San Diego-based nail tech Monica Leiper sums up her career in four words: “been there, done that.” In fact she’s been a salon owner, a top competitor, a mobile tech, a manufacturer’s educator, a NAILS cover tech, and a behind-the-scenes hand at fashion shows. But it’s her current gig

  • at an upscale retirement community
  • that she loves best.

“I have a captive in-house clientele,” jokes Leiper. “No really, I have the most wonderful conversations with the locals here. The salon staff is a happy lot and you can always hear laughter. The residents are a who’s who of celebrated professionals.” Catering to an elderly clientele is not without its challenges, she says. “The work is simple in that it’s manicures and pedicures. But the truth is it’s not so simple.  I encounter a multitude of issues — due to age, health, medical conditions, or improper prior care.”

Still, says Leiper: “I look forward to each day here at work. It’s wonderful once again to have another high point in my professional career.”

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