Unraveling the Chaos: Behind the Scenes of HONA
Ever wondered what it’s really like behind the scenes of a fast-paced, community-led nail brand? This is what was the topic of this weeks podcast where creativity, colour, and controlled chaos clash. From launching new gel polishes (have you seen Miami Mani launched today wink wink )to organising trade shows and responding to last-minute orders, life inside a professional nail brand is never dull.
In this blog (inspired by our recent podcast episode), we’re giving nail technicians and salon owners an exclusive look into the day-to-day operations of HONA the people, the prep, the pressure, and all the magic in between.
Want to watch?
Catch the full story in our latest podcast episode where Morgan and Charl spill the tea on HONA HQ life. And if you see us at the next trade event come say hi!
For more insights into running a successful nail business, product development tips, and what it takes to scale in this industry, explore our HONA Knowledge Hub. But lets get into this weeks podcast write up :)
What It’s Really Like to Work at a Nail Brand
Let’s get one thing straight: working at HONA isn’t all neatly packaged PR boxes and polished launch day photos. Behind every product is a team juggling logistics, creativity, and community feedback often all at once.
From warehouse hustle to formula tweaks, we’re constantly adapting. Whether we’re preparing for a major trade show or packing hundreds of orders during a product drop, every role from marketing to operations plays a part in the bigger picture.
If you’re a salon owner dreaming of launching your own line or a nail tech curious about the nail industry behind closed doors, this peek behind the scenes will show you just how much goes into making a brand like HONA tick.
Chaos, But Make It Creative
No two days are the same here. One minute we’re sampling new hypoallergenic builder gel formulas, the next we’re climbing into a van packed with gel polish for a beauty trade event.
Morgan and Charl share more in our behind-the-scenes episode from product development stories to hilarious launch week hiccups. If you’re a nail professional who’s ever had a last-minute client reschedule or had to fix a broken nail lamp mid-appointment, you’ll relate to the unpredictable nature of running a nail business.
Nail Trade Shows/Events: More Than Just Pretty Stands
Trade shows and events are a massive part of our calendar. They allow us to meet face-to-face with the amazing nail techs and educators who use our products every day. But getting there is half the battle. Picture this: broken-down vans, missing polish boxes, and last-minute signage changes all while trying to keep our brows intact and our booths spotless.
Still, there’s something special about standing on that stage, seeing nail techs light up when they try a product they love. It reminds us why we do what we do. Tickets for our next event 'Beyond the nail desk' is available now
Team HONA: Where Every Role Matters
At HONA, we’ve built more than a team we’ve built a community. From our product developers and packers to our social team and warehouse stars, every person brings a unique energy that shapes our brand. It’s messy, fun, supportive, and completely rooted in a shared love for high-quality, safe, and beautiful nail products.
When we say we’re a brand made for nail techs by nail techs, we mean it. And that comes through in everything especially how we handle the chaos of launch days, the early starts, and the big ideas that keep us moving forward.
Why Our Community Is Everything
At the heart of HONA is our community of professional nail techs, salon owners, educators, and learners. Your feedback inspires new shades, your questions shape our tutorials, and your support makes it all worthwhile.
Whether you’ve DM’d us about your client allergy concerns, posted your latest SwiftTips set, or joined one of our Business Mastery sessions — you’re part of the HONA story.
We want to continue creating products and education that help you grow, work smarter, and feel proud of what you do every day.