Partners in life & livelihood

Meet the power couples working together to achieve success in the nail industry, as they share the benefits & challenges of combining their personal & professional lives

Here at Scratch , we often share about the importance of positive working relationships – but what’s it like when your colleague is also your partner? We’ve talked to couples who’ve built thriving nail brands, delving into their journeys as partners in life and work and sourcing their tips for couples going into business together.

Jim & Lezlie McConnell

Co-founders of professional nail brand, Light Elegance

Combining Jim’s expertise as a polymer chemist for wood products and transportation, and Lezlie’s insight as a luxury salon owner, the husband-and-wife duo founded Light Elegance nail products in 1999, focusing on the principles of chemistry, quality and community. The pair shares a passion for formulating safe, high-performing products to help nail businesses thrive, and achieves this aim from the Light Elegance HQ in Oregon, US.

Jim and Lezlie boast over 20 years of working together, now bringing in their daughter, Lexy, and her husband, Joseph, to help grow the brand moving forward. The pair can regularly be found connecting with the Light Elegance community via live online broadcasts. Jim has said that his wife has changed his life personally and professionally, and helped him accomplish more than he ever could on his own.

www.lightelegance.com @lightelegancehq

Annabel & Elliott Maginnis

Co-founders of professional nail brand, Glitterbels

“We decided to go into business together because we both bring unique skills to the table, which complement each other,” says Elliott Maginnis. “Annabel has a passion for nails and eye for creating bold, beautiful designs, while I have always been interested in the business side of things. It has allowed us to build something meaningful that we’re both truly passionate about.”

The benefits

“One of the biggest benefits of working together is trust,” says Annabel. “We know each other inside out and can rely on one another completely. We each have our own strengths, which has helped us grow Glitterbels quickly. Being partners in life and business also means we’re aligned in our goals and values, which makes decision-making easier. Sharing the journey and celebrating wins together is incredibly rewarding.”

Overcoming challenges

“We’ve definitely faced challenges: the biggest being learning how to separate our work and home lives. This is something we’ve had to practice over time,” details Annabel. “When you’re passionate about what you do, it’s easy for the business to dominate every conversation. We have had to be intentional about creating boundaries, like turning off emails after a certain time and carving out time for us. We often spend our evenings with our daughter, Pearl, who helps us switch off.”

“Another challenge has been making sure we respect each other’s roles,” adds Elliott. “At times, it’s been tempting to step into each other’s areas, but we’ve learned to trust our strengths. Clear communication, respect and a shared vision have been key to staying on track.”

Top tips

“Be clear about your roles from the start, play to each other’s strengths and respect your boundaries,” says Elliott. “Communication is key, so be honest, open and don’t let work disagreements spill into your personal relationship,” notes Annabel.

www.glitterbels.com @glitterbels

Samantha & Samuel Sweet

Co-founders of nail, beauty and hair product distributor, Sweet Squared

“We met at a CNDTM Train the Trainer event in 1998, and I fell in love with Samuel in three days – even after he created the worst set of nails on me,” smiles Samantha Sweet. “He knew all there was to know about CNDTM and so did I, with my parents being CNDTM ’s UK distributor partners at the time. We got married in 1999.

“In 2007, the company distributing CNDTM in the UK went into liquidation, giving us the opportunity to grow the brand ourselves,” Samantha continues. “CNDTM believed in us and coupled with our relationship with business partner, Jim Nordstrom, we won the rights to the CNDTM brand for the UK. We have grown Sweet Squared with our mantra, ‘Serve the Pro with Love & Respect’, at the forefront of everything we do.”

The benefits

“We trust each other implicitly,” shares Samantha. “We understand the professional nail tech, as we have both held this role. We know that they need a company that has their backs, helps them make money by delivering excitement and innovation, and prioritises education.”

Overcoming challenges

“Husband and wife dynamics can present challenges,” Samantha reveals. “Samuel is CEO and overall in charge, which I sometimes forget by not always conforming in the workplace. But over the years, we have developed a healthy respect of boundaries. Samuel is the leader and him, Jim and I have almost never had a disagreement. If we do, it is respectful – not emotional.”

Separating personal and professional

“It’s quite easy for us to separate our home and work lives. Samuel is a geek, who codes and games to relax, whereas I cook and listen to audio books to wind down,” says Samantha. “When we get through the door, we put on our PJs and acknowledge being in the chill zone of home. We both travel plenty and spend a lot of time with family and friends.”

Top tips

“Leave all egos at the door, as someone must lead,” advises Samantha. “In our case, it’s Samuel; he’s very smart, fair and skilled at being a CEO. We all have our individual talents, so figure out what yours are then get really good at them! Also, one of you should be able to veto the other if you can’t come to an agreement.”

www.sweetsquared.com @sweetsquared.nails

Winning the Scratch Stars Services to the Nail Industry Award 2023.

Rebekka & Chris Costello

Co-founders of professional nail brand, Nail Order

“When we met, we were working alongside each other in a different company, and our relationship has evolved from there,” shares Rebekka. “To go into business together was a natural progression for us.”

The benefits

“We’re able to share and discuss our workloads, and know exactly what the other person is talking about,” Rebekka continues. “We have the same passion and long-term goals.”

Overcoming challenges

“It is always going to be challenging spending a lot of your time with one person, so we’ve learned to sometimes keep our distance when one of us is having a moment,” says Rebekka. “It’s also important to move on from disagreements when they arise and not hold grudges.”

Top tips

“Good communication is key, as a breakdown can lead to problems in the business and relationship,” details Rebekka. “Make sure you’re both on the same page before going into business together and that your goals and values align.”

www.nailorder.co.uk @nailorder

Sean & Jacqui O’Sullivan

Nail competition administrators & judges

“We met almost 30 years ago when Jacqui was running a sunbed, beauty and toning salon,” Sean tells Scratch. “She’d been a nail tech for three years and her passion for the craft caught my eye. I was stuck in hospitality, dreaming of something different, and in 1998, we grabbed an opportunity to buy the salon Jacqui was managing. I quickly learned that Jacqui is the boss, with her drive and love for nails leading the way.

“Looking back, I recognise how our different strengths made us a great team. We learned to lean on each other, building a bond that made us stronger together,” Sean continues. “The nail side of the business was more successful than we ever imagined, demonstrating the love and dedication we put into it. We signed up for many courses, keen to level up our skills, and started teaching and mentoring, hoping to shape the next generation – just like our passion had shaped us.”

The benefits

“We’re on the same page when it comes to our goals and values, which helps us create a shared vision,” Sean reveals. “Working together has helped us communicate better, and we know our strengths and weaknesses, which makes our partnership more balanced. Even though we’re in the same industry, we have different roles. For instance, at Nailympia, Jacqui is on the competition floor judging and making sure competitors understand the rules and briefs. I work in the scoring office, double-checking scoresheets. This helps us learn about different parts of our work and allows us to grow.”

Overcoming challenges

“We’ve had our fair share of disagreements about work, but always respect where the other is coming from,” reveals Sean. “Sometimes there’s no right or wrong way to handle something, but whatever decision we make, we own it together. We also avoid blaming each other when things go wrong – instead, we focus on fixing the problem and moving forward.”

With Marian Newman BEM.

Separating personal and professional

“We both love our jobs, so often end up talking about work at any time,” Sean smiles. “When we work side by side, we try to keep our workspaces separate, but still bounce ideas off each other to get things done quicker. This gives us more time for each other once the workday is over.”

Top tips

“Try to spot any potential issues early on and put clear boundaries in place,” Sean advises. “Set specific work hours and areas, and carve out times for talking business. When discussing work, don’t take things personally or let your egos get in the way: stay professional. I believe partners working together should have aligned interests, passions and aspirations, otherwise one partner might feel unappreciated or resentful about not pursuing their goals. Try to embrace working together, as it is a privilege that not everyone has the opportunity to experience.”

@sean_patrick_o @jacqui0s

Lorna & Shaun Andrews

Co-founders of professional nail brand, Glitter Planet

“We decided to go into business together in 2016,” reveals Lorna. “Alongside my YouTube channel (@ninjanailfairy), I was making custom glitters, which received a great response. Shaun and I decided to take the leap and make Glitter Planet into more than a side hustle. It’s now a fully-fledged brand.

“We have always got on amazingly, and working with Shaun is so reassuring,” says Lorna. “I feel like I can take on anything with him by my side, so working together makes sense for us.” Shaun adds: “Sometimes we have differences in opinion, but we talk through them and Lorna usually gets her way!”

www.glitterplanetuk.com @glitterplanetuk

Katie & Andy Clark

Directors of Katie Barnes Tool Range & Education

“After working in the business part-time for several years, following being made redundant from a job in cyber security, Andy began running the business alongside myself on a full-time basis,” reveals Katie. “As we have a young family, working together with flexible hours is beneficial for us both. It has allowed us to grow the business to new heights, which we would not have been able to achieve single-handedly.”

Top tip

“You must genuinely enjoy your partner’s company, and tolerate their way of working, to manage being around them all the time,” advises Katie.

www.katiebarnesacademy.com @katiebarnes.toolrange

Chantelle & Jouvan Johnson

Co-founders of nail art community, Clawgasmic

“We went into business together during lockdown,” Chantelle reveals. “I owned a nail studio and Jouvan ran a website creation business, but lockdown gave us the time to create something special together. I had always wanted to work with him in some way, but didn’t know how.”

The benefits

“Jouvan is my best friend, and working with him feels easy,” Chantelle reveals. “We have separate roles, so don’t step on each other’s toes, and we love spending more time at home together.”

“We complement each other’s strengths and make up for each other’s weaknesses,” adds Jouvan. “I am the more impulsive one with crazy ideas, whereas Chan is good at following through on tasks and making sure we are on track. Chan is the nail expert and my expertise lies in technology and marketing. We truly love each other so have each other’s best interests at heart, while wanting the business to be successful.”

Overcoming challenges

“As I am more impulsive and Chan loves a set plan, we have to find a way to meet halfway,” Jouvan continues. “We give each other the space to be honest with no judgment, and always communicate our feelings to each other.”

Separating personal and professional

“I don’t think we separate our work and home lives all the time, as we both love talking about what we do,” notes Jouvan. “We do have family time, but business always seems to come up as we are truly passionate about Clawgasmic.” Chantelle shares a strategy she follows: “I have a work phone, with my Clawgasmic-related apps installed on it, and leave this upstairs in an evening so I can be more present.”

Top tips

“Remember why you started the business together,” recommends Chantelle. “Your work is a joint effort, so don’t let little things stress you out and always stay united. Teamwork makes the dream work.”

“Be extremely clear about who handles what, so one person doesn’t feel like they are doing everything or isn’t sure what the other is up to,” shares Jouvan. “Highlight each other’s strengths, and be aware of each other’s weaknesses so you can support one another. Don’t hold work frustrations in as it will affect your relationship, so always be honest.”

Winning the Scratch Stars Shooting Star Award 2022. www.clawgasmic.com @clawgasmic

Poala & Paul Taylor-Riddick

Co-founders of fume and dust extraction solutions company, VODEX Ltd

“We started the business together in 2010, utilising Paul’s expertise in the fume and dust extraction sector and my passion to clean breathing zones in beauty salons,” shares Poala. “VODEX Ltd products have been used in various settings, including museum-based artefact restoration and gold extraction, but the company was first established after I had an unpleasant experience at a nail salon.”

The benefits

“The advantage of owning a business together is that we have a shared vision for our company goals and work in unison to achieve them,” Poala continues. “Our skills complement each other, and VODEX emphasises its family values, with our team members praising the company’s positive work environment.”

Overcoming challenges

“The challenge of owning a business as a couple is never fully switching off,” reveals Poala. “It has taken a long time to learn how to not let the business consume our lives, and required a lot of dedication, patience and the growth of a wonderful team. We try not to talk business at home before 8:30am and after 9pm. Paul enjoys home gym workouts and I love spending time with my animals, which helps us switch off, too.”

Top tips

“Our advice to couples working together is to always be kind, patient and honest about how you are feeling,” says Poala. “Do not take each other for granted and sort out indifferences immediately, so they do not fester.”

www.vodex.co.uk @vodexbeautyextraction

“The advantage of owning a business together is that we have a shared vision for our company goals and work in unison to achieve them.”

Jake & Adam Wilde

Co-owners of Haus Of Wildes, Wigan

“We established our salon because we shared a vision and belief that we could build something better together, than we ever could alone,” shares Jake. “Both of us bring different strengths to the table.”

The benefits

“One of the biggest advantages of working together is the balance we create,” Jake says. “We have different skills, perspectives and ways of thinking, and that diversity has been key to our growth. Where one of us may be more detailed with nail art, the other sees the bigger picture. Where one might focus on structure, the other is more creative. Together, we make stronger and more well-rounded decisions.”

Overcoming challenges

“Working with a partner brings its challenges,” notes Jake. “The personal and professional lines can sometimes blur, and navigating that can be tricky. The key to overcome this is communication, respect and a willingness to learn from each other.”

Separating personal and professional

“While owning a salon is incredibly rewarding, it can be overwhelming. Soon after launching our business, we realised that if we didn’t set clear boundaries between our work and home lives, both would suffer,” Jake shares. “So, we set strict working hours, delegated and trusted our team, scheduled downtime and holidays, and effectively communicated.”

Top tips

“It’s important to approach running a business as a couple with careful planning and a clear understanding of your professional and personal dynamics,” comments Jake. “Here are a few tips that have helped us thrive:

• Define your roles clearly before you go into business together.

• Set clear boundaries between your work and personal lives.

• Communicate openly and regularly.

• Have a financial plan and be transparent about money.

• Celebrate your wins together.”

www.hausofwildes.com @haus_of_wildes

“We have different skills, perspectives and ways of thinking, and that diversity has been key to our growth.”

Michael & Charlotte Henson

Co-owners of professional nail brand, Home Of Nail Art (HONA)

“HONA was born during the first lockdown, when both of us found ourselves in a tough spot,” Michael reveals. “Charlotte’s salon had to close overnight, and I was made redundant. We needed to find a way to rebuild, and it felt natural to combine our strengths. Charlotte has nail expertise and passion, and I have business and operations experience. We share the same values about raising standards in the nail industry, so it made sense to start a business together.”

The benefits

“The biggest benefit of working together is trust. We know we’re working towards the same goal and have each other’s backs,” smiles Michael. “We also bring different strengths to the table. Charlotte drives the creative and technical side, while I focus on strategy and growth. It makes decision-making faster, because we don’t second-guess each other’s intent.”

Overcoming challenges

“The main challenge is the lines between work and home blurring,” Michael notes. “It’s natural to want to talk business at the dinner table or on a date, but this can take its toll. It’s a work in progress, and we’ve learned to set clearer boundaries and recognise when one of us needs to switch off, or needs space after a stressful day. We try to carve out ‘no HONA’ time, and as we live and work together, having our own hobbies is vital. I have an allotment and do CrossFit training, and Charlotte goes for walks and to the cinema with friends.”

Top tips

“Be honest about what you’re both skilled at from the start, so you define your roles clearly,” recommends Michael. “It helps avoid friction. Also, agree from day one how you’ll handle disagreements – whether that’s bringing in a neutral voice or deciding that if a compromise can’t be made, a decision doesn’t happen. Remember that your relationship comes first; no business decision is worth damaging that.”

www.homeofnailart.com @homeofnailart

John & Alison Dalton

UK distributors of MAVEX treatments and products

“We found a great brand in MAVEX on a visit to Sicily, sparking the idea to go into business together to distribute it,” says John. “We have complementary skillsets; I am great at the logistics, warehousing and legalities of running a business, and Alison works on the sales and marketing side.

“We prefer to work at different times of the day, which means we can cover each other and have our own hobbies,” John continues. “We have also built an office extension on our house to separate our work and home lives.”

www.mavex.uk @mavex_uk_oz

FACT FILE

Research released earlier this year found that 50% of Brits are open to starting a business with their partner, highlighting shared responsibilities and decreased pressures as key benefits of doing so. Of those surveyed, nearly 9 in 10 said their partner is vital to their career achievements, helping them to perform at their best and share their work problems and frustrations.

Shaun & Amanda Middleton

Directors of premium crystal supplier, Bluestreak Crystals

“We launched Bluestreak Crystals almost 10 years ago, exploring business opportunities that would allow me to work from home,” says Amanda. “What began as a bead supplies venture evolved, as we developed a strong appreciation for the design and craftsmanship of Swarovski crystals. This passion led to a strategic shift and now we are the world’s leading supplier of crystals.

“I focused on Bluestreak Crystals full-time from the beginning, while Shaun worked in London, supporting the business during any spare moments,” Amanda continues. “It wasn’t easy, but we believed in what we were building and were prepared to work hard to achieve it.” Emphasising their strong family bond, the couple’s daughters, Abi and Georgina, now also play active roles in helping the company to thrive.

The benefits

“One of the biggest benefits of working together is knowing each other inside out, which creates a solid foundation for decision-making and problem-solving,” the pair reveals. “We communicate openly and honestly, which is key when things are busy or stressful. Also, there’s something special about building something together: celebrating the wins, learning through the setbacks and seeing how our individual skills complement each other to make the company stronger. It’s made us not only better business partners, but a stronger couple.”

Overcoming challenges

“Working together isn’t always easy; the professional and personal lines can blur, especially when you’re both so invested in the business,” Shaun and Amanda tell Scratch. “There are times when work has spilled into our home life, and vice versa, but we learned early on that setting boundaries is essential. We started creating ‘off hours’, where we don’t talk business, and have separated our roles based on our strengths.”

Top tips

“Communication is everything,” shares the duo. “Be clear about your expectations, goals and boundaries. It’s OK to disagree, but do so with respect and a shared purpose. Don’t forget why you started, so make sure to celebrate the small wins, take breaks and always make time for yourselves outside of the business.”

www.bluestreakcrystals.com @bluestreakcrystals

“Communication is everything. Be clear about your expectations, goals and boundaries. It’s OK to disagree, but do so with respect and a shared purpose.”