Through the Keyhole

JC Nails

Location: Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk

The playful and quirky JC Nails, located in a studio unit, is the result of founder, Jemma Cornell’s hard work. She used her vibrant personality as inspiration for its interior aesthetic, commenting: “My salon offers a ‘home from home’ vibe. It’s cosy, unique, fun and radiates happiness, plus it features a wall in my favourite colour – black.” Mounted atop the wall is a statement mirror, with abstract edges and light-up details. Placed in between a selection of posters, the mirror reflects the checkerboard rug in the centre of the salon space.

The tech trained in 2020 during the pandemic, using nails as an outlet for creativity during the challenging time. “I had to keep myself busy and, as I was a regular nail client, I turned what I loved into my job,” Jemma shares. “It is the best thing I’ve ever done.” For four years, Jemma has been running her successful nail business, and has her sights set on becoming an educator and opening a training school.

“I love having my own space and being a solo worker,” the tech continues. “Being able to enjoy one-to-one time with clients is a wonderful part of the job.” Jemma offers a variety of services, including L&P acrylic nail extensions, builder gel (BIAB™) and pedicures, using The GelBottle Inc, Nail Order and Urban Graffiti products.

/jemsjems88 @jc_nails_bse

The Nail Editor

Location: Godmanchester, Cambridgeshire

Dominique Sharpe’s nail business rebranded to The Nail Editor in May, and the nail pro moved into the professional studio she had longed for since qualifying as a nail tech in 2004.

In the early stages of her career, the three-time Scratch Stars Awards finalist struggled to find an environment in which she enjoyed working. “I began to lose my passion for the industry after working late nights in salons and receiving a low income,” Dominique shares. She found working from a console table in her living room too challenging, and using her conservatory as a base came with limitations. “It was either too hot or too cold, and when it rained, the noise on the roof made conversations difficult,” she explains. However, the tech’s resilience paid off this year.

Dominique’s double garage has been transformed into a space that facilitates her creativity. “I finally have a studio in which my clients can truly enjoy their experiences,” she smiles. “They love it as much as I do! I like spending time in there, creating beautiful nails and experimenting with various mediums and nail art designs.”

Do you want to be featured on this page? Scan here to submit your salon or setup

The gel specialist has created a ‘calm and inviting space’, and her branding boasts a green, gold and brown colour palette with pink accents. “The salon’s interior is sophisticated, with a professional atmosphere,” adds Dominique. She offers hard gel, builder gel and structure gel enhancements, alongside gel manicures and pedicures, using Magpie Beauty and Lecenté products. “Both brands offer an extensive selection of shades and nail art items, allowing me to create stunning designs,” she reveals.

Dominique completed the AET Level 2 educator qualification in 2022, has taught for Lecenté and seeks to invest more time into sharing her nail art skills. “I’m gradually building my academy and can’t wait to take it to the next level,” she reveals.