Today we’d like to introduce you to Kiara Pierre.
Kiara, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
When I was a little girl my mom (Theresa Pierre) and I always went and got our nails done together this is where my love for nails came from. Growing up, I never saw women or men that looked like me doing nails. For years I would say I want to learn how to do nails but it wasn’t until the summer of 2019 that those words were put into action.
My dad (George Pierre) was the one to actually invest in me taking a nail course and everything started from that point. I would practice day and night how to perfect my craft. It was very hard in the beginning but, anything new poses its challenges. I loved every minute of becoming a nail technician!
By the time I moved back into my dorm at Clark Atlanta University, I started taking clients and as they say, the rest is history.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
It definitely has not been a smooth road with becoming a nail tech… I am a 19-year-old full-time college student. As a black woman entering the nail game I faced the same challenges as other black women. Being told there is no need for another nail tech and having to build a portfolio on my skills unlike nail shops have to do.
My main challenges came from people I shared the dormitory with. There came a time where I was forced to closed booking twice because of things that were out of my control. Though this devastated me I did not allow it to be the end of my story if anything it pushed me to practice designs, shaping, application and much more without violating any rules. I have had a lot of bumps along the way with building Nailed by Ki. COVID-19 has also forced my hands with closing booking but this really has allowed me to better myself and my brand for when the time comes to open booking.
Through all the ups and downs the thought of giving up never crossed my mind because with all great success stories comes a time of tribulation. Though I am still fresh in the game, I am prepared to overcome anything that may come my way down the road.
So let’s switch gears a bit and go into the Nailed by Ki story. Tell us more about the business.
As the owner of Nailed by Ki, I specialize in full sets and manicures. My nail business means everything to me it is like my baby in a-way. I am always updating my sites for new sets and designs. I offer a range of acrylic sets including ombré, milkbathe, freestyles for those who may not know what they want and other sets. I am currently in the process of creating my own acrylic line of powders and making cuticle oil pens.
I am most proud of simply putting my words into action because I did this with no prior knowledge. We often get caught up in saying what we want to do instead of just doing it. Regardless of what challenges were thrown at me I never lost sight of the vision. I somehow found a way to balance everything on my plate without lacking in any area. Maintaining my 3.93 GPA, deans list, family obligations and finding time for myself all stayed the same, my ambition is what keeps me going.
What sets me apart from other nail techs in the game is the fact this is not simply about the money. Every day I wake up to go to class then come back and start working on my client’s nails. The majority of the time, I am not leaving my nail room till 10 pm at night then I go and do my school work. I don’t complain because this is what I love. Nails isn’t a side hustle for me, I will make a career out of this. I am finally doing what I love and meeting new people who are entrusting me as an upcoming nail tech to do their nails to showcase my work.
Has luck played a meaningful role in your life and business?
The night I had to close my nail room in my dorm, I cried harder than I cried in a while but my mom reminded me how all of this would open doors for me down the road. Since then, I’ve been blessed with many opportunities since launching my nail business. I have been offered salon booth rentals as well as being highlighted in this magazine. I am excited to see where this business journey takes me!
Pricing:
- Basic Full Set $25
- Ombre $35
- MANicure $10
Contact Info:
- Website: https://NailedbyKi.as.me/
- Phone: (404)835-9747
- Email: Nailedbyki@gmail.com
- Instagram: IG: @Nailedbyki_
Image Credit:
Nailfie credited @ayannaballard
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