Truly Nails, LLC

When Gaoyee Moua decided to open her nail salon, she wasn't following in anyone's footsteps—she was blazing her trail. A full-time mother of four, first-generation college student, and graduate of Stanly Community College's cosmetology program, Gaoyee had the skill and the passion for nails, but no roadmap for business ownership. With support from the Stanly Community College Small Business Center (SBC), she turned her dream into a thriving reality: Truly Nails, LLC.

Growing up in a Hmong refugee family that settled in the U.S. after fleeing post-war Laos, Gaoyee learned early how to navigate unfamiliar systems. She served as translator and advocate for her parents, who had no formal education or English proficiency. That early experience prepared her to face one of her biggest challenges yet—launching a business with no family history of entrepreneurship.

"I don't have anyone in my immediate family who is a business owner, so to have the SBC offer services like this helped me open my business and be confident I was doing it the right way," said Gaoyee.

Despite her determination, Gaoyee faced a steep learning curve. She was unsure how to register an LLC, apply for an EIN, or develop a startup budget—especially while juggling the responsibilities of parenting four children ranging from kindergarten to high school.

It was during her time as a student at Stanly Community College that she discovered the SBC. What started with attending a simple seminar grew into a life-changing partnership. Gaoyee logged over 5 hours of one-on-one counseling and participated in more than 11 hours of business development seminars. She also enrolled in Taking the Leap, a program designed to help new entrepreneurs turn their concepts into actionable business plans.

SBC Director Cassidy Ball led Gaoyee step-by-step through the business formation process, from completing her LLC paperwork to meeting BOI compliance. "Even from the first day I met Cassidy, she was informative and patient and sat next to me as she walked me through the LLC process, answering my questions immediately," Gaoyee recalled.

With support from the SBC, Gaoyee created a comprehensive business plan that included financial projections, a startup budget, and a strategy for customer engagement. She learned how to assess the local market, identify high-demand services, and refine her vision based on honest customer feedback.

Truly Nails officially opened its doors in Locust, NC, offering personalized nail services in a warm, welcoming environment. Gaoyee didn't stop there—she also hired another SCC graduate as a part-time employee, further investing in her local community.

Her success is a testament to the power of persistence, community support, and tailored small business resources. The journey wasn't easy, but Gaoyee's transformation from student to confident business owner is exactly the kind of impact the SCC Small Business Center strives to make.

"Gaoyee embodies the spirit of entrepreneurship," said Cassidy. "She had the vision and the dedication. We were just honored to help her bring it all together."

Today, Truly Nails stands not just as a local small business—but as a symbol of resilience, self-determination, and what's possible when talent meets opportunity.