hi ashley i have absolutely no idea how that blank reply got posted. sorry for that lol.
okay well dreads are more of a spiritual journey and a rebellious statement than just a hairstyle. jerks like that other girl may never understand it so its best to just ignore n give her a chance to look more attractive than u for once.. its great that u stood by ur friend and defended him/her. congratulations for that.
as far as family is concerned they are the ones who have spent most time with u and they are so much used to seeing u the way they have for all these years that they might find it a little hard to digest the change in ur appearance these days. just give them some time. they love u, just assure them n make them realise that u r still that same person, they will adjust slowly.
for 'people' who mess with u for ur dreads dont even bother. they hardly matter anything to u in ur life. dreads are sexy n are really attractive. keep them clean n healthy and let them mature. more than how they look, its how u carry them along is what is more important. if u carry them along with confidence u instantly start lookin good with them. u may be wearing the best dress in this world, might be sportin the best hairstyle and make up in the world... but if u arent comfortable in it u'll still look awkward and ugly, no matter what. good luck for ur dreadlock journey n peace to u .