Today we’d like to introduce you to Raquel Valencia.
Hi Raquel, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I was working for big corporation for 6 years and didn’t want to move any further with the company I decided to become a nail tech & once I passed my exam I left my job and became a full time nail tech, it was rough along the way and took many many hours of time and dedication. I started off as an independent nail tech right away which was blessing, this was all back in California! Fast forward 3 years later I had a great clientele but I wanted to move out of state and have a new start & I did that here in Houston. I’ve been here a little less than a year and again I have been blessed with the opportunity to be an independent nail tech it’s been tough moving to a new state a city twice the size but slowly I have started building clientele and getting my name out there.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
I’ve faced many obstacles first off nails was not something that came natural to me many people have natural raw talent and I was not one of them I had to practice so many hours so many days & I never gave up! Moving to Houston was definitely a challenge I came here and knew no one and didn’t have ANY clients but these things made me stronger and really think outside of the box! I never have given up although many times I wanted to.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I specialize in acrylic nails, long nails short nails you name it! I love encapsulated nails & hand painted nails I think what sets me about is I’m very detailed! Art is always all in the details! I also started an e-commerce website that caters to beginner nail techs and gives them access to affordable but great quality products.
Risk taking is a topic that people have widely differing views on – we’d love to hear your thoughts.
Taking risks is key in life, if you don’t take risks, there are no rewards! I know many times we overthink everything we do and sometimes you just have to do it! I remember I was so scared to leave my full time job with a secure paycheck but I took that risk became my own boss & was able to make a living off something that was just a dream for me, & that to me is the most rewarding! I think you should always be cautious before taking risks but don’t let fear stop you!
Pricing:
- Fullsets start at $45
- XXL freestyles $120
Contact Info:
- Website: Www.shopthenailconnect.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/acrylixbycookz/?hl=en
