What began as a “fun little hobby” at home has transformed into a real business. Madi Berntsen, an eighth grader, started her own nail business last fall. Madi now spends her free time doing Gel X and press-ons.
Berntsen started by advertising her growing business.
“When I first created my little business, I made little business cards to give out,” Berntsen said.
Berntsen created her nail business because she thought doing her own nails at home would be easier.
“It’s definitely like a fun little hobby I picked up,” Berntsen said.
When doing her client’s nails, they are often close friends she has fun with.
“We just kinda talk, have a good time, like watching TV or something,” Berntsen said.
Berntsen’s Gel X price ranges from about $20 to $25, and her press-ons range from $15 to $20.
“It depends on the design that you order,” Berntsen said.
Eighth grader Lidia Pauk has gotten her nails done at a professional salon three or four times, and she loved Madi’s work.
“The nails themselves were really gorgeous,” Pauk said. “They were exactly what I wanted.”
However, before her play, “The Golden Fleecing,” Pauk decided to take them off.
“They were just kind of a distraction, and they kept falling off. So I decided it was better not to have them on stage,” Pauk said
Pauk said her “user error,” was because Berntsen couldn’t put them on for her.
“They fit very well; however, Madi was out the day I needed to get them put on, and I didn’t know how to do it,” Pauk said
Madi’s sister, junior Sam Berntsen, is an artist herself and says Madi is “incredible” at nails.
“She’s really passionate about it, and she’s very smart,” Sam said.
Madi’s nail business is growing, and Madi continues to make nail artwork.
“I think it’s definitely a skill that I hope I continue to have for the rest of my life,” Madi said.