OUR STORY
From the start, one of the clearest sources of inspiration for Mano was the seemingly mundane things we do with our hands. Every single day we touch, cradle, carry, or caress the things we pour our energy into.
Your cup of coffee, tea, or matcha as the day starts
Turning the knob so you can sing along to a favorite song
Your pen and a notebook, prepped for a fresh project
Chopping up the ingredients to roll and fry lumpia (Filipino spring rolls)
Taking your favorite oversized vintage tee out of the dryer
Your current read as you curl up on the couch, ready to unwind
We believe there is a little magic in how we use our hands each and every day to leave our mark in our communities and on this world. It is a constant reminder of how intentional each action should be.
That same thought process describes the collaborative journey at Mano. From idea to reality, each step is a partnership of
self-care and creativity.
OUR VALUES
Foster a welcoming, inclusive space for all rooted in a blend of Japan’s Omotenashi and “magiliw na pagtanggap” in the Philippines
Focus on the process and encourage natural nail health
Emphasize the vibes (the playlist always hits, ask about the secret drink menu)
Support emerging artists, creatives, and designers
Celebrate and connect with other women-owned local businesses
A NOTE FROM MONIQUE
Making a flower arrangement. Picking out vinyl at a flea market. Chopping up the ingredients to roll and fry lumpia (Filipino spring roll). Wrapping a special gift you’re excited to give. Styling your coffee table. A good handshake.
OUR FOUNDER
Growing up as a Filipina immigrant in New York City from the the age of 5, my deep curiosity for art, design and human connection fostered from everyday life. However, it was those annual family summer trips to the Philippines that showed me how slowing down (island life) and things done by hand are the essence to creating with intention, and that inspiration is all around us.
I’ve always been enamored by all that our hands allow us to do, especially when it comes to making things beautiful. I believe it’s why getting my nails done has always been the only “beauty ritual” I ever cared for –– a moment to treat myself, as well as my hands.
In building the Mano universe, my dream was to introduce a fun, new way of celebrating our hands for all the work they put in, day in + day out. This new vision included a commitment to clean, quality products, an outpour of creativity on the tiniest canvases, as well as an elevated experience rooted in community and intention.