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

Hi Claudia, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
The decision to start my own business stemmed from a deep passion for creating an elevated and personalized grooming experience. I saw a gap in the market where grooming wasn’t just about a service but about fostering a sense of community and exclusivity. I wanted to build something that aligned with my vision of not just styling but also connecting with people on a deeper level.

I was inspired by the idea of blending artistry, creativity, and hospitality into an environment where people feel valued and cared for. Starting this salon was also about creating something lasting. A space where we could bring our unique touch to the industry while building meaningful relationships with clients and the local community.

At the core of it, it was about taking control of our future, pursuing our passion, and making a positive impact on those we serve.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My work is rooted in the belief that every client deserves a personalized, thoughtful experience. One thing I’ve consistently heard from my clients is that they appreciate my attention to detail and the genuine care I put into both their hair and their overall experience. It’s not just about the service, it’s about making them feel valued, confident, and seen.

Getting to where I am today professionally has been a journey. It wasn’t easy, but the challenges taught me resilience and the importance of always striving for excellence. I’ve learned that staying true to your passion and putting your clients first will always set you apart.

What excites me the most is the opportunity to create something unique with Echelon Collective. A space where style, creativity, and community come together. I want the world to know that our brand isn’t just about grooming, it’s about building meaningful connections and creating an experience that leaves people feeling their absolute best.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend were visiting LA for a week, I’d curate a mix of luxury and local charm to showcase the city’s diversity.

Day 1:
– Start with breakfast at République, known for its incredible pastries and elevated brunch options.
– Spend the afternoon at The Getty Center, soaking in the art and stunning views.
– Dinner at Providence, one of LA’s best fine dining spots for a seafood tasting experience.

Day 2:
– Grab some tacos at Leo’s Taco Truck, because LA street food is unbeatable.
– Head to Griffith Park for a hike and visit the Observatory to catch the sunset over the city.
– End the night with cocktails at Apothéke Los Angeles, a chic spot with unique, handcrafted drinks.

Day 3:
– Brunch at Gjusta in Venice for some artisanal vibes.
– Spend the day at Venice Beach, exploring the boardwalk and canals.
– Dinner at Anajak Thai, for some of the best modern Thai food in the city.

Day 4:
– Take a day trip to Malibu: lunch at Malibu Farm, enjoy the beaches, and wine tasting at Rosenthal Estate Winery.
– End the day with a casual dinner at Paradise Cove in Malibu, where you can enjoy fresh seafood by the ocean.

Day 5:
Dive into LA’s arts scene with a visit to The Broad Museum and lunch at Otium next door.
– Explore Little Tokyo or Chinatown for unique shopping and dining.
– Dinner at The Polo Lounge at the Beverly Hills Hotel, a true LA icon with incredible ambiance and cuisine.

Day 6:
Relax at Runyon Canyon with a morning hike.
– Visit Larchmont Village for boutique shopping and coffee.
– Dinner at Sugarfish, a must visit for some of the freshest sushi in LA.

Day 7:
– Breakfast at Dialogue, an intimate and refined spot for an unforgettable breakfast experience.
– Spend the afternoon on Melrose Avenue, checking out shops and street art.
– Wrap up the trip with dinner at Merois at The Pendry, offering exceptional dining with a modern and stylish atmosphere.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Absolutely! I have to give all the credit to my wife, Valeria. Her support, encouragement, and creative input were instrumental in bringing Echelon Collective to life. She believed in this vision as much as I did and worked tirelessly alongside me to make it happen. I’m incredibly grateful to have her as my partner through this journey.

Website: https://Echelon-collective.com

Instagram: @Claudia.thebarber @by.echeloncollective

Image Credits
Photographer : Emily Johnston
@creative.well.being

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