Meet Ben Huynh | Glorified Receptionist

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

Hi Ben, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
My story isn’t just about building businesses; it’s about continuing a legacy of courage and determination that my family started when we fled Vietnam as refugees in 1980. Landing in Los Angeles with my parents and siblings, I grew up watching them turn their new life into a story of success through sheer grit and entrepreneurship. This powerful example laid the groundwork for my own path in business.

Stepping away from university at 22, I was driven by a need to do more than just study success, I wanted to create it. That decision was my first real step into the world my parents had bravely navigated before me, a world where risks are met with rewards and setbacks are just setups for comebacks.

Twenty years later, the journey took a new turn when Kimi, my wife, and I poured our shared dreams into BeautyBar SGV. Nestled in the heart of San Gabriel, we envisioned it as more than a business. We wanted a place that felt like a community, where each person who walked in would feel seen, valued, and part of something special. It’s our little sanctuary, a place that mirrors our values and our belief in the power of caring for others.

Through every challenge, whether it was tight budgets, shifting market dynamics, or simply finding our place in a competitive industry, I’ve learned that resilience isn’t just inherited; it’s built through every small decision and every big leap. The joys of this journey are in every connection we make, every client who leaves happier than they came.

Looking back, every piece of my journey feels like a chapter in a larger narrative, one that started with my parents’ bold escape to a new life and continues with every day I spend at BeautyBar SGV. It’s more than just business; it’s a tribute to my family’s legacy, a celebration of where we come from, and a love letter to the community that supports us.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
At BeautyBar SGV, what truly sets us apart is our heartfelt mission to uplift every individual who steps into our space. This commitment is deeply personal for my wife, Kimi, and me, it’s rooted in our life stories and the values we cherish. We’re most proud of the vibrant community space we’ve nurtured; it’s a place where everyone is welcomed, supported, and empowered.

Getting to where we are today has been a journey filled with its fair share of hurdles. From the initial challenge of securing funding to carving out our niche in a bustling market, each obstacle tested our resolve. Yet, these challenges only strengthened our vision. We learned to adapt, to really listen to the heartbeat of our community, and to stay true to our mission, no matter the obstacles.

Through this journey, I’ve learned some invaluable lessons: the power of resilience, the necessity of flexibility, and the importance of being true to oneself. These lessons have shaped not just our business strategies but how we connect with our community.

I want the world to know that BeautyBar SGV is more than a business, it’s a part of a larger story that began with my family’s journey from Vietnam to America. Our brand is about building strong community ties and supporting each individual in their own personal journey. At BeautyBar SGV, we’re committed to being a place where people can come together, feel valued, and be part of something bigger.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend were visiting for a week, I’d want to showcase a mix of the San Gabriel Valley’s hidden treasures and the well-loved hotspots of Los Angeles and Orange County. Here’s how we’d experience the area:

Day 1: Pasadena Charm
We’d start with breakfast at Euro Pane Bakery, known for its incredible pastries. Then, we’d visit the lesser-known Storrier Stearns Japanese Garden to enjoy some tranquility. For dinner, we’d hit Lunasia Dim Sum House for some of the best dim sum in the area and end the night with whiskey cocktails at The Blind Donkey, a cozy local favorite.

Day 2: Downtown LA Buzz
A morning hike and city views at Griffith Observatory would kick off the day, followed by a flavor tour of Grand Central Market for lunch. We’d spend the afternoon exploring the vibrant Arts District, checking out street art and unique shops. The evening would bring us to a live show at The Resident, offering an intimate music experience.

Day 3: Orange County’s Beaches
We’d begin with coffee at Hidden House in San Juan Capistrano, then choose between lounging at the popular Huntington Beach or the quieter Salt Creek Beach. Dinner would be at The Dock in Newport Beach, known for its excellent seafood and views. We’d wrap up with late-night bites at Anaheim Packing District.

Day 4: Outdoor Adventures
We’d venture into Angeles National Forest or the trails of the San Gabriel Mountains for some outdoor fun. Dinner would be at Clearman’s North Woods Inn, a place with great food and a unique, rustic vibe.

Day 5: West LA’s Finest
Our day would start at the bustling Santa Monica Farmers Market, followed by lunch at Gjusta in Venice. We’d relax with a stroll through the Venice Canals, then dine at Gjelina, which offers superb modern American cuisine.

Day 6: Culture and Brews
We’d scour the Pasadena City College Flea Market for vintage treasures in the morning, enjoy innovative craft beer at Highland Park Brewery, and catch an evening concert at The Greek Theatre, one of LA’s most beloved outdoor venues.

Day 7: Malibu Scenic Farewell
We’d have brunch at The Malibu Café at Calamigos Ranch, a beautiful outdoor spot, then drive along the Pacific Coast Highway, stopping at scenic spots like Point Dume. Our final dinner would be at The Ivy, where we could soak in some Hollywood glam.

This week would be filled with diverse experiences, from serene gardens and beach fun to cultural gems and lively markets, ensuring a memorable visit packed with the best sights, tastes, and sounds of Southern California.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
There are several key influences and supporters I’d love to dedicate my shoutout to. First and foremost, my parents deserve immense credit. Their journey from Vietnam to America, and their transformation from refugees to entrepreneurs, has been my greatest source of inspiration and strength. They taught me the value of hard work and the importance of resilience.

I also want to shoutout to my wife and business partner, Kimi. She has been instrumental in every aspect of building BeautyBar SGV. Her vision, dedication, and passion not only keep our business thriving but also make it a meaningful place for our community.

Additionally, a significant shoutout goes to “Buddhism Plain and Simple.” This book sent me down a rabbit hole that profoundly shaped my understanding of the world and myself. It’s been pivotal in developing my personal philosophy and approach to life and business.

Lastly, I owe a huge thank you to our incredible team at BeautyBar SGV and the supportive community of San Gabriel. Their enthusiasm, loyalty, and commitment are the heartbeat of our business. Each day, they help transform our vision into reality, making BeautyBar more than just a business, it’s a place where everyone can feel special and cared for. They are not just part of our journey; they are the very essence of what we strive to achieve.

Website: https://beautybarsgv.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beautybarsgv/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/beautybarsgv

Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/beautybar-sgv-san-gabriel-3

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzlxTac3N3QyoCw2AVXTv-Q