Meet Mona Patterson | Certified Advanced Nail Technician/ Master Pedicurist

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

Hi Mona, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
I saw a need for a under-served population. Prior to opening my own nail care facility, I worked for your average run-of-the-mill nail salon. day in and day out all I ever heard was pick your color that was the only concern of the owners and employees. I also saw the blatant mistreatment of those who had certain foot conditions as well as the uncleanliness. What was sad to me was that many people felt as though they had no other alternative but to visit these types of establishments. I wanted a place that would be welcoming to all

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
There are several things that make me unique. One would definitely be my personality. I have a genuine love for people. I once received an email asking if my services were transgender-friendly. My response was I am kind to each and every person that walks through the doors of Sweet Feet Foot Care.

Another thing that makes me unique is the fact that I serve a population that I am a part of. While my services are for anyone who may have foot issues and are looking for clean, safe and effective pedicure treatments I cater to diabetics, being a diabetic myself I can relate to the issues of most of my clients. When you come to Sweet Feet you are not just getting a pedicure. My focus is the overall health of my clients I discuss with my clients the benefits of healthy eating and diet and exercise. I make sure to convey to my clients that I am here to help by giving simple and easy to understand education about their feet

I am most proud and excited when my clients achieve real results. like for instance, one common issue clients seek to treat are discolored toenails. It is amazing to see the client’s face after the very first treatment and their toes are lighter.

Education was the key for me to get to where I am. When I found out that the US did not offer the type of education I wanted I sought out the education of the Canadians. Yes, my education comes from Canada. Canada offered me the know-how to offer my clients natural alternatives to foot care.

What’s the phrase if it was easy everyone would do it! We have to realize what our strengths are and what are our weaknesses. Work on the weaknesses and don’t be afraid to ask for help.

There have been so many lessons I’ve learned. First, have a plan that’s vital. Be patient you cant do it all in a day. being an older person in this new tech generation I would definitely advise older entrepreneurs to listen to the young people they have great ideas.

I would want people who need help to know that Sweet Feet Foot Care is here to listen to your concerns and offer the specific help that you need.

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.
So all of my friends who know me know me will tell you I’m a foodie all day. I love trying new foods but don’t get it twisted I can throw down in the kitchen too. South Carolina is known for its seafood and one of my favorite places to get fresh seafood is Palmetto Seafood a staple here in Columbia. The next day we would definitely take a trip to Charleston. When I’m not cooking my own seafood there is nothing like a hot fish sandwich and for that, I head straight to Mr. Seafood. When I’m craving something other than seafood I’m definitely heading to A peace of Soul for the best collars in the world. That’s enough about food but i do want to add since Covid I’ve jumped on the mobile food truck ban wagon and would like to shout out Fishing Fellas. I am a huge history buff and a visit to the Richland County library is underrated. They have an entire floor dedicated to ancestry research that should not be passed up.

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 really like to thank my family for always being willing to jump in and help me. A huge shout out to Jessica Boyd and to Ms. Cheryl Salley and her staff at Benedict College- Women’s Business Center for all of there help.

Website: sweetfeetcare.com

Instagram: sweetfeetsc

Facebook: Sweet Feet Footcare

Other: email: mpatterson@sweetfeetcare.com