We recently connected with Elena Rabaza and have shared our conversation below.
Elena, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. So, naming is such a challenge. How did you come up with the name of your brand?
This is such a good question because I hear it every time! “How did you come up with the name Salsa Rosa?”. Although it’s really catchy and people will call me Salsa Rosa instead of my real name, there is not a lot of thinking behind it. My first business name in 2018 was La Rosa Nails which is my mother’s 2nd last name. Being from the Caribbean we get our last names from both our father and mother. La Rosa is my grandmother’s last name which I did not get, but I was pretty much obsessed with it.
In 2019 I wanted something more original that will later become my forever business name. Like I mentioned before I’m born in the Caribbean and I wanted my name to represent my roots. Salsa is the most popular dance style in Cuba. I decided to combine my mother’s last name, some Azúcar from the Island and just like that SALSA ROSA was created.
Fun Fact: My business resides in Texas and most, if not all of my clients think that Salsa is actually the Salsa used for chips and tacos! Which makes me giggle but makes total sense.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
I’m Elena Rabaza I’m a Master Nail Artist since 2018 and Certified Educator since 2019. In 2017 I started beauty school to become a Manicurist. I want to take a moment to give a huge shout-out to the most amazing soul, she has impacted my career significantly, THANK YOU Mrs. Sherri Ancira for being the best Instructor, you gave me the foundation and knowledge I needed to be successful in my career. Since 2018 I’ve worked in 2 different Nail Salons in New Braunfels Texas where I gained experience not only in being a Nail Artist but also to be a Business Owner.
I opened Salsa Rosa Nail Studio in December 6, 2022, 2 months before opening I was on maternity leave and although it was not easy, with the help of my amazing partner who remodeled the entire studio along side my newborn son and almost 2 years old daughter, my parents & amazing clients MY DREAM BECAME REALITY.
Salsa Rosa Nail Studio at only 4 months old was voted TOP 3 in the Herald-Zeintung for BEST NAIL SALON in New Braunfels Texas.
We specializes in the baddest Nail Art, Gel Extensions, Builder Gel and Russian Manicures. We provide quality services and offer personalized attention and care for all of our clients. Our goal is for clients to leave the studio satisfied and with HEALTHY NAILS. We focus on making your nail dreams come true but also to provide a clean & safe space for you, with sanitation being our main concern. We follow all of TDLR Health & Safety Rules to keep implements and the Studio clean.
I offer personalized nail classes for upcoming Nail Technicians to improve their skills and to better their technique, continued education is crucial in this industry because it’s always evolving.
Can you tell us about what’s worked well for you in terms of growing your clientele?
My first year in the industry I only had 3-5 clients a week. My strategy was and will always be to be authentic with my clients and also provide the best service. Like I always say fake it until you make it but have communication while at it. My advice is to be true to yourself, promote your craft and be consistent with the service you provide. I feel really blessed to say that I have been completely booked for the past 4 years thanks to my clients recommendations to friends and families.
Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?
When I became pregnant with my son I had an awakening that I could no longer dream of my future but to make it my present! 2022 was a very pivotal year. I became a Citizen of the United States, a mother for the 2nd time and the owner of my own craft.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://salsarosanailstudio.glossgenius.com/
- Instagram: Salsarosanails
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/salsarosanails
Image Credits
Taylor Batey