EXO in Edwardsville, Illinois, is proving a passion project can turn into a beautiful, thriving business. In 2019, Gina Gamblin formed EXO Lounge, LLC when she purchased a business and building in Edwardsville, Illinois, to open a local, woman-owned nail bar. Unfortunately, that location experienced a devastating fire in 2021, and needed to be rebuilt. With a vision to provide males and females with a unique, social experience, Gina rebuilt a place that allows her clients to indulge in multiple versions of self-care as they enjoy a journey of the senses. EXO expanded operations to include a nail bar, med spa, and cocktail lounge serving cocktails, cold pressed juices, teas, espresso, and light bites, so there are endless possibilities for fun and relaxation. Open to the public and for special and corporate events, EXO merges the American service culture with an Asian nail culture, trailblazing a first of its kind destination that is as a cut above the rest.
A Passion Project Turned into a Successful Business
We asked Gina what inspired her to be an entrepreneur. “EXO began as a passion project. I wanted to take nail services from a monotonous chore to an experience. After months of brainstorming and much collaboration, our first location was opened in 2020 with hopes to continue to build on the services we offer. We now have incorporated a world-class Med Spa that includes wellness.”
Utilizing SBA 504 Financing
When asked how utilizing SBA 504 financing impacted her business, Gina said, “The 504 Loan has been instrumental in the re-launch of EXO as a Med Spa, Nail Bar and Lounge. Part of launching any brand is creating an experience, from your assets to your service but it’s not always easy when you have financial pressure. As an entrepreneur you look to cut corners if you need to and it’s a difficult balance of ‘good vs good enough’. This is where the 504 has had the most positive impact for us – procurement of the assets we knew would elevate EXO as a world class venue.”
“Getting approved for a 504 Loan made me feel grateful, relieved, and inspired. It was a nod of confidence – and sometimes you need that from your partners around you.”
Gina went on to say, “Through the guidance of our fantastic banking team at FCB Banks in Edwardsville, IL we explored many options for financing. The 504 was an option we didn’t know a lot about and after completing our due diligence, and isolating our critical vs non-critical needs, this line of financing made the most sense. The process was fantastic. But we definitely had to do the work. It forced us to answer the difficult questions – and remove the fluff. As entrepreneurs it’s easy to stay focused on the ‘pie in the sky’ and sweep the hard conversations under the rug. The process here was seamless, transparent and straight forward and we couldn’t be happier. Getting approved made me feel grateful, relieved, and inspired. It was a nod of confidence – and sometimes you need that from your partners around you, particularly when you feel down and out.”
Notable Accomplishments
We asked Gina to tell us how her business has positively impacted the community in which it’s located. “Since re-launching EXO we have created over 70 local jobs, and we’ve seen tens of thousands of website visitors – both locally and from all over the country. We are amazed by how many people have visited EXO and Edwardsville who have never been to the local area before! It’s been quite amazing.” “EXO is continuously involved in the community too, and we have made several local donations in the past 12 weeks. For us the community is extremely important in our success, and we are very much a ‘give where you live’ organization.” “In addition, we have a magnificent team. Culture is so important to us and the fact we have landed in such a wonderful spot with beautiful, kind, and sincere employees who bring a wealth of experience to EXO is a monumental achievement that we are extremely proud of. For example, we relocated Gianncola Colucci from Switzerland. He has traveled the world and led teams at award winning and globally recognized locations including Don Alfonso Restaurant, The Grand Hotel, and Four Seasons. We are thrilled to have him on our team.” “And, finally, the opening of our new building and ensuring we were operational was HUGE. Particularly after the tragedy surrounding our first location.”
Highlights and Advice from a Business Owner
Gina told us that one of the most satisfying moments in business was launching a first-of-a-kind destination. “In todays’ business world a unique concept is very difficult to accomplish. We managed to do it at EXO, not just in theory but we’ve put it into practice – operating a world class concept that has merged the Vietnamese and American culture and raised the bar of customer service across the Midwest.” When asked if she had any wisdom to impart to aspiring entrepreneurs, Gina said, “Nothing needs to be perfect. Launch and fix as you go and don’t lose sight of your vision. Stay nimble – the original business you start likely won’t be the same business in 12-months’ time and finally lean into that and surround yourself with the people who will help you grow; don’t be the smartest person in the room.” The reconstruction of this business created jobs and supported the development and expansion of a woman-owned business for the local community. To learn more about EXO, visit their website at https://visitexo.com/ or follow them on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EXOLounge/ and Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/visitexolounge/. 