FingerNailFixer

Guest Post: My First Timed Competition at the NTP Cruise

by Holly Schippers | March 20, 2018 | Bookmark +

For one last post on the Nail Those Profits cruise, I thought you might enjoy a recap of the annual nail competition from Sheila Amrhien — a competitor who also ended up being a winner! — Holly

My experience on the Nail Talk Radio/Nail Those Profits cruise has changed my career. It’s a fabulous yearly event where you can enjoy camaraderie and networking, and gain top-of-the-industry education.

It consists of classes offered during the days at sea and fun group dinners, then we’re at our leisure on port days. It’s a win win! Where else can you get so many educators in one place at a nominal education fee (much below the usual) and an all-inclusive cruise?

It ends with a friendly competition on the last day. I've always feared onsite, timed competition, but this one is different. It's not about winning, it's about challenging yourself, testing your newfound skills, and having fun with peers. The technicians who attend are of all ages and skill levels in the business, from students to veterans with over 40 years in the industry.

This year's event was sponsored by Profiles and the judges were Traci Dungan, Ami McClure, and guest judge Phoenix Fieldcamp VanDyke. They kept the rules very simple: A pink-and-white sculpted nail (in honor of Vicki) and anything-goes Valentine's Day-themed nail art. The only stipulation on the art was it needed to consist of more nail products and techniques than embellishments.

I've personally never competed in person in a timed competition, but this is a great way to learn in a relaxed, fun environment. After announcing the competitors and winners, the judges offer their advice if anyone wants it. It's very helpful to see where improvements can be made on techniques, timing, balance and organization. This definitely was a highlight in my career — to have fun, learn, network, and above all else, make new fellow nail artist friends from around the country. Everyone is always very friendly and encouraging of one another.

Educational events like this become addictive. It's a bit of vacation mixed with education...we like to call it NAILCATION!

— Sheila Amrhien, Sioux Falls, S. D.

Instagram @nailsbysheila
Facebook: Artistic Nails by Sheila 

 

For reprint and licensing requests for this article, Click here.

a Bobit media brand

Create your free Bobit Connect account to bookmark content.

The secure and easy all-access connection to your content.
Bookmarked content can then be accessed anytime on all of your logged in devices!

Create Account