Connect
To Top

Community Highlights: Meet Cat Valladares of Breathe Nail Spa

Today we’d like to introduce you to Cat Valladares.

Hi Cat, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I started my business after seeing a need in the nail industry for spaces that were safe and clean. I encountered many environments that either weren’t following proper sanitation protocols or weren’t complying with employment laws, and sometimes both. Nail salons had developed a reputation for being dirty and exploitative, and I wanted to help change that.

When I moved into the education side of the industry, I realized many of my students were still facing the same issues I had encountered years earlier. This led me to expand my business, and I’m proud to say that multiple employees have told me I’ve created the best salon they’ve ever worked in..

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Any period of growth is bound to come with challenges. For me, one of the biggest has been learning how to reach new guests as the business has evolved. For many years, my business was just me, and I was the brand and the experience. As we’ve grown into a team, I’ve had to develop new systems and processes that ensure every guest receives the same level of care and attention, regardless of which team member they see.

That transition required us to define our values more clearly and build a stronger brand identity that reflects who we are as a salon, not just who I am as an individual. While it has been a learning experience, it’s also been incredibly rewarding to see our team grow while maintaining the high standards and guest experience that inspired me to start the business in the first place.

Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Breathe Nail Spa?
At Breathe Nail Spa, we are best known for our structured gel manicures and our commitment to combining beauty, wellness, and safety. I’ve spent years studying techniques from around the world to bring our guests the highest-quality services using some of the safest and most effective methods available. Our manicure approach blends Eastern European precision, Japanese nail care philosophy, and traditional techniques to create beautiful, healthy, long-lasting results.

We also specialize in luxury spa pedicures that are safe for diabetic guests and designed with both comfort and sanitation in mind. Unlike many salons, we do not use jetted foot baths due to sanitation concerns. Instead, we focus on meticulous cleaning protocols and results-driven foot care products that deliver visible improvements without unnecessary irritation.

One of our newest offerings is our Japanese-inspired head spa experience. We wanted to create a space where guests could truly slow down, relax, and reset. Whether someone is addressing scalp concerns, managing stress, or simply seeking a quiet escape from the demands of daily life, our head spa services provide an opportunity for deep relaxation and self-care.

What sets us apart is our belief that luxury and safety should go hand in hand. Every service is designed to help our guests feel cared for, comfortable, and confident. More than anything, I’m proud of the culture we’ve built, one that prioritizes education, ethical business practices, exceptional guest care, and a team that is passionate about helping people look and feel their best.

Let’s talk about our city – what do you love? What do you not love?
What I love most about our area is its diversity and the incredible variety of things to do. As a parent, I appreciate having access to so many family-friendly activities, parks, and community events. At the same time, there are plenty of great restaurants, entertainment options, and local businesses that make it easy for my husband and me to enjoy a night out on our own. It offers a great balance for families in every stage of life.

What I like least is definitely the summer heat. I grew up here and spent countless summers outdoors, so I’m no stranger to Texas weather. That said, the older I get, the harder it is to tolerate those 110-degree days. While I’ll always love living here, I wouldn’t mind if summer dialed it back just a little.

Pricing:

  • Structured Gel Manicures Start At $95
  • Pedicures start at $70
  • Head Spas start at $65

Contact Info:

Suggest a Story: VoyageAustin is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

More in Local Stories