Today we’d like to introduce you to Taylor Holmes.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
Well, I started in this beloved industry when I was around 11 or so… practicing on the hands and feet of any friend or family member who would let me. It was a hobby. It was fun. I didn’t know that I could actually go to school for it since back then, here in Memphis, many nail-only programs didn’t exist yet. That is until my young auntie, somewhere around 10 years older than me went to school for nails only and became a nail technician.
Then my life changed. I knew what I wanted to do. I wanted to do nails for a living. Then it all started. After graduation from high school in 2011. I enrolled in nail school and the journey began. Fast forward to getting my license sometime later, I worked in several spas around the city. Enjoyed the work, but over time it got repetitive. I felt my boredom kicking in.
But I knew I didn’t want to stop doing what I loved. So, one day, now married with a kid, an amazing opportunity came along. I got a call about a podiatrist in need of a nail technician. I got the job and started an eye-opening job as a medical pedicurist. And let me tell you… it was like I was remade. I had truly, finally found my place in my industry.
I NEVER in a million years thought I’d be working on feet like this. Most clients had foot problems, way superior to what I’d ever seen in spas. But, they were genuinely in need of help,, and showed so much gratitude to me… it was so satisfying to be a part of helping a person feel so good after them feeling insecure for so long.
I also enjoyed working side by side with the doctor, where I learned a wealth of information that I never would have known without my time there. Later, I left the doctor, even though I loved the job so much, to find my own place. I opened Pedikhemistry Foot Lab in May 2021, yes during a pandemic, but I love it here.
It’s a challenge being on my own I admit, but my drive and love for what I do… keep me motivated to keep my doors wide open to those in need.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Definitely not. I didn’t mention I went to nail school twice to finally become licensed in 2016.
It took me almost 3 years from my start in 2013 because I became a victim of fraud. They kicked me out at 500 or so hours claiming I didn’t have enough money to cover school. That was hard and I waited around and searched for nail-only programs.
It took me some time because I was determined not to take cosmetology. I just have no interest in hair. So in 2015, I found Goulds Academy and enrolled in their like-new nail program and soon graduated from there.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I go by the title Wellness Pedicurist. However, my credentials are advanced nail technologist and medical nail technician. In my lab, I specialize in providing care and restorative services to those suffering from problematic feet, chronically ill or senior, anyone health-conscious.
I’m definitely known for being thorough and detailed in my work. I’m serious about my services because I’m a firm believer in if you do it right, you won’t have to do it twice. I’m most proud of just being blessed by Jehovah to have so many skills. Out of those skills, this one has set me up to make a living and gain satisfaction in helping someone see amazing foot care results.
I know I’m not the standard. But I’m working hard to be. The nail industry has failed in quality foot care. Feet are not secondary. They should come first since without them, none of us could get anywhere. I’m here to show a better way, I’m here to establish criteria of high-quality footcare putting health over beautifying.
I’m different because people with missing nails, thick toenails, severe callous, diabetics, cancer patients, and the like deserve to get serviced right and safely. I do that for them. I work to build relationships with doctors to send clients who need extra care that I can’t provide.
I’m here for my clients. I keep working to give them the best. Every detail matters to me.
We’d love to hear about any fond memories you have from when you were growing up?
So many. Probably just having fun with my 3 younger siblings. Playing American idol and restaurant while I sing and cooked everything lol and making sour ice.
Pricing:
- Clinical pedicures start at $85
- Wellness pedicures start at $55
- Memberships are pending.
- Toenail Restoration pedicure starts at $125.
Contact Info:
- Email: Pedikhemistry@gmail.com
- Website: www.pedikhemistryfootlab.me
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/thepedikhemist?utm_medium=copy_link
Suggest a Story: VoyageMemphis is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
