My name is Adelis Lebrón, and I am a self-taught nail artist from Guayama, Puerto Rico. Although my academic preparation is in science with a bachelor’s degree in biology and a minor in biotechnology, my passion for art led me to where I am today, combining two of my favorite things: art and nail polish. My obsession for nail polishes began at an early stage in my life, making it possible for me to develop my skills and love for doing nail art. After 10 years of dedication to nail art, I got my nail technician license and have been recognized as an influencer on my island.
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Adelis Lebrón welcomes Nailpro to A Pincel Nail Truck in Guayama, Puerto Rico.
The Backstory
My name is Adelis Lebrón, and I am a self-taught nail artist from Guayama, Puerto Rico. Although my academic preparation is in science with a bachelor’s degree in biology and a minor in biotechnology, my passion for art led me to where I am today, combining two of my favorite things: art and nail polish. My obsession for nail polishes began at an early stage in my life, making it possible for me to develop my skills and love for doing nail art. After 10 years of dedication to nail art, I got my nail technician license and have been recognized as an influencer on my island.
I had a great response from my clients in a nail salon in my town, and I wanted to be on my own. The idea of making a nail truck was always my first option, but I had no idea how to make it possible, so I started to look for a place to open a nail salon instead. I found one that was perfect, and the contract was almost signed and sealed—until the day before signing when the owner told me he would not be able to rent me the place.
I went home and asked my husband if he would dare to make me a nail art studio in a van, and he said yes. The next day, I looked on the internet for a van before buying my truck. Little by little, my husband and I started working on it; it took us exactly one year, lots of prayers and the help of many caring people along the way who supported our vision. I will be forever in debt and grateful for all the hard work my husband put into my dream, the first nail truck in Puerto Rico.
The Look
I really wanted to express my personality. My main goal [with the truck] is to offer services in a intimate setting. When I am doing nails, it is a one-on-one experience with myself. It is also therapeutic for the client, as we can share stories, relax and be comfortable, knowing that no one else will listen to our conversation.
Signature Services
What sets my services apart from others is my art. I offer my clients hand-painted designs; anything they can imagine, I [make it a goal to bring it to life on] their nails.
The Goods
I only work with gel and definitely love and prefer Japanese gel.
Sanitation and Safety
I never thought the world would change like it did when the COVID-19 pandemic hit. I strongly believe my mobile salon has been successful because I give all of my clients the option to have quiet, completely private appointments. Due to the setting and nature of my business, all appointments must be made through an appointment app. The mobile salon space is limited to just me and my client who does not have to interact with anyone else. Beyond clients who have been hesitant to leave their homes during COVID, I also work with clients dealing with autism spectrum disorder, personality disorders and over-stressed clients who want a relaxing experience.
What Is Next
Because I want to have all my services under one roof, I want to expand my workplace. I would also like to hire employees, so we can offer services to more clients. Working by myself has been a beautiful adventure, but I cannot attend to as many people. Having an extra pair of hands will come a long way, and I cannot wait to see what the future has in store.
Up Close With Adelis Lebrón
What was your first job in the nail industry?
“I started sharing my nail art through Instagram 11 years ago. I collaborated with various brands. Around eight years ago, I started working as an independent nail art designer with Kiss Inc. In 2017, I worked in a nail salon, offering my nail art services to clients for the first time. In 2018, I bought what used to be a FedEx truck, and my dear husband remodeled it in his free time for a year. I opened what you see as A Pincel Nail Truck in October 2019.”
What inspires you?
“What has always inspired me has been art. I never thought I would end up having my own business doing nail art. Being able to share my art with my clients has been an amazing journey and opened new doors with new opportunities to express my passion for art. ”
What was the most challenging thing that happened while opening your salon?
“Definitely the biggest challenge has been COVID-19. I started my business in October 2019, and having to close my shop for three months after five months of operation was very hard. However, I was grateful for owning this truck where I did not have to pay the typical rent nor utilities [like in a brick and mortar salon would].”
What piece of advice would you give to a new salon owner?
“Be passionate about what you do. If I did not have my business and none of this existed, I would still be doing nail art on my nails. I started this journey not ever thinking I could make money out of it. I did nail art because it was my passion, hobby and outlet. Even if nobody supported it, I did it because it made me happy. When you are passionate about something, practicing to become better comes easily because you enjoy what you are doing. So, if you love something with all your soul, do not give up if you do not see progress right away. Good things take time, but use that time in your favor to keep perfecting what you already have.”
I cannot discuss A Pincel Nail Truck without mentioning…
“My clients! They are definitely my everyday motivation, and I would not be here without all the support I have gotten from them. I will forever be grateful!”
Come Visit Us
Website: apincelnailtruck.com
Instagram: @apincel.nailtruck
