Conversations with KC Springberg-Dill

Today we’d like to introduce you to Kc Springberg-Dill

Hi KC, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
Northern Nail Polish started in 2013 after I became concerned about the harmful chemicals in conventional nail polish. I wanted to create something safer. Inspired by the natural beauty of Michigan, I began handcrafting non-toxic, vegan, and cruelty-free nail polishes that reflect the colors and charm of the Great Lakes region.

The business grew from a personal project to something much larger, thanks to the support of customers, small business owners who carry my nail polish in their stores, and the incredible community I’ve built through social media. I also opened a brick-and-mortar shop for a couple of years, where I offered a craft show-style experience, allowing customers to connect with local handmade products.

Throughout this journey, I’ve made sustainability a priority—planting a tree for every order through One Tree Planted—and expanded into offering quarterly self-care subscription boxes featuring women-owned, small businesses.

For me, Northern Nail Polish isn’t just a business. It’s been a path to financial independence after leaving a difficult situation, helping me support my son and create a life I’m proud of. Today, I’m grateful to be able to empower other women in business while continuing to grow this dream.

Most recently, with the help from my friend, I’ve launched Great Lakes Mosaic, a magazine that celebrates the vibrant community of Northern Michigan artisans, makers, and creative culture, continuing my passion for supporting the handmade movement.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road, but the challenges have shaped who I am today. One of the toughest struggles was growing Northern Nail Polish into my full-time job while being a young mother to a newborn and navigating a difficult personal situation. After becoming a single mom, I was faced with the reality of building financial independence and creating a stable future for myself and my son. It was a huge hurdle, but also a powerful motivator to push forward and turn my passion into a thriving business.

Running a small handmade business comes with its own set of challenges, too. Balancing production, marketing, and customer engagement while maintaining quality and creativity can be overwhelming. There were times when I doubted if I could handle it all, especially as the business grew. Managing inventory, fulfilling orders, and ensuring everything was up to the high standards I set for Northern Nail Polish wasn’t always easy.

On top of that, when I opened a brick-and-mortar shop, it added a new layer of responsibility—managing overhead costs, overseeing employees for the first time, drawing in foot traffic, and constantly promoting both my own products and other local artisans.

One of the key supports that has helped me navigate these challenges is my dad. He comes over weekly to help me keep up with orders, which has been such a blessing, especially as the business has grown. Having his help has made a big difference, and it’s a reminder that even though running a business can be tough, I’ve been lucky to have the support of family and community along the way.

It’s those tough times that have made the success and connections I’ve built even more meaningful.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I’m the owner and maker behind Northern Nail Polish, a handmade, non-toxic, vegan, and cruelty-free nail polish brand since 2013. My colors are all inspired by the natural beauty of Michigan. Each nail polish shade is carefully crafted to reflect the charm and character of the Great Lakes region, from its stunning landscapes to its vibrant local communities. I specialize in creating a cleaner, safer alternative to conventional nail polish, using formulas that are non-toxic while still being long-lasting and high-quality.

What sets Northern Nail Polish apart is the deep commitment to both healthier alternatives and sustainability. I’m proud to say that for every order placed, I plant a tree through my partnership with One Tree Planted, contributing to reforestation efforts and giving back to the environment. It’s this blend of creativity, safety, and sustainability that really defines my work.

Beyond that, my self-care subscription boxes, featuring products from women-owned and local small businesses, have allowed me to shine a light on other incredible makers, which is something I’m deeply passionate about.

What I’m most proud of, though, is how Northern Nail Polish has empowered me as a single mother. Building this business allowed me to become financially independent, support my son, and turn what started as a small idea into a thriving, meaningful full-time gig. It’s a personal journey as much as it is a business, and that’s what makes it truly unique.

Most recently, my friend and I launched Great Lakes Mosaic, a magazine dedicated to celebrating the artisans, makers, and creative culture of Northern Michigan. It’s my way of continuing to support and uplift the handmade community that has always meant so much to me.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://NorthernNailPolish.com
• Instagram: https://Instagram.com/northernnailpolish
• Facebook: https://facebook.com/northernnailpolish
• Other: https://GreatLakesMosaic.com