KEEPING UP WITH Kelly-Marie

The Manicure Company’s head of education, Kelly-Marie Daly, opens up about her career journey, industry passions & recipe for success

Kelly-Marie Daly’s nail journey began with a ‘leap of faith’. Over 20 years ago, the Irish pro, who is based in County Limerick, wanted to swap her job in childcare for a role in the beauty industry, but wasn’t sure where to start. “I grabbed a newspaper, closed my eyes and pointed to the job adverts page. I landed on a listing for a nail technician role,” she reveals.

It was another case of chance that led her to The Manicure Company (TMC) nine years ago. “A brand representative dropped a flyer into my salon and gave me some products to try,” Kelly-Marie shares.

“Shortly after, I reached out to the team and arranged a meeting. We shared the same passion and drive, which formed the foundation of a working relationship.”

It’s these qualities that Kelly-Marie believes have helped her to succeed in the nail industry. “I’m a dedicated person, but not one to seek the spotlight,” she tells Scratch. “What matters most to me is my passion for nails, sharing it with others and helping them succeed. My goal has always been to lift others up, and I live by the motto: ‘when opportunity knocks, open the door’. I’ve run salons, won nail and business awards and established my academy thanks to hard work, consistency and support from good people.”

Educating: ‘a dream come true’

Kelly-Marie pursued educating as she was constantly travelling to access high-quality training. “I wanted to bring a higher standard of nail education to the south of Ireland,” she explains. Sixteen years later, she feels she’s hit the jackpot in her role at The Manicure Company. “Guiding and leading an incredible group of educators for such a supportive company is a dream come true,” she smiles. “I feel blessed to be part of the TMC team and provide opportunities to others in this industry.

“What matters most to me is my passion for nails, sharing it with others and helping them succeed.”

“The Manicure Company products are fantastic, and I love the brand’s customer service,” she continues. “You can count on TMC to stay consistent and innovative, and there are exciting launches pending.”

The brand’s education team has introduced new members this year, and gathered for an Educator Event in February. “The diversity of the team is great – everyone brings unique personalities, skills and perspectives,” Kelly-Marie shares. “We’ve learned to use these different strengths to support and learn from one another, and grow in skill and confidence.”

The talented pro notes that she feels truly happy in her current position. “Where I am today feels right, surrounded by people who share my passion for the nail industry,” Kelly-Marie says. “I’m excited to see what’s next for The Manicure Company’s education team and to keep growing alongside its members.”

The Manicure Company E-File Pro 2.0 £246.89 inc VAT www.themanicurecompany.com

Kelly-Marie’s product picks

“The Manicure Company’s E-file is my favourite product as it’s lightweight, durable and easy to work with,” she details. “I also love the brand’s Gel Polish Original Top Coat for its glossiness and smooth application, and Builder Base builder gel for its consistency.”