Today we’d like to introduce you to Lauren Ashley Whitaker – Ajayi.
Hi Lauren Ashley, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I started my career in the industry as a Licensed Massage Therapist. After 12 years of working the field, I made the decision to go back to school and obtain my Cosmetology license. To date, I have previously owned 3 on site full service salons specializing in hair and nails and a full service on demand traveling salon specializing in providing beauty services for weddings, special events, and photoshoots. In January, I opened my first store front nail salon concentrating on all things nail care, spa pedicures, facials waxing, and express facials.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Is it ever a smooth road as an entrepreneur? I have faced and overcome many obstacles along the way to where I am now but I believe it is what set me up for success today. As an African American female there are so many stigmas I’ve dealt with day to day. From not being supported locally to not being able to get funding nationally. Everything that I have done for my business I have done by myself with the support and help from my husband who helped me hand build each salon location that we have had. We turned nothing into something and it makes me that more grateful for what I have.
When I enrolled into cosmetology school I was working full time in order to financially take care of my family. Getting through school successfully was not easy but I made it through and passed my licensing exams.
Having to close 3 salon locations it can be very discouraging to jump back out there and actually try again but here I am with my 4th salon open.
With all that being said nothing has been easy but it has all been worth it. Through every trial God has seen me through with purpose and I will continue to step out on faith and I know I will be successful!
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Goddess Lynx Studio is your go to provider for all things beauty and wellness in the DMV. We have multiple sectors including our on demand, traveling salon providing beauty and wellness services for weddings, special events, photoshoots, and spa parties. Our beauty lounges which our on site salon locations (The Nail Lounge by Goddess Lynx Studio & The Hair Lounge by Goddess Lynx Studio). Beauty vending machines for on campus use for students to have affordable accessible beauty essentials. Retail collections consisting of organic beauty products and cosmetics. A non profit organization- Crown Your Goddess which is a sponsorship for women suffering from illness related hair loss providing them with free hair loss solutions and custom wig units.
Our brand is all about making beauty and wellness easily accessible to our community in different ways which cater to all types of people.
Are there any apps, books, podcasts, blogs or other resources you think our readers should check out?
The Holy Bible is my favorite book for all aspects of my life. It keeps me motivated, optimistic, dedicated, and productive.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Www.goddesslynxstudio.com
