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

Hi Ceon, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
After 15 years in corporate America, I started to look at my work life balance differently. Having a husband and 3 kids makes me prioritize my personal time with them. Although climbing the corporate ladder is financially rewarding, there came a time where I felt like I’d trade it all for freedom in my schedule to choose my hours, and to be my own boss. Starting my own business also sparked my rebellion towards corporate America and its politics after myself and 270 employees were laid off without notice in 2020, at the beginning of COVID.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
AOF Beauty Lounge was created out of pure resilience. I was a top producer at my company, and yet I was discarded without notice. They actually locked our computers after we’d shown up to work that morning! I was shocked, burned out, and honestly offended. But at the same time, I was free. That job was stressful and full of office politics. I knew if God said the same, I wasn’t going back to work for anybody else unless I wanted to. That resilience created my brand and drives my purpose to encourage and empower the women I meet every day. The more I talk to my clients, the more I realize how many women dislike their jobs. They are over worked and under appreciated. The office politics have gotten in the way of their overall perception of the company, etc. About a year after opening, I encouraged my best friend to take a leap of faith and follow the exact same formula as I did by leaving the office behind and becoming her own boss and joining me at AOF. Under appreciated at her current job, it didn’t take much convincing and within 4 months she was up and running. I don’t preach entrepreneurship to everyone I meet, but I do encourage them to start small by tapping into their hobbies or even monetizing a skill they already have. Often times people don’t realize the skills they already have are great way to add additional income. I’m also a huge advocate for self care and boundaries. A lot of my daily conversations with women are also about how tired and run down they are with balancing work and home. While they’re in my chair, I’m always compelled to let them know that self care is necessary and important because it’s hard to pour into others if your cup is empty. Women can be so selfless and we continuously place the needs of others above our own. I find great joy in teaching women to love on themselves, even in budget friendly ways. My client interactions—the laughs and sometimes even the tears, are what set the AOF experience apart. The countless referrals and their online reviews have gotten us where we are today. Our overall goal is to make you feel beautiful and save time in your daily beauty routine, but to also give you that 90’s beauty shop experience where you leave feeling like you can’t wait to come back to your girlfriend-tribe in two weeks.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
One thing people know about me is, I always have the spots! My clubbing days are over, but brunch and a good day party are definitely on the menu. For brunch, we’d start out at Rockhouse for the brunch buffet because they have all you can eat oxtail and live music. From there we’d go to 5015 for a little day party vibe and good drinks. Because we’re almost 40, we’re going to go take a nap and pop back out after 5 lol. We can hit the Puttshack for a quick game of digital miniature golf, before heading to the Rocket’s game or a comedy show at the Improv. A nightcap on the rooftop at Bungalow, or a few drinks at Davenports is a great way to end the night!

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?
The Art of Face Beauty Lounge would not be possible without the love and support of my husband, Jeremy Lahar. Let’s be honest, millions of people strive to be business owners, but full time entrepreneurship can be very challenging, especially in the beginning. After being laid off, we agreed it was a great time to take a leap of faith and just go for it. With his support taking care of home, I gave myself 4 months to create my business plan and execute my goals. Each week was better than the previous, and he encouraged me when I wasn’t sure if I’d make the best decision to do it full time. By the 4 month mark, I was able to see a bright future ahead and my family’s excitement and encouragement was the best support I could have asked for during such a scary time. Not to mention this was during COVID!

Website: https://www.aofbeautylounge.com

Instagram: @aofbeautylounge

Image Credits
Nicole Lee (image credits for my headshot on the Orange dress)

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutHTX is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.