Today we’d like to introduce you to Keelan Ramos.
Hi Keelan, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
It’s been one year since I started my journey of becoming a nail tech! I can’t believe how fast it has gone by, and that I actually made it happen. It started off as just a thought or a “maybe I’ll try it out”. My friends and family kept telling me to do it, so I did! I have completely surprised myself by what I have been creating. I’ve done nails for musicians at festivals, for queens during pride month, for best friends, for strangers, for so many beautiful people. I put myself out there in hopes it would pay off. Not only has my art shifted and improved, but so has my confidence.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Before I started doing nails, I worked as a manager at a construction company for 3 years. The first week I started my apprenticeship, I was laid off unexpectedly. Which meant I had just invested thousands of dollars into becoming a nail tech and I had no additional source of income. I decided that I would commit to doing nails full-time, which was going to be a huge risk considering I had no financial security, no clientele, and no experience. I sold some of my things and worked for whoever, whenever I could so that I could pay off my apprenticeship. This has been the hardest and most validating year of my adult life. My clients don’t know how much they’ve helped me get through this last year. They’re the validation for me in all of this! I would’ve given up forever ago if I didn’t have the support I do.
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?
Currently, I work with only gel products. Long nails, short nails, all sizes in between! I specialize in hand painted, detailed nail art. I am still learning so much about my potential. There is no limit to what can be done on nails. Truly, it’s overwhelming at times. I love to experiment with layering and I try to create original designs. Something you don’t typically see on Pinterest or Instagram. I’m really proud of myself for finding confidence in something and being able to say “I’m good at my job”. The nail industry is dense, there’s a lot of us. But, what sets me apart is that I am me, not just someone’s nail tech. I have my own uniqueness in my art, in my relationships with my clients, and in my ability to make them feel safe and comfortable.
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
As an introvert, networking is my nightmare. So, find someone you trust in the industry to introduce you to it. I was lucky enough to have several friends who guided me into this and it worked out very well for me, I know that’s not always the case. Apprenticeships can be a gamble in any trade. Before moving quickly into it; do your research, ask so many questions, interview as many people as you can, and explore your options! I am more than happy to recommend my mentor if she decides to take on more students.
Pricing:
- Gel Manicures range from $60-$80 depending on the art and desired length
- Gel Extensions range from $65-$95 depending on the art and desires length
Contact Info:
- Website: https://tigerseyenails.glossgenius.com/
- Instagram: @tigerseyenails
