SCRATCH COLUMNIST

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THE BENEFITS OF NAIL EVENTS

Scratch Stars Hall Of Fame pro, CATRIONA LEITH, serves up industry insights & advice for nail sector success

ABOUT CATRIONA LEITH

Cambridgeshire-based Cat Leith boasts 19 years’ experience in the nail sector. She balances salon and education roles, crafting artistic creations for the loyal clients of her business, The Nail Studio, while delivering high-quality training to pros as co-head of education for Hazel Dixon Nail Artist Academy.

Cat has scooped a multitude of awards, including the Scratch Stars Gel Tech of the Year and One Stroke Artist of the Year accolades in 2022, 2023 and 2024. As a result, she entered the awards’ Hall Of Fame for both categories.

www.thenailstudiocambridge.co.uk /thenailstudiocb @thenailstudiocb

With Jade Barber and Kirsty Meakin at Nailympia London.

At Nail Safari in Shepreth Wildlife Park.

W hether you’re a newly qualified nail tech taking your first steps into the industry or a seasoned professional with years of experience under your belt, attending a nail event can be one of the most valuable things you do for your career. Some of my favourite memories, biggest learning experiences and most treasured connections have come from being part of events. But what makes a good nail event, and why should you make the effort to attend one?

Education enrichment

For me, it starts with education. We are incredibly fortunate to have access to so much information online, with nail tutorials available at the touch of a button. However, there is something truly special about learning face-to-face.

Being able to watch an educator demonstrate a technique in person, see how they work, ask questions and gain a better understanding of products is an experience that can be difficult to replicate online.

A great nail event will offer a variety of educational opportunities, from live demonstrations and hands-on classes to business talks, product insights and discussions about the future of the industry. After all, being a successful nail professional isn’t just about creating beautiful nails; we also need to understand our products, run our businesses effectively and and continually develop our skills. There is always something new to learn, no matter how long you’ve been in the sector.

Community connections

One of the things I love most about events is meeting fellow professionals who share my passion for nails. The nail tech role can feel isolating at times, especially if you’re self-employed, and events give us the opportunity to connect with others who understand the challenges and rewards of our profession. They allow us to share experiences, exchange ideas, celebrate achievements and learn from one another.

‘‘ Events give us the opportunity to connect with others who understand the challenges and rewards of our profession. ‘‘

‘‘ Attending an event gives you the chance to pause, look at things differently and think about what you want to achieve next. ‘‘

These connections can be incredibly valuable, and you never know where they might lead. Friendships, collaborations, mentoring and even new career paths can all begin with a simple conversation, so don’t be afraid to introduce yourself and get involved at events.

Competition confidence

Another fantastic part of many nail events is the opportunity to explore competitions. I know they aren’t for everyone, but if you’ve ever considered competing, attending an event is a brilliant way to find out more – and be inspired by the talent in our industry. You can watch competitors in action, see the standard of work being produced and speak to judges about what they’re looking for.

Competitions challenge us to step outside our comfort zones, develop our technical skills and push ourselves to achieve things we might not have thought possible. And remember, competing isn’t solely about winning. It’s about learning, gaining experience, building confidence and discovering what you’re capable of. Every competitor must start somewhere, and you don’t need to be the best in the room before taking that first step. Sometimes, the most rewarding thing is having the courage to try.

Product possibilities

Events are a fantastic way to discover new products, compare nail colours and speak directly to the people behind brands. Being able to see products in person, watch them being demonstrated and ask questions can help you make informed decisions about what is right for your business. You may also build relationships with brand representatives that help you stay up-to-date with sector developments.

Inspiration ignition

Perhaps the most important thing a nail event can offer is inspiration. I think we sometimes underestimate just how valuable it is to take a step away from our everyday routines and spend time immersed in the industry. Between clients, stock orders, social media and the many other responsibilities that come with running a business, it’s easy to become so focused on day-to-day work that you forget to make time for your own development.

With Alex Fox, global director of Nailympia Competitions , at Nailympia London .

At a trade show with Antony Buckley, Hazel Dixon and Keileigh Dixon.

Attending an event gives you the chance to pause, look at things differently and think about what you want to achieve next. Maybe you’ll come away with a list of things you’d like to learn, new goals for your business or a renewed sense of excitement. Whatever it is, inspiration can be incredibly powerful.

Future focus

A great nail event isn’t just about the size of the venue, number of brands exhibiting or programme of demonstrations; it’s about the experience as a whole and what you take away from it. The best events create opportunities to learn, encourage connections, celebrate talent and help nail professionals feel inspired.

So, if you’ve been thinking about attending an event but haven’t taken the plunge, consider this your nudge to go! It can feel daunting to walk into a room full of people you don’t know, but remember – everyone is there because they share a common interest. You never know what you might discover, who you might connect with or where that experience might take you.

Celebrating creative achievements at Nail Safari.

Cat x

SAVE THE DATE

Scratch has launched The Nail Event, a one-day extravaganza dedicated to nails that will be hosted at Epsom Downs Racecourse on 12 September 2027. It will connect emerging nail technicians, established pros and salon owners with educators and leading brands. Scan to find out more and register your interest.