Today we’d like to introduce you to Deon Green.
Hi Deon, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My earliest recognition of art applied to nails was of course, worn by the late Florence Griffith-Joyner. The American track star stunned everyone with her design choices for her track outfits and her nails were next level for that time. Aside from her track prowess, the attention her style gained was global and both loved and a constant source of criticism. It was then I learned of another extension of beauty, nails.
In my previous career, I was not able to wear bright colors or longer-length nails. If and when I did wear those bold colors and longer lengths, I had to remove them Sunday night. Fast forward to 2020, during the height of the Pandemic, I quit my corporate job. I wanted to take a leap of faith and do something I loved doing which was creating art. With the support of my family, I enrolled in Nail Technician school, graduated, and then earned my state license.
Building a business is hard, building during the height of a global pandemic is another level of difficulty. My specialty was servicing in-person clients. With that, came new protocols not taught in school. No one knew the way ahead for the beauty business during this unprecedented time. I still needed to build brand awareness, provide value, and keep my clients safe. That’s when I pivoted to creating press on nails. I was able to do all of the above and remain open when nail salons were mandated to close their doors.
Dee Luxe and Press™ is wonderful option for nail lovers wanting to save 1 to 2 hours spent in the nail salon. Also, our press-on nails are a great option when on vacation, attending a special event, or on date night. Dee Luxe Nails is committed to creating gorgeous nails that are the last statement piece in your wardrobe.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Along with the typical new start-up concerns, building a business that requires physical touch during a Global Pandemic presented a major struggle. Another struggle was trying to rent a booth or suite because the beauty industry was essentially shuttered. In relation to press-ons, a few challenges were figuring out how to best serve my clients when supplies are backordered.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I’ve always been a creative. My love of art was encouraged by my mother with the never-ending art supplies. During the Summer months, I would attend art school and filled numerous art books. Once it was time for me graduate high school, I entered the Army and put down the artwork until my husband and I started a family. Our kids had the best art projects and enjoyed helping them to create. After leaving the military, I bounced from job to job not really enjoying what I was doing. My husband provided a moment of clarity for me by suggesting I do something with my art skills.
Painting on nails was a bit tricky because the size of the “canvas.” Learning how to scale down the art and how much detail I can add to the smallest nail has been fun to do. I specialize in custom luxury press on nails and are known for my marble nails. What I’m most proud of are the goals I’ve set for myself I am accomplishing. What sets me apart from others is I am a part of a growing community of women of color who are licensed nail technicians. Furthermore, my style of nail art appeals to those who love an organic feel. I don’t use stones often and let my free-hand art do the talking.
Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out?
The advice I would share is to find a mentor in the field you are pursuing. They could potentially cut down the time spent researching into you taking massive action. Everything is a lesson as I started out on this new path. I did reach out to a well-seasoned Nail Artist and she helped me to avoid wasting time and money on certain practices. I wouldn’t be where I am today if I didn’t go through the process. My journey is my journey. I’m learning, growing, and enjoying the ride.
Pricing:
- $99 “Luxes” Monthly Nail Subscription
- $69 “Dee Luxe” Monthly Nail Subscription
- $49 “Classics” Monthly Nail Subscription
- $40 and up for a custom order
Contact Info:
- Website: https://deeluxenails.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/dee_luxenails
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/deeluxenails
Image Credits
Deon Green
