Today we’d like to introduce you to Lauren Waters Smith.
Hi Lauren, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I began doing my own nails about 15 years ago. I had the horrible habit of biting them. One New Year’s, I made the resolution to stop. I began to paint them as a way to refocus that energy. It quickly developed into a full blown obsession. And it is still the only resolution I’ve ever kept. I would use acrylic paint to do nail art because nail polish dried to quickly. Eventually I found gel products, pigment powders, crystals, glitter, shell, gold and silver metallic adornments, and so many other beautiful little pieces that have just magnified my love of all things nails. I would do friends and family members nails here and there. I never imagined I’d have the opportunity to do it full-time. I worked in mental health for 7 years and eventually became so overwhelmed I had to make a change. My husband, Jonathan, encouraged me to pursue nail school 2 years ago. I chose IBA in Lyman because they have a fantastic reputation and the owner, Betty Hernandez, is a world renowned nail artist. The things I learned from her have been invaluable and I’m extremely grateful for Betty and the opportunity to learn from her.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Nail school was a breeze. I passed each section of my state board test the first attempt. I was able to land a spot in the first salon I walked into. But it has definitely been a struggle to gain clients. I don’t know a lot of people in Anderson. The biggest help is word of mouth, but when you don’t know people, no one is talking. I posted in so many Facebooks groups, left business cards all over the city, and offered huge discounts. I’ve finally built a clientele that trusts me, refers me, and continues to come back. I’m very lucky to have the clients and co-workers that I do! After all, I literally couldn’t do it without them. The women I work with at Bombshell are always the first to let me try new techniques and designs. They’ve been an amazing support system. I am so thankful to have such a kind, supportive, talented, and beautiful group of women in my corner.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I specialize in all things gel: gel manicures, structured gel manicures, full gel sets, and hand painted nail art.
I am extremely proud of some of the art I’ve been able to create. I’ve never considered myself artistic, but I’m slowly coming to the realization that I do have a creative streak and people really like the art I create for them.
I take strong inspiration from Japanese nail art. I think it’s absolutely beautiful. It involves a lot of jewel tones, abstract, and avant garde themes. But I am just as happy to paint flowers, smileys, or check print. I find beauty in every aspect of everything that I do.
People use their nails as a way to express themselves when other avenues aren’t available to them, usually due to their jobs. I love giving everyone just that little bit of “oomph” that allows them to show their personality, however subtle it may be.
If you had to, what characteristic of yours would you give the most credit to?
Making a connection with my clients is always my top priority. I want everyone that sits in my chair to know they are respected and will be taken care of. I’ve seen the best and worst days for clients and knowing that they trust me in those instances is something I’m very proud of.
Pricing:
- Gel manicure $50
- Structured gel manicure $60
- Full gel set $70
- Nail art $5+
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.vagaro.com/bombshellbeautique1
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lauren.doesnails/profilecard/?igsh=MTZ0amV4ejNtOTE5aA==
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1BV1wKFqER/?mibextid=wwXIfr
