PRETE Founder Nina Ojeda's Guide To Los Angeles

Having been born and raised in Los Angeles, entrepreneur Nina Ojeda thinks there's one thing that needs to be cleared up about her city: "It is a gross misconception that people are all in entertainment here, or that everyone is a wannabe actor," she says. "There are millions of people in the city and there is something here for every one of them."

Case in point: Ojeda is the founder and CEO of PRÊTE, a membership service for blowouts at the top salons in LA and around the country. Since launching in 2017, the company has expanded to seven cities including Orange County and San Francisco (essentially making it way easier to have a good hair day).

In addition to PRÊTE, Ojeda's busy schedule also includes a Startup Survival Guide column in Inc. Magazine and lectures at various marketing and PR engagements. In her downtime, Ojeda can usually be found spending quality time with her three rescue dogs or visiting the best restaurants, museums and salons in her neighborhood. Here are some of her top recommendations around town:

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How long have you lived in Los Angeles? My entire life. In fact, my parents still live in the house I grew up in in Mt. Washington.

What neighborhood do you live in? Currently West Hollywood, but I’ve lived all over the city at one point or another.

What’s your occupation? I’m currently the CEO and Founder of PRÊTE, a membership to blowouts at the best salons in the city.

Describe LA in three words: Inspiring, adventurous, home

Best sushi: Izaka-Ya on 3rd or Sugarfish Nozawa, depending on your budget.

Best Italian food: Della Terra on Beverly is definitely a favorite.

Dessert: I’m not a dessert person so I’m going to go with ice cream and wine from Saucey.

Best pizza: Prime Pizza on Fairfax

Best spot for quick lunch: I’m always one for Poke Shack or Lemonade.

Best romantic date spot: Hotel Bel Air

Best Sunday brunch: Quality Food & Beverage on 3rd

Best power business meeting spot: Cecconi’s if it’s on a Monday.

Best cup of coffee: Andante on Beverly

What hotel would you recommend for your out of town guests? I love The London or Sunset Marquis.

Favorite shopping venue: I’m an avid online shopper, but there is this amazing little shop called Sample Sale on 3rd (right next to Quality) that always has the best stuff!

Best gym or fitness studio: Ha, I wish I worked out enough for this, but I like Platefit a lot.

Best spa: It’s not really a spa but I love The Now on Beverly for a great massage.

Favorite salon: Given my business, this is a really tough one! But I’ll pick three near me: RA_, Salon Three and Gavert Atelier Salon.

Favorite charity event or organization: The Humane Society. I’m all about animals!

Favorite cultural event: LA Pride or the Halloween Carnaval on Santa Monica Boulevard

Favorite cultural institution: Griffith Observatory

What’s the best museum or current exhibit in LA? I always love LACMA.

Best historic or iconic LA landmark to see or explore: Paramount Studios

What’s your all-time favorite spot in LA? The Magic Castle!

The best aspect of LA is: Opportunities and inspiration are endless here. Los Angeles is what you make of it, and a lot has to do with who you decide to spend your time with.

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There are currently participating PRÊTE salons in LA, Orange County, San Francisco, Nashville, Dallas, Atlanta and Chicago. Austin, DC, Miami and New York will be joining the membership roster soon.

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Photo: Courtesy of PRÊTE