Today we’d like to introduce you to Lana Dorsey.
Hi Lana, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I graduated from Grandview high school in 2019. Went off to college with over $40,000+ in scholarships, and as a student athlete. I graduated college in May of 2023 from the University of Missouri – Columbia. I was blessed enough to get a free college education. My initial plan was to go to law school and become a lawyer, but there was something about putting myself in debt just made me anxious.
So instead I decided to take a year off. I had been working at my leasing office where I stayed for student housing. Believe it or not, I actually liked my job. Leasing on commission and making content for the complex catered to the creative and competitive nature that I have always had. That brought me into property management, looking more into real estate. I got my licenses in February 2023 and the rest was history.
In October of 2023, I saved up $10-15k and quit my 9-5. Set out to become a self made entrepreneur. It was such a bittersweet moment in life. Giving up the comfort of knowing I get paid every other Friday.
I will acknowledge my significant other, has been the best mentor and teacher I could’ve ever asked for. He is an entrepreneur himself, so he understood.
Fast forward to February of 2025, 90 days prior to our lease ending in Columbia, I started pondering what I wanted to do next. I had been staying home with our first born for 7-8 months by this time.
I had interviews at all types of brokerages, property management companies, for the city, but I was not feeling getting back in to work the workforce in that manner.
One morning I was casually scrolling on Facebook and seen the shop that would soon become KC Braiding Bar . I remember it being bright and early in the morning. I ran the idea past my boyfriend and he loved it! I’m a creative, and I like to manage. But this time this business is mine! We immediately scheduled a showing, created the business plan, and got straight to it. I wanted to have the salon fully leased by the time we moved back. So I drove back and forth, giving showings and preparing for a month straight.
In June of 2025 I would make my return back to KC with a almost leased shop! We started taking appointments June 1st, but I knew there were things that I didn’t care for in the original set up, and structure for the salon. I wanted it to be different, I wanted it to stand out, bring back the old salon vibe but with a modern twist! I knew what I had to do. I started revamping the salon immediately! I took every little detail and made it my own. Not one stone has went unturned.
We finally had our grand opening in August 1st, and launched our Back-to-school special to welcome in the community. It went better than I could’ve ever expected. I just had my first child, but I consider KC Braiding Bar my other baby. I’m really enjoying the process of watching it grow.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I wouldn’t say it’s been a smooth road—every business has its ups and downs. One of the first challenges I ran into was getting the community involved and really taking notice. The city is growing and changing so fast, in a good way, but that also means new small businesses like mine can easily get overlooked. I’ve learned to stay consistent while staying true to our aesthetic and vibe, which helps us stand out.
Another challenge I faced, and am still working on, is signage. Since we’re on the second floor of our building, we don’t have traditional signage space. It’s definitely forced me to get creative with solutions. Recently, we added a sidewalk sign and started posting videos to help clients easily find us—and that’s already been a big help!
We’ve been impressed with KC Braiding Bar, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
KC Braiding Bar is more than just a salon, it’s a space where culture, beauty, and business meet. We specialize in braiding and protective styles, but what really sets us apart is the full experience we create for both our clients and our stylists. Our focus is on professionalism, consistency, and providing a luxury feel without losing the comfort of community.
What we’re known for is giving our clients not just a hairstyle, but an experience. From the moment you walk in, it’s about creating an atmosphere that feels elevated, welcoming, and unique. On the stylist side, we’re proud to provide a space that supports independence and growth. A lot of braiders start off working from home, and KC Braiding Bar gives them a chance to transition into a professional setting where they can still feel supported, and empowered.
Brand-wise, I’m most proud of how we’ve been able to carve out our own lane. We are building something that feels authentic — our aesthetic, our vibe, and our mission are all aligned. That’s what makes us stand out.
What I want readers to know is that KC Braiding Bar is more than a salon seat — it’s a brand built on community, empowerment, and the artistry of hair. Whether you’re a client looking for top-tier service or a stylist looking for the right environment to grow, we’ve created a space that celebrates both.
Is there a quality that you most attribute to your success?
I’d say the most important quality for my success is being hardworking and willing to grow. I’m still a work in progress, but that’s part of the journey. My goal has always been to create a safe space in the community, and I know that takes patience, consistency, and heart. I also think being understanding and personable plays a big role, people connect with authenticity. At the end of the day, I want KC Braiding Bar to be a place where clients and stylists feel valued, supported, and comfortable.
Pricing:
- Walk In Wednesday Special- $180 Medium Knotless Braids
- Feed In Friday Special- $85 6 Stitch Braids
- September Special – $150 Large Knotless Braids
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.fresha.com/book-now/kc-braiding-bar-u75nbwdg/services?lid=2691872&share=true&pId=2605260
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kcbraidingbar/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61576615407504
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/kc-braiding-bar-kansas-city?osq=KC+Braiding+Bar
