We’re looking forward to introducing you to Nakesha Hawkins. Check out our conversation below.
Good morning Nakesha, it’s such a great way to kick off the day – I think our readers will love hearing your stories, experiences and about how you think about life and work. Let’s jump right in? What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
I’ve always loved having houseplants, but as a busy boy mom, it was often a challenge to keep them thriving. Now that my sons are older, I’ve been able to start a new collection—and it’s quickly becoming a passion. I’ve found real joy in researching and understanding the unique needs of each plant I bring home. Currently, I have eight and counting, and I can proudly say I’m well on my way to becoming a true plant mom!
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Nakesha, and I’ve been doing nails for 13 years, with 10 of those years being professionally licensed. My journey in the beauty industry began as a teenager when I started doing pedicures. I used to make house calls, showing up with my pedicure soak bowl and a toolbox full of supplies—just eager to provide the best service I could. A friend once encouraged me to consider doing nails full time. I thought about it seriously, and as a mother, the idea of having more freedom to be available for my daughter really spoke to me. So in 2016, I quit my job and stepped out on faith. That decision changed everything and showed me that I could truly build the life I wanted through doing what I love.
I am the founder of LefthandGyrl Nails, a nail brand rooted in quality, creativity, and care. I specialize in acrylic enhancements, pedicures, Gel-X, and nail art—with a strong focus on nail health and proper application. I believe that no matter how beautiful a set is, it only matters if it’s done correctly and safely.
One exciting area I’m currently expanding is my press-on nail business, created for the working woman who loves stylish nails for special occasions or weekends but may not always have time for an in-person appointment. I want my clients to have options that are fun, professional, and convenient—without sacrificing quality.
What I love most about what I do is the connection. I genuinely enjoy getting to know my clients, and I make it a point to uplift and pour into each one of them during their time with me. My goal is always to provide top-tier service while making people feel confident, cared for, and beautiful.
Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. What breaks the bonds between people—and what restores them?
Bonds between people can be broken by things like ill intentions, a lack of communication, and betrayal of trust. However, they can be restored through forgiveness, open and honest communication, truly listening to understand—not just to respond—and most importantly, consistent changed behavior.
When did you stop hiding your pain and start using it as power?
I stopped hiding my pain when I realized there was a purpose behind it—that God was allowing me to go through certain storms to prepare me for the next level of my life. I came to understand that the pain wouldn’t last forever, and that it was actually shaping my resilience, building my character, and strengthening my mindset. That’s when I stopped running from it and started using it as my power.
So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. What would your closest friends say really matters to you?
My closest friends would probably say that what matters most to me is making sure the people I love are okay—physically, emotionally, and even spiritually. I genuinely care that they’re good and well taken care of, and that’s something I pour a lot of myself into.
Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: If you retired tomorrow, what would your customers miss most?
If I were to retire tomorrow, I think my clients would miss the atmosphere I’ve created—the professionalism, the peace, and the consistency. They’d miss being able to get in when they need to, being seen on time, and not having to sit in a loud, unclean, or gossip-filled salon. I’ve always aimed to provide more than just great nails—I’ve built a space where people feel respected and cared for.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://lefthandgyrlnails.as.me/
- Instagram: @lefthandgyrlnails
- Facebook: Lefthandgyrl Nails
