Today we’d like to introduce you to Bailey Snider-Miller.
Bailey, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
My passion for nails started when I was little, growing up I was always told that I had long beautiful nails, that I never needed press-ons or acrylics. I already knew it wasn’t an essential and that we had to spend what money we had on more important stuff to live. So, I started to collect a lot of $1-$3 air-drying polishes to do my own nails with. I loved creating designs, but I was always so limited, also having to wait half a day it seemed like for the polish to dry all the way through! Fast forward about 11 years to 2020-2021, I was re-introduced to the nail world through YouTube, I caught myself binge-watching nail technicians like ‘Vee NailedIt’ creating the most beautiful sets, I was so determined to do the same. I finally took a big step and bought my first polygel kit, gel lamp, and nail drill. I immediately started creating. Since I did have 2 jobs, I was practicing when I could, which was rarely, but every time I sat at my desk, I felt like my life was complete I had all the freedom in the world to create whatever I wanted. I was sure this is what I wanted to do for the rest of my life, so early 2021 I saved money to go to nail school. The month of September 2021 I graduated and received my license a month later! I started taking my first clients in December once I got over my fear of not being good enough. Being discouraged that I was taking 5-8 hours on just one nail set, I was determined to do better. I just knew God had more planned for me. I focused on growing my brand and not letting anything stop me from reaching where I wanted to be and with that, now a year and some change later, January of 2023, I can say that I am so happy I never gave up. I am close to reaching 1000 followers on Instagram and 1500 on TikTok! I finally am where I want to be, at a beautiful salon located near the University of Central Florida!
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
I can definitely say there has been a lot of obstacles, coming from a lower-class family, money has always been the issue. I was fortunate to have a mom that can do it all. Raising 4 children, and having to make a living is the last thing anyone would want to do but she has always made it work for us. At first, it felt so impossible, living paycheck to paycheck not being able to spare on supplies and not being able to practice from home I had to find another way to start my journey. At that time, I was working multiple jobs, having to deal car problems, and covid still making things difficult for a lot of people. Early 2021 I saved money to go to nail school but it was a complete disaster, from not learning anything and not having a teacher most of the time, I wasn’t learning anything, I felt so discouraged that I might’ve wasted my money I saved just to do big things. I wasn’t going to let that happen so I started self-teaching. I self-taught myself how to do everything I know today, practicing day and night. The following months after graduation really tested me and my mental health, just trying to make ends meet working every job known to man, while still trying to build my business. There have been many times in my career I was close to giving up. After many months of car problems setting me back, I finally was blessed enough to get a new one. This drives me to do great every day by seeing my progress, it’s like I just knew God had more planned for me.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
As a nail technician I create art, my job is to help anyone that sits in my chair to express themselves. I love when someone’s nails match their personality! I do acrylic nails mostly, but I do offer gel-x and structured manicures as well. I specialize in nail art, I believe that there is no limit when it comes to what you want on your own nails, you can do the maximum or the minimum, it’s literally your freedom! With that, I’m most known for nail art, crispy shape, and the best conversation you’ll ever have! I love a good crispy shape, that’s really what stands out the most when people look at them, also the art but mostly the shape!! The difference between me and others is that I always take my time when it comes to every client in my chair, I truly care when it comes to their wants and needs. I learn what they like, so the next time I see them we won’t have to waste time going over it again! I pride myself when it comes to keeping a connection with all my clients, that’s why my returning rate is so high! In my business the customer service will always be a priority, I like to say one nail appointment with me will change your life because I’m your nail tech, therapist, and friend all in one!
Do you have recommendations for books, apps, blogs, etc?
I love following motivational women and pages. Also seeing other nail technicians make it in life holds a special place in my heart, because a lot of people don’t know what it’s like every day to be a cosmetic business owner!! My inspiration and the women that got me where I am today would be Vee Mendoza and Yris Palmer! They showed me how to be a successful business owner, how sacrifices have to be made and to never give up. Vee especially for teaching me all I know about nails through her YouTube videos!
Pricing:
- Student discounts starting at $40
Contact Info:
- Website: https://slayedbybai.as.me/
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/slayedbybai
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@slayedbybai
