We were lucky to catch up with Victoria Samuels recently and have shared our conversation below.

Victoria, appreciate you joining us today. Along with taking care of clients, taking care of our team is one of the most important things we can do as leaders. Looking back on your journey, did you have a boss that was really great? Maybe you can tell us about that boss and what made them a wonderful person to work for?

The best Boss I ever had?. It would probably be cliché but my current boss that I have now. Her names Ikea (yes like the furniture store). Whenever we have events or any pop up shops events, she’s the best at letting her teams ideas conjure up a really great event for others to come out and enjoy themselves.Since I’ve joined her team at the beauty bar she’s been nothing but supportive and open minded to all my ideas I bring across to her while also giving me enough space to grow into the individual and business owner that I’m still striving for. Best breathing ground for a W. B.O.B (women black owned business ;) ).

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 put my first set of press on nails on probably at the age of 10, (Or whenever my mom felt most comfortable lol). My sister first introduced me to the salons By the age of 13 when I was allowed to get my first acrylic set. Ever since then a unique Diva was born. I realized college wasn’t for me, and by the end of my second semester for an associate’s degree, I just decided it wasn’t for me and wanted to explore more of the beauty world. I went straight to beauty school not knowing as much as I thought I did (and not knowing which road I could take, there’s was so much to explore). I went through the most anxiety I ever dealt with while going to cosmetology school from new crowds of people, to new curriculum, but with the help of some humbling educators, and the sweetest beautymates I got to meet, I learned so much patience and discipline, it also made me grow as an individual. I want potential followers and fans to know the road is never ending and where there’s a fork in the road, there’s always new journeys to explore. I want future clients to know I take pride in all work I do and all hands I get to gracefully apply my talent too. I have to much skills and energy I want to be able to share with you guys while also providing that luxury and relaxing experience you very well deserve.

Have you ever had to pivot?

I think the most pivotal life story I e had so far has been when I lost my father and godfather just before Covid went into full effect. I had just made the decision to turn my side hustle into a main hustle when I lost my father. That was the most pain, guilt, every emotion included in grieving I could feel. I didn’t even get the chance to see him before he left, but I still kept going. My godfather was sick as well around the same time and my family and I took care of him. While doing this I still managed to work from home, build my clientele up and my skills, all going well until I lost him two months later. I learned not only life is too short, but just never give up. I learned to be humbled and so grateful for my family and friends, I met some wonderful people along the way, and if you’re thinking about that next decision, it might just be your best one not matter your circumstances.

What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?

I honestly would have to say having a very open minded and patient attitude towards anyone you meet. I believe first impressions can make or break a connection. Being in the beauty industrial environment gives me the chance to provide a hospitality service to those who need it and just an overall luxurious feel I want my clients to experience. I pride myself in natural nail care meaning no matter what eccentric nail freestyles or outrage lengths you can see me make from acrylic, those natural nails will always flourish and be taken care of underneath!. One thing I might have to add that has helped build my reputation is just everyone who comes to support me. My clients are my models and heart! You guys see the hard work I do and given any chance spread the word and that is enough for me to be content.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://vvsspa.as.me/
• Instagram: @vvsspa_

Image Credits
Victoria, Ikea, Kayla, Rebecca, Brandy, Bri