Meet Tina Ngo | Beauty Lounge Co-Owner

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

Hi Tina, do you have any habits that you feel contribute to your effectiveness?
I believe that self-love is a key factor into being successful. If you don’t love yourself, it’s harder to fully love others around you and the work that you do. I’m grateful to have found a career that allows me to be creative and be able to give back to people by helping them in servitude. To me, love is a ripple effect of positivity that touches all around us.

Another habit that I personally felt has helped me through the years was embracing challenges with open arms, no matter how difficult the obstacles were. Finally, supporting loved ones, regardless of their choices, was and still is a key factor into building a strong and successful business.

What should our readers know about your business?
I am the co-owner of the top-rated salon, Beauty Lounge, located in San Diego’s Hillcrest region. Our salon is warm and open to make everyone feel welcome. We believe that everyone is entitled to self-care—from nails and hair, to waxing and massages—and every service should reflect your personal identity. Anyone looking to try out the latest fierce manicure or pedicure, to sport the latest trends in beauty, or simply want to enjoy a relaxing day at the salon around other LGBTQIA+ customers and allies, I encourage them to visit Beauty Lounge.

In addition, I co-own the up-and-coming nail salon, Peacock Nails, located in San Diego’s Lemon Grove community. This business focuses strictly on nails, eyelashes and waxing. Our fully licensed and trained technicians specialize in providing nail art designs, and luxury experience pedicures at quality pricing. In conjunction with Beauty Lounge, safety is our top priority for all, which is why we source environmentally friendly, and safer alternative products for all guests.

Building a successful business was not just about strategy and hard work, but it took putting out a lot of love and building a community. Prior to immigrating here, I had my own small business in Vietnam, where I took my hair and nail experiences and amplified it here in the United States. I have learned the importance of finding mentors and building meaningful, supportive relationships. Whether it be with my business partner, friends, or employees, I’m constantly motivated to create an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and respected.

Today, I’m particularly inspired by the dedication and the ambition of so many college students. Nurturing the next generation of young professionals is my passion, and at Beauty Lounge, we’re not just co-workers – We’re a family founded by the drive to support one another.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
When my best friend’s in town, I look forward to waking up and taking them to eat the iconic adobada tacos from Tacos El Gordo in Chula Vista. After we eat, we’ll take a short walk, like less than a minute, to Dori Boba to grab Andy’s Feck Tea, my all-time favorite drink that’s jam packed with fresh fruits, YUM!

Then I would drive us over to Beauty Lounge where we’d get our pedicures done, so they could meet my staff and get pampered with a complimentary mimosa in hand. After, we’d take a quick 10-minute drive over to Peacock Nails, where they’d meet my other team members and get their hands manicured – but not before we indulge in a paraffin wax treatment to soothe our skin!

After getting all glammed up, I’d take them to Balboa Park, where we’d take a bunch of photos and show off our outfits and nails.

To end the night, I’d make sure we head to Rich’s, a super fun and vibrant nightclub that’s owned by one of my Beauty Lounge clients!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
It’s my honor to dedicate my shoutout to my best friend, Andy Truong. He left us too soon with his battle to cancer. He was my childhood best friend, and we grew up doing everything together. Andy always gave his time to helping me and so many around him. Even when he was tired or had many things going on, he never hesitated to make the time to be there for us, even if it meant lending an ear. Aside from my children, my best friend will always have a strong role in my life.

Reading comprehension in English is not a strong point of mine, but I was grateful to have found a Vietnamese translated version of the book ‘How to Win Friends and Influence People.’ This highly recommended book proved to be a game-changer for me, allowing me to stop worrying and start living. It taught me invaluable skills in effective communication and relationship-building, which have been important in the success of my business, which I am proud to say has been running strong for 13 years.

Website: https://hillcrestbeautylounge.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hillcrestbeautylounge/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hillcrestbeautylounge/

Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@hillcrestbeautylounge

Image Credits
Pha Photography