SCRATCHCOLUMNIST

STAR Quality

How to find balance & reap rewards

North America’s Star Nail Artist Season 1 champion, ANASTASIA TOTTY, shares tips & tales from her colourful career

I t’s likely that many of us in this industry are juggling multiple roles to ensure that our businesses thrive. I often get asked whether I’m an entrepreneur, nail artist, brand ambassador, judge or competitor. The answer is, I’m all of these roles: but I need to be organised and balance each workload for the sake of my wellbeing, and the success of my business.

I am a committed nail competitor, and understand how important it is to set time aside to practice and create entries for turn-in contests. However, competing can be costly, and if my business is not successful, I can’t afford to travel to nail competitions. The balance is very delicate, but because competing is imperative to my professional development and personal growth, I schedule time each week to be creative.

This helps prevent burnout and supports my salon work. My customers always brag about my successes and are loyal to my business, so I think I’ve nailed the balance.

I also factor time into my schedule to attend industry events such as trade shows, launch parties and workshops. These offer great opportunities to network, discover new techniques, be inspired and inspire others. I encourage my students to attend at least one big trade show every year. It is a business expense and, in my opinion, one that’s worth every penny. My advice is to choose events that host brands you love or are curious to try, and that feature expert insights from pros you admire.

Anastasia

My nail space at Artistique Beauty Studios in Jacksonville, Florida.

‘‘ Setting boundaries is important, but promptly responding to requests is crucial in order to maintain client loyalty. ‘‘

My top time management & organisation tips:

• Set up a dedicated workspace in your salon or home, where you can focus solely on creating nail styles when inspiration strikes.

• Don’t bite off more than you can chew if you’re keen to compete. Choose categories you enjoy most and prioritise preparation well in advance.

• Don’t underestimate how much time you need to adequately prepare for a competition. A single nail creation can require hours of focus, and perfection takes time.

• Don’t neglect your business and clients. Setting boundaries is important, but promptly responding to requests is crucial in order to maintain client loyalty. No matter how talented you are, your business will not remain afloat without clients.

• Read rules and score sheets regularly while you work on competition entries. To achieve high scores, you must consider your work from a judge’s perspective. It is an eye-opening experience when you realise that originality and creativity don’t always translate to competition success. Quality and clean finishes are high-scoring attributes.

Nail trends in the USA

During my travels across the USA over the past few months, I have witnessed a mixed bag of nail trends, including:

Velvet, cat eye & chrome finishes

Velvet and cat eye products create luxe looks that capture attention, yet are quick to create. Whether the effect is all over the nail or used within design elements, the light-shifting finishes offer subtle sophistication, and chrome outlines add a modern and metallic shine.

Jelly nails

Glossy and ‘glass-like’ nails with a sheer, tinted appearance are particularly popular in LA and Florida: possibly because they’re a great complement to the sunshine!

Deep, rich tones

This winter, earthy tones have been prevalent in the north east. Navy blue is regularly requested due to its chic, timeless finish, and deep cherry red has been acting as a bold new neutral.

Minimalist, healthy looks

The ‘clean girl’ trend shows no sign of slowing down across regions, and focuses on natural nailcare and using glossy, strengthening treatments to create a healthy sheen.

Micro nail art & ombré effects

Small, intricate designs – such as tiny dots or lines – offer art without being too busy, so have been requested by clients wishing to take their first steps into the nail art arena. Similarly, pastel ombrés provide dreamy colour blends that are subtle and perfect for professional environments.

Textured tips

Will leopard print ever go out of style? Animal-inspired patterns and textures mimicking natural elements (like marbleised tips) offer organic sophistication, while 3D artistry catches attention.

NASNA notes

I made the leap from North America’s Star Nail Artist Season 1 competitor to Season 2 judge, which is a huge responsibility. The judging panel only has four days to score the entries of all contestants, which include photos from a variety of angles, write-ups and Instagram Reel-style videos. I know how much effort is put into the creations, so I look through the entries numerous times to ensure I assess fairly and offer constructive feedback.

The judging process is extremely rewarding and I can’t wait to see who makes the final. This season, the majority of contestants have been studying the observations of judges, and the competition is fierce. It’s exciting to watch creative processes via the videos, and I am learning so much from the talented techs taking part.

Reflections & forward-thinking

Exactly one year ago, I was working on the third North America’s Star Nail Artist (NASNA) challenge for Season 1 of the contest. The theme required us to showcase our hopes for 2025, and I feel that I have achieved most of the goals I set. I’ve felt inspired, made time for loved ones, travelled – and I became NASNA Season 1 champion. I had a very happy year!

For 2026, I wish for peace of mind. Each time I achieve a goal, I fear that there are fewer opportunities to seize. That is why I work so hard and embrace every prospect that comes my way, while endeavouring to stay humble and remember the steps I have taken to reach each goal.

Pictured is my submission for Challenge 3 of the North America’s Star Nail Artist contest – Season 1. The task, ‘Manifest your 2025 dreams’, was set by sponsor, The GelBottle Inc, and I crafted symbols similar to charm bracelet accessories on pre-sculpted gel nail extensions. Each nail was unique, however the full set depicted my goals and aspirations for the year, which were:

• Balance. As a busy nail tech, business owner and avid nail competitor, I struggled to find a good work-life balance.

• Good luck. Everyone could use good luck throughout each year!

• Good karma. This is something I wished for, while continuing to be mindful of my treatment of others.

• Peace. I prayed – and still pray – for less suffering in the world.

• Inspiration and innovative ideas. I hoped to continue competing in NASNA Season 1.

• Time. This is precious, and I continue to hope for more.

• Travel. This is my favourite reward.