BEHIND THE GRAM

Get to know social media nail stars as they offer an insight into their lives & share content creation tips

What makes me happy

My husband, dog, friends and family. I’m very lucky that I’ve got a good support system of people who check in with me, and tell me when I’m working too many hours. I’m also happy when eating chocolate, going for walks, watching films and reading.

Signature style

My style is colourful, cartoony and fun. I enjoy painting floral designs most, as they afford so many artistic options. I am an ambassador for Magpie Beauty, so use the brand’s products exclusively. My favourite tools and products are the ARTYbrushes, especially Detail 9, and ARTYgels. They make creating nail art so easy.

My nail journey

When I was younger, I used to bite my nails. To encourage me to stop, my granny bought me nail art pens while on holiday in Spain. Using them didn’t stop me biting entirely, until I went to college and was embarrassed by my bitten nails. I started doing nail art so that I wouldn’t want to bite off my hard work, and spent 10 years using nail polish to create various designs.

Friends and family encouraged me to train using gel, and I qualified in February 2020 – just before lockdown. It wasn’t ideal timing as I was unable to take clients, but it gave me months to perfect my skills.

I opened my cosy home salon in 2021. I love that it’s in my house, as I don’t have far to go to work! I have built great relationships with my clients, and it’s nice to be there for them during the highs and lows of their lives.

11-year-old me browsing nail art pens at a Spanish market with my granny.

My home salon.

A day in my life

I’m a part-time nail tech, so a typical working day sees me doing my main job in marketing from 8am to 5pm. I then have my tea and tidy the salon, before welcoming clients from 6pm to 10pm.

Social media advice

I started doing nail art in the early days of Instagram, so my following grew naturally as the platform gained popularity. It’s a lovely feeling knowing that so many people have followed my journey.

My top social media tips are:

1. Have a consistent photography style or pose so that your work is recognisable.

2. Use a good camera and lighting to ensure your content is clear and bright.

3. Be kind and engage with other nail techs.

My inspirations

I am inspired by other artists on Instagram and Pinterest, as well as patterns, clothing and everyday items like shower gel. Inspiration is everywhere if you look for it!

Career highlights

Winning Best New Beauty Blog at the Cosmopolitan Blog Awards 2013 was a memorable career moment. I’m also grateful to be an ambassador for Magpie Beauty, and to have worked with other amazing brands, including Barry M, Penguin Books, Tesco, Amazon and Marvel.