Written by Trish B
In the world of beauty, the name D’Laced is synonymous with talent, resilience and innovation. But behind the brand is Dee Monklief, a visionary entrepreneur whose journey from Corporate America to the beauty industry is nothing but inspiration.
Dee’s story began in 2019 when she first began her hair as a side hustle. By 2020, she had fully embraced her craft and transformed her apartment into a mini salon. It was a world away from her structured life as a financial analyst in the medical field, but something about hairstyles sparked a soul fire where corporate work was inconsistent.
“I’ve always had a passion for hair, but I’ve never seen it as a career,” Dee recalls. “That changed when I took a leap in my faith and posted my Valentine’s Day hair on social media. The reaction was overwhelming, and that’s when I realized. This is what I’m trying to do.”
With an increasing number of customers and an unwavering drive, Dee transformed her passion into a brand. In 2023, she still took the biggest step. In January 2025, I opened my own salon in Montgomery, Alabama, where I celebrated its second anniversary.
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The transition from corporate America to full-time entrepreneurship is not without its challenges. Getting out of her comfort zone and fully believe in her own potential was one of the biggest obstacles she faced. There were moments of self-doubt, and quitting seemed like an option, but every time uncertainty crept in, God showed up reminding her why she started. Faith, consistency and unwavering belief in her purpose carried her through the toughest moments.
Her journey has evolved far beyond her hairstyle. Dee has built a brand that extends to the highest quality wigs and hair products, even the production used by celebrity stylist Jonathan Wright, including water-resistant lace adhesives, head tie bands, and crimp irons. Now she’s entering a new phase in her business, focusing on natural hair care. The brand is about not only introducing products, but also creating an entire experience centered around healthy hair growth and maintenance. She wants clients to feel confident in embracing the natural beauty of nature with products specifically designed to nourish and enhance their hair.
Through all the milestones, Dee believes her mother is her biggest supporter, constantly discussing life in her dreams, instilling the idea that failure is never an option. But more than anything, she attributes her success to faith. God continues to be the foundation of everything she does and guides her through every decision and transition. This journey is more than just hair. It is to encourage others to go into faith and pursue their dreams.
With exciting brands and new ventures on the horizon, Dee Moncliffe isn’t just building Beauty Empire. “Every opportunity, every win, even this interview is a sign that I am on the right path,” she says. “This is just the beginning. D’Laced is ready for the world.
To set up an appointment with quality service or to order hair essentials from D’Laced, visit her website https://www.dlaced.com/
