My name is Eliza Sipin, Founder of The Nail and Champagne Bar (TNCB) Toronto’s only luxury on-site nail and champagne experience provider. I started working in numerous start-up companies in 2005. In 2010, I launched ilaika, a boutique marketing company offering PR & Event services. A year later, I co-created the Vanity Events which curated a series of beauty events throughout the GTA with companies including Swarzkopf, Kerestase & Bio Seaweed Gel - the primary nail polish line that The Nail and Champagne Bar utilizes. The Vanity Events also had a limited nail polish line called Vain Polish. During this time, I was very interested in creating a company that would provide unique experiences. It was truly a natural progression. I became a certified nail technician and with a background in hospitality, The Nail and Champagne Bar was born in the Spring of 2016. What was first to be nail and champagne pop ups throughout the city, which has evolved into Toronto’s only mobile nail and champagne experience provider. Specializing in manicures, pedicures and champagne tastings with our Sommelier. Over time, our clients requested for us to expand our offerings. Now our team provides hair, lashes, makeup and yoga – all in the comfort of your home or location of choice. TNCB works with a variety of hotel properties in Toronto that utilizes our services to elevate their guests’ experience. We also specialize in a variety of event beauty activations. We have had the pleasure of having a client list that includes Saks Fifth Avenue, Porsche, Nordstrom, Halo Top Creamery, STK, ReThink Breast Cancer, Footlocker, Diner en Blanc and UGG to name a few. The Nail and Champagne Bar has proudly pampered Grammy award winner Shania Twain, actress Sienna Miller and is Roxy Earle’s (The Real Housewives of Toronto) go-to nail designers since 2017.
What ignited the spark in you to start a new business venture or to make significant changes in an existing business?
I have always wanted to be an entrepreneur for as long as I can remember. I looked at franchising in a variety of industries. But I wanted to create a business that was both unique and luxurious, a business that would reflect my keen interests and strengths.
How did the idea for your business come about?
The idea came from combining my passions. I have an in-depth background in fashion, beauty, food and beverage. I soon realized that mobile nail services have not been presented in a luxurious way and adding champagne tastings conducted by a Sommelier didn’t exist.
What were the biggest initial hurdles to building your business and how did you overcome them?
When I created The Nail and Champagne Bar in 2016, starting a unique business presented numerous hurdles; from getting the proper permits to sourcing the correct insurance to be able to provide on-site manicures and pedicures as they are considered medical procedures in Ontario. I overcame these hurdles by thinking outside the box, combined with patience and persistence.
What books are you currently reading? And your recommendation for entrepreneurs to read?
I’m currently reading The Girl Who Played With Fire by Stieg Larsson. I recommend Deluxe by Dana Thomas. It was written in 2007 but it’s such an interesting read. It documents how luxury goods have been transformed by a shift from family businesses to mass production by big corporations, and how today's methods have had a negative impact in the luxury market.
Did you ever deal with contention from your family and friends concerning your entrepreneurial pursuits?
I’ve been lucky, everyone has been very supportive. I also have a few entrepreneur friends and family which makes it easier.
What would you say was the single most influential factor in your business success?
The single most influential factor in my business success has been being able to adapt to change. There were numerous factors such as trends and our clientele requesting for additional services. I decided to expand our mobile beauty offerings and has grown the business.
What do you know today that you wish you would have known when you first got started as an entrepreneur?
Don’t be afraid to make mistakes. Learn from them, it will improve you and your company.
What advice would you give to an upcoming entrepreneur locally and internationally?
My advice for upcoming entrepreneurs is build a company that you would want to work for. Once you do, your team will be proud to be a part of your company, they will perform well and be your advocates.
Photo Credit: Memorable Treasures Photography
