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

Hi Taylia, what’s one piece of conventional advice that you disagree with?
“Fake it till you make it.”

While this advice encourages confidence and pushing beyond your comfort zone, I feel that authenticity is more important. Pretending to be something you’re not can lead to burnout, stress, and a lack of genuine connections. Being true to yourself and embracing your current level of experience and knowledge will be a more sustainable approach.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
At Black Women in Nails, our work is about more than just manicures and nail art; it’s about creating a space where Black women in the nail industry feel seen, celebrated, and supported. What sets me apart is my commitment to uplifting our community by providing opportunities, resources, and a platform for talented Black nail artists to shine. I focus on empowering artists, offering them the tools and training they need to thrive, and making sure their voices are heard in an industry where they have been historically underrepresented.

Getting to where I am today professionally hasn’t been easy. I have faced challenges from breaking into a market with preconceived notions to overcoming the lack of representation and support for Black women. I overcame these obstacles by staying true to my mission and believing in the power of community. My resilience comes from understanding the importance of representation and being relentless in our pursuit of equity and inclusion within the nail industry.

I’ve learned so much on this journey, but the biggest lesson is the importance of perseverance and authenticity. Staying true to my vision, even when it wasn’t the easiest path, has been crucial. I want the world to know that Black Women in Nails is more than a brand—it’s a movement. I am here to transform the nail industry, to break down barriers, and to ensure that Black women have a seat at the table. My story is one of passion, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to excellence and representation. I’m just getting started, and there’s so much more to come.

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.
If my best friend were visiting Atlanta for a week, I’d want to give them a memorable experience filled with the city’s best spots to eat, drink, explore, and enjoy. Here’s how I’d plan our week:

Day 1: Welcome to Atlanta!
– Breakfast: Start the day with a Southern breakfast at The Flying Biscuit Cafe—think fluffy biscuits, creamy grits, and hearty omelets.
– Morning: Explore the Atlanta Botanical Garden for a serene stroll through beautiful landscapes and unique exhibits.
– Lunch: Head to Mary Mac’s Tea Room for a classic Southern lunch with fried chicken or livers (my favorite) , mac and cheese, and collard greens.
– Afternoon: Visit Ponce City Market for some shopping and people-watching, and maybe grab a treat from a local vendor.
– Dinner: Enjoy dinner at Pappadeaux Seafood kitchen in Gwinnett , known for it’s vibrant atmosphere and high quality seafood.
– Evening: Have drinks at SkyLounge, a rooftop bar with a stunning view of the city skyline.

Day 2: Arts and Culture
– Morning: Begin with a visit to the High Museum of Art to explore its impressive collections and rotating exhibits.
– Lunch: Grab a bite at Hawkers known for its diverse menu of Asian street food inspired dishes.
– Afternoon: Walk along the Atlanta BeltLine and check out the vibrant street art, local shops, and scenic views.
– Dinner: Enjoy dinner at Staplehouse, known for its creative, farm-to-table dishes (if we can snag a reservation!).
– Night: Head to The Fox Theatre to catch a live performance or a classic movie screening.

Day 3: History and Heritage
– Morning: Start the day at the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park to learn about Dr. King’s life and legacy.
– Lunch: Enjoy lunch at Busy Bee Cafe, a beloved spot for authentic soul food.
– Afternoon: Visit the Atlanta History Center to dive deeper into the city’s past, including a tour of the historic Swan House.
– Dinner: Have a cozy dinner at JCT Kitchen & Bar, which offers a modern twist on Southern comfort food.
– Evening: End the night with drinks and live jazz at St. James Live for a soulful experience.

Day 4: Adventure and Nature
– Morning: Take a short drive to Stone Mountain Park for some hiking and breathtaking views of the Atlanta skyline from the summit.
– Lunch: Picnic at the park with some gourmet sandwiches and snacks.
– **Afternoon: Head back to the city and visit the Georgia Aquarium, one of the largest aquariums in the world.
– Dinner: Enjoy seafood at The Optimist, known for its fresh catches and coastal vibe.
– Night: Relax at SweetWater Brewing Company for a laid-back evening of craft beer tasting.

Day 5: Foodie Exploration
– Morning: Start with a coffee tour at Revelator Coffee Company, then grab a pastry at Alon’s Bakery & Market.
– Lunch: Indulge in some delicious barbecue at Fox Bros. Bar-B-Q —a must-visit for any meat lover.
– Afternoon: Visit Piedmont Park for a leisurely walk or bike ride, or rent a kayak at Lake Clara Meer.
– Dinner: Experience dinner at Gunshow, a unique dining experience where chefs present their dishes tableside.
-Night: Hit up The Clermont Lounge for a quirky and unforgettable nightlife experience.

Day 6: Shopping and Pampering
– Morning: Treat ourselves to a spa day at The Spa at Mandarin Oriental for some relaxation and rejuvenation.
– Lunch: Have a light lunch at True Food Kitchen in Buckhead, known for its healthy, seasonal dishes.
– Afternoon: Spend the afternoon shopping at Lenox Square Mall and Phipps Plaza for some high-end retail therapy.
– Dinner: Dine at Bones in Buckhead, famous for its steaks and classic Atlanta atmosphere.
– Evening: Unwind with a glass of wine at The Blind Pig Parlour Bar, a hidden speakeasy with a cozy vibe.

Day 7: Chill and Reflect
– Morning:Start with a leisurely brunch at West Egg Café on the Westside, known for its delicious breakfast menu.
– Late Morning: Explore the unique shops and boutiques in Virginia-Highland and Little Five Points.
– Lunch: Have a casual lunch at Fellini’s Pizza, an Atlanta staple known for its classic New York-style pizza.
– Afternoon: Visit the Atlanta Contemporary Art Center to see some cutting-edge exhibits.
– Dinner: Enjoy a farewell dinner at Canoe, a beautiful riverside restaurant.
– Evening: End the trip with a night at Georgia Aquarium’s Sleepover program, experiencing marine life in a unique way.

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 my incredible hersband, who has been my rock, my inspiration, and my partner in every sense of the word. Her unwavering support, love, and belief in me have been the driving force behind everything I’ve achieved. She’s not only been there through every high and low but has also been the spark that ignites my ambition and the voice that keeps me grounded. Her strength, wisdom, and relentless pursuit of her own dreams have shown me the power of resilience and determination. I owe so much of my success to her encouragement and the countless ways she has pushed me to be the best version of myself. She deserves all the recognition for her role in my journey, and I am endlessly grateful to have her by my side.

Instagram: @blackwomeninnails

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tayeanree?mibextid=LQQJ4d

Other: @tayliatrammell

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