About the MANHE FOUNDER

MASTER PIONEER MARION COUNCIL-GEORGE

OWNER OF DESIGNER BRAIDS & TRADE INC & fOUNDER OF MID-ATLANTIC NATURAL HAIRSTORY EXPO

Marion, a licensed cosmetologist since 1984, has built a thriving career in the natural hair industry. From New York to Delaware, she has opened and operated successful businesses, while also making a name for herself as a vendor, instructor, and hair competition judge. Her remarkable hair designs even earned her an award at the Taliah Waajid Natural Hair & Beauty Show in Atlanta.

Inspired by her love for braiding, Marion established Brooklyn's first exclusive hair braiding salon, Designer Braids, in 1987. Located on Fulton Street in Clinton Hill, the salon flourished for two decades. Marion's passion for hair braiding and natural hair care spans over 40 years, and her expertise has led her to trademark two iconic hairstyles, the Natty Curl Braids and Ebolocs, which are now widely known as Crochet Braids and Faux Locs.

Beyond her own success, Marion has a deep desire to mentor and connect stylists, especially millennials, with industry trailblazers who possess decades of experience. This vision drives her to organize the MANHE Expo, where the generations can unite and foster creativity.

Marion's involvement in the industry extends to Baltimore's Natural Hairshow, where she has participated for many years alongside her Designer Braids Glam Styling Team. She is thrilled to attend this event annually, as it allows her to showcase her styling skills and share her passion for natural hair.

Marion's influence has reached various platforms, including magazines like Sophisticates Hair Magazine, Shop Talk, Braids and Beauty, Flair Magazine, Black Hair Digest, and Modern Braids, beginning in 1995. Her mentoring has empowered numerous women, with six of them successfully opening their own natural hair care salons.

With her undeniable flair for hair, Marion is excited to share her inspirational hairstory journey at the MANHE 2024. The event will feature special guests, including Marion's longtime colleagues in the natural hair business, who are master pioneers, stylists, and industry trailblazers. Together, they aim to celebrate the beauty and innovation that has shaped the industry since the '80s. Join Marion Council-George and others in discovering HIStory and HERStory at the MANHE 2024 on August 4th!