Today we’d like to introduce you to Vannalin Kol.
Hi Vannalin, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
My name is Vannlin Kol, but most people know me as Naly, the name behind my brand, Nails by Naly.
I grew up in Cambodia, where I was introduced to the beauty industry as a teenager and first learned how to do hair and nails. When I moved to the United States, I carried that passion with me. Even while working different jobs, I always knew I wanted to return to the beauty industry.
After earning my Nail Technician license in 2012 and later my Nail Technician Salon Manager License, I committed myself to offering high-quality, thoughtful service. In 2023, I opened Nails by Naly — a private suite designed to be calm, clean, and personal, with a belief in quality over speed. Clients felt that difference right away, and the business has grown almost entirely through trust and word-of-mouth.
My journey from Cambodia to Minnesota has shaped my values of perseverance, gratitude, and purpose. Those values guide every service I provide at Nails by Naly.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. When I first came to the United States, I had to start completely over — learning English, adjusting to a new culture, and working exhausting hours in factory jobs just to get by. Returning to cosmetology often felt like a distant dream, but I never let go of it.
Even after earning my license, the journey wasn’t easy. I spent years working in busy salons with fast-paced expectations, constantly improving my skills and learning how to balance quality with time. When I finally opened my own studio, I faced a whole new set of challenges: financial risk, building a client base from scratch, and learning how to manage every part of the business on my own.
But every struggle pushed me to grow. The setbacks made me stronger, more patient, and more intentional about the kind of experience I want to provide. Today, those challenges are the reason Nails by Naly is built on care, consistency, and trust.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Nails by Naly is a private one-on-one nail studio in Blaine dedicated to offering high-quality, personal, and relaxing nail care. I specialize in dipping powder, gel manicures, acrylic, structured gel, pedicures, and detailed nail art — but what truly defines my business is the clean, calm, and caring experience I create for every client.
My approach is simple: quality over speed. I take my time to ensure every service is done safely, cleanly, and with careful attention to detail. Clients often tell me they feel comfortable and un-rushed, which is something I take great pride in. I believe nail care should be both beautiful and healthy, so sanitation, proper technique, and honest communication are always at the center of my work.
What sets Nails by Naly apart is the combination of technical skill, consistency, and genuine care. Many of my clients find me through word-of-mouth because they appreciate the atmosphere, the cleanliness, and the trust we’ve built together.
My brand stands for cleanliness, intention, and craftsmanship, and I’m committed to keeping those values at the heart of everything I do.
What makes you happy?
What truly makes me happy is seeing my clients leave my studio with a smile and feeling truly taken care of.
I treasure the relationships I build with my clients — listening to their stories and creating a space where they feel comfortable talking about more than just nails. Those genuine connections make my work feel meaningful.
My family is also a tremendous source of happiness. Their support motivates me to keep growing as a person and as a business owner.
For me, happiness comes from serving others with intention, building genuine relationships, and doing work that aligns with my passion and purpose.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://nailsbynaly.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nailsnbn
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nailsnbn
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/nails-by-naly-blaine
