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

Anika, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Innovation comes in all shapes, sizes and across all industries, so we’d love to hear about something you’ve done that you feel was particularly innovative.

The most innovative step I’ve taken in my career was stepping away from the traditional salon culture I was taught—a fast-paced, production-focused approach to nails—and redefining my process to align with my vision. I chose to prioritize artistry, detail, and personal connection over efficiency.

This shift allowed me to slow down, refine my craft, and develop a niche that reflects my passion for creating unique, curated designs. Through years of experience and growth, I’ve honed my eye for detail and learned to attract the right clientele, those who value the art and chemistry behind my work.

It wasn’t a tool or investment that brought me here; it was the evolution of my perspective and a deep commitment to my vision. The result has been a stronger alignment with my tribe and a fulfilling balance of creativity and connection.

Anika, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I originally got into the beauty industry during a difficult time for my family. My parents were navigating a separation and struggling financially, making it hard to support me through the first steps of adulthood—college, transportation, and basic necessities. Recognizing my love for art and self-improvement, my mom enrolled me in the most affordable local cosmetology school. While still in high school, I completed my hours, earned my license, and took my first steps into this field.

Although I initially pursued a traditional college education, financial challenges led me to pivot. As a young mom, I needed stability and a way forward. I worked briefly at a car dealership, where I learned the value of communication—truly understanding others and building genuine connections. Those skills naturally translated into my career in beauty, where I discovered a deeper passion for working with women and celebrating self-care as a ritual.

The salon quickly became a place of comfort and purpose for me. Surrounded by women from all walks of life, industry leaders, corporate professionals, stay-at-home moms, and young women just getting by.. I realized how much I valued creating a space where everyone felt seen and cared for. My approach combined compassion, therapeutic communication, and attention to detail, which helped me build lasting relationships and a solid reputation over time.

As my career evolved, I found my rhythm: providing busy, accomplished women with superior, efficient services tailored to their individuality. It’s been incredibly rewarding to meet the needs of clients who prioritize beauty and self-expression, helping them feel empowered and confident. Through referrals, loyal clients, and genuine reviews, I’ve seen the impact of my work and the trust I’ve earned.

What I’ve learned is that success in this field isn’t just about skill or style, it’s about truly understanding your clients, solving their unique challenges, and offering consistency and quality. I’m proud to be part of their lives and honored to have built a career that reflects my values and love for this craft.

What’s a lesson you had to unlearn and what’s the backstory?

A lesson I had to unlearn was equating the length of time you’ve known someone with the role they should play in your life. Loyalty isn’t just about history; it’s about alignment and boundaries in the present. For example, just because someone has been in your life since childhood doesn’t mean they’re meant to be a confidant, advisor, or key player in your journey today. Sometimes, they’re simply someone you’ve known in passing—and that’s okay.

I’ve also learned that stepping into a leadership role doesn’t require dimming your light or shrinking into the background, even when working with others. Growing up in a family of six, I embraced the idea that “teamwork makes the dream work,” but I took it to the extreme. Over time, I realized that a truly effective team is built on balance—knowing when to let individuality shine and when collaboration takes the lead. The beauty lies in understanding those boundaries and embracing both separation and unity in their right moments.

Have you ever had to pivot?

When I opened my first location, I was excited and confident because of my experience as an individual artist. However, I quickly realized that running a business requires a different perspective and a diverse skill set. I didn’t initially seek the help or advice I needed, thinking my artistic expertise would suffice.

One of the most significant lessons came when I recognized that I wasn’t truly in love with my first location. I faced several challenges, such as navigating the complexities of renovations and managing personal relationships within a business context. It became clear that separating personal feelings from professional decisions was essential.

Ultimately, I made the difficult decision to relocate to a new city where I found a space that resonated more with my vision. The new location features industrial vibes and ample natural light, elements that I now appreciate for their positive impact on mood and creativity. This experience taught me that environment matters greatly in both personal and professional settings. It also reinforced the importance of being adaptable and seeking advice from others.
Through this pivot, I’ve developed a deeper understanding of what it takes to create a thriving business, and I’m grateful for the support of loved ones who encouraged me to voice my concerns and take that leap.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @naildbyanika business page @thenailshopsouthside salon business page
• Other: https://www.google.com/search?q=the+nail+shop+on+southside&ie=UTF-8&oe=UTF-8&hl=en-us&client=safari#ebo=0