Virtually doubling in size from the previous year, the fourth annual Nail Tech Networking Event of the Smokies, held on June 26-27 at the River Terrace Resort in Gatlinburg, Tenn., saw 150 attendees enjoy the 23 nail booths and 50+ educators who demonstrated cutting edge techniques, with many debuting new nail products. Making an appearance for the first time were Light Elegance’s Jim McConnell, as well as Haken Professional’s Scott Haken and Atwood Industries’ Bruce Atwood.

Attendees also welcomed competition judge Carla Collier and cover artist Rachel Mouritsen of INM, while Masterworks’ Amy Becker joined in for the fourth time. “She amazed the crowd with her elaborate booth set up, complete with chandelier and intricate colored gel designs, while Carla and Rachel did incredible, cover-worthy nails on some lucky people,” says event organizer Jill Wright. “Nail techs were thrilled by the surprise visit from OPI’s John Hauk, who ventured down to the Smoky Mountains to see what the event was all about, plus get a little R&R. Guest speaker Janet McCormick gave a talk about medical pedicures and their place in the salon and held a class on that subject the following day.”

Next year, the event will be held in the downtown Gatlinburg Convention Center on June 24-25. Watch for details on Facebook at “Nail Tech Networking Event of the Smokies” and at www.nailtechevent.com.