A Young Entrepreneur Takes Center Stage:
Season 3 of Shark Tank India doesn’t just showcase established players; it also shines a light on budding entrepreneurs like Anoushka Rele. This 22-year-old Pune resident, founder of Polish Me Pretty, captivated the Sharks with her unique nail art brand.
An Early Spark:
Anoushka’s entrepreneurial spirit ignited at a young age. At 14, she embarked on a cupcake van venture with her mother. This was followed by managing Instagram pages selling stationery and clothes in her late teens. In 2019, she even launched a streetwear brand, although it eventually shut down. These experiences, while not all successful, instilled valuable lessons in resilience and resourcefulness.
Polish Me Pretty: A Vision Takes Shape:
Fresh out of graduation in June 2022, Anoushka channeled her passion for beauty and self-expression into Polish Me Pretty. Her core belief? Manicures, like hair and makeup, are essential for feeling confident and complete.
Beyond the Ordinary:
Polish Me Pretty offers a delightful array of over 200 nail color shades and customizable nail art designs. Handcrafted, hand-polished, and meticulously designed, these nails stand out for their:
- Uniqueness: Catering to Gen Z aesthetics, the designs veer away from conventional options, offering a vibrant and personalized touch.
- Quality: Unlike mass-produced alternatives, Polish Me Pretty nails are handmade, ensuring superior durability and a flawless finish.
- Sustainability: They can be reused up to five times, making them an eco-friendly and cost-effective choice for fashion-conscious individuals.
Frugal Beginnings and Family Support:
Anoushka’s resourcefulness is commendable. She bootstrapped Polish Me Pretty with funds earned from flipping limited edition Nike sneakers. Finding a nail artist initially proved challenging, prompting her to work with local artists to translate her designs into reality. Family played a pivotal role in her journey. She fondly recalls nights spent packing orders with her grandmother, aunts, and sisters, while her father’s unwavering support fueled her determination to build an independent brand.
A Shark Tank Success Story:
Polish Me Pretty’s episode on Shark Tank India (season 3, episode 27) aired on February 27, 2024. Anoushka’s confident pitch and the unique product resonated with the Sharks, ultimately leading to a deal worth Rs. 50 lakh with Peyush Bansal, founder of Lenskart. This investment marked a new chapter in Anoushka’s entrepreneurial journey and provided much-needed resources to propel her brand forward.
Looking Ahead: A Revolution in Manicures:
Polish Me Pretty is more than just a nail art brand; it’s a testament to Anoushka’s passion, perseverance, and resourcefulness. With her innovative approach, she aims to revolutionize the manicure-pedicure scene, offering fashion-forward and sustainable alternatives to existing options. As Polish Me Pretty embarks on its next phase of growth with the support of Peyush Bansal, one thing is certain: Anoushka’s journey is an inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs, showcasing the power of belief, hard work, and a touch of creativity in building a successful business.