A Dream Realized: The Birth of EHD

In 1984, after completing extensive training at the John Atchison Hair Center in Manhattan, NY, Cindy returned to Long Island with a clear mission: to train stylists with a strong emphasis on haircutting—a skill that was most needed at the time. A friend introduced her to Shirley Ramsey, co-owner of Unity and Beauty, and after an interview and a modeling session, Shirley offered Cindy a hairstylist position. It wasn’t just a job—it was a stepping stone. In fact, Shirley became Cindy’s very first student in a unique haircutting technique that Cindy intended to use when teaching rising stylists throughout Long Island.

While at Unity and Beauty, Cindy met Phyllis Ramsey (Shirley’s sister), who had recently moved to New York from California. Phyllis, a licensed cosmetologist with a focus on esthetics and a business degree under her belt, instantly connected with Cindy. Eagerly, Cindy shared her innovative technique with Phyllis, her husband, and several other colleagues—and the method proved to be a resounding success.

Although funds were scarce, the two women joined forces with nothing but a prayer, a dream, a vision, and a mission. They even secured a $7,500 loan co-signed by Cindy’s uncle—a man who had once sworn never to co-sign again after a past disappointment, yet felt divinely persuaded to put his trust in them.  Armed with their lawyer Mike Cirrito, their accountant Mario Gaiti, and Carlton Ramsey an up and coming graphic designer produced an award winning logo that set the tone for the name. In 1986, this partnership brought Exclusive Hair Designs (EHD) into existence at 175 Fulton Ave in Hempstead, New York. Housed in a modest 200‑square‑foot space with four stations, two sinks, two dryers, a bench seating three, and a small desk, the salon marked a major milestone: a lifelong dream realized through hard work and faith.

Phyllis had a vision, and Cindy had a mission; together, they created the ideal platform to bring their shared dream to life. Conscious that one day they might choose different paths, they responsibly established an agreement that would allow for an amicable separation if necessary. EHD swiftly evolved from a simple salon into a vibrant community beacon. The space not only trained and mentored budding hairstylists but also employed receptionists, maintenance personnel, and provided part-time work for youth, college students, and seniors—a heartfelt effort to give back and uplift others.

In 1988, the team produced their first hairstyle book in the form of a calendar. The following year, Cindy married Calvin Ramsey (Phyllis’s brother), embracing a new personal chapter while continuing to excel professionally. In 1989, EHD expanded to a 10‑station salon at 94 North Franklin Ave in Hempstead. As both staff and clientele grew, the salon hosted hair shows, photoshoots, and enjoyed the unmistakable blessing of the Lord.

In 1992, the Exclusive Hair Designs partnership dissolved: Phyllis launched Hair International while Cindy evolved her vision further by opening EHD The Beauty Shop at 80 Main Street in Hempstead. Under their leadership, EHD became a launchpad for success. At least ten other salons emerged from the EHD legacy—including Hair International, Supreme Satisfaction, Majestic Hair Designs, Attitude Hair Studio, Techno-Fabric Studios, Shades of Essence, Shattered Shapes, Laws of Hair, and Euphoria Hair Designs.

In 1996, EHD The Beauty Shop relocated to 496 Jerusalem Ave in Uniondale, NY, and in 2015, the salon expanded to 704 Jerusalem Ave in Uniondale, with a commitment to remain there for at least a decade. Today, with over 40 years in the beauty industry, Cindy is revered as a veteran, an educator, and a guiding light. Her salons were far more than just businesses—they served as centers of ministry, counsel, and encouragement for all who walked through their doors.

Over the years, Cindy has earned numerous accolades, including the FOLC Summer Academy Class of Beauty Award, the Black Achievement Award for Excellence in Business, a Recognition Citation from The Inc. Village of Hempstead, an Appreciation Award from the EHD staff, the EHD Scholarship Award from Hofstra University, and the Prom Guide Cover Model Sponsor Award, among many others recognizing excellence in hair shows, workshops, and career events.

The mission of EHD has always been clear: to empower the salon, its staff, and its patrons; to create beauty inside and out while lifting others higher; to elevate the professional image of the beauty industry; and to educate in the name of our Higher Being, God.