Today we’d like to introduce you to Sara Wheaton.
Hi Sara, 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?
When I decided to open my own nail salon, it wasn’t because I’d always dreamed of a career in the beauty industry. It was born out of frustration. For years, I struggled to find a salon that offered consistent, high-quality service, so I ended up doing my own nails at home. My journey took an unexpected turn after being fired from my bar management job, which became the push I needed to fully commit to a new path. I enrolled in nail school just a month later.
Finding the right space was a challenge, due to the usual strong odors and plumbing issues that plague traditional salons. This led me to create something truly unique: the first gel-only nail salon in Missouri. In the future, we’ll expand to offer waterless pedicures, another service that is rarely found here. My mission is twofold: to provide every client with the same consistent, exceptional service, no matter who their nail technician is, and to create a supportive, drama-free environment for my team. I want this salon to be a place where nail technicians can earn a real, livable wage, build a secure future, and have a clear path for professional growth.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Finding the perfect location for my salon was the first major challenge. I quickly learned that traditional salon spaces came with their own set of issues, from specific odors to the need for extensive plumbing. This challenge, however, led to a key innovation: I made the deliberate decision to become a gel-only nail salon. This move not only solved the physical space problem but also gave my business a unique identity in the market.
Once I had a space, the next obstacle was figuring out how to charge a sustainable price for my services. I had a waitlist of over 40 people, but I was worried I was undercharging and not building a business that could truly support me. I made the difficult decision to increase my prices by about 30%. I lost roughly a third of my clients, but my waitlist saved me. Within a month, my books were full again.
With a full client list and a growing waitlist, I knew it was time to expand. I moved to a bigger space and hired my first employee. This was the biggest hurdle I’d faced yet. In the beginning, I was just grateful for anyone who wanted to work with me. I quickly learned a difficult but valuable lesson: you have to hire for your business’s culture and core values. Hiring the wrong people can have a huge negative impact on a small business, and I’ve seen it firsthand. At the same time, finding the right team members has been the most rewarding part of this journey.
We’ve been impressed with Vibe Nail Studio, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
While consistent service for our clients is our top priority, creating the right environment for our team is equally important. The beauty industry is often known for its drama and gossip, and we have a zero-tolerance policy for it. Our culture is built on mutual respect and support, allowing everyone to focus on their craft.
My role here is to be more than just a boss. My goal is to be a mentor who truly invests in the growth and success of each team member. I want to see our nail technicians build a stable, fulfilling life for themselves. This means ensuring they can earn a livable wage doing what they love, achieve a genuine work-life balance, and have a clear, intentional path for growth within the salon. It’s my greatest reward to watch them not just succeed in their careers but also build a life they’re proud of—whether that’s buying a home, starting a family, or simply enjoying the stability they’ve worked for.
Where we are in life is often partly because of others. Who/what else deserves credit for how your story turned out?
A key part of my business’s success can be credited to the incredible support system of female entrepreneurs who have guided and inspired me.
My journey began with Ellen Watkins of Ellevate Skin + Brows. She was the first to sublease me space and encouraged me to start Vibe Nail Studio, even helping me come up with the name.
Another great inspiration is Megan Culbertson of Megan’s Yoga Tribe, a true pillar of the Lee’s Summit community. Her support has been invaluable.
I also have to thank Natalie Fieleke of Cornerstone Dermatology, who was the very first influencer I partnered with to promote my nail services.
My first business coach, Shonna Dexter, who owns two retail spray tan studios called Recreating Rays, taught me to be intentional in every decision I make.
For my finances, I rely on my accountant, Sarah Hays of Financial Life Booking. She truly understands the struggles of a small business owner and has always made me feel comfortable asking any question.
The beautiful and functional design of my salon is thanks to my interior designer, Nicole Henson of KC Interior & Co., who meticulously sourced all the furniture and created a layout I would never have thought of on my own.
Finally, a huge thank you to my real estate agent, Kassie Murphy, who is currently helping me find the perfect location for my next chapter.
Each of these women has played a crucial role in my success and has helped me turn my vision into a reality.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.vibenailstudio.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vibenailstudiokc/?hl=en
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61561466794139
