We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Lysa Brown a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Lysa, appreciate you joining us today. What’s something crazy on unexpected that’s happened to you or your business

I’ve been the owner of legends 33 nail studio for over 30 years. Early in my career, when I was still taking walk-in appointments, I had a girl come in for a full set of nails right off the street. I did a beautiful set of nails on her and she was happy and left with a smile on her face. The next day she came back in, while I was with a client, and demanded her money back as her husband was mad that she spent that much money. Keep in mind, at the time a full set an else was around $25. I told her that that was not an option, as I had spent my time and product on her and she was more than happy with the service when she left. We went rounds and the conversation was quite uncomfortable for my clients and the other stylists and their customers. So after way too much time, I decided just to give her the $25 back. (Surprisingly, she didn’t tip) After I gave her the cash back, she turned towards the door and said, “These were the most beautiful nails I’ve ever had, the next time I get them done I will totally be coming to you.”
I replied with, “Oh, Honey, please don’t ever come into this salon again. I nor anyone else here will EVER render a service to you.”

Flabbergasted.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

When I was a senior in high school, I realized half way through the year that I didn’t have enough credits to graduate. So I took my GED and went to beauty school. I figured it would be a good transition job to have while I figured out what I wanted to do when I grew up. Fast forward 35 years later, and I’ve either never grew up or this is what I was ment to do. I went from a high school dropout to a full service salon/spa owner to expanding into boutique items and becoming famous for my unique and creative Nail art.
My Brand is simple. Beautiful, classy but yet affordable service provided by a down to earth gal with a wicked sense of humor.

Can you share one of your favorite marketing or sales stories?

As an 18 year old trying to start my own business in the 80’s, I had no idea what I was doing. So I started throwing fliers EVERYWHERE!!! I offered $17.50 full sets of nails and $10 manicures and pedicures. I went to every strip mall, movie theater, and grocery store this side of the Mississippi and put a paper flier on ever car I saw until I was told to leave. Then I blamed it on the “Owner” who was a slave driver and MADE me do it. And who was also…Me. I filed my little fingers to the bone, for next time nothing after supplies and rent, but I was able to build a clientele with whom I still service to this day.

Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?

In 2016 I was unexpectedly ambushed with the news that the building I had rented for 26 years was sold without my knowledge and I was informed by the new owner that I has 7 days to evacuate as they were turning the building into a bar. I had to scramble. Not only for myself but I felt indebted to my employees as well. I was able to find a place for all of us and eventually came back stronger and more successful then ever.

Contact Info:

• Website: 33BLB.COM
• Instagram: @Lykacory
• Facebook: @Lykacory or @Legends33Studio

Image Credits
Profile picture Amber Braxton 1st nail picture Demi Barela-Deherrera