How a Unplanned Nail Career Became Her Greatest Passion

written by ASHLEY SALINAS

Inside the journey of @nailsbyjaja and the launch of her nail salon, Nail Vibes Studio

It's funny how online friendships can become some of the most cherished relationships. I met JaJa online through Instagram. A few DM's, nail inspo, commenting, and endless support on each other's work. What started as a mutual admiration online quickly turned into a real connection. When she announced on Instagram that she was opening her salon, I reached out to her about having a spot on the blog. I had been watching her journey and knew immediately that I had to sit down with her and hear her story. I knew I had to share her story with you.

A Career She Never Saw Coming

Ashley: What made you want to do nails? 

JaJa: Believe it or not, nails weren’t my end goal. In fact, they weren’t in my plan at all. I was gearing up for a corporate career in marketing or business. It was my aunt who gently nudged me toward nails, telling me it could be a solid source of income, and so I decided to give it a try.

Everything shifted during COVID. I began experimenting with detailed anime nail designs, and that’s when I discovered my true niche and fell in love with the craft. Suddenly, I was booked solid.

It’s funny how life works: what started as a backup plan became my passion, my calling. I’m so grateful for the journey, and even more grateful to be able to do what I love every single day.

Finding Her Signature Style

Ashley: What's your favorite type of design to do and why?

JaJa: I know it might sound simple, but I genuinely love creating modern French nails; it’s actually harder than it looks. Precision is everything: the line needs to be sharp, even, and flawlessly balanced. That’s why it’s perfect for pairing with mix-and-match designs, colorful tips, or chrome accents; it’s so adaptable.

Speaking of chrome, isolated chrome has become one of my favorites; it’s the finishing touch that elevates any look. This technique requires careful buffing, no-wipe top coat, and precise application of chrome powder, resulting in sharp, mirror-like accents that pop beautifully against the base

Advice for Aspiring Nail Artists

Ashley: What advice would you give to anyone wanting to make this their career?

JaJa: Work in multiple salons first, soak up every bit of experience before dreaming about opening your own suite.

Each salon brings its own set of styles, challenges, and techniques; learning from all of them helps shape your unique approach. Take classes, explore different services, and zero in on your niche, and above all, stay consistent.

Perfect your craft through daily practice. Discover what truly excites you, master it, and commit to delivering excellence every single time.

This intentional journey, learning, refining, and evolving, will eventually guide you to running a studio that’s authentically yours. It will take time, but you can do it!

From Salon Suite to Salon Owner

Ashley: Going from Salon Suite to now owning a full nail salon, What were the biggest challenges and lessons so far you have faced going from salon suite to full salon? 

JaJa: Moving from a single salon suite to a full-scale nail salon has been one of the most exhilarating and challenging transitions of my career. In a suite, I handled everything myself: from setting my schedule to managing clients and finances. But once I stepped into salon ownership, I quickly realized I was now wearing many hats simultaneously: business strategist, HR manager, marketing director, and mentor.

One of the steepest learning curves was building and nurturing a team. Recruiting skilled nail technicians who aligned with my vision wasn’t easy, then came onboarding, training, scheduling, and nurturing a healthy workplace culture. 

Yes, the challenges are real: team building, financial planning, regulatory compliance, and marketing, but the payoff is well worth it: seeing my vision come to life, empowering a team, and nurturing a community of clients who trust us day after day.

What's The Future Look Like for Nail Vibes Studio

Ashley: If you could do anything in the next few years of your career, what would it be and why? What kind of impact do you hope to make along the way?

JaJa: In the coming years, I want to transform my salon into more than just a place for beautiful nails. I want it to be a hub for innovation, community, and empowerment. Maybe expand or open another location in DFW

I aim to create mentorship opportunities, invest in my team’s education, and collaborate with K-pop idols, celebrities, and artists. 

I hope that my salon will become a trusted space where clients leave feeling radiant, confident, and connected.

Ultimately, I want to be known not only for our artistry but for the values we uphold and the lives we touch along the way.

Ashley: Where can people follow you online

Jaja: Instagram Handle: @nailsbyjaja & @nail.vibes.studio

Website: https://www.nail-vibes-studio.com

Salon Location:

Nail Vibes Studio 

430 E. Lamar blvd, suite 104, Arlington, TX 76011

JaJa's story is a reminder that sometimes the best journeys are the ones you never planned. Her nail skills are amazing, but it's her vision, intention, heart, and hustle that make Nail Vibes Studio special.

Credits:

Thank you, JAJA, for sitting down with me

Interview & Article by Ashley Salinas, Not Just Manicure

Photography by Diana Jenkins