The 2020 pandemic lockdown might not seem like the ideal time to start a new hair salon, but it actually motivated Lucia Muñoz to make the leap.
“That was a very scary time, and being in a busy salon added to the stress,” she says. “It’s a privilege to be in a private suite now, where the whole salon space is reserved just for my client.”
Lucia has been doing hair for 19 years and experienced every type of salon — working as an employee, on commission, renting a booth — before opening L Hair Studio at Executive Beauty Suites in Everett. Having a private suite helps both her and her clients relax, not only through social distancing but also by creating an intimate space where conversation flows more easily.
“I have a corner suite with lots of windows to watch the squirrels and birds — you can’t even tell that you’re in the city. I just love it, and I know my clients love it too,” she says.
Kiana Nijie owns Colored by Kiana and co-owns Urban Yogis in addition to teaching cosmetology at Everett Community College.
Business mentorship, classes, networking and a home for your business
In addition to her clients at L Hair Studios, Lucia is also a Cosmetology instructor at Everett Community College, which is where she met Kiana Nijie.
“Lucia told me how much she loved Executive Beauty Suites, and soon we decided to share the suite,” says Kiana, who owns Colored by Kiana and co-owns Urban Yogis in addition to teaching at EVCC. “I care about people’s wellbeing and want to help them feel good, feel beautiful and love themselves, whether that’s through yoga, the salon or education.”
Kiana says she loves teaching brand new students because she gets to see their growth and progress through the program, and she also teaches salon management — something she’s bringing to Executive Beauty Suites as well.
“My sister and I will be leading a class in the Executive Beauty Suites classroom on Oct. 23. She’ll train attendees in micro-blading, and I’ll be teaching the business portion of the class — how to promote and sell this new service once they’re certified.”
The Executive Beauty Suites classroom is just one way that the space is different from other suite rental options in Everett. Owners Josh and Laycee Gwyther are passionate about the success of every business in their building, and offer group and one-on-one business training.
“They understand the business — Laycee is a hairstylist, and she’s been in my shoes before,” Lucia says.
Colored by Kiana specializes in blonding services, Brazilian blowouts, curly and mixed-texture hair. Learn more at instagram.com/colored.by.kiana.
L Hair Studio offers all hair services, from an infant’s first haircut to a grandparent with a walker, regardless of age, gender or style. Families are encouraged to book appointments together, for added convenience. Book your appointment here.
Executive Beauty Suites empowers new and established entrepreneurs by providing an environment where independent businesses can thrive at 111 SE Everett Mall Way, Building F, Everett. Learn more at exbsuites.com.
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