Today we’d like to introduce you to Julie Long.
Hi Julie, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today.
As women, we wear many hats, juggling careers, families, friendships and self-care doesn’t come easy and is often overwhelming. Self-care, I found, often took the back seat to the many other priorities in my life. The self-care I once knew and enjoyed years ago, I missed dearly. Scheduling time for myself these days I noticed simultaneously came with a lot of stressful planning and often regret. I quickly realized that the days I was able to put a little TLC into myself were the days that I was the best version of myself.
It’s so amazing how a simple pop of color on my nails completely lifted my mood on those days when I felt worn out. I instantly felt more polished and presentable (even though I knew I was far from that). Tuff as Nails makes your beloved mani and pedi accessible in the comfort of your home, to do on your time, in no time. The best part is that there is NO dry time. YES! No comforter marks because let’s be honest, we all know the only time you have for yourself is right before bed.
The product name symbolizes the Tuff women, as they are the rocks of their world – the thread that holds it all together- while barely holding themselves together. And, of course, making it look like they have it all together for everyone else around because they simply don’t have the space or the time to not be together.
The inspiration behind our mission of giving is my niece Quinn. She was diagnosed with a brain tumor at the age of 4. To see her light up when I painted her nails, confirmed to me at a Time of darkness and uncertainty that a simple color on your fingernails truly brightens your day no matter, what you going through.
I made it my mission to share the joy our manicures bring with women and little girls all over the US. With every purchase from our website, we donate a set to one of our many non-profit partnerships, all of which empower women.
Whether you’re a tired mom, a busy professional, or a child with a brain tumor, when you wear our Tuff manicures the feelings are the same. That feeling of joy, a smile, and that simple boost of confidence is felt by all, whether you are 4 or 104. Being able to spread smiles is the foundation of our company, and what motivates us every day to continue to create beautiful manicures. We are the “Nail Wrap that Gives Back.” A Manicure on a Mission.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I launched the business in July 2020 right in the middle of the Covid pandemic.
That brought many challenges. However, when your vision and mission are stronger than your fears you can accomplish anything.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
We design already-dried manicures. However, we are more than just a pretty manicure with each purchase from our website we donate a set to one of our many nonprofit partnerships.
When launching our brand I quickly realized our manicures were so much more than just a manicure. The meaningful conversations that were had around the table while applying our nail wraps were priceless. Whether with my bestie or baby girls, our manicures bring togetherness. They are a feeling of joy, they generate memories and intentional connections. They are loved by a 4-year-old and a 104-year-old all the same.
Our brand Tuff As Nails, symbolizes the Tuff women, those boo-boo kissers, rockstars, superwomen the rocks of their world – the thread that holds it all together- while barely holding themselves together. And, of course, making it look like they have it all together for everyone else around because they simply don’t have the space or the time to not be together.
Our manicures are a reminder of your beauty and you can feel good wearing them, knowing that you are giving a stranger, the same feeling of joy along the way.
Who else deserves credit for your story?
It takes a village, my husband would never take credit, but on the late nights of me bouncing ideas off of him when a crazy, random lightbulb goes off in my head, he was always there with open ears and arms. From the design of our logo to our brand name he was, and still is very much involved.
My family, and my mom have always been my biggest fan. I feel so blessed with an amazing support system. Also, the community our wraps have built is what keeps us thriving and making a difference. Thankful for everyone’s continued loyalty. Customers have become friends over the years.
Pricing:
- All products under $15.00
Contact Info:
- Website: www.thebeautuffulcompany.com
- Instagram: @Beautufful_company
- Facebook: @thebeautuffulcompany
Image Credits
Leslie Steppe Photography and Desiree-Ortman Photography
