Every nail tech has those days of wondering: “Did I make the right choice?” No work situation is perfect, and everyone thinks that they can do better if they just open their own place, but if you are not prepared financially and mentally, the situation can implode! Knowing that I am not in the frame of mind to be an owner just yet, but knowing that it was time to move forward, I have left Hair, Body & Sole to find a new opportunity in a nail-focused salon. The work environment is a little different in that I do not have other service providers to recommend my services. However, I have a great opportunity because everyone who comes through the door wants a specific nail service. 

Blissful Lounge is six months new, but is carving a much-needed niche in a growing area. With a comfy French country look, all clients are impressed by our hospitality and customer service. The natural nail menu is unique. Basic services are offered, and the client can upgrade to customize the service for her specific needs after an initial consultation. And now that pink-and-white gel and odorless acrylic have arrived along with my experience, the door has been opened a little further for a wider range of clients. I recently introduced the owner, Lynn, and fellow tech, Camille, to twinkle glitter gel toes. Of course they loved them! So we are wearing flip flops to show them off, and each client is quite impressed that we all are now offering this great service.

I know there will be challenges. I'll lose clients who do not want to come 10 minutes farther down the road, but I am closer to another little town that I have not tapped into with my marketing. There will be quiet days because the name is still being established in the area, but Lynn is doing everything I would personally do to market the Blissful brand, including community events, spa parties, and advertising. New clients and new coworkers will also be a challenge in getting to know, and for them to know me as well. My strong, go-getter personality can sometimes come across as bossy  (just ask my husband ;-)) but I am in this to be successful, and I want everyone around me to be their very best at what they do as well. Luckily, the past year has set me up with transferable knowledge and systems so that the path I am going down is not so unknown and scary.

— Adrienne, nail tech