Mais Nails nail bar set to open in Barry's Goodsheds

At just 18, Maisie Brown is set to open nail studio ‘Mais Nails’ at Goodsheds, in Barry in May.

The A-Level student’s interest in nails was first ignited during lockdown when she was gifted a set of gel polishes and a UV lamp for her to create nails for herself.

She spent time experimenting with nail art and designs and in 2022 she started getting requests from friends asking her to do their nails.

As word spread, and more people wanted to book, Maisie created a small salon in the garage conversion of the Barry home that she shares with her mum and dad.

The busy teenager juggles her nail business with working 21 hours a week as a domiciliary carer and studying for an A-Level in Music and BTECs in Music and Performing Arts - she’s certainly not afraid of the hard work it takes to run a successful business.

Maisie is a fluent Welsh speaker, having attended Ysgol Gymraeg Sant Baruc before her current school of Ysgol Gymraeg Bro Morgannwg, and is keen to offer her services in both English and Welsh.

For Maisie, opening a Nail Studio at Goodsheds is a bit of a dream come true.

She said: “Goodsheds was the first place that came to mind when I decided to find premises for Mais Nails.

“I’ve hung out there loads of times and it’s got the same kind of vibe that I wanted for my salon – a great buzz and a real community feel.

“It’s not just about getting your nails done; it’s about having somewhere people will love to come back to.”

Maisie's new nail bar in Barry (Image: Supplied)

Maisie Brown, 18, is excited to open her new business (Image: Supplied)

Maisie’s natural artistic ability allows her to copy any design onto clients’ nails.

She’s completed nail art with Disney, Toy Story and Lilo & Stitch themes and has also created framed art of painted artificial nails with Harry Potter and Sponge Bob Square Pants designs.

Since Goodsheds opened in 2020, it’s been a thriving place for shopping, services, food and entertainment.

The Goodsheds in Barry (Image: Goodsheds)

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When Maisie viewed the container unit for her business, Alex Baston, owner of Goodsheds, said: “I’ve never known an 18 year so focussed on having their own business premises, it’s very impressive.

“Mais Nails will fit in perfectly with the businesses we already have at Goodsheds.”

Maisie completed her nail technician training at Cardiff Nail and Beauty Training School which qualifies her in Acrylics, BIAB and Gel, all of which she’ll be offering in her new Nail Studio.

‘Mais Nails’ will be open 5 days a week from Wednesday, May 22. Bookings available now – maisnails.co.uk.