Tanik Ahmed of Who Dat Beauty Supply
Walking in to Who Dat Beauty Supply is like walking into your dream closet. This cosmetics shop, located at the intersection of Louisiana Ave and Carondelet offers an array of hair products, makeup, and an assortment of jewelry and apparel. If you are looking for a shop that is on top of fashion trends, stop in and check out the goods in stock; they will be sure to having you feeling great – inside and out.
Locally owned businesses infuse New Orleans neighborhoods with their unique character, and are a big part of why we want to live, work, eat and shop here. The Shopkeeper Stories series shares the vision and personality of New Orleans business owners.
Name: Tanik Ahmed
Shop: Who Dat Beauty Supply
Since: 2007
What ignited the spark in you to start your business?
The spark was ignited when I was in Florida and I decided to start my own business. Originally, I was supposed to start this business 17 years ago with a partner, but things worked out differently and I started the shop on my own. After being in Florida for about seven years, I came to New Orleans to continue the business. When I took on this business, it was my first job. I decided to work in the beauty business because I was familiar with it.
What makes New Orleans businesses so special?
The customers are very friendly.
Describe your business in a few words.
We sell wigs, clothes, shoes, hair, and jewelry. This store has everything for your beauty needs.
How do you define “success” in your business?
When I first started my business in New Orleans, it was good, but it began to slow down over time. Today, people are doing a lot of their shopping online. In this business, you have to know what you are doing. It is important to work hard, have great customer service, and carry good merchandise.
What are your current or any upcoming goals for your business and/or community?
Currently, I want to extend the merchandise in the store. I like to keep up with the latest fashion trends and recently added shoes and hair. I’m also working on building my online presence, especially on social media. I do have an Instagram (@whodatbeauty) that is continuing to grow. On it, I feature our products, the latest fashions, and special sales and deals.
Will you share your favorite local lunch or dinner spot?
I like seafood. I go to Cajun Seafood.
What advice would you give a new business owner?
The first and the most important thing to do is find a good location. Make sure you have a parking lot for your customers. Second, you need to have good customer service and always try to give the customers what they need. Lastly, when you are starting a business, it’s a good idea to have some savings set aside. Rarely do you ever want to invest your entire savings in your business.
Who Dat Beauty Supply
3331 Carondelet St.
New Orleans, LA 70115
(vis StayLocal!)
While drainage system improvements and road construction make “shopping local” a bit more challenging in the short term, the critical improvements mean our city will be safer and stronger for generations to come. We hope you are inspired and continue to shop small and shop local—even if it takes a little extra time!
The Shopkeeper Stories are brought to you by StayLocal, the Greater New Orleans independent business alliance, in partnership with Uptown Messenger. Learn about their work or become a member at www.staylocal.org or email info@staylocal.org
