Tell us a little bit about how your journey got started and what got you interested in nails?

In my free time, I would watch countless nail tutorials on youtube. After many videos, I wanted to attempt my own nails. I purchased all the supplies and began to practice. I noticed that this allowed me to be super creative. I fell in love with it, instantly. During the pandemic, all nail salons were closed, which then sparked the idea of me wanting my own nail business, Polished By Shayy.

Was the process difficult for you? What was it like learning and growing in your knowledge and expertise in the craft & business?

In the beginning it was definitely difficult for me. I doubted myself so much that I feared taking on clients. I loved doing nails but, I was only comfortable doing my own! After posting my nails on my account, I started to receive great feedback. Overtime this helped my confidence, which led me to servicing my first set of clients.

What has your support system been like along the way? Did you have people who supported and encouraged you as you advanced in your endeavors?

My husband, Jwan, has always supported me since day one. When in doubt, he would always say “remember to have fun”. I also receive so much love from other nail techs on Instagram . It’s amazing because we all help each other grow, simply by sharing each other’s work.

My clients also play a huge role. I wouldn’t be here without them and I’m forever grateful!

Polished by Shayy

What would you say sets you apart from other nail techs? What makes you unique and what do your clients love most about your service?

My nails are always a huge statement! You can’t miss them. I want my clients to feel like celebrities. I love receiving messages, from my clients stating “I got so many compliments on my nails”, it makes my day! I love for all of my nail sets to stand out! When people see my sets, I want people to remember how creative they are.

Would you say that you express yourself through your work? Please share some examples and your thought process on this!

I’ve always loved to bring my visions to life. As a kid, I would sit in my room and imagine so many things, which later transferred to drawings. I love to draw because it allows me to be as creative as I want.

Nails later became my canvas. When creating a nail set, I am in the “zone”. I express myself through my art with my personality, love for vibrant colors and famous characters.

What advice do you have for young brown girls or women of color looking to pursue a career in cosmetology or beauty?

Go for it! If you’re passionate about it and it makes you happy then stay consistent. Consistency is key! Being consistent will always benefit you in the end and allow you to get better at what you love to do.

Tell us about a time you overcame rejection as a creative! What happened and how did you handle it?

I experienced lots of rejection as an artist in the beginning of my nail career . I like to achieve “out the box “nail sets, which not all clients were open to do, so I started to do over-the-top nails sets on myself. I would post them on Instagram and get great feedback which helped me gain more clients who loved this style of nail art.

What are some of the nail trends we can look forward to this summer and this fall? What are your projections and how do you feel about them?

I love doing seasonal sets, especially fall sets because I love the aesthetic. This fall I look forward to lots of marble encapsulated designs that mimic your favorite Starbucks drink. Summer sets are always fun and will never change, when it comes to bright colors. I also see flower charms as the new statement pieces.

Are there any upcoming announcements that you would like to share with our readers? How can we keep up with you and stay connected to what you’re doing?

Yes! I will be showcasing more of my nail art through photography , shot by the amazing photographer “Skyye Kimmons “. I am also investing more time in my YouTube channel. I will be posting more nail vlogs and advice videos for inspiring nail techs. I also intend on opening a salon and nail academy soon!

IG @polishedbyshayy

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YouTube : Polished By Shayy