Interview with Chapter 1
Could you introduce yourself and tell me a little bit about your background?
My name is Geanina, and my background is in nursing, which might seem very different from what I do now, but it’s actually closely connected. Here at Chapter 1 Salon, alongside offering nail treatments here, we also provide medical pedicures. The idea for the medical pedicure service came from my time working in the hospital, where I saw just how many people struggled with nail and foot‑related issues. I realised there was a real need for a specialised service like this.
Since I was already a trained nail technician, it made perfect sense to combine my clinical experience with my nail training and introduce the medical pedicure side of the business. We specialise in healthy nails, but we also do the beauty side of nail care as well.
I was a nurse for four years and it was busy, especially because I was working throughout Covid. I reached a point where I felt it wasn’t my passion anymore, and once I realised that, I knew I had to make a change.
So yes, this is now my business. I decided to just go for it. While I was nursing, I was doing nails on the side, and because I specialise in nail health, people started coming to me for help. Once their issues were sorted, they’d say, ‘Oh, I can actually have a nice colour now,’ or ‘I can treat myself to something pretty.
How long have you been open then?
Over two years.
How did your business start and what inspired it?
Transitioning from being employed to starting my own business was a big step, but I’ve always liked a challenge. I thought, why not take the leap and invest in something I’m passionate about?
You can open a business, but without passion and without giving your customers 100%, it won’t thrive. Many businesses close within the first few months because that drive isn’t there. For me, it’s all about loving what I do. Passion is what keeps the business moving and growing.
Have you got a lot of new customers, or is it retaining customers?
We’re grateful for our loyal returning customers who choose to come back to us time and time again. At the same time, we’re always excited to welcome new clients. With our upcoming move to a larger space, we’re preparing to expand even more bringing in new team members who will be fully trained to our standards.
I’m a qualified teacher, so I personally train our staff in the services we provide. This helps ensure that everyone who joins us delivers the same high-quality experience our customers expect.
Have you got any new projects or services that you’re gonna do within the company?
Right now, I’m actually making my own hand cream, and I’m starting to explore creating a full product line. People always ask me, “What’s the best cream?” But the truth is, there isn’t one perfect product that works for everyone.
What I am working on is developing something that can genuinely support a wide range of people this isn’t a miracle fix, but a product that really helps. So yes, I’m diving into product development, starting with that first Chapter One product to launch the journey.
If you had to sum up your business in three words, what would you say?
Passionate
Perfection
Peaceful
What would you say is the biggest challenging or maybe facing in Cheltenham right now?
The lack of parking spaces in town makes it difficult for people to visit local businesses. Not only are there too few spaces, but the parking that is available is often very expensive. Because of this, many people choose to park farther away and walk in just to avoid the high fees.
However, this creates challenges for clients who are older or have accessibility needs, as they really need to park close by. Unfortunately, the cost of convenient parking can be a real barrier for them, making it harder to access the services they need.
About
What started as a personal passion has grown into one of the most trusted places in Cheltenham for BIAB nails, gel polish manicures, medical pedicures, and professional nail training. With a background in nursing, I bring a clinical level of care, hygiene, and precision to every treatment.
We offer a full menu of expert services, from natural-looking BIAB overlays and long-lasting gel polish nails, to unisex manicures designed for both men and women. Every treatment is delivered with attention to detail and a genuine focus on your nail and skin health.
Opening hours
Six days a week and from 9am-5pm