The Face Behind Pretty Bounce: Who is Phay Dee?

My name is Phay. I was born and raised in Palm Beach County, Florida. I am the second oldest daughter of the three ladies. I’ll be going back to school soon to complete a degree in healthcare. Growing up, my two passions were medicine and business. I remember watching “Plastic Surgery: Before and After” faithfully when I was younger. It got so bad that I would point out the various types of cosmetic work that I would do on someone’s face if I were already a doctor.

When I was in 7^th grade, I decided to start selling snacks at my middle school. As a young girl, my only goal was to be able to afford the extra stuff that my parents couldn’t give to me; I wanted the latest sneakers and I was determined to get my first cellphone. I started off with just selling Doritos, but I had no idea how big this little “business” of mine would turn out.

I ended up selling snacks from 7^th grade until I graduated high school without ever having to get a part time job like my fellow classmates. When I share this story with people, they always ask how that was even possible. Truth is, I was successful with this just as any business becomes successful: I learned what my class mates’ favorite snacks were and then I purchased them wholesale at Sam’s and sold them to my classmates at a competitive price. I offered them snacks that the cafeteria didn’t. This is also known as one of the basics of business: supply & demand.

I then partnered up with some of my fellow classmates who were interested in doing the same thing and they sold my products while still making a profit.

The money was tremendous. I was able to get everything I needed and wanted and was even able to help support my family.

But all of the success did come at a cost. I was suspended so many times for my little business endeavor that all the assistant principals knew me by a first name basis. I’ll never forget the time when the APs were discussing the “issue” at hand. “What are we going to do with her?” We all know she’s just going to come back and continue selling.” I took my ten days of suspension every time and spent my time home assessing the situation and what could have been done better. Two weeks later, I was back in school selling even harder.

The “game” between the administrators and I played almost seemed to turn into a drug deal. I had students on the “lookout,” I had a certain spot to post up at school in the morning to give students, and even a few teachers, their morning “fix.” I would have students carry my duffle bag of treats around campus a few feet in front of me while I was in the presence of authority.

I’ll never forget the time that two administrators tried to set me up for a “bust.” I was enjoying my lunch with my duffle bag on the table just a few feet away with another student. The two administrators sat on their golf car at a distance watching me. I knew what was about to occur, but I also knew that I was not going to let anyone stop me. I had the student that was holding my duffle bag sell to the “bait” that they sent my way. Immediately, the purchasing student went back to the golf car. Because the transaction was not made directly between me and the student, they couldn’t touch me. The administrators, with the look of defeat on their face, had lost the fight for that day. I went home later to count my triumph.

Eventually, senior year came around. It was time for me to move on. Many questioned me about who would take over once I left, but in a sense, we all knew that no one could ever replace what I had worked so hard to build. I was a pioneer.

Some people may think that I was hard-headed or that I was rebellious, but the lesson that I learnt from this experience is to never give up. There will be obstacles that come your way, but that’s when you push even harder. Don’t ever let others decide what you are going to be. I graduated Honors and a 3.2 grade point average, even with all the days of school I missed. I’m going on to continue my education soon. I was able to support my family and myself without degrading myself or depending on someone else. I hope that you all can take a piece from my story and find your strength. Find out what you love to do and go after it.

“If you love what you do for a living, you’ll never have to work a day in your life.”

I’m so grateful to have this opportunity. I personally want to thank all of you, whether a client, partner, or just someone who wanted to know more about who was behind the brand that is Pretty Bounce Hair. Thank you all for sharing this journey with me. I truly appreciate all of the support.

(Special thank you to Diania Caraballo)