RM: Tell us more about you and how you started Glosslab.
Rachel Apfel Glass: I worked in hedge fund fundraising for 10 years and was always in search of a quick, clean manicure because of my busy lifestyle. I always felt like manicures were errands; a very joyless and inefficient experience. I talked about recreating the nail space for years. After having my second daughter and ultimately leaving the world of finance, I decided to make it happen. I started Glosslab to create a true “brand” in the manicure space, to provide others with the opportunity to get a quick, seamless manicure.
RM: What have been the biggest challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Rachel Apfel Glass: Time management while raising capital was certainly a challenge – we had our heads down focused on operations and expansion but had to balance that with the time necessary to complete the fundraising process.
RM: Tell us about the new location in Tribeca?
Rachel Apfel Glass: We are so excited to join the Tribeca community. This is an updated location with our signature polish wall concept, waterless services (as always!) and clean air ventilation.
RM: What differentiates you from other nails salons?
Rachel Apfel Glass: Glosslab is hygiene and efficiency first with an unprecedented membership-based model. We are laser-focused on the customer experience and how we can make getting a manicure an “efficient oasis” – efficiency combined with an elevated experience. For products, we focus on both performance and clean formulas. We launched our Gel Eraser earlier this year which is game-changing in gel polish removal. The most damaging part of gel manicures is the removal – acetone soak and then scraping on nails. Our Gel Eraser applies like a clear polish and the gel polish literally bubbles off! It has sold out 3 times this year and has a cult following!
RM: What do you feel is the biggest strength of your company right now?
Rachel Apfel Glass: I founded Glosslab on five key pillars including: Hygiene, Efficiency, Innovation, Expertise and Empowerment. All of these make us unique and are strengths.
RM: What goal/s do you have for the company?
Rachel Apfel Glass: I hope to see a Glosslab on many corners throughout the country!
RM: What are your outside interests?
Rachel Apfel Glass: I always try and incorporate some self-care into my routine. For me, this is yoga, meditation and making sure I have time each day that’s mine alone (which is sometimes hard with 2 young girls!)
RM: What is your daily routine?
Rachel Apfel Glass: I wake up super early, this is usually my me-time… workout and meditation. School drop off and then Glosslab all day!
RM: What’s your favorite restaurant in New York?
Rachel Apfel Glass: I live in Tribeca and love Bubby’s for an early dinner with my husband and two young daughters.
