Q&A:
What inspired you to pursue a career in the beauty industry?
Initially I did not aspire to be in the beauty industry. I fell into it. A good friend named Jada was a very popular and successful nail technician in Detroit, where I am from. He started training me and I started catching up quickly. She decided to make me part of her team. After a year and a half I chose to attend beauty school to get my formal training and license and the rest is history as they say!!
Can you share a memorable moment from your early days in the industry?
One of my most memorable moments early in my career was when I had the opportunity to work with the late Aretha Franklin. She was my first celebrity client! I remember when I arrived at her apartment in downtown Detroit. They are also from the same hometown of Detroit, MI! When I walked in, she said, “Oh, you’re a cutie pie. Hey honey, I’ve never seen a Nail Tech that looks like you.”
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How do you define your brand in the beauty space?
My overall brand and aesthetic is sleek, stylish, modern and luxurious. When it comes to nails, I’ve always wanted my aesthetic to be luxurious but still fun and functional for the everyday woman.
What does being a part of the Hype Hair Magazine x Bronner Bros collaboration mean to you?
Being featured in Hype Hair magazine and working with the Bronner Brothers is an honor to be recognized by these major beauty publications. Both have always embodied the culture of beauty in the African American community and I am happy to be a part of that recognition as a Nail Stylist.
Where do you see yourself in your career five years from now?
Five years from now, I see myself doing more teaching and consulting. I have been a Salon Owner for nine years and a real stylist for 20 years. I am at the point in my career now where I want to uplift and teach others and move into a different space to help other up and coming salon owners and entrepreneurs. Working with more brands and creating creative collaborations is also on the radar, so stay tuned!
Who are some of your biggest influences in the beauty industry?
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Some of my biggest influences in the beauty industry are other salon owners and beauty moguls such as Tashina Green Robinson (Poochiez Nails), Gloria Williams (Foot Nanny), Leighton Denny, Chaun Legend and Pat McGrath.
What areas of expertise set you apart from other professionals in your field?
My expertise comes from the wide variety in all areas of nail care. I have worked with many products from acrylics to hard gel to soft gel and most recently the GelX system. Being able to discern which particular product works best for any particular client is a skill set that many other professionals lack. I pride myself on being very knowledgeable at all levels and able to serve every customer that sits in front of me. What works for one person may not work for the next person and it is up to you as the professional to determine exactly that.
How vital is diversity and inclusion in the beauty industry and how do you contribute to it?
Oh, it’s a must, especially in my area of expertise in nail care. Often, people have to be on the radar for non-Asian nail technicians. We do more to prove ourselves and our worth. So it’s important to be on top of your game and always go above and beyond in your service and professionalism because we have to compete ten times harder than nail technicians.
Can you share some tips for aspiring beauty professionals looking to make their mark?
My advice to aspiring beauty professionals would be to find your niche. Find out what you are good at, focus on it and perfect it. Shop yourself accordingly. Know who your target audience is and target that audience. Not every client is meant for you, and that’s okay. Make sure you know your value and worth and adjust your prices accordingly. Be willing to put in the hard work, get out there, do the groundwork and don’t wait for something to fall into your lap. Try different things when it comes to marketing because not everything works. it only works for some.
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What role does innovation play in your approach to beauty and hair care?
Innovation and technology have taken the beauty industry to the next level. They play a huge role. That’s why I’m a firm believer in continuing education. It would help if you keep abreast of new trends and technology, thus becoming an innovator and trendsetter. Always be ahead of the learning curve. Learn new techniques and get out of your comfort zone. Once you become stagnant and think you know it all, you lose momentum and become stagnant.
How do you balance staying true to your style while keeping up with industry trends?
I stay true to my overall aesthetic, always keeping in mind my brand and what I put out about my work. No matter what service I provide with Nails, I always make sure that there is some class and elegance to every set of nails that comes out of my salon.
What challenges have you faced in your career and how have they shaped your journey?
I have been blessed because I have never faced any major challenges that have affected my business. The only thing that comes to mind is the pandemic, when all non-existent companies had to be closed. During this time, I created custom nail orders for clients.
What upcoming projects or collaborations can your fans and readers look forward to?
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I’m going to get back into the TV and reality circuit. I might be on some TV shows coming to a screen near you!
What’s your favorite beauty hack or product you can’t live without?
I can’t live without Apres GelX Systems! It’s the best for the modern nail stylist.
How do you stay motivated and inspired in an ever-evolving industry like beauty?
When I tell you guys, I’m a giant nerd, lol!
I am constantly learning new techniques and taking new courses whenever I can. As I mentioned earlier, I am a firm believer in continuous education!
