Meet Tonia Thomas | Shyneeknobs Vegan Nail Polish

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

Hi Tonia, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
Starting my own business was a decision driven by a combination of passion, opportunity, and the desire for independence. I was deeply motivated by a vision to bring awareness to women and girls to not only love themselves again but to find the one person they needed the most and that is themselves. I saw a gap I had identified and I saw firsthand the limitations and unmet needs that larger companies often overlooked and that was not to only sell nail polish but to identify each color with a purpose. I conducted thorough research, sought advice from the only mentor in my life (God) and meticulously planned every detail to ensure I was prepared for the challenges ahead no matter what.

What should our readers know about your business?
Shyneeknobs Vegan Nail Polish was created with a profound mission at its heart: to inspire women and girls to love themselves again. In a world where beauty standards often feel unattainable and self-worth can be overshadowed by external pressures, Shyneeknobs aims to be a beacon of positivity and self-empowerment. Founded by a team passionate about both beauty and ethics, Shyneeknobs Vegan Nail Polish is a testament to the belief that self-care should be both indulgent and guilt-free.

This approach not only caters to those who are environmentally conscious but also encourages a broader audience to think about the impact of their beauty choices. Knowing that their nail polish is ethically produced allows women and girls to feel good about their purchase and, by extension, about themselves.

I am proud of Shyneeknobs for showing herself love first that allows her (me) to be more authentic and genuine in everyday interactions with others. It enables us to give and receive love from a place of abundance rather than scarcity. When you love yourself, you are less likely to settle for less than you deserve and more likely to walk away from situations and people that do not honor or respect you. This creates room for healthier, more meaningful relationships that are based on mutual respect and admiration. I am where I am today because I never gave up, yes…it took 2 years to get Shyneeknobs running but I never gave up.

Easy, nothing is easy especially when you walk with God, there are everyday situations that come up good or bad and you have to decide is what I am doing worth the pain and aggravation, for me Yes it was and still is. The biggest lesson I learned along the way is to not compare myself or my business with others because it will take you away from your purpose that God has given you.

Lastly, Shyneeknobs wants every woman and girl to know that self-love is a journey, not a destination. It requires continuous effort, self-reflection, and growth. There will be days when self-doubt and insecurity may creep in, but these moments do not define your worth. Surround yourself with positive influences, engage in activities that bring you joy, and practice self-compassion. Remember, loving yourself first is the greatest gift you can give to yourself and the world around you.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Well, first of all I am a homebody a simple person with little to no friends. I love being at home having a peaceful atmosphere, however, if I had a best friend we would have breakfast at home, next do some shopping at Cumberland Mall and have lunch while there. Next do some more shopping but not all in one day. Dinner head on down to Cava down on Crater Lake Dr, in Kennesaw and then home to listen to some music R&B or Oldies and talk. Next just do and go where she would like .

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I would love to shout out God first for not only giving me this amazing gift but showing and walking with me through every step. I also want to shout out my husband Eugene Thomas for allowing me a shoulder to cry on , a ear to listen, a hug when needed, and everyday encouragement to help the day go better.

Website: https://WWW.SHYNEEKNOBS.COM

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shyneeknobs

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shyneeknobs

Image Credits
Milpa Martinez IG @internnails for swatching my nail polish and photos