Treat yourself to a manicure at the newest addition to Princess Anne, Maryland’s, ever-growing business scene: SlayMi Nails and Beauty Lounge.
Timia Ballard’s woman-led salon, located at 30505 Prince William Street Unit 3, celebrated its official grand opening on Feb. 22, 2025.
Ballard decided to open her brand-new business in the state-designated downtown district because she considers it to be the hub of Princess Anne.
She hopes to entice customers with her convenient location and skilled artistry, the small town of Princess Anne stated in a Feb. 20 news release.
“My business is in close proximity to the college, University of Maryland Eastern Shore, and to many other businesses and local government offices,” she said.
Over the last few months, Ballard and her team have painted the salon, installed new fixtures and lighting, furnished the space, and secured necessary permits and inspections. She received her official business permit on Feb. 13, the release stated.
SlayMi Nails specializes in nail artistry. When it comes to the creative side of her work, Ballard loves to design everything from seasonal to personal to basic manicures.
“I aim to please my clients, creating whatever effect they wish to achieve. I love making my clients happy,” she said.
Ballard said her salon will serve people of all ages, cultures, ethnicities and backgrounds.
“I think of Princess Anne as a community that shows commitment to diversity and wholesomeness,” Ballard continued. “Princess Anne has a wealth of history. I am extremely excited to become part of that history.”
Local nail artist’s words of advice: ‘The sky is the limit’
To other small business owners or those looking to open their own business, Ballard’s words of advice are: “Never give up on your dreams; the sky is the limit — and always aim to please your customers.”
Ballard encourages people to visit her new salon to see, first-hand, how the art of nail design takes shape. She promises customers will be pleased when they arrive and when they depart.
“My goal is to provide my customers with an experience of relaxation and tranquility,” Ballard said. “I make it a point not to rush the process, thus making the client feel pampered.”
“This is my first business venture. I am so thankful for the support of my family, friends and community partners. I can’t wait to see the fruits of our labor,” Ballard added.
Since its grand opening, SlayMi Nails has been welcomed to Princess Anne’s Main Street District with open arms.
“Over the years, many local community members have expressed interest in having a nail salon downtown,” Main Street Princess Anne manager Carrie Samis said. “It’s wonderful to see Ballard bring her dream to life. It is especially poignant to see this new Black-owned business open during Black History Month.”
Princess Anne now has more Black-owned businesses than ever before. Prior to opening her salon, Ballard worked with another local business — RSC Design — to design her logo and storefront signage.
“That’s the kind of synergy we love to see in our community — local businesses supporting each other,” Samis said. “That’s what Main Street is all about — community and economic development; working together to improve the quality of life in Princess Anne.”
Olivia Minzola covers communities on the Lower Shore. Contact her with tips and story ideas at ominzola@delmarvanow.com.
