In 2019, my family purchased an existing nail salon in Orange County, California which is my first physical storefront and my entry into running a hands-on, service-based business. After previously operating a couple of virtual ventures, this experience quickly became one of the most formative chapters of my entrepreneurial path.

The opportunity came through a family connection. A relative had worked at the salon under its long-time original owner. That owner later sold the business, and the subsequent owner eventually sold it to me. Although I had no prior experience in the nail industry itself, I brought transferable skills that proved essential: marketing know-how from earlier projects and solid people-management experience gained from years as a fast-food restaurant manager.

Business was steady at first. Then COVID-19 arrived. California’s strict public-health orders forced dramatic changes in how we could operate. Capacity limits, sanitation protocols, appointment-only systems, and constant uncertainty turned every week into a new challenge. Those couple of years tested us in ways no business plan could have prepared us for. We adapted, stayed open where regulations allowed, supported our team as best we could, and kept serving clients who still needed a little self-care during a difficult time.

Even though we only owned the salon for a few years, the experience delivered lasting value:

• Handling conflict and difficult people: I learned how to mediate employee disagreements and respond calmly and professionally to customers with high or unusual requests.
• Discipline and time management: Running a physical location demanded structure, prioritization, and consistent follow-through—skills I continue to rely on.
• Resilience under pressure: Guiding a small team through government-mandated shutdowns and restrictions taught me how to stay steady when external forces are outside my control.

These real-world lessons remain useful in every new project and potential business adventure I take on. The nail salon chapter was short but intense, and I’m grateful for the growth it forced and the practical wisdom it left behind.

Thank you for reading a bit of my story. If you’re considering your own first physical business or simply navigating a tough season in one you already own, I hope these experiences offer a little perspective and encouragement.

A Lifetime of Memories at Lovely Nails & Spa

Here are some photos from my years at Lovely Nails & Spa that filled with wonderful experiences, special moments, and memories I’ll always treasure.