My career started with a dare.
In the early 90’s, I complained to a friend about my nails and how unsatisfied I was with manicurists in general. She laughed and said, “Why don’t you do them yourself, then?” I don’t think either of us realized at the time that her statement would have impacted my life the way it did.
I enrolled in school and took a position as an apprentice, learning everything I could from the foremost leaders in the nail industry. I worked tirelessly to perfect my technique and quickly became known for my exceptional skill.
Unfortunately, I began to notice shortcomings in how beauty professionals were treated and compensated. Workers were ordered to work long hours without pay, expected to pay for their own products and supplies, told to “market themselves” and to take on dozens of other responsibilities that should have been handled by salon management. Most salons didn’t have managers at all, and the owners, instead of managing the business operations, worked alongside the employees–competing with them for clients.
I traveled the world, educating for top industry manufacturers at beauty trade shows. In every country I went to, every professional I met told similar stories. It was no wonder so many young technicians quit! Who can work twelve hour days, making less than minimum wage to “pay their dues?”
In my travels, I met a fellow educator, Tina Alberino, a fierce advocate for the rights of beauty workers. It was only after I read her book that the fundamental truth of this industry “clicked” for me.
In some lines of work, people will sacrifice a lot for a good paycheck. In the beauty industry, workers sacrifice a good paycheck to be able to do the job they love.
I wanted to change that. I wanted to be the leader that most professional salons lacked. I wanted to train, develop, and mentor my team of employees, draw clients in for them, and help them succeed. I wanted to create a workplace where salon workers could make a livable income and have a life outside the salon. No more 12-14 hour shifts!
With those goals in mind, I established Polished in 2003. At Polished, I personally train each of our nail specialists in my techniques. Clients can be assured that they’ll enjoy a consistent service every visit, and that the results will be both precise and long-lasting. As an establishment that’s deeply committed to protecting the health and wellness of our guests, our sanitation protocols are designed to not only ensure compliance with health regulations, but to far exceed their requirements.
My career started with a dare, but it’s been sustained by my genuine love of this business. I can’t wait to share that enthusiasm with you! Please subscribe to our newsletter, read our articles, and join us on Facebook and Instagram!
