We recently connected with Olivia Boyd and have shared our conversation below.

Olivia, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Owning a business isn’t always glamorous and so most business owners we’ve connected with have shared that on tough days they sometimes wonder what it would have been like to have just had a regular job instead of all the responsibility of running a business. Have you ever felt that way?

I am happy as a business owner. It is the most challenging yet most rewarding thing I have ever done. I struggled a lot (and still do sometimes) with not leaning onto a corporate job as a safety net. I like the idea of working a 9-5 to supplement my business, even though it would require my time to be divided. I think it’s all about what you can handle and the status of your business or career. Where I currently am in my life, I think it’s very important to feel fulfilled. We all have to do things we don’t like but life is meant to be enjoyed, however that looks and feels like to you. I see more entrepreneurs talking about the downside of running a business and I really respect that. Imposter syndrome is real and I do a lot of self talk to make sure I am where I want to be mentally. I have witnessed so many success stories and that is what keeps me going. My conversations with clients, other business owners, or just family and friends help to keep me balanced. I have to get out of my own head and pay attention to all of things I have accomplished.
Patience is my biggest takeaway this year and it has created new ways of thinking and sparked creativity as well. I continue to allow myself grace and to remember that it’s okay to have a bad day or just feel like doing absolutely nothing. Relaxation is still productive.
The process of starting and running a business has helped me to realize that I traded one type of hard for another. Yes, I have more “freedom” but now I wear the hats of marketing, content production, accounting, and so many added layers that a corporate job relieved me of. It also helped me to see where I lack and thrive in my personal and professional life and how to implement changes to make my business more successful.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I am originally from Dayton, Ohio and I moved to Columbus at the end of 2020. Growing up I danced for 6 years and as a result fell in love with makeup. I remember getting so excited to do my own and my teammates before performances. I started freelancing makeup services in my early 20’s for homecomings and proms; which remained my biggest interest until I turned 26. I always thought about going to cosmetology school but I was so worried about income and the possibility of having less while following a dream. I decided to apply for school and after graduating my focus was hair. Color, cuts, I loved it all. My nail career started when I moved to Columbus, Ohio and could not find a salon who wanted to work with a newly licensed stylist. I decided to market myself as a nail tech instead and see if that made a difference. I worked in a shop and salon for the last 3 years and after building a clientele, I started my own business. I focus on natural nails which includes structured manicures and hand painted nail art. I love helping people grow out their natural nails while creating a self care routine that fits their lifestyle. I also offer Gel-X which are soft gel extensions for those who want the added length and maybe a more creative look than what they would normally choose. I want potential clients to value my transparency when it comes to my quality of work, pricing, and being able to ensure that my products and my work will last them until their next appointment.
I am most proud of pursuing something I am passionate about and trusting that everything will always work out. I pride myself on giving a unique experience and making people feel cared for. I remain consistent, punctual, and keep up with trends and colors people show interest in. I treat my clients like family and I strive to create lasting relationships with everyone in my chair. Doing hair and nails is more than just making money or being skilled and talented. It’s about connecting with people for me and helping people value and make space for taking time for ourselves.

What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?

I think my willingness to always show up and give my best. Even while working for a company, I was making sure I was set up early for my client, contacting them for confirmations, and always giving them a memorable and relaxing experience. I love to educate during a service and I think that makes people want to come back. People are loyal to a great experience and to a business that pours into them as much as they pour into that business. I now offer snacks and drinks, cuticle pens, and add small specialized touches to my services. For example, I end my nail appointments with a cuticle polisher (an e-file nail bit) and a light hand massage with lotion options. My hair clients receive a scalp massage and hot towel during their shampoo. It’s the small details that people remember and love. I really connect with my clients and take interest in their lives. I think people appreciate thoughtfulness and there’s a sense of comfort knowing you can go to someone who knows what you like and you can truly just enjoy yourself. I always try to be positive and warm because I want my guests to leave better than they felt before and that is true success for me. I see most of my clients once a month and my retention skyrocketed once I perfected my method of doing things and customized my services to my clientele.

What’s worked well for you in terms of a source for new clients?

Word of mouth and social media. I have had several clients find my work through Instagram and I post very often so people can see my process, what products I’m using, and engage with my work. I have an amazing clientele and they have all been beneficial in not only the success of my business but the growth of my business. Referrals are a great way to gain new clients because it gives you a chance to connect with new people who already have relationships with those you service.

Contact Info:

• Website: Beautyandmanes.glossgenius.com
• Instagram: Beauty.and.manes
• Facebook: Beauty.and.manes
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/olivia-boyd-8b274483

Image Credits
Jasmine Lawrence (headshot)