August 25, 2025

From Idea to Glam on Wheels

Balancing Motherhood and Entrepreneurship with Kailyn Beauty

When Laura Willard launched Kailyn Beauty Luxe Mobile Salon, she wasn’t just starting a business, she was creating a lifestyle that allowed her to balance entrepreneurship with motherhood. With two young daughters at home, Laura wanted a career that offered creative fulfillment while still giving her the flexibility to be present for her family. “These early years go by so fast,” she said. “I wanted a career that would let me be present for every moment.”

Kailyn Beauty was built around this vision. Designed as a luxury on-location salon experience, it brings high-end hairstyling and beauty services directly to clients across Southern California. From weddings and VIP appointments to festivals and pop-up events,  Kailyn Beauty offers stress-free, beautifully curated moments where expert glam meets hospitality.

Planning and Support

Laura began with an idea but didn’t know how to turn it into reality. After inquiring about a loan with her bank, Laura was encouraged to connect with the Orange County Inland Empire SBDC, a step she calls life-changing.

With the guidance of SBDC business consultant Emily DeLapp, Laura received support in organizing her business plan, officially forming her company, and clarifying her brand messaging. Together they developed a creative brief, built marketing copy, refined product offerings, and even crafted a job listing to recruit new stylists.

“Emily helped me from understanding how to file, getting started from the very beginning. The follow-up meetings kept me motivated and encouraged so I didn’t give up,” Laura shared.

Launching and Growing

Thanks to SBDC guidance and Laura’s determination, Kailyn Beauty officially launched in early 2025. The business secured $150,000 in capital infusion, created its first job, and generated $2,000 in sales within the first months of operation.

Laura credits her success to the hands-on support she received. “I cannot say enough about Emily DeLapp. She really is a business genius. I wouldn’t be where I’m at today with my business if it wasn’t for all her help and expertise.”

With this strong foundation, Kailyn Beauty is poised to keep growing, bringing luxury salon experiences directly to clients while creating opportunities for rising stylists.

Looking to Start or Grow Your Business?

Connect with the OCIE SBDC today. Access expert business consulting, training, and resources at no cost to you. Whether you are launching a new idea or scaling an existing business, the OCIE SBDC is here to help you succeed.

Call 1-800-616-7232 or schedule a 15-minute intake appointment today.

From Idea to Glam on Wheels

Mike Daniel is the network director of the Orange County Inland Empire SBDC Network, which assists aspiring entrepreneurs and current business owners throughout Orange, San Bernardino and Riverside counties. Mike was formerly the director of the SBDC office at Long Beach City College. As business owner and entrepreneur himself, he started his career as the owner of a Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory location in Manhattan Beach and went on to open a second location in Long Beach in 2001. In 2007, Mike sold the Manhattan Beach store for an above-market offer then invested in several additional locations as a minority shareholder. Mike further expanded his candy empire with venture located in Shoreline Village in Long Beach called Sugar Daddies Sweet Shoppe, based on fill-it yourself candy options.

Mike has a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from California State University, Fullerton.