In Baltimore, loctician Lauren Kelly has transformed a 1997 Ford bus into “The TrillestDollhouse Mobile Loc Shop” — a bright pink, rhinestone-decorated mobile salon helping clients embrace their natural hair through locs.
Kelly’s vibrant bus, which draws attention wherever it goes, is more than a salon; it’s a space dedicated to self-acceptance and community.
The mobile salon, parked at her grandmother’s house, offers services like starter locs, retwists, loc repairs, and instant locs.
Kelly, a 21-year-old licensed loctician, launched her mobile business in 2023, inspired by her journey of embracing her natural hair after years of straightening.
Through her services, she encourages clients to celebrate their natural textures and offers advice for loc care.
The mobile salon also provides a comfortable and personal experience, complete with worship music, conversations, and even a prayer jar.
Funded by state grants and a business pitch competition at Bowie State University, where Kelly is a rising senior, the mobile salon has quickly gained a loyal following, including men, who make up a large portion of her clientele.
Kelly’s commitment to helping others find confidence in their natural beauty is felt throughout the space, which she describes as a welcoming, joyful environment.
