the name // bandboxed

Meaning: look as if one has come out of a bandbox, to look very clean and fresh.

PHILOSOPHY

created for those seeking a more personalized + relaxing nail care experience. crafted from a client’s perspective, where cleanliness and comfort meets style and function.

bio

17 years experience

Licensed Instructor

Salon Owner for 10+ years

Our family migrated here to the United States in 1987 when I was 2 years old. My father fought allied with the Americans in the Vietnam War, helping the US soldiers navigate through the jungle terrain and clearing the “rat tunnels” underground to ensure their safety. His service granted our family priority entrance to the US and we have embraced this country as our own ever since. Having grown up in a family with 5 children, I knew financially that I was going to be solely responsible for college. So the summer before my senior year of high school ended, I decided I would pick up a trade- so I worked as a receptionist at a nail salon. After a brief apprenticeship I then decided to enroll into a nail technology program and acquired my license as a nail specialist. Having been in the industry for a few years I realized that there was a huge disparity in the market. Clients were limited to two options, a strip mall nail salon that offered affordable services and convenience… but had poor sanitation standards or a high end day spa that was incredibly pricey and required booking way in advance. In 2007 my sisters and I opened Polished, a salon we thought would bridge the gap between the two entities. We focused on cleanliness while providing a pleasant atmosphere for our clients that was both relaxing and free of dust and fumes. In the next few years we expanded to 5 locations throughout the Philadelphia and Delaware region.

As the 6th year of running the salon was coming to a close I acquired my instructor’s license and shortly thereafter opened a trade school. However in 2015 I decided to move south as the winters became unbearably cold. I have lived here for over 5 years now and I cannot imagine living anywhere else. Although a bit on the smaller side compared to goliath metropolitans such as New York and Los Angeles, Sarasota encompasses some valuable big city offerings. We are so fortunate to have many generous residents who continuously invest in our art community, with events and high caliber broadway shows all at our disposal. In addition, the countless amazing restaurants and diverse cuisine all throughout the city, and last but not least, being a stone’s throw from one of the country’s most beautiful beaches. Sarasota is such a special gem, it is no surprise why many travel from all over the world to visit our special little town.

Why a salon loft?

As I am approaching my 18th year (and having experienced every role imaginable) in our industry… I am finding that I am at my happiest when sitting across from a client. I love educating clients on ways to keep their nails healthy and tips on how to maintain a lasting manicure.

A salon loft allows me the flexibility of doing what I love most, but it also allows me to have a better work/life balance. I believe strongly in quality + consistency and this setting gives me the ability to focus solely on the client. My sisters and I are also in the process of developing a nail polish line and it is an exciting project that we are working on and hope to launch in the next year.

Personal Tidbit:

During my free time I love to read, travel, attend concerts and sporting events.