We recently connected with Arthea Henderson and have shared our conversation below.
Arthea, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. When you’ve been a professional in an industry for long enough, you’ll experience an industry-wide U-Turn, an instance where the consensus completely flips upside down or where the “best practices” completely change. If you’ve experienced such a U-Turn over the course of your professional career, we’d love to hear about it.
The nail industry has witnessed a U-turn in embracing waterless manicures, driven by concerns about water conservation and hygiene. Many salons are now opting for waterless alternatives, such as hot towel manicures or dry manicure techniques. This shift aligns with a broader awareness of sustainability and a desire for eco-friendly practices in the beauty industry.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
Frustrated by the lack of advancement opportunities and the challenging clientele at my previous job in a nail salon, I made the decision to quit. The absence of control over the services provided and the clientele served added to my dissatisfaction. Determined to create a more fulfilling career, I embarked on the journey of starting my own nail business from scratch. This venture allowed me to shape my services, curate a positive client experience, and pursue professional growth on my own terms. The transition, though challenging, proved to be a rewarding endeavor as I carved out a niche for myself in the competitive beauty industry.
Nail Standards stands out in the world of nail care by prioritizing excellence in its services. Specializing in gel strengthening manicures, gel extensions, and promoting healthy nail practices, I go beyond just aesthetics. What truly sets my brand is my commitment to quality. I exclusively use top-tier products that not only ensure a stunning and enduring manicure but also contribute to the long-term health and growth of your natural nails. At Nail Standards, I believe in merging beauty and wellness, creating an experience that not only enhances your nails’ appearance but also fosters their overall health and resilience.
My proudest accomplishment is taking a leap of faith to establish my own business, a venture that has empowered me to dream beyond boundaries. Scaling my business to become a household name has been both a challenge and a triumph. As a passionate manicurist, I thrive on making people feel confident, forging genuine connections, and nurturing my innate creativity. Being a part of each individual’s journey towards confidence and self-expression is what fuels my dedication to the art of manicuring. It’s not just a job; it’s a source of inspiration and fulfillment that drives me to continually elevate my craft.

How’d you build such a strong reputation within your market?
The foundation of my success in the nail industry lies in my dedication to knowledge and quality. I built my reputation by consistently staying informed about the latest trends, techniques, and products within the realm of nail services. This commitment to continuous learning has positioned me as a trusted manicurist in the field. Emphasizing quality in every manicure became my signature, fostering client satisfaction and positive word-of-mouth. In an industry that thrives on precision and aesthetics, my pursuit of expertise has been the cornerstone of my reputation.

Any advice for growing your clientele? What’s been most effective for you?
Networking proves to be an invaluable tool, connecting with individuals and other businesses to establish a presence in the community. The power of social media amplifies my outreach, allowing me to showcase my services and engage with a wider audience. Consistently portraying what sets my nail business apart creates a narrative that resonates with potential clients. Additionally, word of mouth remains a potent force; satisfied customers become enthusiastic ambassadors, contributing to organic growth.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.fresha.com/a/nail-standards-austin-11300-jollyville-road-a1wtobzt?pId=1123811
- Instagram: @nailstandards
Image Credits
Keal Cohen

