Meet Genevieve Henriquez | Owner & Lead Instructor

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

Hi Genevieve, is your business focused on helping the community? If so, how?
At Tha Nail Artistry Academy, we empower students especially young adults, to build real careers in the beauty industry. We don’t just teach nails; we teach business, confidence, and leadership.
Our programs create job opportunities, support small business growth, and provide affordable access through scholarships, mentorship, and flexible training. When our students succeed, the whole community benefits.

What should our readers know about your business?
Tha Nail Artistry Academy is a licensed Texas nail school that goes far beyond preparing students to pass the state board exams. We specialize in teaching both advanced nail techniques and business development because knowing how to do nails is only part of building a successful career. What sets us apart is our lifelong mentorship, small class sizes, and the personal attention we give each student to ensure they leave confident, skilled, and ready to earn.

I knew from early on in my nail career that I wanted to be more than just a nail tech. I wanted to be a business owner, but I lacked guidance, and there was no mentor or business class that could teach me what I’ve now learned through experience. That gap is what inspired me to create something better. I sold my salon, built the academy from the ground up, and poured everything I had into creating a space that truly prepares students for success.

The biggest lesson I’ve learned is that growth requires faith, sacrifice, and grit. There were setbacks, financial challenges, delays, and self-doubt but I kept going because I believed in the impact this school could make. I want the world to know this isn’t just a school, it’s a movement. We’re changing the industry at the root by raising the standard of education and showing students that they can build a profitable career with real skill, real knowledge, and real support.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend was visiting for a week, I’d plan the perfect mix of food, fun, creativity, and self-care. We’d start the trip with dinner at my favorite spot, Fogo de Chão, for endless Brazilian steak and that iconic salad bar, followed by drinks at High & Dry Rooftop Bar to kick off the week with a view. The next day, we’d explore Houston’s nature and science side with a visit to the Cockrell Butterfly Center and the lush plant exhibits at the Houston Museum of Natural Science, followed by a delicious bowl of authentic ramen at Yokohamaya, one of my go-to spots for comforting, flavorful bowls. After lunch, we’d stroll through local plant shops like The Flora Culture or Heights Plant Co. because I never pass up a chance to add a new plant to the collection. Dinner would be seafood at Pappadeaux’s, where the Cajun flavors always hit the spot.

Midweek would be for creativity and good vibes. We’d brunch at First Watch, then unwind at a fun Paint & Sip event wine, painting, and laughter make for the perfect afternoon. For dinner, we’d go to Hidilao Hot Pot for an interactive and flavorful hot pot experience. The next day would be all about relaxation, starting with a full day at Gangnam Spa, where we could soak, steam, and recharge. I’d then bring my friend to Tha Nail Artistry Academy to get their nails done or experience a little beauty glow-up. We’d finish the day with some shopping at The Galleria, followed by dinner at Texas de Brazil, because more steak is always a good idea.

We’d take a day trip to Galveston or Kemah to enjoy the water, walk the boardwalk, and grab some drinks with ocean views. After heading back to the city, we’d keep it casual with dinner at Tacos del Julio. Toward the end of the trip, we’d check out the Museum of Fine Arts, then spend some time at Post Houston exploring the food hall and rooftop garden before dining at Nobu for a high-end sushi experience. We’d end the night with music or cocktails in Midtown, a great way to experience Houston’s nightlife. On the final day, we’d enjoy a relaxing brunch at First Watch, and if time allows, take a walk through Buffalo Bayou Park to wind down the trip before heading to the airport. It would be a week filled with great memories, delicious food, and plenty of self-care.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I’d like to dedicate my shoutout to my grandmother. She gave me stability, unconditional love, and a sense of worth during a time in my life when I truly needed it most. Her influence shaped the way I show up for others today.
I also want to recognize my husband, he’s been my biggest supporter from the start, believing in my vision even when I doubted myself. And of course, my students and family of clients, past and present, who’ve trusted me, pushed me to grow, and reminded me why I do what I do. They’re the reason I keep going.

Website: https://thanailartistry.com

Instagram: https://instagram.com/thanailartistryacademy

Facebook: https://facebook.com/thanailartistryacademy

Image Credits
AM Photography