Who would have thought that an indulgent manicure-pedicure could spur social change? Cheryl Ou did after a previous nail salon business had gone south. It made her pause and rethink her purpose. 

She decided to rebuild the business from scratch. This time she was determined to make it more meaningful. It has to be scalable and profitable as well as have a positive impact on people and the planet. 

“Back in 2014, I had just come out of a very bad experience with an investor from a previous business venture who I felt was purely motivated by money, and that episode forced me to think about my own motivations as an entrepreneur. I decided then to dedicate myself to creating meaningful companies that inspire and drive social change in our community,” Cheryl said in an interview with TheBeauLife. 

Established in 2015, The Nail Social is not just a trim-and-polish salon where you’ll get a suite of indulgences. It is also Singapore’s first socially-conscious salon that provides training and employment to help provide a source of livelihood to marginalised members of society comprising single moms, ex-offenders and youth-at-risk facing a higher barrier to employment, and consequently help them progress from a position of vulnerability to security and self-sufficiency. Moreover, a portion of profits from the salon go to sustaining the social support and services offered to them. This fosters sustainability in the organisation and eliminates donour dependency. 

Cheryl and co-founder Germaine Monteiro believe that the act of doing mani-pedi can spur social change that goes beyond handouts and donations. Both are trained nail professionals with years of experience under their belt.

Cheryl, who has a a diploma in Nail Technology, wanted non-toxic, cruelty-free, and eco-friendly nail products be available more commercially, which was practically unheard of at that time. This goal came from a personal experience. After years of working at a salon, the harsh chemicals used in nail products took a toll. She got afflicted with contact dermititis on her fingers. She was also aware of people in the nail industry who developed lung illnesses due to long-term exposure to harmful fumes. 

So when The Nail Social started one of its top priorities was to invest in high-quality, eco-friendly products to ensure the well-being of both its customers and staff. To this end, it currently uses  Zoya & Coat nail lacquers and Angel Pro & Jacqueline Burchell gel polishes – all salon quality that are formaldehyde, DBP, toluene and camphor free and are safe for use on children and expectant moms.

What resonated with Germaine was the chance to provide livelihood to single moms. She and two siblings were raised by her single mom so she knows the daily struggles single-mom families go through. When Cheryl broached the idea Germaine stepped up. 

Driven by a desire to create something meaningful to inspire and drive social change, The Nail Social reaches out to social workers, women’s shelters and other organisations.

The Nail Social is a lifestyle nail salon that offers manicure, pedicure and foot massage services, drinks and snacks as well as fair trade retail all housed under one roof. 

The chill cosy ambience and premium service are designed to pamper customers. Offering a complete suite including a personal iPad pre-loaded with movies, games, books and podcasts; drinks and snacks. 

Artistically and technically proficient in a range of manicures and pedicures, each nail technician delivers over and beyond expectations.  Whether you opt for a glamorous gel manicure, a relaxing pedicure, or both, you’ll leave The Nail Social absolutely feeling pampered and happy. 

If you’re looking for something different to jazz up a special occasion celebration, The Nail Social’s tailored Salon Soiree and Mobile Pop-up Nail Bar make hanging out even more fun.

For an intimate gathering with friends or a laid back networking session, the Salon Soiree rises to the occasion. The Nail Social has a private loft that is perfect for birthday parties, bridal and baby showers, team bonding excursions and other special celebrations. It customises space set up, service menu and refreshments to make the most of your gathering. 

Its Mobile Pop-up Nail Bar is a complete customised on-site set-up for corporate functions, press events, CSR activities and other occasions at your chosen place. It is an opportunity to demonstrate commitment to social and environmental initiatives in the community while sponsoring attendee wellness with a bit of pampering. 

Indulgent mani-pedi with a purpose. The Nail Social nails it!

Debbie | ws

Images: The Nail Salon | Locations and booking