Bailey Stanworth has always been a nail biter. Like many people who chew on their fingertips in moments of anxiety, she relied on expensive manicures to cover up stubby nails. When Covid lockdowns made her frequent nail salon trips impossible, she began experimenting with at-home manicures and press-ons. But the press-ons further damaged her nails, and she couldn’t find designs she liked. The Vancouver native decided to create the exact nails she wanted to see on the market, and in 2022 she launched Quickies to sell her creation. Her sustainable press-on nail company features hundreds of designs, as well as hand models one might not traditionally see in the space – like men and older individuals. Today, Stanworth is further developing the company’s eco-friendly packaging and implementing a program in which she donates $1 from every order to various LGBTQ advocacy organizations, as well as the National Network of Abortion Funds.
Here’s our lightly edited Q&A, from The Story Exchange 1,000+ Stories Project.
How is your business different from others in your industry?
I didn’t start this brand to make money – I started it to solve a problem. I also knew from the moment of inception that Quickies was going to be intentional with inclusivity in our models. Our packaging is sustainable, too – all orders ship in a 100% compostable mailer, and our recycled zip-pouch packaging is unlike any other brand on the market.
Tell us about your biggest success so far.
Building a community that is so truly invested in Quickies. I’m proud to say that, to date, we have a 32.6% return customer rate. Seeing an idea in my head turn into something tangible is truly what makes me feel successful in my heart.
Also, we were approached by the British business pitch show, “Dragons’ Den.” It’s not something I ever had on my radar, but to know we got the attention of a show that is dedicated to finding game-changing entrepreneurs – and then being asked to audition – was pretty cool.
What is your top challenge and how have you addressed it?
The inflation of shipping costs. Having a product that retails at $22 and costs, on average, between $14 and $21 to ship is a massive obstacle that often leaves our site with a high number of abandoned carts. After 10 months, I finally was able to find a third-party logistics company that would support our growth goals. We went live with this in March 2023 – and have already seen 100% growth in sales.
Have you experienced any significant personal situations that have affected your business decisions?
Mental health. I am someone who struggles with anxiety and depression. I never know how or when it will show up. I am trying to break down walls and be more open with my social media followers, because entrepreneurs should talk about the struggles of dealing with anxiety and depression while trying to run and scale a business. My anxiety can get so bad that some days I can’t focus on anything – I feel disassociated from my life. I am working on that in therapy – but when you’re a solopreneur, you have to show up, and you have to keep going. It’s lonely and hard, and I hope that as the conversation around mental health continues, we can help normalize how our mental health can affect a business.
What is your biggest tip for other startup entrepreneurs?
Don’t let your ego drive your decisions. You’re going to have to make decisions that require you to remove your ego – whether that’s asking for help even though you’re scared to, choosing to make a financially smart decision, or prioritizing the needs of the company over what looks cool on social media. If you can remove your ego, it will make a difference in the stability and growth of your brand.
How do you find inspiration on your darkest days?
The love and connection within the Quickies community is so special, and is what keeps me going. I love reading reviews about how we’ve helped people find their confidence when they can’t afford to go to the salon, or when they have a special event.
What is your go-to song to get motivated on tough days?
I take great pride in my Spotify playlists. My go-to playlist for a good pick-me-up is called Core Memories, which is comprised of my favorite songs from the 1990s and 2000’s. It reminds me how far I’ve come – but also, it puts me in a good mood where I can scream and sing along to some tunes.
Who is your most important role model?
My 97-year-old grandma. Our career paths have been incredibly different, but her tenacity and zest for life inspires me more than anything. She is always reminding me that everything can be figured out, and that nothing is more important than doing what you love. She also recently modeled for Quickies – which will forever be a cherished memory for me. ◼
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