Thank you so much!
1. Can you tell me about yourself? My name is Laura, I am 24 from North East England. I live in a town with my boyfriend and I am a self employed Beauty Therapist & Nail Technician.
2. How did you get interested in being a nail tech?I completed a beauty therapy course and realised that most women in my area wanted nail extensions and enhancements so I decided to train in nail services. I was also fascinated at the nail technology and vast range of different techniques and methods available.
3. How long did it take you to graduate from a nail or cosmotology college?I completed an NVQ Level 3 Diploma in Nail Services with distinction, it was a one year college course. However, I have since had to update my skills with things like Shellac, so training is ongoing.
4. How is the environment in you work place? Very friendly, I have my own salon. It is very relaxed with two other colleagues, we have a receptionist and a Beauty Therapist. We all get on very well and love to pamper and take care of our clients. We believe that everyone should have some "me" time and luxury in their lives.
5. What techniques do you use on nails? I offer standard & luxury Manicure & Pedicure, UV Gel & L&P Nail Extensions with tips & forms, UV Gel & L&P Overlays on natural nails, Shellac Polish on fingers & toes, Nail Art, Nail piercing & rockstar mani/pedi
6. Do you still have a passion for nails? Absolutely, especially with the industry moving so quickly and introducing new technology constantly. I still love to see the look on a clients face when she leaves with a brand new set of fabulous nails.
7. How much did it cost you to go to school for a nail tech? It was free! The government funded my training as I was under 20 at the time.
8. Would you prefer working in a salon for someone else or owning you own salon? I have never worked for someone else so I have no frame of reference but I love being my own boss and don't think I would ever work for someone else.
9. How much do you get paid? This depends on the day, depends how many clients I pamper that day and what treatments I do. Mon/Tue/Wed are all quieter days, Thurs/Fri/Sat are busier so I get paid more on those days. You also have to take into account how much product you are using, plus rent, water etc and deduct this from the total cost leaving your profit.
10. How long have you been working as a nail tech? Four years.
11. What would your advice be for me to do after I graduate from college majoring as a nail tech?This depends on what you would like to do. If you want to be employed, visit all of your local salons with your qualifications and make sure you look great! Sell yourself to the salon owner and leave your contact details and a letter explaining why you want to work for them. If you want to be self employed, get some business advice and plan, plan, plan before committing to anything and research. Most importantly, be confident, knowledgeable, friendly and look the part.
