Meet Trish Lanae | Braider

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

Hi Trish, what role has risk played in your life or career?
I think risk taking is one of the most vital components when it comes to starting a new endeavor. If you never take risks, you’ll never know if something will happen. Growth comes from being uncomfortable. You either take that risk and get out the situation or stay stagnant in the same place wondering “what if?”.

One of the biggest risks I’ve taken recently was quitting my full-time job and becoming an entrepreneur. I had dabbled in the realm of entrepreneurship before, but I never thought I would be able to sustain my lifestyle off money I made working for myself! It’s hard to tell others to take risks and try new things because for me it’s a feeling. I felt it in my soul to really take that leap and believe in myself. I vowed to myself to keep pushing forward and my mindset really adapted to the situation. I let the fear go and I stepped with faith.

Almost a year later, I have a successful braid business with returning clientele. I take pride in my work and I put my heart and soul into each braid. If you’re going to do something, people have to be able to see the passion and authenticity in you. I wouldn’t be in the position I am in today if I didn’t take that risk 6 months ago. I plan to keep going and take some more risks along the way.

What should our readers know about your business?
Braids by Trish Lanae specializes in tension-free, neat, and long lasting braids in South Central LA. I started braiding about 6 years ago when I first entered college because I loved the versatility. It was something intriguing to me about braiding because it was almost like sewing or weaving a basket.

What I love the most about braiding is the synchrony of the braid patterns. I take pride in each stitch and braid because I love the way the braids flow together. I love the intricate details and shapes I’m able to create. The way I can really make art on someone’s scalp is amazing. Braiders are mathematicians, artists, and all of the above.

Business-wise, I am where I am today because I believed in myself. I had a job that was stressful, not enough pay, and just really not valuing me. I feel like as Black woman, we’re always told to wait our turn. We’re told to work hard and good things will come. For me, I wanted to take matters into my own hands, I wanted to change things up and work hard for myself. Once I changed my mindset, I knew this was only the beginning of a successful career.

One thing I learned during the pandemic is that I have to be self-sustaining. You could be fired from your job tomorrow so it’s always good to have a plan B. All that time you spend working making someone else’s dream come true, you could be working on your own.

I just want everyone to know that they can do it too. Success doesn’t come overnight but just know you have control of your reality. I’m just a country girl from Bakersfield, California making her dreams her reality.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I feel like you haven’t experienced LA if you haven’t been to Leimert Park. I have so many clients that aren’t from LA that always ask me “Where’s the culture in LA?”. Leimert Park is where it’s at baby. I would take anyone that isn’t from LA to Leimert if I wanted to show them a good time. The food, the melting pot of Black cultures, and the people are really what sets this place apart. I feel like I’m at home when I’m there. It’s a community and that’s what we need.

To walk around and explore, I love going to Melrose Trading Post on Sundays to find vintage pieces and inspiration. . I love a good brunch and EP&LP is a rooftop bar with good music and bomb frozés! I see the most interesting people on Melrose and I love it.

I love LA because of the diversity and the endless opportunities. You really can achieve your dreams here because there is a place for everyone. There are so many new developments and changes happening in LA. I’m excited to see what’s next for the LAnd.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I want to dedicate this my shoutout to my Aunt Nene. She showed me the ropes to becoming an entrepreneur and has always been a great role model. From owning real estate to having a microbiology degree, she showed me that as a Black woman, we CAN do it all.

Website: https://app.acuityscheduling.com/schedule.php?owner=21116685

Instagram: @braidsbytrishlanae