We had the good fortune of connecting with Tanika (Rocky) Belis and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Tanika (Rocky), what’s the most important lesson your business/career has taught you?
Flexibility! I have learned to be super flexible! First covid was such a surprise for everyone, of course-but then the trends in hair salons took a turn. I specialize in soft, razor cuts for all women-vegan hair products, but women are taking their beauty into their own hands with YouTube and Instagram as their personal guides. You have to be able to adjust to things that are out of your control. In doing that, I now also

a wedding officiant which I enjoy. I have also created a space for women called B.A.D Beauty After Divorce. Styling consultations, Glow ups, makeovers-your personal fairy godmother! We have BAD-ass playdates around town, meditations, cooking classes, or just conversation…I didn’t realize how difficult divorce was until I experienced it myself. Now I understand how important it is to get to know yourself again, reclaim your power and start over!

So, I would say that this has all been a matter of flexibility. Being able to change with the times. Personal changes or external changes that are outside of our control. It gets difficult but nothing stays the same. I’m enjoying the journey for sure.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I am a former makeup artist for the Miss America pageant. I have been a cosmetologist since 1995. Everyone has their specialty in the world of hair. I like soft, feminine, bouncy hair. Feathering and razors. The bigger the hair, the closer to God. I am a black woman. There is a very specific group of people that my work attracts. I love hair, art, music, makeup. I am proud to say that I opened Tokyo Blue Hair Lab. During covid, I moved my services remote. I come to you and we style in the comfort of your home. I think what sets me apart is that so many women wear wigs now and everyone wants to look similar. The magic of styling is changing so fast due to social media.

It’s difficult but, we change with the times, yeah? I’m excited about things to come. I’m excited about being the wedding officiant for odd birds like myself. I always love meeting people that understand my hair vision and aren’t afraid to be unique.

I’m excited about being a resource to women experiencing breakups and divorces, when they just can’t seem to get back to center. None of this is easy. I’m not where I want to be, but I’m so glad that I’m not where I was.

I want the world to know that we all can change our story at any time. We just have to make that choice. Knowing that my ex husband has moved on to someone new after almost 30 years-that almost was the end of me. I’m proud that I kept going. I am Tokyo Blue and I love the adventure. At some point, maybe it will all make sense. For now, I’d love to be of service.

Are you an adventurer? Are you getting married in an unconventional way to an unconventional person? No judgment here, I’d love to be your Officiant. Do you need a new hairstyle? Let’s play! Are you still recovering from divorce or a break up that you can’t shake? Let’s talk. I have found so many resources that have helped me along the way. Join our BAD ass playdates and you can join the tribe. I look forward to it.
I just want you to know that I’m here.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
90minuteNight Ghost tour rydables.com in Mesa
Vegan Mexican food at Tacos Veganos in Phoenix
Salt River Tubing
Boot & Scoot line dancing in Mesa
Buddha beach & The Peace Park in Sedona
The Farm at South Mountain for dinner
Late night munchies at Cheba Hut
Horseback riding
Taliesin West- Frank Lloyd Wright museum
Route 66-Holbrook-to see Mater and other stars from Pixar’s Arizona based movie “Cars”
Stand up Paddleboard Yoga, Tempe
Get a Reading from Chicks with Spiritual Gifts
Indian Fry Bread from the Fry Bread House

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
A mother’s support can never be discounted. A daughter’s love is unconditional. My mother and my daughter deserve this shoutout. Through my divorce and the many hurdles of running a business, if it feels like you have nobody in this world behind you-I always know that I can ring my mother or cuddle with my daughter.

1. A fabulous therapist-thank you Lindsay Love @TherapyLuv
2. a great Intuitive Team thank you Christina @Chicks with Spiritual Gifts
3. An awesome healing team thank you Mel @The Wave Pilates, Gilbert

Instagram: @WeddingsforWierdos @tokyobluehairlab @comeplaywithtokyo @beautyafterdivorce

Youtube: @comeplaywithtokyo

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutArizona is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.