
ORLY Celebrates 50 Years of the French Manicure
The anniversary campaign includes a proposed French Manicure Day and submission of the original French Manicure Kit for consideration by the Smithsonian's Personal Care and Cosmetics Collection.
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.

This year’s turnout led to plans to make the event even bigger next year.

The Young Nails booth was manned by Adrienne Schodtler, Regan Brodt-Richardson, and Teresa Carter.
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.

Amy Becker (left) and Kira Frazier set up the Masterworks by Amy Becker booth.

This year’s turnout led to plans to make the event even bigger next year.

Smokies event organizer Jill Wright (right) poses with Sangeeta, who came all the way from India to attend.

The anniversary campaign includes a proposed French Manicure Day and submission of the original French Manicure Kit for consideration by the Smithsonian's Personal Care and Cosmetics Collection.

The show reported 30% attendance growth. It felt that way. This event for the southwest professional beauty community had heart, spice, and something for everyone.

For Christian Cowan’s Spring/Summer 2027 collection, the designer drew inspiration from classic feminine silhouettes, reimagined with a cool edge and unexpected textures.

MelodySusie is celebrating its 17th anniversary. It is a time to celebrate another year of growth, another year of innovation, and another chapter of the journey we've shared with nail lovers around the world. From first-time nail enthusiasts and bold creators to professionals turning passion into a career, we’re grateful for every person and community who has made nail artistry their own.
Sponsored by MelodySusie

Join us in congratulating this year's list of hardworking, game-changing individuals.

Premiere San Antonio Presented by SalonCentric returns for its fourth edition August 30-31 at the Henry B. González Convention Center, delivering its biggest and boldest event to date.

One-Day Personal and Professional Development Education Event for Beauty Professionals Set for October 25, 2026, at the Hilton Philadelphia City Avenue.

According to the report, people are moving away from copy-paste trends and toward community, using real experiences to develop a sense of taste and beauty that reflects who they are.

A Texas man and woman pleaded guilty on Monday to operating a significant under-the-table cash payroll at their nationwide nail salon business.

The nails-only trade show welcomed 700 beauty professionals for education, shopping, networking and one unforgettable Smokies surprise.