We were lucky to catch up with Laurel & Victoria Walles & Rodriguez recently and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Laurel & Victoria , thanks for joining us today. Can you talk to us about your team building process? How did you recruit and train your team and knowing what you know now would you have done anything differently?
Our business started with just Laurel and I. The first few artists that we brought onto our team were friends from the beauty industry and previous collaborations. We were truly humbled that they wanted to join our team. The recruiting process did take time and persistence. We had a lot of meetings in person and virtually. What we did love about the interviewing process was all the stories we heard. Hearing all about why these artists started in this industry and what they are trying to achieve. We do things a bit different by the questions we ask and the conversations we have. Laurel and I are very upfront and honest about what our vision is for LV Beauty. We wouldn’t change anything about our journey. Building a team has led us in a new direction and we can’t wait to see where it takes us!
Laurel & Victoria , love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
Laurel grew up in Ohio and at the age of 5 her grandmother taught her how to braid. This is where her love for hair began. She attended Northern Michigan University and received her cosmetology license. When she planted her roots in Austin, Aveda gave her an incredible opportunity to become a licensed educator. This allowed her to pour her passion and knowledge onto others which was the link LV Beauty needed.
I (Victoria) have always had an interest in beauty and helping others. Before I pursued my dream career I went to school for Human Services. Shortly after I completed school, I knew that wasn’t the field for me. My next stop took me to Paul Mitchell cosmetology school. I instantly fell in love with the industry. Working behind the scenes doing hair at fashion shows sparked my interest in bridal hair design. I later started my own business as a bridal hairstylist that cultivated into what we know today as LV Beauty.
The foundation of LV Beauty was built on friendship and sisterhood when Laurel and I crossed paths at a salon in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Our journey brought us to Austin and from there LV Beauty was born. Today we are owners of a beauty team that grew from 2 to 11.
Our team offers hair and makeup services for any occasion. We even have a grooming service for the gentlemen. Every experience with us will be authentic, professional, and uplifting.
LV Beauty is for anyone who wants to be heard and feel beautiful in their own skin. Each artist guides our guests throughout the beauty process by providing solutions to their challenges and expertise on how to get their desired look.
Most importantly, we want our followers to know that we believe “Every individual is their own canvas, and each artist has their own unique skill. Together they create a beauty that cannot be duplicated.” -Victoria Rodriguez
How’d you meet your business partner?
I (Laurel) was sitting in the lobby of The Knick Salon and Day Spa waiting to start my new job as a hair artist. This was my first time living in a big city. I was a bit anxious to meet all of the team. Victoria walked in and introduced herself, which made me feel at ease. Her kindness was overwhelming. It was wonderful to discover a peer in this new environment. I am grateful for our friendship and the partnership that we have established.
Any advice for managing a team?
Make sure you know what your team goals are. Ask yourself, “Are they the right fit for your culture?” Your team needs to be compensated for their worth. Above all,be consistent, and a mentor for your artists because without them there is no team.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.lvbeautyteam.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lvbeautytx/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LVbeautytx
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/lv-beauty-austin
- Other: Google: https://goo.gl/maps/ybmKQbRFGzjUhgAY6
Image Credits
Mackenzie Smith Photo Carhart Photography