Today we’d like to introduce you to Idonteá Richardson.
Idonteá, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
Hammered Nails was created in 2017 to bring awareness to the importance of nail salon alternatives all while empowering women to develop healthier nail choices. We educate women by providing them with information targeting the importance of nail health. Many consumers are unaware of the harsh chemicals they are exposed to when entering a nail salon. These harsh and unsafe chemicals include but are not limited to toluene and methyl methacrylate, which are damaging and can cause issues within the neurological and reproductive systems over the course of time. Therefore while creating Hammered Nails, I sought to eliminate the hassle of fill-ins, long lines, making appointments, damaged nails, and exposure to harsh chemicals.
In 2017 Hammered Nails’ main target was private cancer patients who wanted to still feel beautiful but were not permitted to step into a nail salon per their doctors’ orders. The excitement each client shared over their faces will always remain priceless as Hammered Nails continue to grow. It made each client feel good that they did not have to necessarily give up having cute nails due to their current medical diagnosis. Providing my private cancer clients with access of having luxury manicured press-on nails in the comfort of their environment made me want to share my gift with others. Thus over the years, Hammered Nails target audience has expanded to not only women but the LGBTQ community, men, and kids.
I inform others often that although going to the nail salon is becoming a necessity, it does not have to be their only option. Hammered Nails present a luxury press-on manicure boutique that caters to the needs of women online. We offer an alternative that is not harmful to your health. This service was designed for women who are constantly on the go! Whether you are a mother, student, model, fashionista, actress, trendsetter, makeup artist, business owner, or simply working towards your daily career goals. Hammered Nails has you covered. Hammered Nails provides you with the service to purchase hand-painted designed nails that last up to 2 weeks. We also offer the option of House Calls and Nail Pamper Parties for kids. As well as the option to create your own customized manicure sets within minutes. Giving customers access to numerous nail trends. Here at Hammered Nails, you are your own nail boss as well as in control of your nail health.
Hammered Nails has gained success by being persistent in the market and providing customers with something unique. I have previously collaborated with Dolls Kill, Caren and have an upcoming collaboration with Urban Outfitters so stay tuned.
Feel free to shop our newest collection Sweet Treat which will be dropping on 7/22/2023. This collection is unique because it’s trendy, distinctive, eye-catching, and perfect for summer. May I add the Sweet Treat Collection contains 75% of real candy pieces!
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 has not always been a smooth road. Actually, I’ve experienced serval bumps but I was determined not to fall through the cracks. When I started Hammered Nails, I started my business with $100.00. I did not have many resources but I did have a plan of what I wanted my brand to be and represent. I did not allow my lack of resources to discourage me. I did countless research on press-on nails and its current market. Then strived to offer something different, all while making my mark in the nail community. I didn’t allow what I didn’t have currently and put my dream on the back burner. I used the materials I did have and maximized off that such as my educational degrees, nail polish, nail brushes, and nail gems. I was able to source my other materials such as boxing, labeling tools, and nail extensions with my start-up of $100.00 and I just kept going, selling, promoting, and never looked back to the what-if.
It’s not easy being an entrepreneurial octopus, as I like to call myself. Because I handle it all: social media marketing and advertising, product management, administrative duties, inventory and labeling, outsourcing, creating email campaigns, strategic planning, analytics, wholesaling, policy/contract drafting, budgeting management, cataloging, granting writing, SEO marketing, compliance, and marginalizing profit. In addition to providing excellent customer service. But I know I can’t let that stop me from knowing what needs to be done within my business just because it’s not within my current budget to source different levels of business coaching or business mentoring. Being a one-woman show can become rather exhausting, but the reward of knowing that I was able to accomplish just as much as someone who has help or a team, shows me that I am doing something right. It is within my plans to eventually outsource business coaching in different categories of my business so that I can continue to allow my business to grow and expand.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
My name is Idonteá Richardson and I am the owner and founder of Hammered Nails. Hammered Nails is a luxury press-on-nail boutique. I specialize in making press-on nails for kids and adults. As a nail connoisseur, I make sure that my clients are aware before buying, that it is important to know their nail sizes. In addition, I always encourage them to purchase a Sample Sizing Kit and walk them through how to size themselves properly. Because the better the false nail matches up to their nailbed, the better the nail will fit. Therefore, clients can truly enjoy the longevity of wearing their custom press-on nails up to 2 weeks.
I am known for being the girl with the cool nails. My eye for detail in staying forward on nail trends is what keeps others intrigued with my personal style and Hammered Nails newest nail sets. All my friends always reach out and ask about what’s the newest designs, what’s hot, and suggestions on the best colors that’ll make their skin pop. On my website, I offer a few different selections of press on nails. I have $10 Tuesday, which is a staple in my business because this service drives new clients to my e-commerce store who are looking for a cute press-on nail manicure on a budget. I am also known for my Custom Order Requests. Often clients see an acrylic design and want me to convert it to a press-on nail form. As a result, I do just that for them, and they are always amazed with the outcome of getting exactly what was pictured or what they asked for.
I am most proud of how I am able to make timeless nails that sell year after year. This is a skill that I possess that keeps my targeted audience wondering and wanting more insight on what sets I will create next.
What sets me apart from others is my work ethic. I started with less so I make sure I work twice as hard. I get that from my father. Also, even though I make sure to update my clients on the hottest nail trends. I personally allow my nails to express how I am feeling. Therefore, with the nails I personally wear, I set my own trends. My nail always indicates my current mood. Hence why I change them frequently and try new designs that come to mind.
I am also a law student and I use my gift of creating press on nails to fund my legal education and career.
Where do you see things going in the next 5-10 years?
In the next five years, I plan on having my own mobile salon and taking my sprinter van on tour from state to state servicing everyone. I will also have a full staff of at least 3-5 workers that can help me with nail orders, collaborations, general business operations, and marketing. I have plans of booking more Kid Spa Pamper Party’s with my mobile salon on birthdays and everyday leisure.
In the next ten years, I plan on owning a salon for Hammered Nails and offering suites where other licensed nail technicians can come and build their clientele, learn ethical business practices, and expand their expertise within the nail community.
The biggest outlook for me is to keep working and growing towards the future. As long as I keep that mindset of creating ahead and staying true to my mission, my business will forever continue to grow.
Pricing:
- Press on nails range from $10-$100
- Grab-N-Go sets range from $10-$25
- $10 Tuesday is only purchased on Tuesdays and is $10
- Custom Nail Orders range from $30-$100 depending on length and if you want all over bling
- Kids Nail Spa Pamper Party $600
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.hammerednails.net
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hammered.nails/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HammeredNailsByIdontea
- Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/hammerednails
Image Credits
All nail photos are copyrighted to Hammered Nails and Idonteá Richardson (owner)
