Fresh from her trip to New York, I had the opportunity of speaking with Lakhiva Blann, Founder and CEO of LcB Nail Lacquer, an enterprise that has created a marquee concept consisting of a line of nail lacquer shades.

I spoke to Lakhiva about her new company and some of the difficulties she has faced since its launch.

Below is our full conversation.

Hi Lakhiva, thanks for doing this interview with me, how are you doing?

Great. Just returned form New York presenting LcB Nail Lacquer to the Beauty Industry.

Can you tell me a little about yourself? What’s your background?

Born and raised in Little Rock, Arkansas. Background is in Sales with a flair for creative interpretation.

Take us back a little, how did you get the idea for LcB Nail Lacquer collection?

I am a product junkie with a love for color and fashion. Through creative interpretation I’ve developed the ability to express myself through beauty products and fashion.

When did you decide to start taking it seriously?

When I launched LcB Nail Lacquer February 12, 2011 and I’ve never looked back.

What were you doing before you started LcB Nail Lacquer collection?

A Medical/Pharmaceutical Sales Representative.

What is LcB Nail Lacquer?

LcB Nail Lacquer™ is an enterprise that has created a marquee concept consisting of a line of nail lacquer shades. I grew up being called different names in reference to my dark skin tone. Whether the comments tended to be flattering or insulting, I was motivated and persuaded to create a line for women to inspre, motivate and empower women.

Talking about early days, what difficulties did you encounter in your early days of the company and tell us how you got out of it?

As any small businessperson or entrepreneur will attest, starting from scratch is not for the faint of heart. Initially, being viewed as a serious entrant into the beauty/fashion world was a huge hurdle. Competition is staggering and entrants are numerous. In such a competitive field a new line must set itself apart from the field. Secondly, finances. Operating on a shoestring budget and filling the roles in all facets of a fledgling business takes commitment. My goal remains, operate with the company’s financial means. Lastly, remembering I’m also the CEO of a family. Having a successful business is rewarding however; having a loving and successful family to share it with is heavenly.

Who is your inspiration and why?

I’m inspired both by the drive to better myself and by the people I encounter on a daily basis. I think inspiration can be found everywhere that’s why I love to travel and meet people.

What would you say has been the key to your success so far?

Continue to evolve, staying on trend and being creative. Keep things fresh and new, like it’s your first adventure.

What would you say has been your most memorable moment so far?

Working with Designer Korto Momolu during New York Fashion Week. LcB outfitted the models in LcB Nail Lacquer.

What would you say has been some of the key things that you’ve learnt on your journey so far?

Be patient, my time will come!

What achievement are you most proud of?

When individuals tell me that LcB is the best nail polish. It can last up to 2 weeks and has an ultimate shine without the harmful chemicals, such as DBP (Dibutyl Phthalate), Toluene and Formaldehyde.

What advices would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs looking to get in to business?

Research the industry, be patience and persistence, find mentors, join organizations that relate to your business. Research, research, and more research!

What can we be expecting from you in 2012?

LcB will launch 3 new colors and names, more New York Fashion Week visits and to work with more charities and organizations.