We recently connected with Amy Cunningham and have shared our conversation below.
Amy, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. To kick things off, we’d love to hear about things you or your brand do that diverge from the industry standard.
Even though we are in the nail industry, we differ by focusing on the male clientele. When I was previously married my husband at the time went with me while I received a pedicure, and one of the workers convinced him to get a pedicure as well. Although he enjoyed his service, the environment is what threw him off and he shot out an idea, saying there needs to be a place for the men so they can relax and enjoy themselves While getting the proper foot care. I agreed and now here I am five years into the business.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
My name is Amy Cunningham and I am the owner of Chisel Nail Salon for men located in St. Peters, Missouri. I’ve always had a passion for anything in the beauty industry, and when I got the opportunity to start my business, catering to men for hands and feet, I took advantage of the opportunity. I realize that there wasn’t any business catering specifically to the fellas and they needed a place of their own to relax and unwind. So in the words of my one of my favorite movies “find a need, fill a need”. 5 years ago this business started out as a luxury, but as years went by, I realized that it was definitely a necessity. I have men who come in with all types of ailments from back problems to stomach problems, knee problems, and weight problems. They just have an issue with reaching their feet and that’s why I am in business. The men would get the same service, if not more as what they would receive at any other nail shop, without the smells of acetones, acrylic and nail polish.
I am most proud of my customers coming in to get serviced. Some of them are embarrassed and shy, and to have the courage to come in speaks volumes to our business. They come in one way, and leave out, feeling confident in themselves.
What’s been the most effective strategy for growing your clientele?
The most effective strategy for growing my clientele has been excellent customer service. We strive to treat our customers that walk through our doors like it’s their first time getting serviced every time.
Can you talk to us about how your funded your business?
I was formally employed at General Motors, and when I decided to make the move to open a business instead of getting funding from a bank, I actually used my profit-sharing and 401(k) to start the business. After all, you can’t take a U-Haul behind a hearst!
Contact Info:
- Website: www.Chiselnailsalon.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chisel_nail_salon4men/
- Facebook: https://hi-in.facebook.com/chiselnailsalonformen/videos/?ref=page_internal
- Linkedin: http://linkedin.com/in/chisel-nail-salon-for-men-720a3118
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/chiselnail?lang=en
Image Credits
Shop photo: Joel Lester