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

Hi Leti, what’s something about your industry that outsiders are probably unaware of?
One thing that outsiders are unaware of is MMA. MMA is known as a liquid monomer. It is, what is mixed with acrylic to create an enhancement. It is an ingredient used in many local nail shops. This monomer that contains MMA is illegal and yet it is commonly used in acrylic nail services. Clients do not know the risk in having this product on your nails. It damages the nail plate, causes allergic reactions and ultimately can cause nail plates to fall off. It is one of the most common things private nail techs deal with. Clients rarely know what this is and understand that cheap sometimes isn’t the best!

What should our readers know about your business?
Becoming a nail tech has been one of the most difficult and rewarding things I have done in my life. I never knew I wanted to do nails. I had a background in health and wellness and was a personal trainer at the time. I remember sitting in a chair getting my nails done and thinking I think I can do that. I didn’t hesitate bought myself a kit and started practicing. Little did I know I would fall in love with this art! It wasn’t easy I was a single mom with two kids and living on child support and alimony. I could barely afford rent and had access at the time. I felt so insecure and ashamed when I started. I doubted myself so much. I struggled to say I’m a nail tech because I felt like how can doing what you love be a career. I heard the doubt in others and I allowed doubt to get in my way. I had 2 kids at the time. My son was in school and my daughter in daycare and preschool. I remember the sacrifices it took to get where I am today. I had to attend school 5 days a week 9-5pm. I had so much support from my husband. He was my boyfriend at the time and would volunteer to take care of my kids for 1-3hrs to finish school faster. I think as a mother putting yourself first is so challenging. I sacrificed time without my kids and moments to give them a better future. Standing here and seeing how far I have come is so admirable. I have was a single mother going through a divorce. I went from not being able to afford rent and food to being able to buy my own car and now buy a house. I thank Jesus for giving me the strength to keep going. Lord only knows how many days I cried and stressed about not being able to pay rent. I think it’s amazing what one can accomplish when you challenge yourself. When you keep going and have faith.. I’ve learned that it is okay to fail. Failure is the key to success and achieving many great things. I want the world to know that anything you set your mind to can be accomplished even in moments when it feels like it’s impossible. If I did it so can you! My brand is simply that making woman feel empowered and beautiful. It’s not only getting nails done it’s sitting down and creating relationships, experiences and great ideas together.

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?
One of my favorite places to visit is Sedona. You can never go wrong with nature! Nature is what fuels my body and gives me piece of mind. Sedona is just so relaxing to get away from stress and reset. You start from going to all the beautiful stores with hand made things to eating exquisite dishes in some beautiful resorts and restaurants. There’s nothing more beautiful than shopping outdoors and seeing the red rocks. Definitely a beautiful place to get away from social media and the world.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My family deserves most of the credit. My husband has been my biggest support. Having to work long hours and take care of kids right after has given me the opportunity to grow within my career. I was able to really take on more clients and practice learn and grow. My family has always supported me and cheered me on even in the hardest times when I’m ready to give up. They are my rock.

Website: https://book.squareup.com/appointments/hr3tt2ykpip9xd/location/LSCT0DS00KXMY/services

Instagram: Goddessnails.leti

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