Today we’d like to introduce you to Lena Mckernan.
Hi Lena, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for sharing your story with us – to start, maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers.
As an owner of a hair salon in Ormond Beach, with over a decade of experience in the field, I recently relocated my establishment to the vibrant hub of Granada Blvd. After launching my very first salon in 2019, I renovated my second salon on December 22, 2023, effectively doubling its size. Since my youth, I’ve harbored a passion for the hair industry, and stepping into my salon each day feels like fulfilling a lifelong dream. It brings me immense joy to have the opportunity to help women feel confident and beautiful in their skin. I feel incredibly fortunate to have built such an exceptional team at my salon. Together, we strive to offer our loyal clients a luxurious yet laid-back experience, allowing them to unwind and escape from reality.
Has it been a smooth road? If not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced?
When I embarked on my journey as a hairdresser, I found myself in a salon environment that made me reluctant to go to work. This made me question my commitment to the industry, prompting me to leave. I experimented with an aesthetician role and worked evening shifts as a cocktail server at Caribbean Jacks. After some time, I accepted a position as a booth renter at a different salon despite having a partial clientele. I juggled facials in the mornings, hair appointments in the afternoons, and cocktail serving every evening for about eight months to cover my expenses and booth rental fees. Eventually, I built a truly valued clientele and remained at this salon for five years. Subsequently, I leased an 88-square-foot room and saved diligently for a year before opening my first Radiance Color and Hair Studio, which spanned 800 square feet. I poured my heart and soul into designing this salon. However, in 2022, floods hit it twice within a month due to hurricanes in Florida. My husband and I worked tirelessly to renovate the salon within a week and reopen for business. Unfortunately, one of my employees left, and two others had to seek alternative employment until the salon was ready to resume operations. During this period, I was fully occupied with restoration work and unable to tend to my clients. I periodically scoured Ormond Beach for a new, secure location that would better meet our needs. Finally, in mid-September 2023, I found and signed a lease for another property in Granada. Although it was a daunting decision, I knew it was essential for the growth of my business.
We’ve been impressed with Radiance Color and Hair Studio, but for folks who might need to be more familiar, what can you share about what you do and what sets you apart?
At Radiance, we specialize in blonding, vibrant and vivid hair color, haircuts, extensions, and more.
What was your favorite childhood memory?
I was being able to spend every weekend at the beach with my sister.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @Radiance_colorandhairstudio
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063588760209&mibextid=2JQ9oc
