Meet Laurencia Burt | Body Sculpting Technican & Clinical Social Worker

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

Hi Laurencia, maybe we can start at the very start – the idea – how did you come up with the idea for your business?
It all started with an Instagram ad. During the pandemic last year I acquired a bit of a gut and knew that as a very busy wife, mother, and full time employee I would need a solution that was time efficient. That’s why when I saw the ad about starting a body contouring business I was intrigued. I took a body contouring class and I went from intrigued to inspired! I’ve always wanted to be in the beauty industry and helping people get a body they feel good about seemed like the perfect way in. 

By starting Waist Deep I have been able to help women and men of all races get to their ideal weight. I am able to form connections with my clients because not long ago I was in their shoes wondering the best way to accomplish my weight goals. Now I know the way and I am able to lead by example.   

Please tell us more about your business. 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 business-wise. 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 process of starting my business wasn’t easy, but it definitely had many enjoyable moments mixed in with the challenges. Doing something you have never done before is filled with learning, and the learning curve to start Waist Deep was steep! In this industry trends are constantly changing so getting continuous training is a must. Snatched Physique, LLC was instrumental in providing my initial training. I reached out to the owners and learned a lot from them – they inspired me to keep pushing forward. Yolanda Graham from Yoliopulence was also a big part of my story, she allowed me to rent her space and gave me great business advice.

Working with them taught me valuable lessons about relationships. You can’t do any type of business without partnerships. This industry changes every day. Building relationships with people whose services complement what I do is the only way I can grow and expand my business. 

I want the world to know how much I value relationships, not only with people in my field but with my clients as well. They are trusting me with very important life goals and I take that seriously. I am always one hundred percent honest with them. I am warm and encouraging, but I always tell the truth so that together we can set realistic expectations. That honesty builds a trust that is displayed when I give them things to try and they are excited to go for it. That’s invaluable! Having the trust of my clients is something I’m very proud of. 

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc. In your view, what are some of the most fun, interesting, exciting people, places or things to check out?

That’s a fun question! If my best friend came to town I’d share with them all of my favorite things. I’d start out with a work out with my trainer Darrell (DP) Patterson – he’s part of the reason I lost almost 60lbs! We are absolutely going to see him because of that.

After our workout we’ll make a Starbucks run. Of course my friend could order whatever they wanted but I would get my current favorite order: a hot, brown sugar, and oat milk latte; a bacon gouda sandwich; and a venti ice water. 

For lunch we’d hit up my go-to restaurant Desta Ethiopian Kitchen off Briarcliff Road. Then we’d head to JeJu Spa. There we would get body scrubs, and get in a nice nap. I like JeJu because you don’t have to think about anything when you’re there. You can leave the world at the door. I want my place to be like that. 

I’d end the day with Las Bravos, the Smyrna location. I can vouch for that location – their food and drinks are always on point. I’d order the K7 (2 soft chicken tacos) and a Texas margarita on the rocks with salt. I also like that it’s family oriented and comfortable. Plus, if I’m drinking I either need to be at the house or close to the house and Las Bravos is right down the street.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Yes! There have been so many people who have supported me as I brought this vision to reality. First, I have to thank my wonderful husband Lamar A. Burt and our beautiful children Arrington, Brooklyn and Cameron. I’m so thankful to also have the support of my siblings: Dr. Deirdre Nichols-Bailey, Lavonna Murphy-Owona, Kristal Murphy, and Lawrence Murphy, Jr.; my stepmom: Diane Murphy; and my nieces: Kiami and Kennedi Nichols.

My day ones also deserve a shout out, these are the people who gave me both advice and opportunities: Yolanda Graham at Yoliopulence; Marita Sneed at Silhouette “The Shape of Beauty” Boutique; NaTuree Wells at Heat Challenge; Psi Omega Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, INC.; Atlanta Peachtree Chapter of Top Ladies of Distinction INC; Jamie Miles with Beachbody; and my client turned friend Jakeem Smith at JP Agency. 

Website: www.waistdeepbeautyspa.com

Instagram: iamwaistdeep

Facebook: iamwaistdeep

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