Interview with Vashti (Vee) The Creator of TheHodgePodge Files

Vashti, I know you are all natural, what is your story? How did you get to where you are?

I actually ended up on this path out of curiosity. I was bored with my relaxed hair and was curious about what I’d look like with a very short natural hair. I transitioned for about 3 months without even realizing that’s what I was doing, I had initially thought I would just try it out and maybe return to relaxers one day.

My husband actually encouraged and nudged me to “do it” (the Big Chop) when I was thinking about backing out. I’m so happy I listened and I Big chopped on August 15th, 2009. I have fallen completely in love with my hair all over again, and I just love how versatile it is. It’s so ME!

How would you describe your hair texture?

My hair is very kinky*, and coily in some spots. It is also very dense with a mixture of thick and medium strands. It is very prone to tangling and knots if left to its own devices, so I have to keep it moisturized, as well as balancing protective styles with “out” styles.

What is your typical weekly regimen?

Once a week, I pre-poo my hair usually with coconut oil* overnight or for at least 2 hours and then proceed to detangle.  I follow up with a co-wash, and deep conditioning* session. I keep my hair in twists the entire time  to prevent it from tangling. I only use shampoo about twice a month and I like to incorporate special Ayurvedic treatments like Amla* pastes, Henna*/Cassia* Glosses or Hot oil treatments as well. After cleansing and conditioning, I moisturize and seal, and twist my hair up for the week.

How do you usually wear your hair?

My hair is in twists 90% of the time because I love how versatile they are. I can pin them up in so many different ways to create new looks. I do wear twist-outs and other “out” styles, but twists will always be my favorite.

How do you combat dryness?

Moisturizing and sealing my hair daily or every few days as needed, really helps to combat dryness. Weekly deep conditioning* sessions as well as hot oil treatments, and styles that keep my ends tucked away have also proven very helpful as well.

Any favorite hair products?

Shea Moisture Curl Enhancing Smoothie/ Deep Treatment Mask

BASK Palm Tapioca Hair Cream

Qhemet Biologics Amla & Olive Heavy Cream

Bobeam Shampoo Bars

Darcy’s Botanicals Pumpkin Seed Conditioner

Qhemet Aethiopika Hydrate and Twist Butter

I love reading your fabulous blog, tell us about The HodgePodge Files and what it means to you?

Thank you so much, I am so appreciative all the support I’ve received. The HodgePodge Files is my baby. It started as a personal challenge to step out of my comfort zone, and it has allowed me to grow in so many ways. I have grown to love blogging and sharing about my hair, my hobbies and interests, my thoughts and other pieces of me with my audience

Because of the sheer volume of natural hair it can be overwhelming for someone considering transitioning. What is the best advice your can give newly natural ladies about dealing with their hair?

As a new natural, you really have to take the time to learn your own hair. It requires some trial and error as well as lots of patience. I’d say not to focus so much on what number category (4a, 3c etc) your hair falls into, but instead learn your hair’s characteristics, such as its porosity, density. Those characteristics will help you determine the types of products and methods you can employ to reach your hair goals. Most of all, have FUN and LOVE your hair.

If you could share one tip that you were given that has helped you on your hair journey what would that tip be?

I have learned so much from so many people, but very early on I learned how to be patient and to do tons of research. The research I’ve done into the structure and characteristics of my hair has definitely made it easier for me interpret what it needs by the way it acts.

Where can we find you online?

My website is www.thehodgepodgefiles.blogspot.com, or you can follow me on Instagram @veepeejay or like me on  www.facebook.com/TheHodgePodgeFiles or subscribe to my youtube channel at www.youtube.com/user/VeePeeJay .