Today we’d like to introduce you to Kayla Watson.
Hi Kayla, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today.
Growing up, my parents always modeled a successful life. My dad had his own business, and my mother also worked hard at her job. When I hit about 7th grade, my whole world was flipped upside down. My parents lost their jobs and became addicted to drugs. My only sibling followed the same path.
We all became homeless. I remember being very confused, going from a good life to nothing. We lived in a camper in front of an old lady’s house, and I decided that just wasn’t going to cut it for me. I have always loved nails. It started with me being in the 1st grade and asking my parents if they would take me to the nail salon. I even had a bucket of every nail polish color you could think of, at home. I would always ask to paint my cousins or friend’s nails when they would come to my house.
At one point, I glued those white plastic tips on my nails, and proceeded to use like 18 layers of regular polish clear coat… yes those popped off! Back to how I got into nails.. life was hard losing everything at such a young age. I had to grow up and take care of myself so fast, and I knew that I absolutely could not go down the same path as my parents or sibling did.
I’ve always been very independent and a hard worker. Fast forward to 21-year-old me (4 years ago), I was working at a desk job that I hated. Collections are not my forte. I was consistently getting my nails done at the local nail salon. One day, I just looked down at my hands while working, and had an ah-hah moment. I wanted to do nails.
I researched and toured schools and shortly after I started my journey. I worked so hard and never looked back. I am so proud of myself and thankful every single day that I was able to choose a better life for myself.
Can you talk to us about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back, would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
My biggest struggle and or obstacle would be that I was struggling mentally.
It seems easier to do things when you have a support system, and I pretty much had myself. Another struggle, nail related, I worked a full-time job 8-5 pm and school was 5:30-10 pm, even on Saturdays. I was so exhausted but I knew it would be worth it in the end.
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?
I am a full-time licensed nail technician. I specialize in natural nails, using a soft gel overlay to help the natural nail grow. I am known for my intricate hand-painted nail art- especially my characters.
I’m most proud of my clients coming to me and wanting something I haven’t done before, and me being able to do it, if not better than the inspiration. What sets me apart from others would be my ability to do cool art and have a solid foundation, but also finish my nails in a decent amount of time.
I’m pretty quick.
Can you tell us more about what you were like growing up?
Growing up, I was very shy and exclusive. I did have friends, but not very many. I mostly just did my own thing. My interests were mostly art, roller skating, and photography. I also enjoyed writing.
Pricing:
- Base price $65
- Hand-painted art is $1-$10 per finger
- Gel toes- dry pedicure $50
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katers.nails/
Image Credits
Headshot – Alex VanDrimmelen and Nails – Kayla Watson
