Meet Shanae Davis | Trade School and Nail Salon Owner

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

Hi Shanae, how do you think about risk?
Risk taking with regard to business is a must in my opinion. I believe playing it safe at all times in business will hinder your growth as a business entity. The way I see it, risk equates to opportunity. This doesn’t mean that I’m willing to take every risk that presents itself to get ahead. There is a difference between positive and negative risks. One positive risk I’ve taken to propel my business, was leaving a full time job, with good pay and benefits to start my business. This was a positive risk for me. It allowed me the necessary time and room I needed to build the foundation and get the business off the ground. Others may perceive leaving your job as a negative risk because of the assumed drastic change in finances and daily dynamic. The key to risk taking is having your plan a, b, and c! You should never blindly take a risk without having a plan should that risk fail you. I’m big on risk taking and I can honestly say I enjoy it. It was had may positive effects on my life and career thus far.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Cotton Candi Colors as many people know started as a nail salon in the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic. We are now recognized as Cotton Candi Colors University. An up and coming trade school in the Brooklyn area. What sets us apart from our competitors is the resilience and the story behind the company. Cotton Candi Colors has went through so many changes and has faced so much adversity, that its is truly a only a blessing from heaven that we’ve been able to pivot in such a major way. I am super proud and excited about opening the doors of the school later this year.

I got to where I am business-wise by understanding that it is pertinent to make lemonade when life gives you lemons. I’m a problem solver by nature. I will always find a solution. Many times that involves a risk that needs to be taken and a plan for security. It has not been easy at all, nothing in life is. I overcome my challenges by ensuring that the lord is my foundation, praying, and continually seeking refuge and guidance in him and his word. This is a major lesson I’ve learned along the way. As well as putting in hard work, long hours, and doing all things with fidelity. What I’d like the world to know about Cotton Candi Colors is that we are here by god’s grace. We are here to help, teach, and produce.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I’m a very simple person. I take joy in the little things so when friends visit me we have to have brunch at “Peaches” on Lewis avenue in Brooklyn. Spend a couple hours in the spa getting body scrubs and a detox massage. We’d definitely have to do dinner at “The Door” or “Salsa Con Fuego”. Then end off the visit with a movie at “IPIC” and a few rounds at “Top Golf” or “Bowl 360”. If I have extensive time we’d definitely catch a weekend flight to Charlotte Amalie, V.I. for some fresh fish by the beach.

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’d like to dedicate my shout out to the lord in heaven and my daughter Denae. The lord is my provider. Many times people see all that I have and the things I’ve accomplished and are convinced that it was my sole doing. That’s false prayer without works is dead. I do my part “works” and the lord carries me through daily. He fights the battles that are unseen and fellowships with me continually to keep me afloat. My daughter Denae is my motivation and my best friend. She’s kind, loving, supportive, and super smart. I’d also like to shout out my faithful clients who has been with me through the transition of the company. I truly appreciate you guys!

Website: www.cottoncandiu.org

Instagram: CottonCandiColorsUniversity

Yelp: Cotton Candi Colors

Image Credits
Cotton Candi Colors LLC.