Tell us about your role and your business…

My name is Laurie Nicoll and I am the owner and founder of Lacquered + Stripped Salon in Connaught Village.

What inspired you to choose a career in beauty?

I don’t really think I chose the beauty industry, more it was something I was always involved in. My Mum was a beauty therapist so it was almost inevitable I would end up in the industry one way or the other. I worked as a therapist for a few years before my passion in sustainability practices started to clash with my work as a therapist. That’s when I decided to combine the two and create a completely vegan, cruelty-free and eco-friendly salon. 

Based on your own experience, what advice would you have for women wanting to get into your industry, or start a business of their own?

The beauty industry is probably one of the most welcoming industries for women. According to Elle 82% of hair, wellness and beauty businesses in the UK are owned by women. I would advise women to go for it! It’s enriching and always evolving. I often feel like the beauty industry is at the forefront of progressive movements.

What does International Women’s Day and this year's theme ‘Break the Bias’ mean to you?

This years theme is about breaking the gender bias, discrimination and stereotyping of women. This is something obviously as a woman I am passionate about, but as part of the BAME community I am especially passionate about this year's theme. We still have a long way to go when it comes to breaking the bias but just talking about it is step one.

What are the plans for your business in Connaught Village?

We have lots of exciting events in the pipeline. We’ll be combining beauty and mindfulness in our new Self Care Club. The Self Care Club will be launching in the coming months. We will also be adding more services, focusing heavily on facials and skincare.

Which women have inspired you most throughout your life?

The women in my family have inspired me the most, particularly my grandmother who sadly passed away last year. She came to England in the 1950’s from Barbados and forged a career as a nurse, eventually becoming one of the most senior black nurses on her ward. She was a formidable character who broke boundaries.

What do you love most about being positioned in Connaught Village?

I love the fact that Connaught Village is home to so many independent shops and businesses. It’s a rarity in London and part of its unique charm. Not only this, Connaught Village is a welcoming and diverse community full of lovely people.