Meet RaQuele Sliger

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

Hi RaQuele, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
It has truly been a journey to get where I am today.

My husband and I ran a successful event rental business for nearly a decade. When we began, we were newcomers to the event industry, building everything from the ground up through a lot of trial and error. Learning an incredible amount about ourselves and what we were capable of doing. Looking back, it feels like a dream that we built something so substantial, let alone create a business someone would want to purchase from us. Although I’m incredibly proud of what we accomplished together and cherish all the wonderful experiences we shared with that business, I felt a deep desire to reconnect with myself creatively. Having had that experience of running our business helped me along this new journey that awaited me.

For a period, I was part of an art collective called Factory Obscura, which truly replenished my creative spirit. When the collective evolved from creating temporary immersive installations to establishing a permanent location, I was fortunate enough to be hired as an artist. This experience deeply reconnected me with my artistic side. However, regrettably, I eventually chose to step away from my role to prioritize my family. Though leaving my art family was difficult, it was the best decision for us at that time.

In the spring of 2020, a nail tutorial randomly popped into my YouTube feed and immediately captured my attention. One video turned into dozens as I became completely captivated by the art of acrylic sculpting and gel application, from meticulous prep work to intricate nail art designs. Even my kids joined in, watching alongside me and picking out their favorite nail artists. By the end of that year, I was knew I wanted to pursue becoming a licensed nail technician.

Little did I know how challenging it would be just to enter a nail tech program. I spent nearly three years on a waitlist. Having a young, neurodiverse family, I needed the class hours that aligned with my kids’ school schedule. Unfortunately, those time slots were highly sought after, with high school students receiving priority. Just when I was losing hope, the waitlist turned out to be a blessing in disguise.

During those three years, my health took an unexpected turn, ultimately leading to an autoimmune diagnosis. It really turned our family life upside down. My health journey could fill an entirely separate story, but in short, what I once thought physically achievable was no longer realistic. Navigating my health journey taught me to listen closely to my body and prioritize rest, although it’s still frustrating at times when all I want is to create art and share it with others.

So becoming a licensed nail technician was off the table for me, but that didn’t stop my passion for nails. I continued doing my own nails, absorbing nail tutorials, and educational content purely for myself—until I stumbled upon a transformative video. It was a video from the YouTube channel Paola Ponce Nails where she interviewed Chloe Pascarella, a luxury custom press-on nail artist. It inspired me and got me thinking. I shared the idea of creating custom press-ons with my husband. Being the wonderful supportive husband he is, he encouraged me to pursue my dreams.

Chloe eventually became my mentor through The Press-On Academy, thanks to my husband’s thoughtful surprise of gifting me a subscription.

His unwavering belief in me meant so much, especially since pursuing nail artistry at age 40 felt a bit daunting in an industry primarily dominated by younger individuals. But, young at heart, I’m proving that creativity has no age limit—and neither does following your passion.

With the support of my husband, my best friend and other press-on nail artists I have had the privilege to get know, I gained the confidence I needed, and RAQ OUT Nails was born.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
It’s an ever-evolving journey. I’m a maker at heart and a professional dabbler, and I think that gives me a unique lens through which I approach my art and in turn, my growth. The more I step into my authentic self, the more my work mirrors that transformation, and it’s truly invigorating. It breathes new life into my soul and gives me a deeper sense of purpose. Because this isn’t just nail art, it’s a form of self-expression. Of self-care.

Focusing on inclusivity means the world to me. My dream is for everyone to feel seen, loved, and empowered to show up as themselves. To me, nail art isn’t just for the girls. It’s for all humans who want to express themselves, feel good in their skin, and build confidence in who they are. Ironically, I often find myself being my own toughest critic, battling unnecessary self-doubt and imposter syndrome. But I think that comes from knowing I can always do better and wanting to rise to that potential.

As a small business owner and artist, I’ve gotten used to wearing a lot of hats, some fit better than others. The creative side comes naturally and brings me joy, but navigating the world of marketing and content creation can feel like a whole other art form. Some days it flows, and others it’s a bit of a struggle, but I’m learning to find my rhythm.

It’s been incredibly refreshing to find community and support from other artists. Being a press-on nail artist can feel isolating at times, I mean it’s just me working from home. But connecting with fellow creatives and being part of The Press-On Academy has changed that. It’s like having a team of co-workers I can turn to for advice, encouragement, and idea-sharing. Especially when I’m trying to untangle the web of content, algorithms, and online visibility.

RAQ OUT Nails isn’t just about nails—it’s about reclaiming creativity, honoring individuality, and creating a safe, expressive space where everyone feels welcome. Over the years, friends—and even those I hardly knew—have told me that my presence felt calming, like a quiet comfort. That has always stayed with me and reminds me, even in moments of doubt, that I’m guided by something deeper. I’m not here just to decorate nails. I’m here to hold space, to encourage others to RAQ their confidence, to feel seen, and to love themselves a little more boldly.

Each set I create is more than wearable art—it’s a reflection of that intention. A reminder that you are seen, you are powerful, and you deserve to feel confident in your own skin. This brand is part of my own healing journey—a way to reconnect with the parts of myself that are unafraid to grow, to evolve, and to dream. And it’s also an open invitation for others to do the same.

Let’s RAQ our light, hold space for one another, and become who we were always meant to be—together.

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?
The OKC and surrounding areas have grown so much since I first came to Oklahoma, I wouldn’t even know where to start!

Of course we would visit Factory Obscura. It’s a magical immersive art experience, where the nostalgia, founders, and artists hold a special place in my heart. I have a deep personal connection that is rooted in my time as an artist with Factory Obscura.

I haven’t been yet, but Turner Falls is on my bucket list to visit. There’s a castle that was built in the 1930s to explore, a beautiful waterfall and hiking trail.

Our family loves Hideaway Pizza. The Da Bomb pizza is my absolute favorite, but I am the weirdo that loves pineapple on her pizza and a good ole balsamic reduction drizzle.

Tao Cha Cafe and Cafe Oasis are my go tos for boba tea.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Oh gosh. I have truly been fortunate to have so many in my corner cheering me on.

First and foremost though, my husband. He inspires me so much it makes me all teary eyed. Not once, did he ever think that “making press-ons” was a silly idea. From the very beginning, he believed in me. He believed in my talent and my passion. Without him I would still be “thinking” about creating nails rather than “doing”. It really hit home, when I learned that my best friend Kim and my husband talked about my art, and both of them agreeing that I could make something of it all.

Of course, my kids for always encouraging me and being my cheerleaders. My youngest is my hardest critic but always shares the same appreciation for nail art. He even has a collection of practice tips of different designs, some are specific requests he had for me. The most popular being the labradorite design. My kid is a rockhound and getting the design to mimic a true mineral took many many attempts before he signed off on the finished look. Like I said, he is my hardest critic. My own daughter who is a truly amazing young artist (@cicadagirl.art). I love collabing with her on her nails.

Everyone from The Press-On Academy by Chloe P. (@by.chloenails & @thepressonacademy). The friends that I have made on this nail journey have just been so incredible. Weather we talk nails or life in general, it’s just so incredible to be surrounded by so many who truly want to see you succeed. To name a few there’s Yessica (@iki_beautystudio), Rachel (@playgrndnails), Amanda (@tipsy_tips_nails), Jenn (@thenailsatelier), Tayssa (@creativetayynails), Clara (@pinoypingernailz) and so many more nail artists I wish I could list them all! My other artist friends that are truly gifted and talented that also inspire me like Jasmine (@artof.jasmine), Jenn (@petalpioneer.ok), Darci (@darcilenkerart), and Amber (@bamierae), just to name a few.

And most importantly, my customers. I wouldn’t have nails to adorn without them. Y’all are amazing and I am so grateful for you!

Website: http://www.raqoutnails.com (this is coming soon-but the domain has already been purchased)

Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/raqout.nails

Twitter: @raqout.nails

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61569070164593&mibextid=wwXIfr&mibextid=wwXIfr

Image Credits
RaQuele Sliger