Transforming nails into masterpieces, one client at a time
From beginner to business owner
Tazna Sales shows how to successfully navigate building and running a business as a nail artist while juggling her studies.
Driven by her artistry and love of self-care, Tazna Sales (26) is establishing herself as a professional nail technician in the cutthroat beauty industry.Sales has five years of experience and has made a name for herself as a go-to nail artist for unique designs through her business T'S Nail Care and Beauty in Windhoek – while navigating the challenges of a developing business.
Sales explained that while there have been hurdles, the effort has been rewarding.
Sales acknowledged the difficulties of breaking into the nail industry and the discipline required to succeed.
“You have to give yourself a lot of grace and patience, especially when this isn't an easy market to get into, as there is a lot of competition that forces you to stand out,” Sales said.
Identifying opportunity
Sales, a self-described perfectionist, found the work to be slow at first.
“When I started out, I was very slow compared to a lot of other nail technicians,” she admitted.
She emphasised the importance of self-compassion and learning from mistakes.
“Every day you're learning with clients, you’re learning with your mistakes, and I think that’s what builds up your experience,” she explained.
She added: “The beauty industry is growing in Namibia and self-care has become an important part of the beauty industry."
Sales said she identified an opportunity to venture into the beauty industry when she noticed a gap in the market for creative nail art.
She remarked: "I noticed a gap in the artistic side of nails. I saw very little nail art."
She intends to go beyond the limits of already prepared stickers by offering her customers customised designs.
Juggling life
Many people assume that running a business and going to school would be too challenging, but Sales has been able to juggle her work and academics.
"However, it requires a great deal of discipline, but it is really fulfilling because you develop in both areas,” she said.
She says she has gained independence and a sense of achievement by working while she studied.
Sales gives prospective nail technicians the straightforward piece of advice, "Don't give up."
She emphasises that the benefits outweigh the costs and promotes perseverance and dedication.