Meet Laudia Guilao-Ames | Salon Owner

We had the good fortune of connecting with Laudia Guilao-Ames and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Laudia, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
Honestly starting my business was initially the most random thing! I was 23 years old, I had just gotten out of the Navy after 5 years, and had been stationed in Norfolk, Virginia. I had recently moved back to New York and was attending NYU. My younger sister and I were hanging out in Harlem where African braiders were soliciting us, and I casually said to her “what if I moved back to Virginia and opened up an African hair braiding salon?” My sister who has ALWAYS believed that I was capable of just about anything said, “why not?!” That alone is what drove to me to make it a reality.

Please tell us more about your work. We’d love to hear what sets you apart from others, what you are most proud of or excited about. How did you get to where you are today professionally. Was it easy? If not, how did you overcome the challenges? What are the lessons you’ve learned along the way. What do you want the world to know about you or your brand and story?
The Braid Lounge is an African Hair Braiding salon located in Virginia Beach, Virginia that specializes in Braids, Locs and Twists. Our focus on customer experience is what sets us apart from other African Hair Braiding salons. From the ease of the booking process, our efficent front desk staff, our calm relaxing environment make The Braid Lounge the ideal hair braiding destination.

Consistency is one of the major reasons I continue to be in business. In addition to being consistent and reliable we pride ourselves in constantly evolving, growing and remaining modern. Keeping current with the look of the salon, staying on top of social media and keeping up with the latest braid trends.

One of my biggest challenges was employing staff members that understood my vision. Establishing policies and guidelines with all of my expectations is what has helped in overcoming that challenge.

I always say, I am the common denominator at The Braid Lounge. As long as I remain committed to my brand nothing will stop me.

The Braid lounge will continue to offer the best possible service. Always aiming to be a luxury braiding service.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I would take them to Orion’s Roof at the oceanfront for either brunch or dinner and views are beautiful!

We would get a few spa treatments at Natural Elements Day Spa.

Spend the day at the Chic’s beach or the oceanfront.

Have a picnic at The Botanical Gardens

We would definitely have lunch at the best Caribbean food in the area at Montego Island Grill. We would also have lunch at Quirks Towncenter.

Brunch at Cork n Company Le Yaca and Lamia’s Crepes both french restaurants

Go out for drinks at Yard House or Cooper’s Hawk.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Randy Nurse, owner at Montego Island Grill, located in Virginia Beach, has been a mentor to me for the last 13 years.

Website: www.thebraidlounge.com

Instagram: @the_braid_lounge

Facebook: @the.braid.lounge