The Local Rag brings you a space to introduce new business start ups in Whaingaroa. We talk to locals about launching their businesses, their ideas, achievements and challenges. This month we talked to former RAS student Emily Wiki who is nailing it with her Raglan manicure/pedicure salon.
Can you describe your business and what you offer?
RaglanNails nail-salon offers a wide range of manicure/pedicure treatments and strives to provide a relaxing experience and awesome nails!
Tell us about how you came up with the idea?
Growing up I always had a passion for nails. I would paint a different nail designs everyday and show my all classmates and teachers how extremely cool they were. Sometimes I’d paint animals like cats and cows, sunsets, galaxy’s, flowers, butterflies, anything my imagination could think up and it was such a great creative outlet. At some point I realized that’s what I wanted to pursue as a career. There was also a gap in the market at the time since Raglan had no nail salons/technicians.
What steps were involved to set up the business in Raglan?
I was pretty clueless and naive at 17 years old when I first left school and took a step into real world. I had an idea of the business I wanted to create but no idea how to achieve it. Luckily though, my family comes from a business background and I was able to rely on them for help and support. I first started with getting qualified in my field, finding a local premises to work from, purchasing product and furniture for the salon and then from there it was practice, practice, practice.
What are the parts of the business that are working really well ?
I am so blessed to have such a strong local regular clientele that can keep me busy throughout the quiet season. I know that winter can be such a brutal time for Raglan businesses so I’m thankful for each one of my clients who continue to support me.
No business is without it’s challenges but it’s all learning isn’t it. What are the challenges for you that you need to work through?
For me covid was definitely a huge hurdle, it was hard navigating all the changing rules and regulations with lockdowns and client vaccine mandates. Currently things like inflation and costs of products rising would be the main challenge.
You grew up in Whaingaroa and went to RAS. What makes you want to stay and start a business here?
I think Raglan is a really special place. It’s close to the beach, close to family and friends and has a great small town community vibe. For me the choice to stay here was easy.
What are your aspirations for the business moving forward ?
Always striving to make my product better and keeping my clients happy would be the main goal. In the future I’d like to expand the business.
What other fun and creative things do you get up to in the community?
I like catching up with family, walking my little dog along the beach and township, cafe hopping. I also love music and singing so sometimes you’ll find me busking outside the local supermarket in the summer (if I have time of course)
Do you have a life hack to share or words of advice from someone that you play in your mind to give you motivation or inspiration?
I always tell myself to take risks to find reward, stay positive and always follow your dreams!
This content was made possible thanks to sponsorship from Bizworx Consultancy Ltd.
