ORIGINALLY PUBLISHED: AUGUST 2023
I started my business, Pretty & Polished, in November 2020. Before starting my business, I worked for someone else for seven years and became interested in entrepreneurship. I decided to strike out on my own because it would be more beneficial for my family. I also wanted to build a legacy for my family and create a larger platform for myself.
My mission at the start of my business was to be successful, of course; however, my goal is to make others feel good about themselves through my nail and pedicure services. I am a one-person business; I currently have no employees. My legal structure is a sole proprietorship. People who work in cosmetology have at least a high school diploma and have gone to cosmetology school. I acquired a full cosmetology license and a bachelor of science degree in Health Care Administration.
I offer various manicure and pedicure services, along with artificial nails. There are additional services that I add to a service to make the experience better, such as a deluxe pedicure or a hot stone massage with a manicure or pedicure. My biggest form of advertisement is word of mouth, and I use social media. My location, 1651 Hess Rd., was decided upon because the building fits my needs and is within 10-15 minutes of all sides of town. I am usually always booked with appointments and plan to expand my business. Doing nails has always been a passion for me. So owning a company based on my love versus something you feel you must do is just a no-brainer for me.
The key professional expertise I possess is customer service. Customer service is what I do all day. Since everyone is different, you must learn how to adapt, handle, and get along with all the types of people you serve. Another characteristic that you must have to work in the beauty service industry is caring. When you deal with so many different people, you must care about them and how you make them feel through your services. Patience takes a lot of practice. Also, it takes dedication and discipline to come to work every day. You have to be there.
A common challenge in this field would be not staying busy enough. During slow times of the year, clientele services may be down. However, there is always the opportunity for advancement in this industry, such as always staying on top of the new trends. Trends are constantly changing regarding nails, and if you stay on top of it, you will always be in the latest advancement stages, bringing in more clientele.
I advise building a clientele before starting your business for those interested in a service-focused company. When you work in a service industry, your business is constructed strictly upon your clientele. Without a clientele, there is no business. Another recommendation would be to learn everything you need to keep the business successful. The most in-demand skills are constantly changing due to trends. The main skills are artificial nail gel, polishes, and dip powders.
My success so far has been better than I ever imagined. I stay booked and busy; my clientele has grown extremely. It took about six months to gain a real profit after my initial start-up costs. My workplace culture is very diverse. I have an extensive and diverse clientele, which I love. It gives me a different outlook on everyone, and I respect everyone’s cultural differences. Diversity and inclusion is what makes my business unique. The most fulfilling aspect of my business is the relationships I have developed. When you have the opportunity to meet so many different people, and of course, as you’re servicing them for an hour or two, you talk and get to know each other. Many clients I have serviced for three or more years have become friends and people I truly care for. It’s never hard for me to go to work because I look forward to seeing everyone daily. Everyone is welcome at Pretty & Polished.
Written by Brenda Jackson-Cross, CEO
Firm Development & Consulting
www.firmdevelop.com