Check Out Malia Suarez’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Malia Suarez

Hi Malia, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Hello! Thank you so much for having me! My start as a nail technician began in April of 2022. Before I ever considered becoming a manicurist, I had been struggling with trying to find a creative outlet for myself. I was in my sophomore year of college. As a full time student, I felt that I was dedicating all of my time to my academics and realized that this had not been so great for my mental health. This is when I had decided to step outside of my comfort zone and search for a brand new hobby. At the time, I was a receptionist at a local nail salon. I befriended many nail technicians who encouraged me to become a manicurist. The idea of becoming a manicurist did not seem far fetched, as I had already had a love for art, and painting nails was just a smaller canvas in my eyes. This kicked off the start of my nail journey. I received my first nail kit off of Amazon and started practicing polish application and gel extensions. I felt so proud of every set I had done on myself. This felt like the perfect hobby for me because I had seen so much room for learning and growth. Once I felt comfortable enough, I began practicing on my friends and family. Soon after that, I decided to take a step further and enroll myself into a manicuring school. I felt confident enough to take on the challenge of other nail practices and become more educated on nails in general. I started taking clients at my school and created a solid routine for myself. I noticed that more and more people were interested in my services. This was so amazing for my self esteem. I started creating my future clientele little by little. Once I completed manicuring school, I applied for my State Board exam. I officially became a licensed manicurist in December of 2023. I finally felt like I had found my creative outlet. Doing nails brought out a side of me that I had not been aware of before. I finally found motivation and determination within.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It definitely was not obstacle-free. I feel that finding consistent clientele had been a struggle of mine. As a beginner, I had only put myself out there when I was going to manicuring school. I didn’t have my timing down and still was taking longer than usual to complete a set. It was difficult to feel sure that people were going to come back in 3-4 weeks. With this, I had also struggled with being too hard on myself. I know that everyone that sat in my chair loved their set, but I however was beating myself up for minuscule details and was already assuming worst. Now I am realizing what works and what doesn’t work for me. Everyday is a learning experience and a step closer to mastering my craft.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
Of course! I am a licensed manicurist that specializes in Gel X, Gel and Builder Gel manicures. I am most notably known for my creative nail art. I am most proud of being able to help people step outside of their comfort zones. I understand that getting your nails done in general is something that not everyone feels comfortable with, and I appreciate anyone who has put their trust in me to give them a great nail appointment experience! I love to encourage my clients to step outside of their comfort zone, especially when I hear that they would like to try something new. I make sure to provide my clients with a safe space that makes them feel comfortable with being their authentic selves. Nails are a form of self expression, and I make sure to do my absolute best to create that.

Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
My boyfriend has always been my #1 support system from day one. He had bought me my first nail kit and told me that he knew this was the start of something big for me. He was my first nail model and let me practice all kinds of nail art on him. Not once did I ever feel discouraged because of him. He complimented every single set I did, even if it was clearly a sloppy paint job. He has invested so much in my nail career and is the one responsible for half of my nail inventory. He is most definitely a part of my success. Other people that are a huge part of my success are my friends and family. I can’t thank them enough for always believing in me and helping me stay optimistic throughout my journey. They have always trusted the process even when I had a difficult time trusting it myself. My clients definitely take part in my successful journey. I am lucky to have such wonderful clientele. They have helped me see greater potential in myself and always make sure that I am not cutting myself short. They are the best cheerleaders ever! My support system is amazing and I am extremely grateful for everyone.

Pricing:

• Gel X starts at $50
• Gel Manicures- $40
• Builder Gel Manicures- $50
• Nail art Add ons $1-$50

Contact Info:

• Website: https://ayonailcheck.as.me/schedule/497fd211
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ayonailcheck/profilecard/?igsh=MWQ1ZGUxMzBkMA==
• Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@ayooonailcheck?_t=8rSZbzLuRKs&_r=1