Today we’d like to introduce you to Cristina Castro
Hi Cristina, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
My name is Cristina Castro, and I am proud to call Springville, Utah, my home, where I live with my husband and our four wonderful children. As the owner of Whisky Business and Desserts and a licensed nail technician in Utah, I have embarked on a fulfilling journey under the brand Nailchef.Cristina at Polished Looks Nail Salon.
My venture into the nail industry began with the inspiring requests of my daughters, Lilly and Anna, who wished for their nails to be beautifully painted. With a background as a dedicated pastry chef, I immersed myself in their imaginative designs, applying meticulous attention to detail. The countless hours spent perfecting their nails, particularly on intricate, multicolored designs, ignited a spark in me to explore a more efficient approach to nail artistry.
Driven by my passion for learning and culinary expertise, I was committed to delving into the nail industry and expanding my boundaries. After weeks of diligent research, I pursued the best educational opportunities to enhance my understanding of nail technology. Upon evaluating several local schools, I realized they did not meet my educational needs or align with my vision of efficiency.
As a devoted mother, wife, and entrepreneur managing my baking business, I sought a program that would harmonize with my busy lifestyle while allowing me to fulfill my aspirations. My discovery of Polished Looks Nail Salon, which also operates as an academy, filled me with excitement. The application process and interview revealed Melissa Hendrickson, the academy’s owner, had a genuine interest in my passion for learning about the nail industry. I became her apprentice in September 2023, marking the beginning of my transformative journey. Throughout my apprenticeship, I sought a name that would encompass both my pastry background and my new identity as a nail technician; thus, Nailchef.Cristina was born, reflecting my commitment to precision in every endeavor. I proudly obtained my professional license in March 2024.
Melissa has been an exceptional mentor and instructor, embodying dedication to her craft and inspiring others to excel in nail services. I am immensely grateful for the opportunity to secure a booth rental immediately after my apprenticeship. The salon’s extraordinary atmosphere, characterized by unity and professionalism among team members, fosters inspiration. I wholeheartedly encourage anyone seeking to pursue this path to consider the apprenticeship program, as it offers an invaluable educational experience with the essential tools and resources needed to forge a successful career.
I love helping women feel beautiful even if it is one nail at a time. I invite you to visit me at the salon on Fridays from 9 AM to 8 PM and Saturdays from 8 AM to 8 PM.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
This journey has been very smooth for me. My background in pastry and my meticulous attention to detail have been great assets as I learn about nails, as the processes in both fields are quite similar. Finding an educator with years of experience and a passion for teaching has been invaluable in helping me succeed in this industry. I firmly believe that if you want something, you must pursue it relentlessly and not give up, even when faced with challenges, because starting something new can be difficult. Throughout my experiences, I have learned that failure is essential for success; it shapes us and motivates us to improve, ultimately helping us become the professionals we aspire to be.
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 specialize in natural nails and dry pedicures, driven by a passion for detail during nail preparation and the use of high-quality products. My meticulous approach ensures that nail products lay beautifully over the natural nail. I find joy in helping clients restore their toes to a healthy state, showcasing the beauty that lies in caring for oneself. With various certifications to back my commitment, I strive to empower my clients to feel and look their best!
Any big plans?
I am dedicated to growing my skills and helping my clients look and feel their best while staying informed about the latest and safest products in the industry. Though my dream is to run my very own salon in the future, I understand that every step I take now is vital. For now, I will embrace the journey of learning and growth, striving to serve my clients with excellence and inspire others in the nail industry.
Pricing:
- Polish $35 Basic & Gel Polish $40
- Structure Gel Polish $46
- Hard Gel Full set (Length Added) $60
- AcreGel Full Set (Length Added) $60
- Hot Towel Pedi w/Polish $42 & w/gel $62
Contact Info:
- Website: https://polishedlooksnailsalon.com/our-staff
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nailchef.cristina
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61557452423499
- Other: https://l.instagram.com/?u=https%3A%2F%2Fbooking.mangomint.com%2F627726%3FstaffId%3D47%26fbclid%3DPAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaZyfxe55W2xnUvfLA7gorrnqftAQ8HFUtY5JGHBUSWMHkr7ETXefilC9uw_aem_4kLWfakPNfmFuMhF6RoONQ&e=AT2XVTchBWNQgdWZvPmcn5hORNKKEF84H_XW9qINFaWASzeovz5CGS9hQmPrCQfDARlPPSCXJolXuo7rG528urPjFfNnFjjd7ziGz4npRsFoHRJAwXnYNA
