Hi Nicole! Where are you from originally and how long have you lived in town?
My hometown is Emerson and I currently live in Hillsdale for about 5 years.
Do you have any kids?
Yes! Our oldest son Jonathan is almost 14. Our middle son Leo just turned 3 and our youngest son Mateo is 14 months old.
What’s your favorite thing to do with your kids?
I enjoy being my kids’ biggest hype man. I’m a true kid at heart. Any type of activity or experience I can give them that creates a WOW factor is my favorite. This has become challenging with our teenager; however, he is still a great sport, and he enjoys hyping up the excitement for the littles and remembering his days flying as an only babe. We love the simple day trips like walking around the mall and window shopping or on nicer days going to the zoo! We’re always looking for seasonal fun like Disney on ice or a food truck festival. Or occasionally a spontaneous weekend in Florida to visit family. But really anything to be together and make memories.
Are you involved in a business venture? Please share!
My newest business venture besides opening the Pure Beauty in my hometown of Emerson is Bridal beauty. This has always been a huge passion of mine. Bridal beauty is a whole different animal compared to salon life which I also LOVE. In salon experiences are so awesome because you build special bonds with people and get to know each other on such a personal level.
Bridal parties and weddings are a totally different experience. These people are trusting you (me/us) to fulfill their dream look on the happiest day of their lives. A lot of times we haven’t known our brides for long (usually lots of emails, and calls) and it’s just based on our experience or portfolio that people find us. Brides and families put their full trust in us to bring their vision to life. The magic that you share when a bride or mother of the bride sees their beauty is truly remarkable.
What sets you apart?
My husband and I met very young and had many struggles along the way. One of our harder times was becoming a mom when I was just 20 years old. I believe for obvious reasons this sets me apart from your average planned family; but for me this is also my driver. Becoming a mom at such a young age saved me and drove me to compete solely with yesterday’s self. My motivation was to beat all odds and exceed yesterday’s expectations. I’m less concerned with what others are doing and more concerned with what I can do to improve each and every day.
If you could give one tip to fellow moms, what would it be?
Among many things I love to do, helping people is definitely at the top of my list. Now that I’m a business owner, I’m always thinking of ways I can help grow my employees, mom friends, etc. My tip would be to network and talk to people as much as possible. You never know who you will meet along your way and who will inspire you. There is no such thing as too old, too busy, too broke etc to invest in YOUR happiness. Be your own success. Don’t stay stuck in any situation waiting on anyone else’s timeline.
What is one thing people would be surprised to know about you?
When I was 5 months pregnant with my 3rd son, also high risk, I felt completely lost. Nothing made me happy, and I lost the passion I once had. I quit my job of almost 10 years, cashed out my 401k and opened up my own salon & spa. It’s been an experience to say the LEAST and I’m learning each and every day-but I don’t believe in regrets and for the first time in a long time I feel so alive in my career and my life.
How has this community been instrumental in getting you to where you are?
The communities in Bergen County are no force to reckon with. My followers, friends, family, and fellow moms have shown my business endeavors unconditional support. This has gotten me to where I am today. Without living in such a connected community, many of my accomplishments wouldn’t be possible.
To learn more about Pure Beauty Salon & Spa, follow along on Instagram or visit the website.