By far, some of the best nail art in the country is created just off Kent-Kangley Road. EV STUDIO’s talented team of nail artists have moved far and wide to work for owner Evon Yen Vuong, known worldwide for her nail designs.
Stepping into the chic studio is a vibe in itself, with a colorful wall of polish options to your left, lush plants on an accent wall, and a row of pedicure chairs that are as comfy as they are chic (hello, footbath with gold glitter!).
But the real star here is the stunning nail art and the talented stylists who design it. Clients book months in advance at EV STUDIO for a seat with their favorite nail artist. Whether you’re looking for a square shape, coffin, ballerina or stiletto in medium, long or extra-extra long, with a specific theme, color palette or upcoming event…if you can dream it, they can do it. Or just let the stylist decide. With their training, their creativity and their penchant for perfectionism, you will not be disappointed.
Well-known brands such as Gucci, Louis Vuitton and Disney are among the most popular requests, but there are almost no limits to the nail designs from EV STUDIO.
Who would be his ultimate client? Without hesitation, Vuong told Cardi B. But added with a laugh, “And the Kardashians, of course.”
Vuong says one of her personal favorites came from a client who requested pop art. Although she had never attempted it before, Vuong took a moment to consider the inspiration, then got to work and created this hand-drawn masterpiece:
Deana’s Story
The inspiration for it Refined Seattle A report on Vuong and her nail empire began in the unlikely setting of a downtown conference room during a weekly staff meeting. My eyes were drawn to the shiny purple fingernails of the lady next to me and as I got to know Deanna Cruz over the next few weeks I was compelled to share the journey that her nails went from Florida to Kent.
Deanna let me follow her next appointment to EV STUDIO, where I learned how she discovered Vuong’s salon. The allure of nail art started in high school for Deanna. She’s gone from admiring manicures after school to now seeing only highly skilled stylists. When Deanna recently moved from Florida to Seattle, she asked her trusted nail source for a recommendation and that’s where Vuong re-enters our story, as THE destination for nails in the Pacific Northwest (and beyond).
Deanna experimented with Vuong’s nail art and was referred to stylist Rachel Tram, known for her attention to the smallest details. Deanna admits that she tried other nail artists in the area, but couldn’t find anyone comparable to the quality of Rachel’s creativity and expertise. Deanna is not only a loyal customer, but plans future manicures months in advance, to make sure her nails stay in place.
And what does it look like? Something different every time. Deanna says, “If I let her have complete freedom, I love what she’s got to offer.” Deanna is a staunch fan of the dry manicure and often returns to her favorite color palette and patterns, but Rachel continues to surprise her with high sequels.
Deanna says her nails are something she won’t compromise on. When I asked Deanna to describe what her nails mean to her, she said it was “a feeling of being put together.” She feels more expressive talking with her hands when they’re done. And this particular manicure had a particular purpose: Birthday Nails!
Our birthday girl Deanna was thrilled with the result of medium length, coffin-shaped butterflies in bright purple, neon pink, hand painted with rhinestones. And I came away with a whole new appreciation for nails.
Evon’s story
Turns out Deanna’s sparkly nail art that caught my eye at a staff meeting led to a much more meaningful story. When I arrived at EV STUDIO, owner Evon Yen Vuong patiently sat down with me and answered my simple questions about acrylics and gels. She went on to explain that the difference with her salon is in the quality of the products that she personally creates and manufactures in her own factory in Texas, like Deanna’s nail rhinestone adhesive that never, ever budges.
Vuong went on to explain that her passion for nails blossomed into a passion for training and building up future nail artists. She said Rachel (Deanna’s favorite stylist) drove from Texas to Washington just for a chance to interview Vuong. This tenacity paid off and Rachel has been under Vuong’s wing ever since. And it’s not just Rachel. Vuong now mentors thousands of people in the Vietnamese community through online manicure classes and inspires millions through her social media.
Besides her personal success as a salon owner and nail art idol, Vuong says the best part of her job is that “I can help people find their passion” and improve the nail industry through quality. of its work and its products.
His mentorship is also changing lives. Vuong saw an opportunity near his living room for a new restaurant and is helping some of his team members realize their dream by opening “XO Pot & Bowl”, serving Asian fusion and hot pot dishes.
Vuong’s heart for his team shines as bright as the bling on your next manicure. Just remember to book well in advance!