We recently connected with Keonna Shauntae and have shared our conversation below.

Keonna, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. What was it like going from idea to execution? Can you share some of the backstory and some of the major steps or milestones?

Back in 2010, I never imagined that doing nails would turn into a business. I was simply a client, fascinated by the artistry of my nail tech—a talented African American woman whose work was unlike anything I had ever seen before. For a year and a half, I sat in her chair, mesmerized by her creativity and attention to detail.

But life has a way of shifting things. One day, I went to book my usual appointment, only to realize that her hours no longer fit into my work schedule. Disappointed but determined, I decided to teach myself how to do nails. What started as a way to maintain my own nails quickly turned into a passion. I fell in love with the process, the art, and the endless creative possibilities.

It wasn’t long before people started noticing my nails—compliments turned into requests, and soon, I was doing nails for others. What began as a simple $20 full set transformed into something much bigger. The spark of an idea became a thriving nail business—one that allowed me to express my creativity, connect with amazing clients, and build something of my own.

Today, I look back and realize that every small step, every moment of self-doubt, and every set I created led me here. My passion became my purpose, and my purpose became my success. Nails Be Lit was born from a simple thought—and now, it’s a movement.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

Hello! My name is Keonna Shauntae, and I am the proud founder of Nails Be Lit, a brand dedicated to creativity, empowerment, and top-tier nail artistry. My journey into the nail industry wasn’t something I initially planned—I fell in love with it unexpectedly.

Back in 2010, I was a loyal client to an amazing African American nail tech whose creativity opened my eyes to a whole new level of artistry. I had never seen nails done with such skill and originality before, and for over a year, I was completely inspired by her work. One day, I realized that her hours no longer fit my work schedule, and instead of searching for a new tech, I made the decision to learn how to do nails on myself. What started as a necessity quickly became a passion, and before I knew it, people were asking me to do their nails too.

With nothing but my love for the craft and a $20 full set, I built my business from the ground up. Nails Be Lit is now more than just a nail brand—it’s a movement. I specialize in custom acrylic powders, high-quality nail services, education for upcoming nail techs, and stylish merch for nail lovers. My goal is to help clients feel confident, enhance their beauty, and give aspiring nail artists the tools they need to succeed.

What sets me apart? I blend technique with creativity and passion, ensuring that every client receives more than just a nail service—they get an experience. I am most proud of the impact I’ve made in the nail industry and the way I’ve turned my love for nails into a thriving business and educational platform.

To my clients, followers, and future students: I want you to know that Nails Be Lit is built on passion, dedication, and a commitment to excellence. Whether you’re looking for flawless nails, custom acrylic powders, or guidance to elevate your nail career, I’m here to help you shine.

Have you ever had to pivot?

Life was moving in the right direction—my business was thriving, and I was building the future I had envisioned. But in 2021, everything changed. I became a mother, and while welcoming my son into the world was the greatest blessing, it also came with challenges I never anticipated.

Motherhood shifted everything. My time, my priorities, my availability—it all had to be restructured. To make matters worse, my Instagram page with 25K followers got hacked, stripping away years of hard work and the platform I had built for my business. The frustration, exhaustion, and pressure of trying to balance it all made me feel like giving up. The thought of starting over while caring for my son felt impossible.

On top of that, I was enduring mental abuse from my son’s father, who constantly dismissed my ideas and made me feel like my dreams were unattainable. I felt trapped between my passion and my reality. One day, I broke down and told my best friend, “I cannot do this. I can’t work, take care of my son, and start over with everything.”

Her response changed my entire mindset. She reminded me, “You came this far. A lot of women have kids. You just have to tell your clients that your son will be with you while you do their nails. If they are meant to be your clients, they will understand.”

And there it was—the moment I realized that I couldn’t walk away from years of hard work, dedication, and a business that had given me stability and purpose. I made the decision to pivot, embrace my new reality, and find a way to balance both motherhood and my passion.

Fast forward four years later, and I am still standing. I didn’t quit—I adjusted. I learned the power of resilience, faith, and trusting the process. Every challenge I faced taught me a lesson, and through it all, God carried me.

This journey wasn’t just about business—it was about becoming stronger, finding balance, and proving to myself that I am capable of thriving no matter what life throws my way. And if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s this: when you’re passionate about something, you’ll always find a way.

Any insights you can share with us about how you built up your social media presence?

I built my platform simply because I love what I do. Nails aren’t just a business for me—they’re a passion, a craft, and an expression of creativity. Giving up was never an option, and I believe that level of dedication and authenticity is what naturally attracted people to my page.

I never set out with a specific number of followers in mind—it just happened organically because I stayed consistent, challenged myself to improve, and always aimed for greatness. My audience grew because my work speaks for itself, and when you truly love what you do, people can feel that energy.

Do it because you love it – If you’re only in it for followers, it’ll feel like a chore. True passion outshines numbers.

Give it your all – Be willing to put in the blood, sweat, and tears. Growth takes consistency and effort.

Be authentic – Don’t create for social media—create for YOU. People are drawn to genuine passion and can tell when you’re truly invested in your craft.

You never know who’s watching – Stay consistent even when it feels like no one is paying attention. The right people will find you.

Just be YOU! – Your uniqueness is your superpower. Don’t try to fit in—stand out by loving what you do and letting that shine.

At the end of the day, social media is just a platform—your passion is the real foundation. When you put in the work for the right reasons, success will follow.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://Nailsbelit.com
• Instagram: Iamkeonnashauntae
• Youtube: Iamkeonnashauntae
• Other: Tiktok: Nailsbelitshop

Image Credits

Image credits:
Instagram @Marszfilmz
Linktr.ee/marszfilmz