We recently connected with Cre’Asia Tate and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Cre’Asia, thanks for joining us today. What were some of the most unexpected problems you’ve faced in your business and how did you resolve those issues?

One of the most unexpected challenges I faced as a nail tech wasn’t related to clients, trends, or technique—it was grief. Within the span of two years, I lost my mother and my best friend to senseless gun violence. In an industry built on precision, creativity, and connection, I quickly learned that loss doesn’t stay neatly outside the salon door. It follows you to the nail table, settles into your hands, and quietly affects how you show up.

At the height of my grief, my business was still moving forward. Appointments were booked, clients expected consistency, and my work required presence and intention. But internally, I was navigating profound loss. Simple tasks felt heavy. Creativity came and went. There were moments when sitting down to do a full set felt like climbing a mountain, and I questioned whether I had the capacity to continue doing something that once brought me so much joy.

What kept me from walking away wasn’t pushing harder—it was learning to work differently. I began to slow down, not in ambition, but in pace. I shortened my schedule, protected my energy, and allowed my business to support me instead of draining me. I focused on fewer clients, deeper connections, and quality over volume. In doing so, I realized sustainability matters more than constant hustle.

Grief reshaped my approach to my nail business. It taught me boundaries, emotional awareness, and the importance of self-care behind the scenes of beauty. Some days, success looked like completing one appointment and choosing rest afterward. And that, too, was progress.

Continuing through grief wasn’t about pretending I was okay—it was about showing up honestly and choosing not to give up on myself or the business I built. In the quiet persistence of those moments, I found resilience. And over time, not only did my creativity return, but my business became stronger, more intentional, and more aligned than before.

“Sometimes the bravest thing you can do for your business isn’t to hustle harder—it’s to stay, even when your heart is heavy, and trust that showing up gently is still showing up.”

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?

I’m a nail tech and creative with a big personality, an even bigger laugh, and a love for turning nails into a form of self-expression. I got into the nail industry because I’ve always been drawn to creativity and beauty, but I quickly learned that nails are also about confidence, connection, and having a little fun. My style—both personally and professionally—is open, free-spirited, and unapologetically real.

I specialize in custom nail sets that reflect my clients’ personalities, whether that’s bold and playful, soft and simple, or somewhere in between. More than anything, I focus on the experience. My chair is a judgment-free zone where you can relax, talk your talk, laugh, and leave feeling lighter than when you walked in.

What sets me apart is the energy I bring. I believe beauty doesn’t have to be stiff or serious—it can be expressive, fun, and feel good. I take pride in creating quality work while also building genuine relationships with my clients.

I’m most proud of the community I’ve built and a brand that truly reflects who I am. What I want people to know is simple: come as you are, be yourself, and walk out with nails that make you smile every time you look at them.

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

One of the biggest lessons I had to unlearn was assuming everyone communicates, reacts, and expresses themselves the same way I do. Early on, I thought being good at my craft was enough, but working with clients from different backgrounds, personalities, and life experiences taught me otherwise.

In a nail tech business, you meet people from all walks of life. Some clients are talkative, some are quiet, some are particular, and some just need patience and understanding more than anything. At first, I took differences personally or felt frustrated when expectations didn’t immediately align. Over time, I learned that those moments weren’t challenges—they were opportunities to grow.

Learning patience changed everything. I became more present, more understanding, and better at listening instead of reacting. I learned how to read energy, communicate clearly, and adjust my approach without losing myself. That growth not only improved my client relationships, but it also made my business stronger and more inclusive.

Unlearning that one-size-fits-all mindset taught me that success in this industry isn’t just about nails—it’s about empathy, adaptability, and creating a space where every client feels respected and comfortable.

Can you talk to us about how you funded your business?

I funded my business while working at a warehouse. Taking 100$ a week to go towards products, tools, a basic set up to start with. Eventually I added in paid promo or rendering free services to big influencers in my city for them to promote my nail business.

A lot of trial and error with products that worked best for me and my clientele. As my client base grew I was able to take from my business earnings and invest even further into my craft. Booking training sessions with other major techs to gain hands on experience where I needed slight tweaks.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://dabrattnailss.square.site
• Instagram: @Dabratt.Nails