Meet Lena Pyland | Lavish Braids Hair Lounge
We had the good fortune of connecting with Lena Pyland and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Lena, what do you attribute your success to?
My mind.
I knew that Grand Junction had “a problem” an increasing population of black culture that didn’t have a reliable Braider/Loctician. With an a strong black population from the college and people moving to Colorado in general this issue needed to be resolved. There was a point in time where I kept hearing the best way to be successful is to find a solution to a problem. Not just any problem one that can benefit lots of people.
that mindset is what got me to where i am.
Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I run a Luxury Hair Braiding business. Luxury can be seen in different ways.
My Luxury Lounge represents a classy , minimal, neutral space.
Luxury Experience-I provide my clients/guests with a unique experience that represents what you would see on social media, whether that’s providing a cocktail(21+), making matcha, providing lunch etc…. Each client gets high end treatment. i want my guests to feel what social media shows them.
There’s not one thing I’m “most’ proud of. Its the whole thing, its taken hard work and lots of energy to create this, and I will continue to feel that. The future brings a lot of excitement with new challenges , new skills, new clients, new opportunities.
Constantly stepping up my game, networking, referrals, studying, all got me to where I am today business wise. ‘Easy’ is the wrong word, because it’s not just hard vs easy, it is, are your committed, & dedicated to your passion so much that you believe in yourself enough to know that you will make a difference. Purely mental.
My story represents intention, growth mindsets, ambition, & dedication.
My business represents a luxury experience not really shown in the braid community. It represents zero tolerance for prejudices towards any race or culture interested in the braids/locs, My business represents very personal experiences, deep intellectual conversations on some days, sad stories on other days, and fun times on others.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
First Stop – get an Acai Bowl from “Tropical Smoothie Cafe” or brunch at Devils Kitchen
Second Stop- attend Yoga or dance class
Third Stop-strolling downtown
next-Grab Lunch @ Cruise Control Kitchen & Cellar
next- go for a nice 4 hour hike on the monument
next grab dinner at Moody’s Lounge
end the night at The Melrose Rose bar for a nice Espresso Martini
-The views at Devils Kitchen . You are on the top of the hotel, creating a big city dinning experience
-Strolling downtown, creates a feeling of being a big part of the downtown Grand Junction community. Where the people are friendly & inviting.
-The National Monument has stunning views of the valley that make you forget about life for a minute.
-Moody’s brings the feeling of old timey luxury
The Melrose remodel really showcased how interior design has so much to offer. The vibe is something so unique to Grand Junction. Also gives the big city feel.
Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Family & Friends- endless support
Previous Business Owner-Early guidance
Book- Jay Shetty,, “Think Like a Monk” accidentally stumbled on this book, i then proceeded to watch all of his podcast “On purpose With Jay Shetty”
Book-The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People-Stephen R. Covey- I haven’t finished this book but started it over 3 times
Failing Forward- John C Maxwell
These books are great self help books, great for self motivation and keeping a growth mindset.
Website: https://lavishbraidshairlounge.glossgenius.com/about
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lavishbraidshairlounge/
Image Credits
Mareg P
Daeja
Isis B
Nominate Someone: ShoutoutColorado 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.
