Today we’d like to introduce you to Nakia Watson.
Hi Nakia, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Our journey started with a shared passion for beauty, education, and creating opportunities not just for ourselves—but for others entering the industry. As licensed cosmetologists and educators, Nakia Watson (myself), Kelli Lamb, and Sonya Rice each built our own individual paths, gaining experience behind the chair, in the classroom, and in business. Over time, we realized we all shared the same vision: to build something greater than just a salon.
Beauty Talk Salon & Spa was created from that vision. We didn’t just want a space where clients could receive quality services—we wanted to create an environment rooted in growth, mentorship, and real support for emerging beauty professionals. Through our work as educators, we saw a consistent gap between completing cosmetology school and building a sustainable, confident career.
That realization became the foundation of Beauty Talk. As three owners and educators, we came together with one mission: to bridge that gap. We designed a salon experience that not only delivers high-quality beauty services but also serves as a training and development space where newly licensed professionals can continue learning, earn income, and grow under experienced guidance.
Every step of our journey has been intentional focused on impact, community, and redefining success within the beauty industry. Today, Beauty Talk Salon & Spa stands as both a thriving salon and a platform for education, empowerment, and opportunity.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It definitely has not been a smooth road—but it has absolutely been worth it.
We started Beauty Talk Salon & Spa from the ground up with little to no capital, which meant everything we’re building came from sacrifice, creativity, and unwavering determination. There are moments where we have to stretch resources, wear multiple hats, and figure things out in real time without a safety net.
One of our biggest challenges is building a consistent client base while also operating as a salon that supports and develops newer professionals. We aren’t just growing a business—we are building people at the same time while building a Brand. That required patience, trust in our process, and a commitment to excellence even when things feel uncertain.
More than anything, this journey has been a true faith walk. There are times when the vision seems bigger than what we can physically see, and we have to rely on belief, alignment, and purpose to keep going. Every obstacle tests us—but it also strengthens us.
So no, it hasn’t been easy. But every challenge has shaped who we are today, and it’s made what we’re building that much more meaningful.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
At Beauty Talk Salon & Spa, we operate at the intersection of beauty, education, and workforce development. While we provide high-quality salon services, our true focus is creating opportunities for growth within the beauty industry.
As the Operational Manager, I oversee the structure, systems, and day-to-day functionality of the business while also focusing on long-term sustainability. Currently, I am actively researching grants and funding opportunities to expand our impact and create more pathways for employment within our space.
Through our nonprofit, Beauty Talk Foundation, we are preparing to launch the Beauty Talk Foundation’s Workforce Training & Employment Program. This initiative is designed to help us raise funds that directly support hiring and developing newly licensed beauty professionals—allowing them to gain hands-on experience, earn income, and build lasting careers. To kick off this program, we are planning a Bowling Tournament Fundraiser that will bring together community, support, and awareness around our mission.
Our leadership structure is a key part of what makes us successful. Kelli Lamb serves as our Salon Floor Manager, ensuring daily operations and client experience are executed at a high level, while Sonya Rice, our Educational Manager, leads training, mentorship, and continued development for our team.
What sets us apart is that we are not just a salon—we are a pipeline. We specialize in bridging the gap between education and real-world employment in the beauty industry. We are known for creating a supportive, structured environment where new professionals are not only welcomed but intentionally developed.
What I’m most proud of is that we are building something that goes beyond services. We are creating access, stability, and opportunity for individuals who are often overlooked after completing cosmetology school. We’re proving that with the right structure, support, and vision, you can grow talent while building a successful business at the same time.
How can people work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
There are several ways to work with us, collaborate, or support what we’re building at Beauty Talk Salon & Spa and through Beauty Talk Foundation.
For those in the beauty industry, we’re always open to collaborations with professionals, educators, and brands who align with our mission of growth, mentorship, and workforce development. Whether it’s hosting workshops, providing training, or partnering on community events, we welcome opportunities to build together.
Support can also come through our nonprofit, Beauty Talk Foundation. As we prepare to launch the Beauty Talk Foundation’s Workforce Training & Employment Program, we are actively seeking support to help us provide opportunities for newly licensed beauty professionals.
We are open to donations of all kinds—including financial contributions, beauty materials, tools, and supplies—as well as any resources that can help us sustain and grow this program. Every contribution directly impacts our ability to train, employ, and support the next generation in the beauty industry.
Additionally, attending and supporting our upcoming events—like our bowling tournament fundraiser—is another great way to get involved and be part of our mission.
At the core of everything we do is community, so whether it’s through partnership, mentorship, or support, there’s a place for everyone to be involved in what we’re building.
Contact Info:
- Website: under construction
- Instagram: @beautytalknjofficial
- Facebook: Beautytalksalon&spa
- Other: https://www.beautytalkfoundation.org
