Nail technicians have become a much-needed addition to every beauty salon. This week we chat with Elisha Sholayan about her growing beauty business.
Q. What products/services do you offer?
A. I offer manicures with and without extensions along with basic and full pedicures.
Q. When and how did your business start?
A. I started the business in 2020, just after the lockdown was lifted. This was one of the scariest things I have ever done. I convinced my husband to give me a loan, with no guarantee of return, because I wanted to try and fail, rather than fail to try.
Q. What inspired you to start your business?
A. I’ve always wanted to work in the beauty industry, although I never thought or planned to start my business. My patience for it showed me how passionate I am about it, and with encouragement and support from my friends and family, I trusted God and stepped out in faith.
Q. How many people do you work with?
A. At the moment I work alone, it’s just me and one client at a time in the salon.
Q. What do you think sets you apart from other similar businesses in the area?
A. The nail business is an overly saturated industry, but I don’t compete, nor do I compare myself to any other nail tech. I choose to run in my lane and try to do and be better at what I do than I was yesterday.
Q. As a beauty salon owner, what does beauty mean to you?
A. Although our physical appearance does not define us, looking good helps us feel good. Looking good helps us feel confident. I would say that beauty equals self-love, self-care, and self-preservation.
Q. What are some of the challenges you have faced and how did you overcome them?
A. My greatest challenge was my lack of self-esteem, and I actually feared promoting my business. There were many sleepless nights that I overcame by putting extra hours in, learning more, and practicing. I give my best to each of my clients and their smiles over the past two years have really changed the way I see myself as a nail artist.
Q. Do you have any proud moments that you have had in your business so far?
A. Yes, there are a few. Nail sessions sometimes become full-on therapy sessions. One of the most heartwarming moments was when my client was about to leave, and she turned to say, “Thank you for today, I got more than just my nails did, you’ve helped me so much.” I cried when she left.
I also absolutely love it when someone new comes in with a picture of my work, and asks if she can have that.
Q. What are some of your goals for 2023?
A. My goal for 2023 is to expand, both in space and range of different types of beauty treatments.
Q. What advice do you have for someone who is interested in a similar line of business?
A. The best advice I could give to anyone is, if you can dream it, you can do it. Stay consistent, and compete with only who you were yesterday.
Q. Is there anything else that you would like our readers to know?
A. I am self-taught and self-employed.
Q. How can our readers get hold of you? (Contact details and social media)
A. Whatsapp/ phone 0677438450
Facebook: Elegance Beauty Bar
Instagram: @elegance_beauty_bar
