Tori, Founder & Creator of Miki'ao Nail STUDIO

Tori is passionate about social reform from within.  She wanted to create a special beauty experience that is good for the body, hygienic, and soothing for the mind.  She observed that the manicure and pedicure services around the island use toxic acrylics and non-hygienic practices, provide dated nail art, and have health issues for technicians.  She wished to offer a salon experience that provides an atmosphere and experience that soothes and nourishes the body.  

Once she identified the issues, she began by understanding the technician’s experience firsthand.  She enrolled in La Mer Nail Institute, known for providing exemplary nail education and emphasizing the growing nail art trends from Japan.  The curriculum emphasized a strong concern for health and safety. Tori was educated on full range of methods that emphasize safe nail services. She received her license in 2017 and continues this education…

Before launching Miki'ao Nail Studio, Tori spent 15 years honing her business acumen - first developing grants and contracts at the University of Hawai‘i and then combining her passion for local business and dessert by managing a gelato factory. 

Tori is excited to bring the natural nail concept to Hawai’i and change the way the nail industry provides services.

At Miki‘ao Nail Studio, Tori strives to prove that this business model works – that a nail salon can be profitable and that their work doesn’t have to compromise their or their client’s health. She is always looking for ways to continue to grow the brand while staying true to Miki‘ao Nail Studio’s values.