Local beautician Deandra "Dee Dee" Baxter is a one-woman show, serving as the primary stylist and owner of Classic Hair Designs. This studio specializes in all natural hair care and provides women with a chic alternative for quality treatment without having to drive to DeKalb County or Atlanta. Baxter's trendy skill set gives off the touch of Hollywood glamour models, but with a hometown appeal that personifies everything about Rockdale County.

Classic Hair Designs has been operating since February; however, the salon celebrated its official grand opening on Saturday, April 25, with a barbecue, free facials and a book signing.

Although she is a native of Lithonia, Baxter is no stranger to the neighborhood, having graduated from Rockdale County High School in 2003. She enjoys working in Conyers and loves the intimacy of the community. She feels an extreme level of comfort in the area and plans to remain a resident as her business ventures soar to new heights.

"This area is growing and it's a better city to raise a family," Baxter said. "A lot of people are moving from out of town, so it's good for business. I've received calls from the ads I ran in the newspaper. A lot of people are doing the natural thing with their hair and that's what I specialize in."

While the economy has hurt the bottom line of businesses nationwide, Baxter has found a way to offset the recession by offering discount specials such as a $10 shampoo on for senior citizens on Wednesdays and $50 sew ins, which has created a revolving door system of regulars across the area.

"When business is slow, I've offered specials such as a free relaxer and I try to work with people. Being that we're in a recession, I'm here to work with the community and trying to make it affordable for people to get their hair done regularly," she said. "I'm about hair care, so I want people to keep their hair maintained at affordable prices."

Although she graduated from Georgia Career Institute in 2006 and runs her own business, Baxter continues to pursue her education as a student at Michael's School of Beauty.

When she's not busy styling hair or studying in her books, Baxter enjoys spending time with her three-year-old daughter Nevaeh.
Classic Hair Designs is located on 987 O'Kelly St. in Conyers.