What could be better than a $750 CND shopping spree? How about a private brunch with company co-founder Jan Arnold? As the winner of a CND online sweepstakes, nail tech Diane Diaz got to enjoy both these treats at ABS Chicago in March.

Last summer, CND asked nail professionals to share a 15-second video explaining what they love most about Shellac on Instagram or Twitter, using the hashtag #IHeartCNDSweeps. The grand prize included a  Shellac Brand Complete Wardrobe Kit, Xpress5 Top Coat, and CND LED Lamp, along with a VIP experience at ABS Chicago that included brunch with Arnold and a shopping spree at CND’s booth.

“I’d like to say that walking away with $750 worth of CND Products was the highlight of my experience, but my brunch with Jan was truly the best part,” says Diaz, who owns Canvas Nail Studio in Chicago. “To connect with someone who has such an influence on our industry and that you admire is a dream come true!”

After an hour of one-on-one time with Arnold, Diaz discovered that Arnold is the same person in front of a camera or behind closed doors. “She’s a genuine, empowering woman who made me feel like one of a kind,” says Diaz. “Our conversation flowed so naturally, getting to know each other personally first, then ‘talking shop.’ I was so nervous going in, but Jan made me feel at home.”

Diaz confessed to the CND team that she was embarrassed by her appearance in the winning video. “I decided to record the video at midnight when I finally had some quiet time, with no makeup and my hair in a messy bun,” she says. “But Jan knows how to turn a negative into a positive, saying that my authenticity came through in the video. The entire CND team was very kind and welcoming, and made sure that I enjoyed every moment of my dream come true.”

You can read more about Diaz’ experience on The Nailscape blog at www.thenailscape.com/winning-iheartcndsweeps-experience.