We had the good fortune of connecting with Shannon Roberson and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Shannon, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
Since I was a little girl, I could always draw. I was very creative. I would spend hours coloring in coloring books and drawing pictures. I always loved to express myself through art. However, I was discouraged at the thought of possibly not making any money as an artist. I always strived to be my own boss. I just didn’t know how or what to do to make that happen. I loved Art so much that I started college as an art major. I wanted to be a graphic designer but I felt as if I didn’t fit in with the art students. As a result, I changed my major to Psychology. I use to pray everyday for God to show me a way to make money from my artistic gifts. Once I met a girl at my college and let her do my nails…I knew then that being a nail tech was for me. Even though I graduated with a Psychology degree, I still utilize my skills as a graphic designer as well.
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I specialize in nail art & nail freestyles. I am obsessed with clean nail art & crisp shaping. I honestly just do nails & toes the way I know I would want mine. I think what sets me apart is the vibes me and my clients have. I’m not just a nail artist but a friend. I’ve had to learn a lot of lessons and take a few falls to get here. I’m actually still learning a lot of things but I just continue to apply what I’ve learned to become better. It hasn’t been easy at all. As an entrepreneur, you’re phased with a lot of things and it takes A LOT OF FAITH. I’m a firm believer in having a relationship with God. For me, it would honestly be impossible without that. The biggest lesson I’ve learn is to just keep going and to trust the process. Things won’t happen overnight but each day brings more progress. I want the world to know that’s it’s okay to dream. Anything is possible with God and when you believe in yourself. I haven’t even reached my full potential but I know my day is coming! I aim to be big. It’s only a matter of time before I get there. I’ll see you all soon!!!
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.
Me and my friends love FOOD !!! The cute brunch spots are most definitely our go to’s. If we were traveling, we would probably go out of the country. I’m not picky so anywhere with pretty water & good food is fine with me. I most definitely would recommend an all exclusive resort. I like for things to be taken care of upfront. If we were just in Georgia, we would probably go wine tasting, to a spa, skating, bowling, to different brunch spots, & church. I think the most fun is where ever you create it.
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Shoutout to God because he made this all possible!!! I want to thank my parents. My mom is a master cosmetologist. Even though she doesn’t consistently use her talents on others, I’ve always looked up to the fact that she had dreams in the beauty industry and took steps to make that happen. Both of my parents are very hard workers and I’m thankful they passed that on to me. They’ve always supported my dreams. When I first stated I wanted to do nails, they surprised me with a chair and table from Walmart which made me cry. My dad also allowed me to use his man cave to practice. He sacrificed his personal space for me and I will always appreciate that. I also want to thank my little sister. She always ALWAYS let me practice nails on her. She was one of my biggest supporters and still is til this day. I knew she was always watching which pushed me to never quit. I would also like to thank my friends & family but especially my best friend Jasmine Johnson. I’ve heard that you meet your forever friends in college and she is most definitely proof of that. She has witness so many stages of my life and has been there every step of the way. I would like to give a shout-out to my other best friend Taportia Anderson. She in the definition of a friend not being around for long but proving to be a real friend just as much as anybody you’ve know all of your life. I would like to thank my other best friend N’dia Martin. We’ve cried together, laughed together, prayed together, and just grown together so much since we were kids. I would like to say thank you to my clients that have turned to my friends lol Keyandrea Paige & her sister Kanika Paige. They have helped me with my business and my personal walk in God in sooo many ways and I will always appreciate them for that. I have a few other friends & family members that have been down and I love you all very much! Thank you so much for the support & encouraging words. I would like to thank my church family & leaders (Deborah Sheppard, Wayne Sheppard, Elijah Griggs, & Khadijah Griggs) at Unveiling Word Global Industry (Newnan & Southwest). They’ve help to pull me closer to God in each & every way which has kept me sane. Last but not most definitely not the least, I would like to thank my clients especially the ones who have been here from the start. There wouldn’t be an Ari Nailz or “Ari Experience” without them. Thank you for seeing my potential and providing your support.
Website: https://arinailz.square.site/
Instagram: theari.experience
Facebook: AriNailz.
Youtube: @ShannonArianna
Other: TikToK: ari.experience
Image Credits
Elijah Griggs
Asia Ellis