Meet Lola Vixen | Cosmetologist x Nail Stylist

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

Hi Lola, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
I decided to pursue a career in the artistic and creative arts early on when I was in high school because I was touched by film and videos and how the right blend of stunning sound, striking visuals and the words the actors say could strongly determine and affect our mood. The fact that a movie (or song/album) could be strong enough to impact our lives always resonated with me deeply.

I’ve always been a part of the Arts: from performing in talent shows or with a Hip-Hop dance conservatory in New York City, to old school film photography (as well as dark room development) & eventually film production at The School of Visual Arts in Manhattan. It was there that I inadvertently discovered Cosmetology since I was constantly being requested to assist with hair & make-up on set. I realized as much as I did enjoy the process of filmmaking, (specifically screenwriting & editing) I felt the drive and will to officially learn, become licensed & offer these services as a way of making a living.

The Art of Beautification took over me and throughout my adult life, I’ve dedicated myself to learning everything from facial structure & complementary aesthetics, Haircuts/Coloring, Barbering, Skincare/Waxing, Brows/Lashes and as of the pandemic: Nails. Most notably I get great satisfaction knowing I was a part of somebody’s self care routine or self-love journey so they can focus on being their incredible selves.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Interestingly enough, I’ve always struggled with the acknowledgment that I’m even an “Artist”. It’s probably due to the fact that being a Creative is not considered a respectable profession in my country/culture & I’ve never felt my parents pride with what I do. While I have their approval, I’m sure they’d much rather me get into a more stable and recognizable career within the medical, legal or engineering fields. I have to keep telling my mind that my heart is smart too, and I’m helping people when I do what I do; so they can feel confident and ready to face the world & in turn perform their duties well (as Nurses/Drs. Teachers, Students, Attorneys, Influencers and other Creators). I might not be directly contributing to the good of the world but I feel I definitely offer services that cater to my community via self care & thusly, self love.

With that being said though, I feel my recent (albeit late adult diagnosis) of Autism & ADHD has helped me put a name to this invisible force I’ve always felt which has set me apart from others. I never felt quite “normal” growing up but found so much refuge in The Arts: from playing the violin, to dancing in talent shows, singing in choirs, to my Beauty Service Artistry. They’re all activities that are close to my heart & help make the mosaic of “me”. I’m absolutely dedicated to my lifelong journey of self acceptance & self love. As an actionable resolution for 2025, I began Julia Cameron’s “The Artist Way; A Spiritual Path to Higher Creativity” the acclaimed course I feel will truly assist me in acknowledging & trusting my creative self.

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?
Oh wow, I love this! I’m honestly still getting to know ‘true’ LA, since I’ve mostly lived in the two main Valleys nearby in the years I’ve lived in SoCal (SGV & SFV). I have a few go-to spots that I absolutely adore. Speaking of The Valley, a fantastic place for Latino food is Ay Papa Que Rico in Panorama City with the best ‘Platillos’ or Hot Plates in the vicinity. My absolute FAVORITE dish is the Rabo Encendido- the beef oxtail. OH MY STARS, they get it right every time and the sauce is on point; I could literally drink it alone and be so happy!

For the best tacos & Mexican, you have to go to this GEM in El Monte: Ixmota Taqueria. Formerly known as Ixtaco, these guys offer the widest, most delectable menu where I can personally guarantee anything you get will be absolute fire. My go-to’s include the Oxa Queso Taco wherein the entire shell is made of melted cheese, & Papas Superior or loaded fries! Don’t forget an Aguas Fresca, trust me!

Everyone who knows me knows I’m a HUGE lover of pizza and I’m currently on a solo pizza tour of LA. Being a NewYorker, I’m persnickety about my pies, but I found a diamond of a spot in North Hollywood appropriately named NoHo Pizza. When I say RIDICULOUSLY DELICIOUS!?! The offer classic pizza pies but it’s their sauce & dough that makes it insatiable. I also want to note: they were the ones that got me into ranch dressing with their homemade version I could have daily.

For a more local option, I’d absolutely go with DeSano Pizzeria Napoletana. You’ll even devour the crust! So yummy, you’ll want to get a workout in before you go!

Every now and then I love to splurge and treat myself to something higher-end. For that, I thoroughly enjoy Castaway’s in Burbank and Arden in WeHo. Stunning views/scenery, mouth-watering dishes and superb service.

For drinks, check out The Association. It’s my favorite lounge for amazing cocktails and amazing live performances- perfect for jazz lovers. Plus they offer really cool cocktail making courses and highlight different spirits each time!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Honestly? I credit a lot of my ambition and motivation to the entire country and nation of Haiti or how we like to say it: “Ayiti”. My maternal grandmother Jaqueline was the main person who raised me in Au Cap. I say that because the old adage “It takes a Village” is an actual reality in Haiti. Everybody from Grandparents, Aunts, Uncles and Cousins all help within the community. I feel a strong propensity, to become successful enough so that I may assist in rebuilding the economic, touristic & societal infrastructure that I know Haiti is capable of having. I’m mostly apolitical, but it truly shakes me to the core when I consider the atrocities that have been imposed upon my gorgeous country… Man & nature made alike. What keeps me going is knowing that I can be just like the bold and courageous slaves and soldiers who fought bravely in our Revolution for 13 years until January 1, 1804 when we finally gained our independence. I try to be as my fellow Haitians when it comes to my entrepreneurship: brave, tenacious & resilient.

Website: http://www.babecavenails.com/

Instagram: Instagram.com/babecavenailsla 

Image Credits
Lola Vixen