Today we’d like to introduce you to Lanae W.
Hi Lanae, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I’ve been fascinated with hair since I was around eight years old. I always imagined different hairstyles that I wanted and I would get frustrated trying to bring them to life.
One day when I was a sophomore in high school, I put my mind to installing a sew-in on myself. I had never braided hair before but I just knew I could do it. I did and I never looked back after that. I would always change up my hair in hs, 30-inch weaves, turquoise ombre; you name it I wore it.
My love for braids started in college. I decided to get more into natural protective styles since I had just did the big chop. I wasn’t 100% comfortable with my new length so braids saved the day for me. Back then, I had a new braid style every two weeks; I loved the versatility!
Fast forward to college graduation, I decided to use my talents to start braiding full-time. People were asking me to do their hair every day so I’d be a fool to not try it out. 2019 I started Braids by Trish Lanae and three years later I’m still at it!
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It has its pros and cons being a hair braider. I’m a part of a beautiful experience, handling the crowns of so many amazing Black women. I don’t take my position for granted. There’s magic in what my hands can do. I help women heal on the surface level but also deep down, nobody can’t tell you nothing when your hair is done! I get to connect with a variety of people from all over the world. That is definitely my favorite part:
The struggle is making sure I have an ample amount of life force energy, patience, and time to exert and deliver consistent results on a weekly basis. It takes a lot to braid for 6 hours and beyond. I have to make sure my mind, body and spirit are aligned; I manage well and I believe this is how I’m still here. I don’t just view my clients as transactions, I learn so much from them. They become my sisters and friends!
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I am a hair braider that started in South Central LA. I have since moved to Long Beach where I give the girls what they want! I always feel out a client and get to know them to better deliver the service. It’s important to truly connect with people when you’re touching their crown!
I’m most proud of me becoming an entrepreneur with no guidelines. I went on my own path and every day I’m reminded that I’m headed in the right direction. I spend time cultivating real relationships with my clientele, they are a part of me! They check on me, help me when I’m down, and vice versa! That sets me apart because a lot of business owners do not value human connection.
I specialize in natural protective styles; specifically knotless braids, locs, and twists! I love being able to give people a long-lasting, tensionless style that they can rock effortlessly!
How do you think about luck?
I can’t say whether I’ve had good or bad luck in my life but I know I’ve been blessed countless times. Once I surrendered and decided to be my own boss, life has gone up from there. I’d blame it on my faith, when times get rough, I still believe I’ll make it out.
How could I come this far and this be it? I don’t think like that. I always believe there’s more in store for me and that keeps me going. I guess you can call that luck!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://braidsbytrishlanae.as.me/
- Instagram: Braidsbytrishlanae
Image Credits
First picture with white boa Aly Denore @alyscurlyhair on ig
