Hidden Gems: Meet Jag Shepherd of JAGGD

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jag Shepherd. 

Hi Jag, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today.
Greetings everyone, my name is Jag! I was raised in the wonderful city of Monterey in California, and throughout my life, I have had quite a few diverse talents. I loved to roller-skate, draw, and do gymnastics- and art and science were my two favorite subjects! My grandpa, a very talented painter, taught me one important thing: if you can envision it, you can do it. Years later, my family had to relocate from California to Buffalo, Ny. Relocating to Buffalo was quite an eye-opening experience for me; it was totally different from what I was used to! Instead of beaches, mountains, etc., there was snow everywhere, which was a foreign concept to me. Moving there in my 20s exposed me to a life of unfulfilling, mundane jobs and it felt like I wouldn’t find any success in the field I had studied. One of my customers suggested that I look into becoming a nail technician! I totally flipped when she proposed studying to be a nail technician! But I decided to do some praying and track down The Salon Professional Academy, which – amazing name, right? – is considered one of the best beauty schools out there. I was a bundle of nerves when I got there, however, I was truly bowled over. Not only did the school provide skills that worked wonderfully with what I had learnt in college, but it also offered the opportunity to genuinely assist others while combining science and art into one. Following my graduation from the 4-month program, my ambition became to aid and develop the artistic talents of others through my work. By working in three varied business groups, I uncovered that people wanted someone to show genuine interest, to assist them, and to show that somebody actually cared about them. After putting in several years of study to master the art of nail care, I set out to open my own salon! I was proud to be the first Afro-Latino to launch a Nail Spa in Buffalo, NY in 2020, which gave me more independence, less stress, and an atmosphere of complete serenity. After working in Buffalo, NY for a few years, I was looking for a change and discovered Michigan! It’s a great state full of endless opportunities! For the last 9 years, I’ve been a nail tech and it has been such a joy! So, if you’re in Michigan, be sure to visit me for some artful, calming, and scientific fun! #Getjaggd 

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
The journey has been a demanding one, discovering what I was truly passionate about and what I was meant to do! Being exposed to different cultures and working in various environments have helped me to become the artist I am today. 

As you know, we’re big fans of JAGGD. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
JAGGD is the perfect spot to enjoy a luxurious, nail spa experience! With sensational tunes, loads of laughs, and incredible nail styling and care, it’s sure to be an unforgettable time! As a nail technician, I have strived to stand out from the rest with my intricate artistic designs, knowledgeable advice on proper nail care, and my highly sought-after reflexology pedicures that customers just can’t get enough of! Using vegan products to take care of your skin and nails is really beneficial, and I’ve come up with some fantastic scrubs and oils that can help you keep your skin and nails in tip-top shape! I’m sure you won’t want to miss out on this great experience! Just come give it a try; you won’t regret it! Welcome, my chair is waiting for you! 

Can you talk to us about how you think about risk?
Taking chances is a real rush for me in my line of business. I bring the right colors and attitudes together to provide an exceptional experience for my customers! When individuals are willing to try something new and take a risk, they walk away with beautiful nails and knowledge they didn’t possess before! 

Contact Info:

• Website: Jag1.glossgenius.com
• Instagram: GetJaggd