10 May 2026 Person of the Month: Tammy Pham

Hometown:I was born and raised in Vietnam and moved to Conway in 2005, which I now call home.

Family: I am a mother of two adult daughters. My oldest, Jennifer Anna Pham, 22, will graduate in May from the University of Arkansas with a degree in education. My youngest, Leesa Pham, 20, is in her second year at Hendrix College studying biochemistry.

Education: I earned my degree in education in Vietnam and worked as a teacher for five years before moving to Arkansas. After relocating to the United States, I pursued cosmetology training out of state for several months. I returned to Conway in 2006 and received my Arkansas manicurist license that same year.

Work: I am the owner of V.I.P. Nail & Spa, located in Conway. Before opening my business on Nov. 6, 2020, I worked as a nail technician for many years. My journey in the nail industry has been one of growth, hard work and passion. I started as a nail technician and, over time, built my skills, gained experience and eventually became a salon owner. It hasn’t always been easy, but every step has shaped who I am today.

I opened V.I.P. Nail & Spa to create a welcoming space where customers feel comfortable, valued and beautiful. I also wanted the freedom to express my creativity and build something of my own. Owning a salon allows me to do both. We offer a full range of services, including manicures, pedicures, eyelash extensions, facials, waxing, and all types of nail services. 

Awards: I’m honored and grateful to have received several recognitions. V.I.P. Nail & Spa has been voted Best of the Best in the Democrat Gazette’s Readers’ Choice competition for four years in a row, and was named Best of Faulkner County by the Log Cabin Democrat for five years in a row.

I’ve also received two awards from the Conway Area Chamber of Commerce: Diversity in Business Award in 2022 and Women in Business Award in 2023.

I’ve had the privilege of serving many amazing clients, including pageant winners from Mrs. Arkansas International, Miss Arkansas and Miss Conway. However, my greatest accomplishment is earning the trust and loyalty of my clients and building a strong, supportive team. Seeing customers leave happy and confident means everything to me.

Community Activities: I am a member of the Conway Area Chamber of Commerce and the Women’s Leadership Network. I actively support local businesses and volunteer with nonprofit organizations, such as The Harbor Home, Deliver Hope, scholarship programs, local police departments and more.

Hobbies: I enjoy needlepoint and reading. I also love interior design and take pride in creating a clean, organized and beautiful environment.

Favorite dessert: My favorite is the Mangonada sorbet from Las Delicias in Conway.

“Monday Morning” song: A song I often find myself singing is “My Heart Will Go On” by Celine Dion.

Why Central Arkansas? I love the Conway community. The people are kind and supportive, especially when it comes to local businesses. There’s a strong sense of connection here, and people are always willing to help one another.