Meet Jamika Phillips | Founder & Owner of Shades The Nail Bar

We had the good fortune of connecting with Jamika Phillips and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jamika, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
“When you look good, you feel good.” That belief was the spark that ignited my journey to open Shades the Nail Bar.

After spending what felt like centuries in the world of Computer Science, trudging up the corporate ladder at IBM, I started feeling the itch for something different. While still juggling the demands of a full-time job, I decided to take a leap of faith. I completed a 600-hour course to obtain my manicurist license, fueled by a desire to create a space where beauty and confidence intersected with personal connection. The dream of owning a spa or nail salon had always been quietly nestled in my heart.

Then 2020 hit with its curveballs, and like many others, I found myself laid off from my corporate job. It was a jolt, especially during the chaos of the pandemic. But suddenly, a lightbulb came on. After some heart-to-heart conversations with my husband, we realized this was a divine nudge – a sign too significant to ignore. God had forced my path in a way that I didn’t have the courage to do myself. It was time to bet on me!

With newfound determination and unshakeable faith in my dreams, I set out to bring to life all of the salon ideas that had been in my head for so many years. It was a gutsy move, leaving the cushy corporate safety net behind to dive into the wild ride of entrepreneurship.

Looking back now, I realize it was never just about starting a business. It was a journey of self-discovery, faith, and the rock-solid belief that following your heart can lead you to extraordinary places.

Today, when I see clients leave with a smile, feeling a little more beautiful and confident, I know deep in my soul that this is exactly where I’m meant to be. My salon isn’t just a place for nails; it’s a sanctuary for self-care and empowerment. It stands as a reminder that sometimes the biggest leaps of faith lead to the most incredible adventures.

I also take immense pride in the fact that we’ve created a special place within an industry where the African American community is often underrepresented. This journey has been about breaking barriers, paving the way for inclusivity, and embracing the diverse beauty that surrounds us.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My professional journey began in the world of software engineering, where I spent over two decades at IBM. During those years, I learned invaluable skills in project planning and management, leading diverse teams to success. Little did I know that these skills would become the backbone of my entrepreneurial journey. When the idea for Shades The Nail Bar came to life, I approached it with the same meticulous planning and execution that I had honed over the years.

The launch of Shades The Nail Bar was far from smooth sailing. One of the biggest challenges was finding the right vendors and service providers who aligned with my vision. Trusting their expertise and guidance was essential in moving the mission forward. And even now, challenges continue to come our way, each one teaching me a valuable lessons and pushing me to grow.

Through it all, I’ve learned some key lessons. Customer service is at the heart of everything we do, and we strive to make every client feel valued and cared for. Keeping detailed financial records has been crucial in maintaining stability and growth. And above all, maintaining unwavering faith in our vision and assembling a strong, passionate team has been the secret to our success.

While perfection may be an elusive goal, our commitment to educating our clients about nail health and providing top-notch services remains steadfast. We’re not just about nails; we’re about empowering our clients to feel confident and beautiful in their own skin.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Houston is such a large and diverse city with so much culture and amazing food and entertainment to enjoy. As a self-proclaimed foodie, my Houston adventure would kick off with a dive into some of my top restaurant picks:

The Pit Room – Tasty BBQ

Fins & Feathers – Amazing Comfort Food

Gus Fried Chicken – Flavorful Hot & Spicy Fried Chicken

Hillstone Restaurant (Formerly Houston’s) – They just always get it right!

Urban Social/Smoke – Good Cocktails and Music

Shades The Nail Bar – Relax for an amazing manicure and pedicure (Yes, I might be a bit biased!)

Depending on the time of year, the Rodeo or catch a Rockets, Astros, or Texans game.

With these beloved spots in mind, my journey through Houston would be a diverse and fulfilling experience, celebrating the city’s rich culinary landscape and vibrant social scene.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
First and foremost, I owe an immense debt of gratitude to my husband and children. This venture has no doubt been a sacrifice for them, as well. There were countless late nights brainstorming ideas and moments of doubt that were met with reassurance – not to mention the missed family dinners and soccer games. Their unwavering love, support, and belief in my vision were the driving forces behind bringing STNB to life. They continue to be my rock throughout this entire journey.

Next, I would like to dedicate a heartfelt shoutout to one of my mentors, LeeVera Smith, who serves as a Business Advisor at the Small Business Development Center (SBDC). LeeVera’sguidance and expertise were instrumental in helping me develop the business plan that laid the foundation for Shades The Nail Bar. Her support and encouragement during the initial stages were invaluable, and I am forever grateful for her mentorship. The resources and guidance provided by the SBDC to aspiring entrepreneurs are truly remarkable. Through workshops, seminars, and one-on-one consultations, the SBDC equips individuals with the tools and knowledge necessary to navigate the complex world of entrepreneurship.

Additionally, I want to recognize and thank my circle of close girlfriends. Their constant motivation, feedback, and encouragement helped shape the vision of Shades The Nail Bar into a reality. Whether it was proofreading my website, organizing polish and supplies, or just talking me off the ledge when I felt I couldn’t keep going, their support has been priceless.

Website: https://shadesthenailbar.com/

Instagram: instagram.com/shadesthenailbar

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shadesthenailbar/

Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/shades-the-nail-bar-missouri-city

Image Credits
For photos – https://www.instagram.com/soa.digital.imaging/