Today we’d like to introduce you to Karen Benitez.
Hi Karen, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My name is Karen Benitez. I was born and raised in Worcester, Massachusetts. I always knew I wanted to become a nail technician. I started practicing on my mother’s nails, then my siblings and friends. After high school, I enrolled in a manicurist program, but that class only covered the basics. When finishing that course, I didn’t feel ready to take my test, so in the meantime, I began working in the restaurant industry. I’m very grateful for this job since it taught me the importance of hard work, patience, teamwork, and communication skills. Throughout my years working at various restaurants, I have met some of the most amazing friends who are so vital to me to this day. In 2014, I left my hometown for a change of scenery and moved to Austin, TX. I continued to work in restaurants for about four more years until I decided to start my nail technician career. I took the Texas Manicurist class and was licensed in 2018. I worked for a few nail salons until 2022 when I opened my own mini nail studio. Managing my space, schedule, and clientele has been so lovely. Working at other salons helped me build connections and trust with clients, and most of those clients have followed and supported me throughout this journey.
It wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been relatively smooth so far?
I have worked hard to get where I am today, and it wasn’t easy. Those who have worked in the service industry know it is tough to get out of. I put countless hours into double shifts and being on my feet for long stretches of the day. Most days were physically and mentally draining. I had to complete 500 more class hours to get my TX manicurist license. It was also great because I had an incredible instructor and was able to refresh my education. The struggle was going to school from 7:30 am-4:30 pm and then rushing to work at my restaurant job from 5 till midnight. Putting the restaurant industry behind me was bittersweet, but having more time to myself and focusing on my relationship and career was much more critical. When more time became available, my partner and I decided to include a puppy into our lifestyle, which I had dreamed of since moving to Austin. Unfortunately, three days after adopting her, she had gotten extremely sick. It was a rough month of emergency vet visits, but thankfully, she underwent treatment and overcame her viruses. She is now very healthy and a huge part of our life. I am lucky to have my boyfriend to support me through life’s challenges.
I appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Karensitas Nail Studio?
Karensitas Nail Studio is located in South Austin. In my nail studio, I offer manicures and pedicures. I am passionate about promoting natural nail health using the right products and gentle care. I specialize in gel manicures and nail extensions and use top brands like OPI, Apres, and Luminary gel products. My collection of colors has grown over the years, and I have just about every option. Exploring different colors and patterns allows me to express my creativity and keep up with the latest trends in nail art. My pedicures are very safe and clean, and I also offer add-ons such as sugar scrubs, foot masks, and relaxing paraffin wax. My space is bright and colorful, the perfect place to feel comfortable and unwind.
So, how can our readers or others connect or collaborate with you before we go? How can they support you?
People can offer support primarily through social media platforms like Instagram, sharing my profile, engaging in comments, or liking my posts. Collaborating with other professionals in the beauty industry is also very important. Some ways include creating content, marketing joint giveaway promotions, and showcasing each other’s work. Clients also play a crucial role in supporting my work through word of mouth. Spreading positive feedback and recommendations contributes to the growth and success of my business.
Pricing:
- Gel Manicures 50+
- Gel X Extensions 80+
- Pedicures 50+
Contact Info:
- Website: https://karensitasnails.glossgenius.com/
- Instagram: @karensitas_nails
- Other: linktr.ee/karensitasnails
Image Credits
Photographer: Luna Lockhardt; Lockhardtmedia IG: @lunalockhardt
