We had the good fortune of connecting with Darlene Felix and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Darlene, how has your perspective on work-life balance evolved over time?
Balance for me is the key to succeeded in life. I have been asked by several of my clients, friends, and business associates how I balance my home, personal, and business life so well? My answer is always the same “I have no choice”. As women we wear so many hats and get pulled in different directions daily, without some sense of balance we will be overwhelmed. Creating a perfect balance is definitely a working progress. Though I am doing very well at them moment things are constantly being added and removed to make room for change. Saying NO is very important, putting yourself and well-being first, and taking time to recharge.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
As a African American immigrant who migrated from haiti at the age 8 no need to mention the difficulties that were set before me at such a young and tender age. I remember clear as day not speaking a word of English and being thrown into the 3rd grade. Needless to say the struggle was real. First order of business was to learn the language so I can begin to pass my classes. Special thanks to my 3rd grade teacher Mrs. Wise who had the patience of a monk and helped me learn the language. Coming to a new country not speaking the language just a few months shy of school opening was not easy. The funny thing was thinking that everyone else didn’t speak my language like what was wrong with this country? Lol. First marking period I failed all my classes. Unfortunately there were no tutors provided, I had to get it together by myself and for myself using the resources the public library provided at the time. Fast forward landing in a service base career where all I do is speak and listen to people all day. My Humble beginning helped shaped the woman I’ve become today. I’ve learned that everyone has a journey. Be quick to listen slow to judge. I believe the name of my business Laplace May have more of an in-depth meaning than I thought. Laplace is my maiden name, making that my brand was very Important to me. Remembering where I come from and how I got where I am today building a private single chair one on one space where women can literally let down their hair(see what I did there?) Is very dear to my heart. I want all the women I encounter to know where I came from and why I think that each and everyone one of them are special no matter their circumstances or walk of life. Once you enter Laplace Studio LLC. You are family and will be treated as such.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Wow where do I begin? My best friend comes to town I’m rolling out the red carpet for my one and only! I must say though I migrated to New York from haiti, but I became an adult and started my family in ATL. A week long trip would consist of a great deal of things. Walking the belt Line Shopping at ponce city market Madam C.J Walker museum Brunch at Milk and honey Bar hopping on Edgewood Bowling at the painted pin Brunch at eclipse de Luna Dinner at poor Calvin’s Swing by the bar at bugaloo Get a body wrap at Spa 360 in Stockbridge Get an amazing foot massage at heavenly foot massage on ponce Get down and boogie at mjq Have cocktails at BQE bar lounge Ride bikes at the silver comet trail Get some tacos at bar taco Head to little five points to shop and get henna at Atlanta house of henna Sunday pearl nwa rum punch brunch at ole restaurant and bar Drive down to tybee beach for a beach day. See some live shows or concerts I mean there are so many hidden gems here in Atlanta. I can show anyone a good time from all walks of life. I love it here.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I would love to shout out Lydia Pierre owner and CEO of Pierre Branding group LLC. This phenomenal woman is my biggest cheerleader. She has put me in so many positions that is never particularly in my comfort zone, to set me up to reach another lever of success in my business. I wish I was the only one that is a recipient of her endless support, but I’m not. She never eats alone there is always a seat at her table of success for everyone that crosses her path. Sometimes to a fault. I love her dearly. I’m also glad to call her my sister.

Website: www.laplacestudios.com
Instagram: __laplace
Linkedin: Darlene Felix
Twitter: Sayitlikeitis7
Facebook: Laplace Salon