Meet Talivia Sallee | Nail Artist

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

Hi Talivia, what role has risk played in your life or career?
Being that I was an individual who was extremely introverted and not a risk taker at all, I personally believe being a risk taker is extremely essential. If you think about life, you’ll notice that change is inevitable. We must make decisions in life that may make us uncomfortable but the outcome is always for the greater good. The amount of risks I have took in the past couple of months has gave me endless amounts of confidence and blessings. I recently made the decision 3 months ago to quit my fulltime job of 5 years to pursue my passion of being an nail artist. I didn’t have a set plan, money saved or anything to follow up with. Needless to say, that was the biggest risk I have ever took. I knew in my heart that my fulltime job had to be eliminated from my life, it brought me stress, anxiety attacks, and unhealthy habits to name a few. Since then, I’ve been able to enjoy being present with life. I am much happier, I can network, and most importantly I can focus on my goals and becoming the woman I am meant to be. I have the opportunity to attend nail school this summer speaking that I don’t have a fulltime job in the way of my schedule. I am motivated more than I’ve ever been. I encourage everyone around me to take whatever risk that they’re contemplating. It will always be worth it. Whatever you dish out, the Universe will give it right back to you tenfold.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am a nail artist located in Louisville, Kentucky. The art of doing nails is not just a “hobby” or a “job” to me; I channel my creativity best when I’m doing what I love, which is making my clients feel beautiful and exceeding their expectations each time they sit in my chair. I get the chance to connect with different individuals on an intellectual level and build a bond with them on the daily. I dedicate my heart and soul everyday for my clients. I believe the passion I have behind my craft sets me apart from others. My craft is a healing experience. I’ve been practicing my craft for a solid 2 years now and what makes me so proud is to watch my growth. Each set of nails prove progress has been made and that gives me the motivation to keep going forward. My journey wasn’t the easiest. I had a fulltime job at a place that I absolutely hated. I went from working 40 hours a week at my fulltime job, clocking out to spend 6 more hours during the week practicing my craft. Eventually, I had to make the decision of keeping my fulltime job and tp continue putting my body through stress or to take the risk of quitting my job to pursue my dreams. It was a hard decision but quitting that job was the best thing I could’ve did for myself. I want the world to know that anything is possible once you put your mind to it. It takes a individual that is filled with passion, dedication, patience and love to be an successful entrepreneur. I have to start from the bottom to get to the top. I am a beautiful black queen who will always aim for the stars.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my bestfriend was coming into town I’d definitely start her off with my favorite brunch spot here in Louisville, Con Huevos. Con Huevos is a Mexican brunch spot with a menu of food that’s to die for. For lunch or dinner I would take us to Time for Thai. Thai food is extremely delicious, I always want to introduce my friends to different varieties of food and want them to know the options aren’t limited. There’s a side of town called “Bardstown Road”. Its a street filled with different shops, restaurants, and bars. The vibe out Bardstown Road is so much fun and very versatile. Anything that you’re looking for is on the strip.

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 want to dedicate my shoutout to all of my family and close friends. I’ve always had the best support system. Although my father is deceased I know he is still encouraging me and watching me grow in the spiritual realm. My parents Takisha Baines and Corey Sallee have always pushed me to be the woman that I am today. My close friends Emandia, Asante, Bailey and Aundrea I want to thank them all for always supporting my creative craft. Those are the girls who allowed me to practice my craft on them starting out no matter how long it took. Their patience meant the world to me. The love that I’ve received from my bestfriends throughout my journey is unforgettable and I will never take them for granted.

Instagram: @_polishmeexquisitely

Image Credits
Terrence F. Humphrey