Community Member Pursues Dream, Opens First Nail Salon in Sacaton

Velia Moncada
Gila River Indian News

Rita Mendivil, a proud Hopi and GRIC member from District 4, has achieved a significant milestone in her entrepreneurial journey with the grand opening of the first nail boutique in Sacaton. Aptly named ‘Bling by Rita,’ the boutique opened its doors on March 2 at 78 W. Pima St., Suite 1, next to the Post Office.

“I have always loved nails, beauty, makeup, everything beauty,” Mendivil shared. Her interest in nail artistry began when she acquired a nail kit at age eight.

For Mendivil, the journey to opening her boutique has been a relentless pursuit of her dreams. While working for 13 years as a teacher at Head Start, she balanced her hobby with her day job, eventually obtaining her nail tech license in 2023.

“During the pandemic is when I really got into doing nails. I was doing my nails, and my friends and family would ask me to do theirs,” said Mendivil, explaining how she started her small business inside her laundry room. Her clients, co-teachers, friends, and family all encouraged her to pursue her passion on a grander scale.

“I didn’t really have the funding then,” Mendivil explained when she decided to attend B5 Beauty School in Mesa. However, with solid support from her eight children, she sold burritos to make money for a down payment on tuition and won awards for scholarships. Mendivil graduated with her certificate in Nail Technology in May 2022.

The grand opening of ‘Bling by Rita’ celebrated her triumphs and served as a testament to the support she has garnered from her friends, family, and the Community.

Attendees eagerly explored the chic and inviting interior of the boutique, adorned with sparkling décor and elegant furnishings. Raffle prizes were up for grabs, ranging from a first customer appointment to beaded earrings by Unique Threads.

Additionally, guests were served food and refreshments by Haujin Kitchen and Alyssa’s Kosin, while DJ Whoa (Jacob Antone) provided musical support for the newly opened business.

“They tell you when you do God’s work, you gain an abundance of love and blessings, and your cup will overflow,” said Mendivil, “I sit here, and I cry tears of joy because my cup is overflowing. I would have never thought I would have this.”

Bling by Rita is more than just a nail boutique; it is a testament to the power of perseverance and the fulfillment of a lifelong ambition. Mendivil’s journey inspires aspiring entrepreneurs everywhere, proving that with determination and passion, anything is possible. As her boutique remains open to welcome customers old and new, she looks forward to continuing her success journey and making a lasting impact on the Community.

If interested, you can follow Mendivil’s business page on Instagram at ‘Blingedoutbyrita’ or send her a text message at (480) 799-3804 to schedule an appointment.