Today we’d like to introduce you to Cherisan Salmon.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Cherisan. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
After graduating from cosmetology school with a nail technician license, I decided to get a part time job at a nearby nail salon. Many of the clients that came in was surprised to see an “African American” working in what could be described as a predominantly Vietnamese salon. About 6 months later, I decided to move on and started working in another salon in Douglasville. Much to my surprise, I was happy to see how integrated it was. Over the course of 2.5 years, I moved around to different places trying to find the right “fit.” Fast forward to 2016, I found it. I worked in a well-known spa located in the heart of Atlanta and it was focused on exactly what I wanted to do. I was eager to learn as much as I could before deciding to venture out on my own. Over the years, I have taken bits and pieces from all my experiences and in January 2017 I made my dream come true. I opened a small nail salon in Old Fourth Ward called Rebels & Dolls. My aim is to focus on healthy natural nails, no harsh chemicals or strong odors. Yes, my job as a manicurist is to provide people with beautiful, trendy, well-manicured nails, but more importantly, healthy nails. I have not stopped learning, continuing my education in this field is vital to a long-lasting career. One of my future goals is to become an educator/trainer and help other young women and men to become well trained nail professionals, something about paying it forward has always meant a great deal to me.
Has it been a smooth road?
My first job came very easily, I was a little shocked how easy. I went into a salon and asked if they were hiring, the manager said yes, I performed a basic mani and was hired on a few days later. At one time I was turned away due to a language barrier. I was appalled by that because their clientele spoke English. I was hired and fired all in one day because the manager said I was too slow, no chance for growth there. I also found it difficult to counsel clients on maintaining healthy nails because of salon time restraints. I was starting to realize that the best thing for me was to at some point be on my own but how could I achieve this? It was definitely not easy from a financial stand point either. I started this company with all the money I had and that wasn’t very much. Everything I had went into this dream, literally “A dollar and a dream.”
So, as you know, we’re impressed with Rebels and Dolls – tell our readers more, for example what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
Rebels and Dolls strictly focuses on healthy nails. We offer chemical free polishes and organic skincare products. Our services start with a client consultation. We try to be mindful about allergies, health conditions, etc. We really try to meet each of our client’s individual needs. Our services include but are not limited to manicures, pedicures, gel polish, and we love, love, love, nail art. We are proud to say that we are a Bio Sculpture salon. Rebels and Dolls is one of the few salons in Georgia certified to perform Bio Sculpture Gel.
Let’s touch on your thoughts about our city – what do you like the most and least?
What can I say, I absolutely love my city. I am originally from Jamaica and have lived in Georgia for about 16 years. Atlanta is home away from home. This city is just the right pace for me, there is so much to see and do each week. The people are so open minded and trendier than most. Rebels and Dolls is within walking distance to not only the Atlanta Beltline but to so many other great eateries and attractions along the way like the Krog Street Market and the infamous Ladybird, just to name a few. The traffic is sometimes a bit of concern but with more people taking healthier alternatives, I’m sure that has helped tremendously.
Contact Info:
- Address: 626 Dekalb Avenue SE, 1103 Atlanta, GA 30312
- Website: www.vagaro.com/rebelsanddolls
- Phone: 6785617212
- Email: rebelsanddolls@gmail.com
- Instagram: rebelsanddollsnailsalon
- Facebook: Rebels and Dolls
Getting in touch: VoyageATL is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
