I always do my own nails. My long almond nails are natural, and I find that the level of delicacy, care, and meticulousness that I expect from my nail maintenance is something only I can give myself. My nails are also my best accessory, and my expectations for the artwork I wear is very high. I spend time designing art that I am passionate about, and I am always trying new techniques. When I wear the finished product nothing is more gratifying than being able to say, “Thank you! I did them myself, both the right and the left hand!”  I am my best advertisement.  I have dreams of someday having artwork done on my nails by Sophy Robson, Nail-Swag, Astrowifey, Lady Fancy Nails, and the Illustrated Nail, and I intend to make them come true! I decided when I was a little girl that I wanted to try to be ambidextrous, and I think nails are the best thing I can do with my left hand. Nothing stinks more than doing killer nails on your left hand, and then not being able to repeat it on your right. I think that’s why there are so many one-handed nail art pictures out there!
Alayna Josz, Salon Salon, New London, N.H.

I like to go to different locations to get my nails done. I like to check out the different methods and products other nail techs use. I usually have the nail tech give me an overlay and I will then do my own art. It’s hard to find salons in my area that do detailed art the way I do. Going to different locations also helps me know where to refer a client when I can’t get them in. If a salon is clean and using good products I am more comfortable referring clients to that location.
Eva Jenkins, Extraordinary Nails by Eva, Bellevue, Neb.

I wear my nails stiletto, and I like them long. I do them myself because I feel that if my nails were to lift for any reason, I can blame myself instead of blaming someone else. If my co-worker fills my nails, I prep them and if they lift, it’s still my fault. I wear them long and fun looking because they get attention —  good or bad, they are still noticed! If I only do my left hand with art, that’s ok, because I have something for my clients and potential clients to see. Doing my own nails shows I can do it on myself. I put fun art on my nails to show my clients. They see it and want it, and voila! There you go, making more money!
Kristi Spencer, Bentley Salon, Moline, Ill.

I usually do my own basic/gel manicures in the interest of time, or if I am trying out a nail design that I want to share. When the other nail techs are inspired to try something new, they will do my nails when they are not busy with clients. We are always playing with color and design on our own and each other’s nails when we get any down time. Pedicures are a different story, however. Personally, I enjoy getting a pedicure by someone else. We make appointments to trade services to do each other’s pedis. I use the opportunity to mentally “check out.” If we have a new hire, we time each other on a regular basis to help get them up to speed and share massage techniques.  So I usually do my own nails because I can, and the technicians don’t have a lot of time between clients to ensure that my hands are consistently well manicured. Gotta represent!
Holly Kalil, FlyGirls Nail Art, Costa Mesa, Calif.

Next question: Do you have a no-child policy in your salon? Why or why not? How do you enforce it? [Answers will be printed in the October 2015 issue.] Share your opinion on the topic by e-mailing your response by July 15 to Tracy.Rubert@bobit.com. Please include your name, salon, city and state, and a high-resolution headshot with your response.

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