Braid like a pro

Braid Like A Pro is a home-based hair braiding business in Katy, Texas, run by professional hair-braider Esther. The exact address is sent by email once an appointment is booked, so the location stays private until then.

Appointments run Tuesday through Saturday, 9:00am to 7:00pm, and the business is closed on holidays. Early, late, same-day and squeeze-in appointments carry a $20 convenience fee, and off-day appointments are not currently offered. Clients can also request home service: locations up to 40 minutes away carry a $50 convenience fee, and locations more than 40 minutes away carry a $100 travel fee.

Prices depend on the style, hair length and size, and the listed price reflects the length and style selected. Hair is not included in the service price, and blowouts to stretch the hair are included. Accessories can be added for an extra fee. Hair must be at least 3 inches long, and shorter hair carries an additional fee. Clients should arrive with freshly washed hair that has been detangled with a leave-in conditioner, since tangled hair will not be braided. The business describes itself as offering the best services at competitive prices and says it guarantees its services; that is the business's own claim.

Booking requires a $20 non-refundable deposit paid by card online. The remaining balance is due on appointment day and can be paid by cash, card, Zelle or Cash App. Card payments of the balance carry a 2.6% plus $0.10 service charge that is not deducted from the balance. Cancellations need 24 hours' notice; later cancellations, and same-day cancellations, are rescheduled only after paying 25% of the remaining balance. Late clients should notify the business before their appointment time. A 25-minute grace period applies, and appointments may be cancelled after 30 minutes. No-call, no-show clients will not be offered service again. Questions can be sent by phone, email or Instagram, with replies usually within 12 to 24 hours.