option for licensed stylists. The new law opened the door for hair care professionals who did not want to work with chemicals. It was a major accomplishment for African-American women, Braiders and natural hair enthusiasts. As a result of Debra’s leadership she was appointed as a proctor for the New York State Board of Cosmetology Natural Hair Styling Exam. Most recently, Debra has shared her unique expertise as an advisor to the creative team at Sesame Street, providing input on the design of textured hair puppets and their storylines.
In Debra’s own words:
What was the inspiration for IILBD? My inspiration came from my passion, love, and respect for Braids. I completely understood and adored the unparalleled culture and rich history Braids represent. As a Master Pioneer Braider, it was important for me to create a lasting, proud legacy centered around every aspect of Braids and the talent of Braiders. It was equally important to highlight the obvious: Braids are beautiful, glamorous, attractive and all of the other complimentary terms used when describing untextured hair. Personally, Braids have carried me through so much as the perfect style choice for most of my life from childhood to the present. They have always been the one thing that I come back to time and time again. Braids empowered me to be my best self because I was presenting my best self!
From idea to fruition, how long did it take to plan International I Love Braids Day? “It’s was about 15 years in the making fueled by determination and amazing people helping me along the way. Thank you to all who understand the vision.”
Describe the day you received the Proclamation. “Glorious! It was everything I dreamed and more. The day had finally come to fruition. Each Proclamation was different but equally exciting. I remember so clearly feeling like this was a grand reward for dreaming so big. It served as confirmation for staying true to what you believe — dreams can come true. I was so proud. I created a day of freedom, not just for me to openly love and celebrate my craft but a day that the entire community near and far could officially celebrate Braids.”
“I’ll tell you what freedom is to me. No fear!” – Nina Simone
And then there were two… International I Love Braids Day + Braid Love Celebration (IILBD + BLC)!
BLC is the fun, interactive, *FREE outdoor celebration of IILBD when July 29th falls on a weekday. BLC will always be the Saturday after July 29th and may be written as IILBD Braid Love Celebration or IILBD + BLC.
Food, Music, Games and Giveaways
Shop, Eat, Enjoy… IILBD Braid Love Celebration has many boutiques featuring the best artisans, designers, jewelers, and more. The food options range from vegan to soul food with a “sho nuff, sho nuff” dessert heaven that will prove to be simply delicious. No need to pack a lunch; you’ll need your hands free for all of the dancing.
Live music from hot DJ sets of Caribbean and Afro beats will keep the celebration jumping.
Games, games, and more games will help set the tone of family fun.
Giveaways, swag bags and discounts are all sponsor-driven activities.
Is International I Love Braids Day + Braid Love Celebration just a local event?
IILBD + BLC will be celebrated locally, state by state and on the continent of Africa. IILBD is officially July 29 and will maintain that day (when possible) around the world. IILBD + BLC will also include the name of the host city, state, country or continent. For example, IILBD Braid Love Celebration MD, IILBD Braid Love Celebration Sudan, etc.
Is IILBD + BLC a Curated Celebration?
Yes. We curate the celebrations by theme. Each year a new theme is selected. Listed below are past themes including the current theme for the 2022 three-day weekend celebration.
2022- Braids are the NEW Black
2021- Live in Color
2020- Juneteenth… freeish
2019- Adornment
2018- Freedom to Be
2017- Celebrate Braids
The pandemic changed our lives forever and gave IILBD + BLC an opportunity to recalibrate — A documentary was born
2019 proved to be a trying time for everyone. It was the fourth International I Love Braids Day and we were in the middle of the Covid-19 pandemic. Unfamiliar words and actions became our new normal. Quarantining, social distancing, face masks, washing hands, and on and on left us feeling out of sorts. We quickly had to figure out if and how we could move International I Love Braids Day forward.
How would we move it forward? Two words came to mind that helped guide our decision. The words were pivot (rest and turn) and flexibility (willingness to change or compromise). Through those words and a willingness to think outside the box, the decision to go virtual was born.
Braids Made History! Then we made history virtually.
International I Love Braids Day Documentary… Past, Present, and Future Produced by @blackpixelproducts and @manemoves
Braids have a long, proud history that can be traced back as far as 30,000 years ago. Braids were important around the world. They were created with great intricacies that denoted social status, wealth, religion and other classifications for both women and men. Braids of the past gave importance and context to the Braids of today as we witness their resurgence and the culture they represent.
Unfortunately, the rich history of Braids was not enough to withstand racism. Following the abolition of slavery and the beginnings of racial segregation in America Black people were harshly penalized for wearing Braids. Their employment, relationships, social status, and more were jeopardized by acknowledging the tradition that was once respected and honored.
Braid enthusiasts, historians, Braiders and the natural hair community fought every step of the way to reverse the stigma of braids and the prejudice that followed. We were not alone, in 2019, Dove, the National Urban League, Color of Change, and Western Center on Law & Poverty partnered to develop the CROWN Act. This legislation, which prohibits hair discrimination, has been signed into law in ten states and inspired similar legislation in four others. Braidshave come a long with a continued story that must be to told.
New techniques, vibrant colors, and Braids of fancy have fortified a renewed fervor for Braids. It is now the fastest-growing beauty option today surpassing any other hairstyle technique.
Braids inspire self-confidence, unique beauty and cultural connections. Braids are widely seen around the world with cultural context throughout Europe countries, India, China, Japan, and more. There is much to be celebrated, and Braids have a proud lineage and beauty worthy to be praised. It is with great pride and respect that International I Love Braids Day celebrates Braids in all of their history, beauty, and glory!
International I Love Braids Day | July 29th
July 29th is the official day of celebration for International I Love Braids Day (IILBD). It is a joyous occasion to honor the history and design of Braids as a cultural and artistic expression of beauty. Mark your calendar and save the date! IILBD is coming and we want YOU there. Click link here for celebration details.
We are happy to announce that July 29, 2021, marks the fifth celebration of OMhh Presents International I Love Braids Day! International I Love Braids Day continues to grow as we spread the good news about Braids. This year our theme is Live In Color.
July 29 is such a big deal and here’s why; by official proclamation from Brooklyn Borough President Eric L. Adams, it is International I Love Braids Day! It is the day we formally honor the history and intricate design of braids as a cultural and artistic expression of beauty. Live In Color! was chosen as this year’s theme because color impacts moods, feelings and behavior. There is beauty and healing in color.
Now this is even bigger… we have moved to a new state- Trenton NJ. As the name of the day indicates we are an international day of celebration. We haven’t made it to international status yet. It’s a process with lots of planning and is absolutely in our field of vision. Our baby steps are getting bigger and bigger to include new states. 2022 will be in Savannah GA and 2023 California wine country- Ghana is in the plans.
How reflections brought us where we are today…
Last year, International I Love Braids Day landed right in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic. Unfamiliar words and actions became our new normal: quarantining, social distancing, wearing masks, washing hands often, and so on left us all in a lurch. We quickly had to figure out if and how we would move International I Love Braids Day forward to continue the legacy of Braid art, culture, history, design, and beauty. Two words guided our decision. The words were pivot (to rest and turn), and flexibility (willingness to change or compromise). Through those words and great thought, the decision to go virtual was born and continues.
Video Produced by @blackpixelproductions and @manemoves
Let’s Celebrate VIRTUALLY! 2021 2nd Annual International I Love Braids Day 2021
Join us on July 29, 2021, for International I Love Braids Day’s 2nd virtual celebration. The reason for the celebration remains the same. It’s how we celebrate that has changed.
The celebration will include:
A candid conversation with IILBD founder Debra Hare-Bey, discussing:
The importance of Braids
Why is color important? How color can change your life!
How the pandemic changed our lives forever and gave IILBD an opportunity to recalibrate.
This our 4th year for International I Love Braids Day landed us right in the middle of a Covid-19 pandemic. Unfamiliar words and actions became our new normal- quarantining, social distancing, wear a face mask, wash hands often, and so on, and so on left us all in a lurch. I quickly had to figure out if and how I would move International I Love Braids Day forward to continue the legacy of Braid art, culture, history, design, and beauty. Two words came to mind that would guide me through my decision. The words were pivot (rest & turn) and flexibility (willingness to change or compromise). Through those words and great thought the decision to go virtual was born.
Braids Made History! Now Braids are making history Virtually.
July 29th is officially International I Love Braids Day by Proclamation from Brooklyn Borough President Eric L. Adams. International I Love Braids Day is “A joyous occasion to celebrate and honor the history and intricate design of braids as a cultural and artistic expression of beauty.”
Let’s Celebrate VIRTUALLY!
Join us for IILBD’s first VIRTUAL celebration. The reason for the celebration remains the same. It’s how we celebrate that has changed.
The celebration will include:
A Candid Conversation with Founder Debra Hare-Bey Discussing
The importance of Braids
Why Juneteenth is this years theme
Why Bed-Stuy is so fly
The Connection between freedom and natural hair
Braids Past, Present and Future
Reflections from past amazing braided hairstyles
Salon Spotlight: @kinky.rootz and @hairloks
Special Appearance: @omhhredroom
Special Feature- Bed-Stuy & Black Lives Matter Spotlight
Video Produced by @blackpixelproductions and @manemoves
2019 IILBD Braid Love Celebration continues to grow in its 3rd year with new showstoppers and spectacular Braids. Hundreds of people came out again to see what this year had in store. This was especially important because a new law (The Crown Act) had just passed so our celebration was extra special. We showed out! The hair was better than ever with more looks that spanned the African diaspora. In addition to that, the acts were so good- our stilt walker, DJ, and singers were simply the best.
IILBD Braid Love Celebration is a joyous occasion to celebrate and honor the history and intricate design of Braids as a cultural and artistic expression of beauty.
WHY THIS DAY IS IMPORTANT
History continues… This is the 1st time IILBD Braid Love Celebration- Brooklyn will be on a separate day from International I Love Braids Day.
International I Love Braids Day +
Braid Love Celebration- Brooklyn
celebrate. braids. honor. culture
Braids Made History!
July 29th is officially International I Love Braids Day + Braid Love Celebration by Proclamation from the Brooklyn Borough President’s Office. This day is “A joyous occasion to celebrate and honor the history and intricate design of braids as a cultural and artistic expression of beauty.”
Let’s Celebrate!
Join us to celebrate International I Love Braids Day + Braid Love Celebration for a magical day of braids, braids and more braids from Africa to Brooklyn.
To honor this historic occasion we’ve curated the Industry’s baddest Braiders to present culture, design, history, and beauty on the runway.
Cheer-on the flyest hair shows including the 1st ever “50+ & Fabulous Models.” Pose with live braided mannequins. Get your cameras ready….participate in the flyest “Instagram Braids Walk.” Salute the IILBD award for notable contributions to the advancement of Braids!
Be informed – check out the Braids History & Culture Tent. Visit our Village for an unforgettable shopping and food experience. Dance, dance, dance, to hyped Afro-Caribbean beats (live DJ). Play games, win prizes, and so much more.
All invited. Family event. *FREE, Sunday, July 29th, 11 am – 5 pm
Restoration Plaza Outdoor Concourse, 1360 Fulton Street, Bed-Stuy, Brooklyn
A or C train to Nostrand Ave, B25 to Fulton & New York Ave, B44 to Fulton Nostrand Ave.
Don’t Miss Hair Historian- Dr. Afiya Mbilishaka Psychologist. Educator. Hairstylist. What is PsychoHairapy? Listen & Learn how our hair, heritage, and health all connect.
Share Circle
with IILBD + BLC Founder Debra Hare-Bey
Q. What was the inspiration for International I Love Braids Day?
A. My inspiration came from my passion, love, and respect of Braids. I completely understood and adored the unparalleled culture and rich history braids represented. As a Master Pioneer Braider, it was important to create a lasting, proud legacy centered around every aspect of Braids and the talent of the Braiders. It was equally important to highlight the obvious- Braids are beautiful, glamorous, attractive and all the other complementary terms used when describing untextured hair. I am sure YOU would agree with me, Braids are worthy of a day (International I Love Braids Day + Braid Love Celebration) in HISTORY!
From idea to fruition, how long did it take to plan IILBD + Braid Love Celebration?
A. It’s been over 10 years in the making.
Q. Describe the day you received the Proclamation.
A. Glorious! It was everything and more that I dreamed and planned. I could not believe It was actually happening- it had come to fruition. A day not just for me to openly love and celebrate my craft but a day the entire community near and far could officially celebrate Braids. World here we come!
DID YOU KNOW
International I Love Braids Day + Braid Love Celebration is *FREE. RSVP is suggested to receive a gift bag (while supplies last) and access the curated festivities. Restoration is open to the public so all are welcome. *Restoration Plaza has limited space so register early. Tickets will go quickly. If you can’t attend and you registered, give your confirmation email to your replacement.
Shop, Eat, Enjoy…. we have so much more than vendors. Each one of our mini boutiques is the best artisans, designers, jewelers, and more. The food options are simply delicious. No need to pack a lunch; you’ll need your hands free for all the dancing.
International I Love Braids Day (IILBD) is an official day of celebration by Proclamation and will ALWAYS be celebrated on July 29th.
Braid Love Celebration is the fun, interactive, *FREE outdoor celebration of IILBD when July 29th falls on a weekday. Braid Love Celebration will always follow the first day of the weekend following July 29th.
Does International mean this Celebration will travel around the world? Yes! IILBD + Braid Love Celebration will travel. IILBD + Braid Love Celebration is officially July 29 and will maintain that day around the world. IILBD + BLC will also include the name of the host city, state, country, continent- Ex: Braid Love Celebration Brooklyn/MD, Braid Love Celebration Brooklyn/Sudan, etc.
Ask about brand exposure with International I Love Braids Day + Braids Love Celebration- Brooklyn. Do you have a quality product or handmade item you want to be included in the coveted gift bag? Be a part of history. Apply now. STOP… you must have a professional product, well made and, this is important- the natural hair community must be excited about it. Please email ohmyheavenlyhair@gmail.com with product info, website, IG page, and telephone.
To be considered: You must have 50 items to be included in the gift bag. Your product will be reviewed.
VOLUNTEERS
We want YOU. If you would like to be a part of history we invite you to participate.
What we need….. help with everything!
♡ Setup (before event)
♡ Breakdown (after event)
♡ Check-In
♡ Gift bag distribution
♡ Coordinators/Run of show, Instagram Braid Walk, History & Culture Tent
Please send an email to ohmyheavenlyhair@gmail.com with your contact info detailing where you want to volunteer your services.
IMPORTANT – Please be aware:
Please be aware that by registering or attending this event, you grant OMhh Inc./International I Love Braids Day, its Event Sponsors, its Successors, Assigns and Licensees permission to utilize your name, image, likeness, acts, poses, plays, appearance, movements, and statements in any live or recorded audio, video, or photographic display or other transmissions, exhibition, publication or reproduction made of, or at, the event (regardless of whether before, during or after the event) for any purpose, in any manner, in any medium or context is now known or hereafter developed, without further authorization from, or compensation to, you or anyone acting on your behalf.
Photos: Shades of Commerce, Hair: Debra Hare-Bey Private Parlour @ OMhh, Makeup: Amber-Jade E. Hare-Bey, Model: Taiesha Abrams
Kudos to Shades Of Commerce for supporting and reporting on our first International IILBD + Braid Love Brooklyn Celebration, July 29, 2017, Fulton Park, 70 Chauncey St, Bklyn, 11233. Shades, YOU help to make our special day live forever. Thank you.
International I Love Braids Day is a joyous occasion to celebrate and honor the history and design of braids as a cultural and artistic expression of beauty.
Join the official fan page for your up close and personal view leading up to the first and all official International I Love Braids Day events. This is a journey of love, commitment, and community.
The 1st event will take place this Summer in Brooklyn. Stay tuned.
International I Love Braids Day + Braid Love Celebration