Meet Maily Nguyen | Nail Technician, Business Owner & Mother

We had the good fortune of connecting with Maily Nguyen and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Maily, as a parent, what have you done for you children that you feel has had the most significant impact?
As a parent, I’ve always tried to lead by example, showing my sons the importance of living with a smile, caring for others, and giving back to the community. Coming to Charleston as an immigrant, I worked hard to build a life for my family, not just to provide, but to teach my sons the importance of determination and dedication. Every sacrifice and every challenge I faced was done with them in mind, so they could have more opportunities and know they were deeply loved. I want my children to see that joy can be found even in hard work and that kindness toward others is what truly builds a fulfilling life. I hope that, in watching me, they’ve learned that success isn’t just what you achieve but the way you uplift those around you.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My story begins with a long journey from Vietnam to America, a place I hoped would offer a brighter future. When I arrived in Charleston over 30 years ago, I started out cleaning houses downtown, often with my young son nearby because I couldn’t afford childcare. I didn’t speak much English, but with every house I cleaned and every new person I met, I learned the language, adapted to my surroundings, and slowly built a life. Through hard work, determination, and the friendships I formed, I came to feel not just at home here, but like a true Charlestonian.

Today, I’m proud to say I own my own business in Mount Pleasant, offering services that bring joy and a smile to others. This, along with motherhood and the life I’ve built in the Lowcountry, makes all of those challenges worthwhile. I’ve learned that success is not always an easy path, but with resilience and the support of community, it becomes a journey of growth and fulfillment. If there’s one thing I want people to take away from my story, it’s that with hard work, kindness, and a love for what you do, you can create a life that you’re proud of.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Charleston offers everything! The only problem is that theres not enough time to experience it all. Even as a longtime resident, I am constantly finding new hidden gems. I’ve tried my best to create a Charleston must-do list with some of my favorites but i’m still discovering my city everyday. Hope this helps!

| Morning |

Kick off the day with a sunrise beach walk from Isle of Palms to Sullivan’s Island—it’s the best way to soak in Charleston’s laid-back coastal beauty.

Work up an appetite and pop by Café Paname for authentic French croissants and and tasty coffee to fuel the day.

| Daytime |

I love to play tourist in my own city even though I try to go off the typical track when traveling. Spending a day wandering through historic Charleston is a must for anyone in the area – whether it’s your first or 100th visit to the Low Country. Lose yourself among the stunning mansions, colonial architecture, scenic views and explore local shops, galleries, and some of the very best eateries in the world.

Lunch at Leon’s for fried chicken and oysters. It’s naughty but after all that walking, you’ve definitely earned it.

Please pardon the shameless plug – but I’d like to put a spotlight on my business, Vogue Nails and Spa in Mount Pleasant! I would recommend anyone visiting, especially friends and family to stop in to unwind with some much deserved self-care and pampering. I am proud of the welcoming space we’ve curated for the Charleston community.

| Evening |

Sunset on Sullivan’s Island—nothing says Charleston quite like it.

Happy Hour at The Darling Oyster Bar – grab a seat at the bar to watch them shuck oysters as fast as you can down them.

Dinner at:
Chubby Fish —a local gem with fresh, inventive seafood dishes.
Stella’s for Mediterranean bites and lovely ambiance
Grill 225 if you’re feeling fancy and want to celebrate a special occasion.

Evening Drinks at The Belmont for an intimate cocktail experience in the heart of downtown.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I’d like to dedicate my shoutout to my mother, whose strength and sacrifice shaped me into the person I am today. Growing up, I watched her face countless challenges with resilience and grace, all for the sake of giving her children a better future. Her example taught me the values of perseverance and selflessness, which have guided me throughout my life. Everything I do, especially as a mother myself, is deeply influenced by her love and dedication. She’s the foundation of my story, and I owe so much of who I am to her.

Website: https://voguenailscharleston.com

Instagram: @voguenailscharleston

Other: Email: hello@voguenailscharleston.com

Image Credits
Maily Nguyen, Tony Nguyen, Miguel Rato