Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Shaila Martin . We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Hi Shaila, thanks for joining us today. Crazy stuff happening is almost as certain as death and taxes – it’s technically “unexpected” but something unexpected happening is to be expected and so can you share a crazy story with our readers

One of the craziest stories I have to share is one that would forever impact the way I view relationships and also friendships. It was last summer, May of 2021, that I was returning from a trip celebrating my daughter’s 6th birthday. Our birthdays are are one day apart so it’s always a special moment for me and her to celebrate together, although she gets 100% of the shine. At this moment in time, I was simply grateful for what all God had blessed me with and brought me through. My online boutique, HerFixx Boutique, was doing pretty well just within a few months of launching. My brand , No Polish Gang, was building steam and business was growing and expanding even in the midst of a pandemic. I had a genuine appreciation for life and the experiences I’ve had thus far, looking forward to the future of endless possibilities. Sometimes, we hold on to things that no longer serve our highest good or people that can’t go where we are destined to go. I was in a relationship with someone who had been one of my greatest supporters. However, I realized after 2 years that this relationship would have to end in order for me to grow and excel in my business. It was difficult for me to imagine cutting off someone close to me who I’ve grown to love, but that love almost costed me everything. This individual had a habit that was uncontrollable and unbearable to witness on the daily. One evening, I decided to go out and celebrate my birthday in solitude. I just wanted to be alone to reflect and enjoy my birthday moment in peace. I went out to a local spot that I frequent from time to time in Midtown. It was an enjoyable evening just celebrating alone, vibing to some good music and cocktails. I didn’t want to stay out too late so I returned back to my condo fairly early in the night. Once I entered the hallway to my residence I noticed some of my nail supplies laid out in front of my door. My heart began to race each step I took as I got closer to the entrance. To my astonishment, there were several acrylic powder containers dumped outside my door leading down the stairs to the next floor. I took a deep breath before I opened my door not knowing what to expect, but when I did I was immediately hit with the strong smell of monomer. Monomer is a liquid used in nail enhancements and what you usually smell in nail salons. My nail table station was knocked over with all of my gel polishes and other supplies. My brand new sofa was drizzled with neon air brush paints. All of my electronics I used for my boutique and nail business ruined and drenched with monomer. A majority of the clothes for my boutique were also damaged by paint and acetone, not to mention all of my shoes. The scream that came from me was one out a horror film. It literally felt like I was kicked in the stomach but 100 times worse. I was in complete disbelief that someone close to me could do such a thing, knowing the sacrifice and hard work I’ve put in to acquire the necessities I had for my business. I almost lost it all, including my residence. It was through the grace and mercy of God that I did not lose my sanity. Sometimes God will remove people from your life if you’re to stubborn to do it and it isn’t always a simple removal. It was during this time when I realized who my real friends were and who I’m just a ‘nail tech’ to. I would be lying if I didn’t say I went through slight depression which took months to heal even going into 2022. Material items can always be replaced so I knew I would bounce back and it would not come easy. In the process of healing, I became a recluse in my own world, brainstorming on my master plan to come back stronger, and wiser. God has blessed me with the determination, strength, courage and most importantly his unconditional love to help me heal from this traumatic event. Today, I have expanded with a line of custom press on nails, colored acrylic powders, and other nail supplies under the No Polish Gang brand. Initially, I was hesitant in sharing this crazy story but I believe God wanted me to share my testimony to show other entrepreneurs who may have endured the unthinkable that there is light at the end of the tunnel as long as you keep your faith and believe in your dreams.

Shaila, 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?

Shai Shai Don’t Play is my name and creating trendy nail art designs is my game. I truly enjoy what I do as a nail artist. The designs women book me for normally they wouldn’t receive at the average nail salon on the corner. After becoming a mother in 2015 I desired a career that would fulfill my creative interests. I had a vision for myself and the future of the nail industry. I saw an industry that was in lacking diversity and wanted to bring change. In 2017 I became serious with my plans for not only becoming a full time tech but eventually branding my own nail acrylics and art supplies. Along the way I’ve had the pleasure of servicing all walks of life and the joy they get from having a set of nails designed by me is priceless. It took some time to build clientele and trust with them but I stayed dedicated because I knew this was my calling. My services have changed through out the years since I’ve started, not only to accommodate trends but also what’s best for my clients. Furthermore, I would like potential clients and my followers to know I prioritize healthy nails over everything. Even if a client is wearing acrylic extensions with the biggest blings and charms, their natural nails underneath should always remain healthy. I pride myself with giving each person tailored individual care and listening to their desired nail requests. Ultimately, when my clients come back showing me their nail growth and strength is the most rewarding for me. I’ve had women that had been wanting to grow their real nails and haven’t been successful with the techs they’ve encountered. Words can’t describe the feeling I get when I receive messages from my followers, from various parts of the country that tell me they’re coming to see me as soon as they get to Atlanta.

We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?

Many women can agree that getting your nails done is one of the most therapeutic and satisfying services. However, one lesson I would say I had to unlearn is that it is not my responsibility to be a therapist. It’s easy for me to conversate with anyone especially when it comes to nails. I’m just an laid back girl from New York and most people are comfortable speaking with me. I do understand that life can smack you when you least expect it, I mean I am human (laughs). It’s ok to check and ask if a person is ok because sometimes I can tell when the energy isn’t right or different from usual. Overall, I want to make sure my clients are comfortable and if I can offer advice through my own experiences I will it applies.

Any stories or insights that might help us understand how you’ve built such a strong reputation?

Honestly, I have to give credit to my clients and followers with assisting me with building my reputation within Atlanta. I couldn’t have done it by myself. Sometimes I’m too hard on myself and don’t give myself enough credit, but my clients go super hard for me. It’s the support, that doesn’t go unnoticed. I can’t mention how many times my clients have been asked “who did your nails?” And everytime they give out my contact information without hesitation, that’s genuine loyalty! All of my clients are my models and I absolutely do my best to make sure they’re all happy every service they receive from me. Not to mention that I’ve built a brand that women can be a part of which is No Polish Gang. My clients love shouting out No Polish Gang because they’ve became accustomed to fly custom colored acrylic sets which use no gel polish, unless I’m doing a design on top.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.nopolishgang.com
• Instagram: @Her_Fixx8ion