We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Amber Spellious a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Amber, thanks for joining us today. What’s something crazy on unexpected that’s happened to you or your business

By far; the covid-19 pandemic was the craziest thing to happen to me and my business. It affected the world! Stopped all business, all fun, all travel, all freedoms and leisure. And at first it was fun being home; having quality time with my daughter, cooking, having live happy hours for the first time. But then reality hit… how am I going to sustain the financials of life and running a salon without income, after being forcefully closed.
Unfortunately and for years the government doesn’t acknowledge small businesses like myself. We pay the taxes, but get none of the financial benefits. I was left heartbroken and scared; bank accounts drained, credit ruined, accounts on freeze…where was my unemployment stipend and tax break relief? Why was I only offered loans? It wasn’t fair! I felt cheated by “the system” and abandoned by “the man” for the first time, ever!
But following all of the protocols set in place despite me; I did what I had to do to sustain my business, my clientele and my livelihood. And together with my loyal clientele and devoted friendships we worked together like we always do; and triumphantly beat what the pandemic ruined for many.
What a great learning experience it was for our nation; and True Nails.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

Hi! I’m Amber, the master nail tech and salon owner/operator of True Nails located in Duncanville, Texas. ! When you book with me at True Nails you’re provided nail services with a licensed & certified, award-winning, Advanced Medical Nail Tech and Certified Master Pedicurist and nail tech mentor. I’ve been operating for over 10 years, independently all over the Dallas metroplex. When I started my salon I wanted to raise the bar in the nail industry for DFW. And I did just that and have always maintained that standard. I’m sure that what sets me apart from other salons and techs is that I ensure clients don’t have to worry about improper sanitation, or not understanding processes or products. I educate you from the moment you walk into the door. My years of continued education and experience are my clients’ most beneficial gain. They ask and I tell! And if I don’t have the answers, I’ll find out and they trust that.

All of my pedicures utilize disposable plastic liners, one-time use nail and callus files, all customized to your specific needs. All stainless implements (tools) are washed, sanitized ,and sterilized within the state of Texas’ approved
regulations; but for your protection! I strive to offer a unique service to those who deserve the extra care it takes to protect them, not excluding at-risk patients with diabetes, circulatory problems, cancer, and others with immunosuppressed conditions, even our elderly enjoy services! I accommodate everyone at True Nails.

Learning and unlearning are both critical parts of growth – can you share a story of a time when you had to unlearn a lesson?

Customers are not always right! Yes I said it. Lol. In fairness, over the years a lot of us, myself included, have been wired to think nail services were provided one way, done that way, with only that product and etc. But a lot of that is untrue. And I hear it from new clients that come in. But see here at True Nails I take the extra steps, the extra education, internships, mentorship and etc. I study the science and chemistry of nail products and how it affects the skin and nails (which are skin appendages, btw) per your needs. Thus, I educate my clients on all the options they have for their very own specific nail and skin care needs. My opinions will differ from others and even yours. You may hear things you’ve never heard before with me. But one things for certain… almost everyone would agree… “you didn’t know but you know now” after having had services with me, at True Nails.

Can you tell us about what’s worked well for you in terms of growing your clientele?

I’ve always said it and I always will, I owe it all to my clients!

I provide quality (True) services and offer quality products all with my clients in mind. I listen to them! I ask them what they want or need from me or the salon. What their favorite colors are, what would make them more comfortable, etc.
Nothing about True Nails honestly came from a business plan. I had a dream and together my clients and I built a salon we feel confidant and safe in over all these years. I cater to my clients need. I love them in that way. It’s the best way I know how to show them my gratitude for their continuous years of service. And for that they tell and share their experiences with me (True Nails). They leave honest reviews! They bring their entire families and close friends.

All I can say is… be the best for your clients… and they will support you in ways you never dreamed!

Dear Clients, “I love you, and you know it! It’s always been for you that I keep going!”

Contact Info:

• Website: Www.vagaro.com/truenails
• Instagram: Www.instagram.com/as.truenails.more
• Facebook: Www.facebook.com/truenails.mnt
• Other: Google search: https://g.co/kgs/9cYNxL Google maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/q8NhwLBJJtYNWsfp6

Image Credits
My own work