"Nails can be a way to keep up with the fashion trends as well as make a statement that commands attention. Nail art can also be a way to proudly represent something you strongly believe in. This is what has drawn me so deeply into the art of everything nails. I choose nail art as an avenue to honor my aunt. The month of June was one of the happiest in my life. I received news that I had been chosen as one of Nails Next Top Nail Artist Top 24. Tears of joy were streaming down my face. Just as quickly as one of my life’s dreams came true, my worst nightmare also came true. I was near the end of my submission when I received a call from my brother. Aunt Virgie had passed away. Words could not describe what I felt at that moment, so I expressed it through nail art.”

— Tammie Alvarado, Tulare, Calif.

Have you created a set of nails that has a deeply personal story behind them? Submit them to beth.livesay@bobit.com to possibly appear in a future installment of Behind the Nails.

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