Lauren Johnson. Mindful Entrepreneur + Event Curator
Lauren Johnson. Mindful Entrepreneur + Event Curator
Community @TheGemWithin www.thegemwithin.com
Business- @MindfulManiSalon mindfulmani.com
Personal- @Lauren.thegem
What moment has defined your journey the most? It could be a win, a loss, a wake up call, something you think of often and realize how different your journey would be if not for that moment.
This entire journey as a full-time entrepreneur has been a humbling one for sure. I truly feel like every day I have a defining moment, but there is one that really stands out. After my big launch party, I came to the realization that in order for me to truly excel I have to immerse myself in the industry. For me that meant working in a small salon for 6 months, to perfect my skills and learn from others.
Without this experience, I would not of gained the confidence or skills needed to grow and expand Mindful Mani. I most certainly would not have been able to open and sustain my own studio in the middle of a pandemic.
I’ve learned that in order to be a leader you first must follow. There are no skipping steps on the way to success.
I remind myself I don’t just want success I want “good success”. That requires sacrifice, humility and not being afraid to do the hard work.
What drives you?
My faith and my purpose. I truly believe that no experience I have gone through was by mistake. Everything has happened on purpose for a purpose. My faith in God’s plan and desire to live life purposefully according to his plan drives me to keep going. I’m not here to just be here. I know that I’ve been called to make an impact and to spread God’s love.
How are you paving the way for people in your community to succeed? Or opening doors that were once closed?
My goal is to not only create more ownership opportunities for women of color, but to also educate the community on healthy nail practices and develop a standard of practices and techniques that will impact the salon experience.
I am on a path to one day open doors of opportunities for other black women to manage and own their own salons, especially in South Florida. I have big plans for Mindful Mani, but I know God’s plans are even bigger. I understand that this endeavor is not mine alone. It belongs to God. I am simply a vessel.
Most meaningful project to date?
I have two!
Launching our first polish collection Notably Nude. Notably Nude is a timeless, inclusive, collection of go-to nudes, created with a variety of complexions in mind to enhance, and compliment, all skin tones.
Each of the 12 shades of the Notably Nude Collection was inspired by a Notable woman/girl in my life. These individuals have played an integral role in my growth as a Black woman, entrepreneur, and woman of God. They are my grandmothers, mother, nieces and little cousins. Their stories remind me of who I am, where I come from and the amazing things to come. I cherish these women and feel blessed to know that God choose me to be a part of such a powerful lineage. I feel even more blessed to have the opportunity to share their story with the world.
Mindful Mani’s event collaboration with Vous Church for their 2019 Night to Shine.
Night to Shine is a prom night experience organized by the Tim Tebow Foundation, centered on God’s love, for people with special needs ages 14 and older. Mindful Mani had the opportunity to perform express nail services to attendees with special needs and their caregivers. It was such a blessing to connect with these families and to witness the joy a simple manicure could bring. This experience solidified my passion and mission to transforming lives one mani at a time. We’re not just in the nail business we’re in the business of making people feel valued, important and special.
This is what truly matters!
Advice or a mantra you would like to pass on?
Be inspiring not inspired.
Don’t wait for a change to come- be the change you wish to see in the world, in your community and in your home. Know that your experience and your story matters and it has the ability to change and better someone’s life. Don’t be afraid to share your gifts with the world.
Most importantly trust in the Lord with all of your heart and lean not on your own understanding. Gods got you! Trust him on this journey!
