Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month is a time to celebrate the cultures, stories, and contributions of AAPI individuals across the country. Here in Bossier City, local businesses continue to make a lasting impact on the community through hard work, passion, and dedication. Two businesses helping shape the local culture and economy are Crispy Donuts and The Nail Den.

Fresh Donuts and Family Tradition at Crispy Donuts

For many residents in Bossier City, a stop at Crispy Donuts on Airline is part of their daily routine. Whether it’s before work, before school, or during a weekend craving, the local donut shop has become a familiar and comforting staple in the community. Owner Natalie Niravong shared that the business was originally opened in 2007 by her mother, Summer, and stepfather, Robert. At the time, they saw potential in the Airline Drive location and believed it would be the perfect place to bring freshly made donuts to the area. Having previously worked in donut shops for others, they eventually decided they wanted to build something of their own.

“I officially took over the business in the summer of 2017, allowing my parents more freedom to travel and pursue other ventures,” said Niravong. 

Since then, she has continued growing the family business while maintaining the same strong work ethic and customer-first mindset it was built on.

According to Niravong, what separates Crispy Donuts from other shops in the area is their commitment to quality.

 “We don’t use the ‘cheaper’ ingredients,” she said. “Quality is important to us.”

That dedication is reflected not only in the products but also in the relationships they have built over the years. 

At Crispy Donuts on Airline, customer service is one of the most important parts of the business. 

“Many customers stop in on their way to work or school, and the team strives to create an experience that is both friendly and efficient,” Niravong said.

Over time, those customers have become like family and turned into good friends.

“Some of these boys and girls have been coming into our shop since they were kids, and now they are graduating this year,” she said.

Being part of the AAPI community also carries deep meaning for Niravong and her family. She described business ownership as representing resilience and the ability to create opportunities through hard work.

“My parents were immigrants here at one point, so seeing our family’s success is something special,” she said.

She also credits her upbringing and family values for shaping the business. Growing up around her father’s Thai restaurant taught her the importance of a strong work ethic and sacrifice, especially in an industry where workdays often begin at 2 or 3 a.m.

For first-time visitors, Natalie recommends keeping it classic with a glazed donut. Another customer favorite is the blueberry cake donut, and their cinnamon rolls have even gained viral attention with over 2.1 million views on TikTok.

As for what’s next, Crispy Donuts continues introducing seasonal flavors and new menu items, including a recently added red velvet cake donut that customers have been enjoying.

Most importantly, Niravong says the support from the Bossier City community has meant everything.

“When I first moved here, I couldn’t wait to leave, and now I love it here,” she said. 

Address: 4903 Airline Drive, Bossier City

Facebook: Crispy Donuts on Airline 

Raising the Standard in Beauty at The Nail Den

Another business making a strong impact locally is The Nail Den, owned by Chin Chin Potter. Known for its elevated atmosphere, detailed nail artistry, and focus on natural nail health, The Nail Den has become one of the area’s standout beauty destinations.

For Potter, one of the most rewarding parts of owning a business in Bossier City is the sense of community that has developed over the years.

“Watching clients become family over the years has been one of the most rewarding parts of this journey,” she said.

She also expressed pride in helping shine a spotlight on both Bossier City and Shreveport through her work as a nail educator. Potter frequently travels across the country, working major beauty trade shows alongside leading nail companies, bringing new trends, techniques, and education back home to the local community.

The Nail Den has even represented Bossier and Shreveport backstage at New York Fashion Week twice, an accomplishment the team is incredibly proud of.

What sets The Nail Den apart is its intentional approach to both beauty and wellness. The salon specializes in builder gel, Gel-X, Russian manicures, and detailed nail art while also emphasizing sanitation, education, and personalized experiences.

“Our salon is appointment-only, which allows us to give clients a more personalized experience without feeling rushed,” Potter explained.

Her Vietnamese and Filipino heritage has also played a major role in shaping the business and her leadership style. She credits her family and cultural background for teaching her resilience, hospitality, and pride in hard work.

“The Vietnamese community has also had a huge impact on the nail industry as a whole, and I carry a lot of pride in being part of that legacy,” she said.

Today, Potter hopes her work continues inspiring others while helping elevate the beauty industry locally. The Nail Den is currently expanding and preparing to open a new upscale location in Shreveport, continuing its mission of creating opportunities and raising standards within the industry.

“Our goal has always been bigger than nails,” she said. “We want to create careers, inspire other entrepreneurs, and help raise the standard for the beauty industry locally.”

Address: 2710 Douglas Drive, Unit E, Bossier City 

Facebook: The Nail Den