Start Up - Unique Nailz - Fiona Norman

Thinking of starting up a business?

Napier City Council offers a turnkey service for business start-ups. The service is free and confidential and covers all requirements, including the planning process, financial assessment, research facilitation and location options.

Fiona Norman says she found the service extremely beneficial as it gave her the confidence she needed to set up her successful nail care business, Unique Nailz.

Napier City Council Economic Development Manager, Ron Massey gave Fiona advice and support and answered all her questions about setting up a new business.

"I was a single mum and doubted whether I could set up my own business to support my little girl. Ron gave me the reassurance to stop procrastinating and get out and do it."

When Fiona opened Unique Nailz eight years ago she was financially stretched.

To get started she had to rent rooms and to save money she did up an old second hand chest of drawers to use as a nail table.

"I found the support network at the Napier City Council fantastic because I was able to talk to others who were doing similar things."

It didn't take long for Unique Nailz reputation to grow and for the business to boom. Clients were flocking to get their nails done and before long Fiona was fully booked weeks in advance.

"I have been able to buy my own home thanks to Ron helping me believe in myself and the on-going mentoring he has given me."

Fiona still keeps in touch with Ron. If she is doubtful about her business decisions she won't hesitate to give Ron a call.

"If setting up a business is your dream, just put all your doubt aside and go for it, otherwise you'll never know your full potential."

Napier City Council Economic Development Unit offers a full free turnkey facilitation service for anyone in Hawke's Bay who is thinking of starting a Business, or looking to purchase an existing Business. This includes the required research, Business Planning, Cash flow projections right through to record keeping, compliance, human resources and marketing.