We recently had the chance to connect with Leah Murray and have shared our conversation below.
Good morning Leah, it’s such a great way to kick off the day – I think our readers will love hearing your stories, experiences and about how you think about life and work. Let’s jump right in? What do you think is misunderstood about your business?
A common misconception about owning a business is the glamorization of it. I’m endlessly grateful for how far I’ve been able to grow and scale my brand, but the truth is, it’s not always as picture-perfect as it looks from the outside. Behind every polished project or successful launch are countless moments of problem-solving, sacrifice, and self-discipline that rarely get seen.
People often overlook the emotional energy that goes into working closely with clients. In many ways, I’m not just a service provider—I’m a listener, a motivator, and sometimes even a therapist. And while I genuinely love connecting with people on that level, it can be both emotionally and physically draining.
Another thing people don’t always realize is how many hats an entrepreneur wears. I’m my own marketing team, accountant, strategist, and creative director all at once. It can be a lot to manage, but it’s also incredibly rewarding.
What keeps me grounded is remembering the beauty of creation itself—taking an idea that once lived only in my imagination and turning it into something tangible that can inspire or impact people across the world. That feeling makes every challenge worth it.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Leah Murray, and my roots are proudly grounded in my Jamaican and Trinidadian heritage, two cultures that have shaped my creativity, resilience, and passion for self-expression. I’m the founder of Lavish Lee Nails, where I like to call myself a nail therapist. My mission goes beyond creating beautiful designs, it’s about helping my clients feel confident, cared for, and radiant both inside and out.
I started Lavish Lee Nails in the midst of COVID-19, originally as a side project to support myself through nursing school. After losing my job, I made a bold decision to bet on myself and fully commit to my craft — and it’s been one of the most rewarding choices of my life. What began as something small has grown into a brand rooted in faith, artistry, and intention.
Many people assume being a nail tech is just about polish and design, but there’s so much more emotional energy involved. Every appointment is a moment of connection; I listen, encourage, and sometimes even help my clients heal through conversation. It can be both physically and emotionally demanding, but it’s also incredibly fulfilling.
Ironically, I never considered myself an artist growing up. I wasn’t someone who could draw perfectly , maybe a sketch here or there, but my clients constantly challenge me to push my limits. Now, I hand-paint intricate designs that even surprise me. Nails have opened up a new world of creativity, inspiring me to start painting and exploring other artistic forms.
At the heart of it all, my faith and family keep me grounded. God is truly the source of my supply, and my family’s love reminds me why I started. Lavish Lee Nails isn’t just a business — it’s a reflection of growth, purpose, and the beauty of creating something from nothing that can touch people’s lives all over the world.
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. Who taught you the most about work?
Coming from a family of immigrants, hard work is all I’ve ever known. My grandfather built a shipping company that shipped across the world, showing me early on that determination can turn even the smallest dream into something global. My mother started her own web design company and hasn’t worked for anyone in over 25 years, her independence and creativity showed me the power of believing in your own skills. My father, despite every obstacle placed in his path, owned and operated multiple businesses and never stopped providing for his family.
Entrepreneurship runs deep in my family , even my siblings own and operate their own businesses. Watching each of them chase their goals with courage and faith made me realize that greatness is truly in our blood.
What did suffering teach you that success never could?
In my personal opinion, suffering is just as important as success ,if not a little more. Success feels amazing, especially when you finally achieve everything you’ve prayed and worked for. But suffering teaches you how to keep it. It teaches you discipline, gratitude, and perspective.
Sometimes we think we know exactly what we want, but life has a way of showing us what we actually need. The things we once thought were so important begin to fade, and we start to understand the real purpose behind our journey. Suffering refines your focus and reminds you that growth often comes from the lessons you didn’t ask for.
When you finally succeed after failure, you carry a deeper appreciation because you know how hard the journey was. Instant gratification disappears when you’ve had to earn every step. Most importantly, suffering reveals who you truly are — your resilience, your strength, and your ability to rise even when you don’t want to. That’s where the real power lives.
I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. What would your closest friends say really matters to you?
My closest friends would say that structure and stability really matter to me. I like having balance and a sense of direction in my life , whether it’s in my business, my relationships, or my personal growth. I care more about being grounded in where I am, not constantly chasing what’s next.
I prefer routines, planning, and focusing on the things that keep me grounded , like traveling, painting, and being around good energy. I don’t care to constantly chase what’s next; I care more about being present, balanced, and grateful for where I am.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. When do you feel most at peace?
I feel the most peace when I’m at the gym, stretching, moving, and reconnecting with myself. It’s one of my spaces where I feel I can completely clear my mind, focus on my body, and release anything that’s weighing me down. It helps me reset not just physically, but mentally as well.
I also find peace in traveling. Experiencing new places, meeting new people, and stepping out of my everyday routine always reminds me beautiful the world really is. It gives me perspective and inspiration, and it helps me return to my work and life with a renewed sense of gratitude.
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