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2025 Nail Tech Event of the Smokies Attracts 700+ Pros for Education, Networking & Nail Innovation
The 18th annual Nail Tech Event of the Smokies welcomed over 700 attendees to Gatlinburg, TN, for four days of nail education, networking, product launches, and hands-on workshops.
by Staff
July 30, 2025
A group of happy techs strikes a pose at one of the show’s popular selfie walls.
Jill Wright
1/10
2 min to read
The 18th annual Nail Tech Event of the Smokies, held July 11–14, 2025, welcomed more than 500 licensed nail techs and 200 educators to the Gatlinburg Convention Center in Tennessee for an immersive, nails-only weekend of advanced education, product launches, networking, and inspiration.
The Nail Tech Event of the Smokies Celebrates 18 Years in Gatlinburg, TN
Set against the backdrop of the scenic Great Smoky Mountains, this beloved event continues to grow in both attendance and industry impact—bringing together company owners, educators, and professionals from across the U.S. and beyond.
Expo Highlights and Education Opportunities
The show’s centerpiece was the Sunday-only nail expo, featuring 69 booths across three show floors, where attendees explored new products, shopped exclusive show deals, and connected directly with brand leaders. Techs also had access to:
9 complimentary classes during the expo
20 door prize drawings
Swag bags at check-in
A $1,500 Grand Prize giveaway sponsored by PinkPro Beauty Supply (CND’s Tennessee distributor)
In addition, optional paid workshops and seminars were offered Friday, Saturday, and Monday, with over 30 hands-on and business classes. Topics included:
Trending nail art and techniques
Advanced pedicure and foot care education from podiatrists and pedicure brands
Business-building tips for growing a successful nail career
Sponsors That Made It All Happen
Three national sponsors helped elevate the 2025 event:
Light Elegance (Oregon) – Exclusive WiFi sponsor for all four days
SO Gel Nails (Utah) – Sponsored the Swag Swap Center, a networking hub for trading show freebies
PinkPro Beauty Supply – Sponsored the $1,500 Grand Prize giveaway
Nail Techs Turn Education into a Vacation
Attendees turned the event into a professional development trip and a family-friendly tax write-off. Many took time to explore Gatlinburg, the gateway to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, one of the few national parks that remains free to enter.
From returning industry veterans to first-time attendees and recent grads, every tech left the show with new skills, valuable products, and fresh inspiration.
“It’s always an honor to bring our nail community together,” said Jill Wright, Event Coordinator. “This yearly show helps techs reconnect with their passion, grow their skills, and build lasting relationships with brands and each other.”
Save the Date for 2026!
The next Nail Tech Event of the Smokies will take place July 10–13, 2026, with tickets going on sale at midnight EST on January 1, 2026.
Learn more and get updates at: www.NailTechEvent.com
Contact:
Jill Wright
Event Coordinator
Nail Tech Event of the Smokies, LLC
info@NailTechEvent.com
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