Today we’d like to introduce you to Von Lane.
Hi Von, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I started doing nails at 12 years old, inspired by my mom, my sisters, and my dad who always kept himself well-groomed. He would take me to KayKay, the woman who did our family’s nails, and she became my first mentor—teaching me acrylics, timing, and nail art. By 20, I graduated nail school, passed State Board on the first try, and quickly built my career, opening my first salon, Utopia, in 2016.
After closing Utopia in 2018, I shifted into massage therapy in Houston, but nails found their way back to me. By 2020, I was working in a Black-owned nail salon, and in February 2022 while pregnant with my second child, Lavender & Sage was born. I named it after the sage I loved to burn while pregnant with my daughter (first born), a symbol of healing and cleansing—exactly what I wanted my salon to embody.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The journey hasn’t been easy. In my first year, I was scammed out of $20k, lost another $6k to a CPA who offered no guidance, and even struggled with mishandled business credit. Finances, lack of support, and wearing every hat myself made things extremely tough. But through it all, I kept pushing. Today, I finally have the right team of women beside me—talented, steady, and growing. I’m still learning how to pour back into myself, but seeing my vision come to life through Lavender & Sage makes every struggle worth it.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I’m a licensed nail technician with over 20 years of experience, and I specialize in detailed nail artistry and creating customized experiences for my clients. What I’m most proud of is not just the work I create with my hands, but the environment I’ve built with Lavender & Sage.
What sets me apart is my ability to hold space for people. My salon is a safe place for those who often feel singled out or misunderstood. I want every client to feel comfortable showing up as their authentic self—even if it’s something that might be considered “taboo” to others. Nails are the service, but the heart of what I do is connection, healing, and empowerment. That’s what keeps people coming back, and that’s what I’m most proud of.
Is there a quality that you most attribute to your success?
For me, success comes from being yourself while leading with love and compassion. I make it a priority to ensure every client and every woman on my team feels heard and seen, and that everything is handled with care and respect. At the same time, I’ve learned the importance of setting boundaries, because creating a safe and genuine space only works if it’s protected. That balance has been the heart of my growth.
Pricing:
- Fullset $60 &up
- Refills $50 &up
- Pedicures $50&up
- Gel X $90&up
- Hard Gel $80& up
Contact Info:
- Website: Lavenderandsagesuite.com
- Instagram: Lavenderandsagesuite
Image Credits
Evelin Cruz
