Through the Keyhole

Take a peek inside salon setups across the UK&I as Scratch unlocks each door

Nails by Megan

Location: Belfast, County Antrim

Megan Thompson opened her ‘dream nail studio’ in July, following a challenging entry into the world of nails. After completing a course in Nail Technology in 2019, she had set up a home salon, practicing her nail skills on her sisters until she felt confident to expand her client base. However, the Covid-19 pandemic forced her to close her books just two months after opening.

She used the time to hone her skills, and her hard work paid off as she welcomed a steady stream of clients when restrictions were lifted. Keen for greater job flexibility, she found a studio space in a well populated area of south Belfast. “There are many hair, nail and beauty salons locally, but they are each decorated differently and offer varied services,” the 23-year-old explains.

Nails by Megan has a chic black, white and grey colour scheme with potted plants adding a touch of colour. “I have created a relaxing space for clients and offer hot and cold drinks to aid their comfort,” Megan reveals. The professional specialises in natural nailcare, with builder gel and gel polish enhancements included on her treatment menu. “I love nail art, and my clients enjoy bringing inspirational pictures to their appointments and giving me creative challenges,” she continues. For artistic designs, the nail pro favours the Halo Gel Polish range from Pure Nails, cased in black bottles that look ‘sleek and professional’ on her white salon shelves.

Running the salon on a solo basis ensures that all aspects of the business are up to Megan’s standards: from the treatments to social media posts, administration and cleaning. “I love the freedom of owning a nail studio, and do not take it for granted,” she shares.

Nails by Megan

@nails.by.megan24

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LB Beauty

Location: Hathersage, Derbyshire

Libby Bramley knew she was destined for a career in the beauty industry, and had a goal to open her own salon, which was achieved in September 2021. She left her role as a beauty therapist at a spa to work on a self-employed basis, and found her ideal salon space in the picturesque village of Hathersage in the Peak District.

Surrounded by rolling hills, the outside is brought inside LB Beauty, with dark wooden flooring, foliage hanging from planters and pops of leafy green on blankets and rugs. “I have paired green with dusky pink, creating a welcoming, cosy environment for my clients,” Libby shares. A large window boasts a scenic view of the Peak District for clients to admire as they enjoy a pedicure, while a heated blanket lines the lash bed for the ‘ideal lash nap’.

A bus stop opposite the salon offers easy access for clients, and the back of the premises boasts a unique walk-in cupboard with wipeable gloss walls and lino flooring: a space for Libby’s spray tanning services. “It’s much easier than putting a tent up and down,” she shares. “Once I’ve finished a tanning treatment, I can simply clean the booth and shut the door, while a fan extracts the fumes.”

Alongside spray tans, Libby offers L&P acrylic and Halo PoliBuild enhancements, as well as builder gel, gel polish and natural nail treatments. “I use Pure Nails, Navy Professional and CJP products, and also offer waxing, tinting and wedding make-up services,” she reveals. “Working independently is a challenge, but I really enjoy it – the hard work reaps rewards!”

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