Rising Stars: Meet Kristina Nguyen

Today we’d like to introduce you to Kristina Nguyen.

Hi Kristina, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
My passion for the nail industry started when I was about 12 years old. My family used to own a few nail salons in the early 2000s. I used to go there to hang out with them with my cousins and they would teach me how to do simple nail techniques. As I got older, my affection for the nail industry only grew. I was able to build my foundation at an early age and when I was about 16, I picked up my first job at a family friend’s nail salon. I would work there on the weekends when I didn’t have school. For over 15 years, I have gained many experiences working at many nail salons in Illinois, Florida, and Denver. I expanded on my techniques and learned a lot more about the nail and beauty industry. I moved to Denver from Illinois in 2018 with my boyfriend. It was a bit frightening because I didn’t know anyone in the nail/beauty industry here. But I was appreciative enough to be able to find a couple jobs here and met a lot of great people, which I’m so grateful for! I always had a dream of opening my own nail studio. It wasn’t until June 2021 when I decided to make that dream come true and made that jump! I opened my studio because I want to provide a safe place for my clients. A place where they feel welcome, relax, and talk about anything they want.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
A smooth road? Not at all! From the start it has been a bumpy ride. There’s still so much to learn about running a business. Like bookkeeping, filing my taxes correctly, making sure I have the right snacks for my clients, haha. I’m constantly doubting myself if I’m making the right business decisions. I will try different things and learn what works for me and my clients and what doesn’t.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I specialize in Gel X and Gel manicure. Gel X is a soft gel extension that covers your whole nail, and it comes in different lengths and shapes. Gel polish is used for color so after curing under the LED light, the nails are all dried and ready to go! It’s a great option if you’re looking to add length, and it will help your natural nails grow. It’s a much thinner and natural feeling compared to acrylics. I’m known for my Gel X manicures and being meticulous with my work. I like to take my time and not rush things to make sure my work is done correctly. I love when I see my client’s manicure lasting them to their next appointment and never chip! My work is simple and casual. I like to go for that everyday, natural look. I’m most proud of myself for moving across the country and building a network of professionals that share the same interest. It was tough, but I’m really proud of myself for putting myself out there.

Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
One of my biggest supporters will have to be my boyfriend. From the beginning, he has always been rooting for me and pushed me to do whatever my heart desired. I have such a hard time understanding the business side of things. Paperwork, numbers, taxes, it’s so confusing! I don’t even know what I’m doing. I’m grateful to have a partner who is willing to stick by my side and help me throughout this journey and we both can learn as we go. I’m thankful for all the other small-owned businesses and clients here in Denver that I’ve met along the way that lend a helping hand. I can’t thank everyone enough that has sat in my chair to trust me to do their nails and has given me a chance to work some magic! For the ones that have referred friends and family to me have helped me tremendously and I can’t thank them enough! It truly makes my heart happy whenever I hear clients tell me that they would get so many compliments on their nails even when they’re three weeks old! Music to my ears!

Image Credits
Amelia Vilona