After more than two decades tucked away on the second floor above Sendik’s on Downer Ave., Jules Laabs knew it was time to take her business, Studio D’Angeli, to a new level, literally. The building that had been her quaint salon’s home for so many years had just been sold, and Jules was looking at a sizable rent increase for a space that wasn’t visible from the street and needed significant upgrades.
After reviewing multiple options, Jules knew she needed to move her salon to a location and a space that better merited the dollars she hoped to invest. She found an ideal street-level spot on bustling Maryland Ave., directly next to Whole Foods.
“I needed a small business loan to make things happen and was afraid the big banks wouldn’t touch me,” Jules said. “LRC offered not only financial help, but sound business advice and moral support. They worked with me to take my humble business plan and make it better, and directed me to resources, like the East Side BID, that would help me succeed.”
Studio D’Angeli opened in its new location in February, 2015, offering holistic skincare, waxing, massage and cosmetic consultation. “Business is great,” Jules shared. “My exiting clients came with me to the new spot and others are finding me. This has opened the door to so many new opportunities for Studio D’Angeli.”