Lorain Salon’s Fundraiser is a Success for Students

Mild 2 Wild Nails, a local nail salon in Lorain, polished off a successful back-to-school fundraiser, raising thousands of dollars in supplies for Lorain City Schools students.

The event drew a crowd from near and far, all eager to help local students prepare for class.

Salon owner Caitlin Smith organized the drive with her husband, mother, and neighboring business owners from Fun Gurl Studios and Empire to ensure students had the supplies they needed for the upcoming year. Smith is passionate about giving back and wants Mild 2 Wild Nails to be known for more than fabulous manicures.“I want people to see Mild 2 Wild Nails as a place that supports the community,” she said.

TikTok influencer Clawed Beauty added a bit of star power to the event, attracting visitors from as far away as Michigan and Indiana. Attendees didn’t come empty-handed, either—they brought enough school supplies to fill more than 100 backpacks, with hundreds more collected.

In total, the event brought in over $10,000 worth of supplies.

Generous donations flowed from local businesses and individuals, including $1,000 from American Legion Post 30 and $200 from Xtreme Tattoo. Other supporters, such as Fun Girl Studios, Empire, Soulful Hibachi, Selenite Pizza, Yala’s Pizza, Palace Theater, Mr. Hero, and the Northern Institute of Cosmetology, also chipped in to make the event successful.

The drive’s success wasn’t just about the numbers; it was a community-wide effort that brought everyone together. Holly Barnes, Tim Smith, DJ Fran, Brie Levet, and Dewanna Davis all lent a hand.

“I wanted everyone to get their flowers, not just me,” Smith said, giving credit where it was due.

With the community’s support, Mild 2 Wild Nails is proving it’s more than just a salon—it’s a cornerstone of Lorain’s vibrant, giving spirit.