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

Hi Nikol , what’s the most important thing you’ve done for your children?
Parenting isn’t for the faint, that’s for sure. But the most important thing I’ve done as a parent , has been affirming my daughters strength, beauty and smarts. It’s because of these affirmations that she stands so boldly at only 5 years old. And when challenges arises as a business owner, she is quick to remind me that I too am, fearless, bold, kind, beaufitul, smart and resilient. Just like that, I’m reminded that I’ve done at least one thing right.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
TRAPPED is an Escape Room that specializes in team-building fun. Groups work together using clues to solve puzzles and see if they can escape. Novel in nature, Escape Rooms are still relatively new to the U.S., however we’ve branded ourselves as a party house Escape room, that can be describe as hip, quirky and fun. Serving Alcohol as part of the teambuilding experience has really set us apart from other escape rooms. Groups have drinks, vibe to great music, munch on complimentary peanuts and have a full experience before they even enter their escape game. Making sure we connect with each of our guests has also been a game changer for us. With families coming in every week for different reasons, i.e. birthday parties, girls night out, tourists , corporate, bachelor party, date night, or a community social, we make sure we give them an experience to remember. From polaroid pictures, to dance offs in the lobby our guests experience is one that is valued and we never loose sight of that. The process in owning any business comes with late nights and early mornings, however in this process, I’m most proud of the team that we have and the community of people who continue to support us .We have our bick & motor location, our mobile Escape room-where we bring the fun to you and our mini Escape boxes that are shipped to homes and businesses. Our mini escape boxes is our latest addition and I’m so excited about it. They have really bridged the gap in giving people something fun to do from the comfort of their home or business. It is through this journey that we’ve learned new ways to connect to people and for people to connect with each other. During the past 3 years of operation, TRAPPED has not been without challenges, however, the greatest lesson was knowing when to be still and when to move. I’m action oriented in nature, but being a business owner teaches you to slow down and process in order to avoid the pitfalls that come with moving too fast. My faith, Gods presence, hard work and the village of Angel’s that surround around me have been the reason that we continue to thrive. If there is anything that the world should know about TRAPPED is that what we do is bigger than oneself. It’s an opportunity for people to connect, an opportunity to employ and an opportunity to contribute to the world in a meaningful way. I often say that all we have is memories. If in that memory bank, having fun with the people you love at TRAPPED Escape Room was part of that snapshot , selfishly I feel like we’ve done our job.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Houston is such a big city with so many things to do. However, it would be remiss if we didnt stop by some of the local eateries that Houston is known for. For brunch you defnitley have to go to Breakfast Klub for some bomb fish & grits or chicken and waffles. Afterwards, head over to the museum district and visit one of the museums, there are plenty to choose from. Night life, enjoy poetry and comedy at the poetry lounge followed by karaoke at The Spot, they stay open late. There is always time for shopping so you have to checkout the Galleria mall ( the biggest mall in Texas ) and the premium outlets. The outlets are near Prairie view A&M University, so definitely pay homage to one of my alumnus and get some amazing soul food at Bistro 1876, located on campus. Take a visit to TRAPPED Escape Room on a Friday or Saturday for a fun Escape Room experience and one that serves alcohol. Night life at club Aurora, Indigo lounge , Red rooster, Chicago’s or Prospect Park and you are sure to have a good time. If you like live music, Buy the Glass Wine bar or Phil & Derek’s is the place to be . Looking for a fun taco Tuesday and trivia spot , hit up TAPPED drafthouse for amazing food, drinks and games. Texas is also known for barbecue, so you have to stop by Burns barbecue, and make sure you wear spandex, you’re going to leave there stuffed. Afterwards head to Hanks ice cream Parlor for some homemade flavorful icecream. Anyday during the evening time, be sure to stop by Miller outdoor theater for an outdoor concert on the hill. Beautiful scenery, a nice vibe. Get your history on by going to the African American library, located in the heart of Houston. Afterwards, head to the ensemble theater, and catch an unforgettable play. Do something different and stop by Paiting with a twist or Kinky Mats where you can create your own personalized welcome mats. And just for the sake of balance, stop by the gym, there is one on every corner in Houston or a trail to get your workout on. Herman park & The Woodlands trail is one of my favorite places to get a good run in. Because Houston is the 3rd largest city, there are tons of concerts and shows going on during any given day. Check the calendar and see if one of your favorite artists happens to be in Houston for that week. Houston is the most diverse city in the U.S, the 3rd largest city and the city that has the most restaurants per square mile. It’s a city that is full of culture and vibrant to say the least. The people are amazing, the food is beyond delicious and it had its own appeal, giving you big city life with some good ol country hospitality. These are all the things that makes Houston appealing to so many and home of some of the greats.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Tawania & Josephe Joe- For unyielding support and Love. Forever Grateful for our bond. Robert & Renee Ortiz- My mentors and leaders who exemplify leadership and humanity . Lois Veguilia & William Garcia- Beautiful spirits who have went above and beyond in supporting me in this journey.

Website: www.escaperoomtrapped.com
Instagram: TrappedEscapeRoomHouston14
Facebook: TrappedEscapeRoomHouston
Youtube: Trapped Escape Room Houston