Today we’d like to introduce you to Andrea Kirksey.
Andrea, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
“It all started with a little cosmetic bag — just a few nail tools and polishes I used to practice on friends and family. Back then, I had no idea it would turn into something bigger. I decided to go to nail school while working a full-time job and finishing college — and honestly, it was a lot. But I knew I wanted more for myself.”
“My passion was always nails, but I wasn’t completely ready at first. I had to tackle the fear of letting go of the security that came with a steady paycheck and benefits. It wasn’t easy. I overcame those fears through a lot of prayer and by getting real financial guidance from a financial advisor. Once I got past that hurdle, I knew it was time.”
“I took a chance, quit my job — and God blessed tremendously. That one decision changed everything. Over the years, I’ve learned so much — from one-on-one sessions and group classes to trade shows and hands-on experience. I always make it a point to keep my ‘nail mind’ sharp.”
“Eventually, I moved to Memphis, TN, and started building my brand, ANailz, from the ground up. The nail life has truly been a journey — full of growth, risks, learning curves, and so many beautiful moments. I’m proud of how far ANailz has come, and I’m even more excited for what’s next.”
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?
“No, the road hasn’t always been smooth. The first three years after going full-time were some of the most difficult of my life. It felt like everything that could go wrong, did. In 2018 — just a few months after stepping out on faith to pursue nails full-time — I received a call that completely rocked my world. My father’s health had suddenly declined, and within three days, he was gone. It was heartbreaking and unexpected.”
“That loss could’ve stopped me in my tracks, but my friends, family, and clients surrounded me with so much love and support that I found the strength to keep going. Ten months later, I faced another devastating blow. The salon I was working in at the time caught fire — we received a call that simply said, ‘The salon is on fire.’ Just like that, everything was gone. Still, I refused to give up.”
“And then came COVID. Five months after the fire, the world shut down, and I was out of work for three months. It felt like hit after hit — grief, loss, uncertainty. But even in the midst of all that, I stood firm in my faith. I never gave up, and I didn’t allow negativity to tear me down. I’m thankful every day that I serve a God who never fails.”
As you know, we’re big fans of ANailz. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
At ANailz, excellence is in every detail. I’m a licensed and fully insured nail technician based in Bartlett, TN, specializing in hard gel enhancements, natural nail care, and luxury pedicure services tailored to elevate your self-care ritual.
I take pride in maintaining a spotlessly clean, professional environment where your comfort, safety, and peace of mind come first. Every service is performed with strict sanitation practices and premium-quality tools.
With a focus on health, precision, and artistry, I use only trusted products like Apres, Young Nails, CND Gel Pot, Gelish, and OPI—delivering long-lasting beauty with no compromise on quality
ANailz—where sophistication meets craftsmanship in a pristine, luxurious setting.
Who else deserves credit in your story?
“My biggest supporters started in Peoria, IL — but now, Memphis has continued that love and support in a big way. I’m truly grateful for every single person who has walked alongside me on this nail journey. From those who let me ‘practice’ in the early days while I was still perfecting my craft, to the ones who lifted me up during my hardest moments — your encouragement has meant everything.
Every client has played a role in my growth — even the ones who never returned. Your time, your trust, and your feedback helped shape the artist and professional I am today. I’m so thankful for everyone who saw something in me and never gave up on me. ANailz wouldn’t be where it is without that kind of love and support.”
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.anailz.com/
- Instagram: ANailz
- Other: TikTok: ANailz
