Life & Work with Yolanda

Today we’d like to introduce you to Yolanda.

Hi Yolanda, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I have always been a girly girl and very much interested in fashion and beauty. Always in awe of the glamor and beauty that exuded from the pages of the popular fashion magazines and television, I knew I had to have a part in some way. At the age of 13, my mother and grandmother took me to get my very first set of nails which was 37 years ago. It was then my love for nail technology emerged. I remember being enamored by the magic that was made as I admired the process and beautiful results. At that moment I said, “I can do this!” After a few visits to the nail salon, a future nail technician was born. By the time I turned 16, my maternal aunt had become a master cosmetologist and my mother opened a beauty salon which afforded me the opportunity to pursue a talent that had been sparked by my very first visit to the nail salon. After working in the family salon for three years and two others over the course of another year, I opened my first nail salon; SensatioNails by Nikki at the age of 20 and that is where my journey into entrepreneurship began. After servicing the area of Greensboro, NC. for six years (until 1996) the nail market started to become saturated and I started to think maybe it was time to embark upon something that was a bit more secure. I made the decision to relocate to the Atlanta area and start anew with a two years old in tow.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Upon making the move to Atlanta, I did not immediately resume my career in nail technology. Instead, I decided that I needed something more that would provide a better foundation for myself and my two years old daughter. Over the years, I completed a bachelor’s and pursued a master’s degree. During this time, I experienced various life-changing experiences but stayed in tune with my passion for nails servicing friends and family on a personal level. 23 years later, after having worked in different capacities in “corporate America” I decided I wanted to get back to doing what I love! At this point, I knew I no longer wanted to be an “employee” but an “employer.” The world of nail technology had emerged into something different and much more advanced. My first challenge was to strategize how I was going to officially re-enter this “modern” arena and solidify my position as not only a nail technician but as a salon owner again. I was basically starting over from scratch! Because of my time away from the industry on paper if you will, the first step was to enroll in beauty school. Over the course of 8 months, I attended evening classes while adulting and working a full-time job. Throughout this time, I was laying the foundation for the salon and strategically planning ending my current career in mental health. In March of 2019, Eloú Beauty Bar was established, and our doors officially opened in December of 2019. Things were very slow in the beginning. Faced with getting our name out there and gaining momentum, I was also challenged with staffing and marketing and becoming known as a new salon in the area, more specifically an African American owned salon. Three months after opening, COVID-19 hit and just like that, we were forced to close. After being closed for three months, we reopened our doors to an influx of new clients. In a sense, COVID helped catapult the business and we have been moving full speed ahead since. Although the pandemic presented new obstacles, I was able adapt and am truly grateful for all of the clients and continued support! Our clients are a major asset to the continued success of Eloú Beauty Bar.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
With over 30 years of experience in the nail industry, we strive to be the number one choice for nail services. Our passion for nails is creatively displayed through our work and professionalism while paying special attention to client preference and individuality. We pride ourselves on ethics and knowledge while educating clients on proper nail care and services. As the owner and sole nail technician at Eloú Beauty Bar, I oversee complete operation of the business while servicing all clientele. We are currently seeking licensed nail technicians as well as an apprentice. Additionally, we are in process of launching our own line of products inclusive of cuticle oils and other beauty essentials. Come let me touch your hands!

Can you share something surprising about yourself?
Outside of 37 years of experience as a nail technician, I hold a bachelor’s degree in Psychology and pursued a Masters in Social Work. The name Eloú (pronounced eeloo) is derived my grandmother’s name Eloise and my mother’s name Lucylle. Both of these wonderful ladies were very instrumental in my life and nail career and were two of my best and supportive clients 🙂

Pricing:

• Full sets starting at $55
• Basic manicure services starting at $25
• Pedicure services starting at $40

Contact Info:

• Email: eloubeautybar@gmail.com
• Website: www.eloubeautybar.com
• Instagram: instagram.com/eloubeautybar
• Facebook: facebook.com/eloúbeautybar

Image Credits
Eloú Beauty, LLC