Today we’d like to introduce you to Miri Choi.
Hi Miri, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
Like countless immigrants before me, I came to the United States with nothing but ambition. After eight challenging years, I can say I’ve partially achieved the American dream. I own two successful lash and brow salons in Metro Atlanta, a city renowned for its high beauty standards.
My journey was far from straightforward. After graduating, I pursued a career in nutrition to appease my parents and achieve a respectable social status. However, the job lacked passion and excitement. It was during this period of complacency that I met my husband, who uprooted my life with a marriage proposal that entailed moving to the United States.
Knowing my qualifications wouldn’t transfer, I followed my intuition and embraced my long-hidden passion for beauty. I quickly immersed myself in the nail industry, honing my skills at a remarkable pace. By the time I arrived in the States, I was proficient in nail art, a unique service not yet popular in Atlanta.
Through long hours, exceptional customer service, and artistic talent, I flourished in the nail industry. But as my schedule filled weeks in advance, I reached a growth plateau. During a trip back to Korea, where the beauty industry is highly advanced, I discovered my next breakthrough: lash extensions.
Juggling both nails and lashes, I steadily improved my technique. As my husband often says, opportunity favors the prepared. When my chance arrived, I transitioned into a full-time lash extension and brow technician.
Staying true to my passion and remembering my humble beginnings, I opened my first salon in Sandy Springs a few years later. Recently, I expanded with a second location in Brookhaven.
I believe my journey is just starting, and my story is far from over.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
No, it hasn’t been a smooth road. Like millions of other immigrants, I faced numerous struggles.
The first significant hurdle was my limited English skills. Nail service is not just about technical ability; it’s about listening to clients and engaging in conversation to provide the best possible experience. I was often so frustrated with my language barrier that I would cry in the shower, dreading any interaction where I had to speak.
However, I refused to be defeated. I forced myself to converse with Uber drivers during my daily commute, constantly asking them to repeat themselves until I understood. My English gradually improved, and I felt a pang of guilt for the many drivers I had inconvenienced along the way.
The next major challenge was navigating the intricacies of owning and managing a business in a new country. Everything from registering a business license to meeting local standards was completely different from what I was accustomed to. I overcame this by dedicating countless hours and unwavering effort to understanding and complying with the requirements.
Managing employees presented another obstacle. Communication became tricky when your boss doesn’t speak your native language. Thankfully, my husband’s unwavering support allowed me to focus on daily operations while he handled HR issues.
The pressure to succeed was immense, but I used it as fuel to drive my business forward. While the road was far from smooth, it was filled with cherished clients and supportive employees who cheered me on. Seeing the joy and excitement on customers’ faces after their beauty treatments gave me renewed energy.
Although my journey may seem bumpy, I’m well aware that many others face even greater challenges. This perspective keeps me grateful for what I have. Looking back, I wouldn’t trade my experiences for anything. The obstacles I encountered made me stronger, and the bumpy road ultimately led me to success.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next, you can tell us a bit more about your business.
LA LA LASH is a premier lash extension and brow service salon specializing in high-end, customized beauty enhancements. Our certified professionals take pride in delivering exceptional results using top-quality products and a meticulous application process.
We understand that every client is unique, which is why we offer personalized consultations to determine the most flattering lash design for each individual’s face and eye shape. Our skilled technicians are adept at creating a variety of styles, from natural to dramatic, ensuring your lashes perfectly complement your features.
What sets us apart:
Customized Lash & Brow Designs: Tailored to your unique facial features and preferences.
Efficient Application: We value your time and offer fast application times, with classic full sets completed in just one hour.
Uncompromising Quality: We use only premium materials and never compromise on product quality.
Hypoallergenic Options: We cater to clients with sensitivities by offering various types of glue, including hypoallergenic options.
Luxurious Environment: Our salons boast a modern interior design and a pristine, relaxing atmosphere.
As a locally established business, LA LA LASH is proud to be a leader in the Atlanta beauty industry. We constantly stay ahead of trends and innovations to ensure our clients receive the best possible experience. Our commitment to providing top-tier services at accessible prices makes luxurious beauty enhancements attainable for everyone.
Whether you’re seeking a subtle enhancement or a dramatic transformation, LA LA LASH is dedicated to helping you achieve your desired look with exceptional care and expertise.
Can you talk to us a bit about the role of luck?
While hard work, dedication, and perseverance have undoubtedly been crucial to my success, I can’t deny the role luck has played in both my life and business.
Good Luck:
Meeting my husband: Marrying my husband was a pivotal moment. His unwavering support and encouragement have been invaluable throughout my journey.
Discovering lash extensions: The trip to Korea that introduced me to lash extensions happened serendipitously, opening up a new path to success.
Timing of business openings: The timing of both my salon openings coincided with growing demand for lash and brow services in Atlanta, contributing to their quick success.
Bad Luck:
Language barrier: Initially, my limited English skills posed a significant challenge, hindering my ability to connect with clients and navigate the business landscape.
Cultural adjustment: Adapting to a new culture and way of life was difficult, often leaving me feeling isolated and overwhelmed.
Overall, I believe that luck has presented both opportunities and obstacles. However, it’s ultimately how we respond to these events that determines our success. I’ve chosen to embrace both the good and bad luck in my life, using them as steppingstones to grow and learn. While luck may have opened certain doors, it’s my hard work and determination that have allowed me to walk through them and achieve my goals.
Pricing:
- Classic Full Set: Starts from $99
- Fill-in Service: Starts from $49
- Lash Lift: $95
- Brow Lamination: $90
- Semi Permanent Makeup: Starts from $400
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.lalalashatl.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lalalashatl/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lalalashatlbrookhaven
- Twitter: https://www.facebook.com/lalalashatl/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCz7-PCT0aV_7kBCWYvkttHQ
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/la-la-lash-atlanta
- Other: https://www.vagaro.com/lalalash-brookhaven
