Star Touch Agency, an agency specializing in the representation of parts models and manicurists, is proud to announce a new partnership between founder Christina Aviles Aude and world-renowned celebrity nail artists Tom Bachik and Julie Kandalec. Together, the trio brings over 80 years of combined experience across beauty, fashion, film and education—uniting their expertise to set a new industry standard for artistry, professionalism and mentoring.

Tom Bachik and Julie Kandalec are now exclusively represented by Star Touch Agency.

Founded by Christina Aviles Aude, Star Touch Agency has long been a trusted leader representing top talent in nails and hand modeling for fashion, commercial and entertainment projects. With the addition of Tom and Julie as partners, Star Touch Agency enters a transformative new chapter—one dedicated to educating and elevating the next generation of manicurists.

Each artist represented by the agency is to undergo personalized training and mentorship led by Christina, Tom and Julie. This exclusive program ensures every Star Touch Agency artist is equipped to deliver a world-class client experience - combining technical mastery, on-set professionalism and the highest quality products on the market.

“This partnership is our way of giving back to an industry that has given us so much,” says Christina Aviles Aude, founder of Star Touch Agency. “By uniting our experience and shared vision, we are creating a community where artists can grow fearlessly, refine their craft and achieve lasting success with confidence and integrity.”

“Star Touch is more than just an agency; it is a shared vision. Together, we’re building a platform where artistry meets innovation, empowering creators to turn their passion into a profession and redefine the future of beauty and brand representation,” adds Tom Bachik. 

“I’ve spent years teaching, mentoring, and helping artists find their voice in this industry, so joining Star Touch Agency as a partner feels like a natural next step. It’s a chance to continue doing what I love with a well-respected team,” says Julie Kandalec. 

Three Leaders, One Vision

Tom Bachik, a Los Angeles–based artist known as the “MAN-icurist to the stars,” has spent more than 30 years shaping trends and redefining red carpet nails from the Oscars, Grammys, Golden Globes, MET Gala, and Cannes, His work has graced the covers of Vogue, Harper’s Bazar, Glamour, Allure, Vanity Fair and InStyle to name a few. Toms innovative approach to product development, education and his craft has led to partnerships with global beauty brands like Chanel, L’Oreal, Tweezerman, Revlon and Aprés, as well as iconic clients such as Jennifer Lopez, Beyonce, Selena Gomez, Kim Kardashian, Charlize Theron, Heidi Klum and Victoria Beckham. 

Julie Kandalec is a New York City-based manicurist and 25-year nail veteran celebrated for her red carpet, runway and editorial work. A trusted creative behind the scenes, she is a backstage fixture at New York Fashion Week, collaborating with designers and creative teams. Julie has developed partnerships with major beauty brands including KISS and CND, and her campaign credits span Gucci, Lemme, OPI and Damiani. Her celebrity clientele includes Emily Blunt, Jessica Chastain, Viola Davis and Camila Cabello, among others. Deeply committed to shaping the next generation of beauty professionals, Julie blends artistry with purpose, mentoring fellow artists to reach their full potential. 

Christina Aviles Aude has spent more than two decades building a respected name in both artistry and representation. As one of the industry’s leading manicurist and body parts modeling agents, she has worked with global brands such as Apple, Coach, Coca-Cola and Essie, as well as editorial giants like Vogue, Vanity Fair and Harper’s Bazaar. Her leadership at Star Touch Agency continues to center around artist advocacy, opportunity and community.

A New Era for Nail Professionals

At the heart of this partnership lies a shared mission: to raise the standard of nail artistry and representation through mentorship, education and professionalism. Currently representing artists in Los Angeles and New York, with plans to expand to additional markets soon, Star Touch Agency is establishing a new blueprint for the future of beauty representation—where talent and education come together to create a lasting impact.