Behind the Scenes: Russian Cathedral Nails

Impeccable Artistry: Inspired by St. Basil's Cathedral, NTNA finalist Lexi Martone made these landmark nails for our May cover. 

Old School - A Look at the Pioneering Companies of the Nail Business

NAILS wouldn’t be celebrating its 20th anniversary if it weren’t for the support of many manufacturers in our industry. To help us celebrate this landmark, we talked to the top brass at several companies that have been around from our very beginning.

In a Hurry?

While salon owner Melissa Hash originally planned to target teens, she quickly realized that there was demand for a moderately priced, fun, upbeat salon for everyone. Billing itself as an express salon and spa bar, Rush! In Gambrills, Md., is a hip full salon that appeals to the young and young at heart.

How’s My Light?

Doing photo shoots in your salon — nail style shots, salon interior shots, or service shots — will help you develop a portfolio to show off to both clients and editors. Learn from the pros how to hire a photographer, how to prepare for a photo shoot, and what to expect at the end of the day.

On the Road: Chi Nail Bar & Organic Spa, Beverly Hills, Calif.

Chi Nail Bar, located right off the well-known shopping mecca that is Rodeo Drive, opened this February. I think we can all admit that it’s not exactly the ideal time to open up a new business, what with the economic crisis and all. But that didn’t stop Ton, a second generation nail tech, from opening up her newest salon. In the business for 10 years, Ton owned several other salons before coming across the space in chic Beverly Hills.

Out with the Old, In with the Bold

Big. Bold. Bright. Color. That’s what we thought when we opened the 2010 spring polish collections. This season’s new nail colors are the brightest, boldest, most vibrant hues we’ve seen in years. So instead of showing you a few colors from each collection (which frankly wouldn’t do them justice), we decided to showcase the collections in full so you can get the same dramatic effect. For once, we have no props, no gimmicks, no stories — we’re simply letting the colors speak for themselves.

On My Mind: !#&*?

Is retail a dirty word?

On My Mind: A Personal Story About Personal Touch

As service providers in the beauty industry, you have the opportunity to touch your clients' (and their familes') lives. Editor Hannah Lee shares her personal story.

The Health Club at The Westin Maui

Last year, my best friend Emily and I both turned 30 and as birthday presents to ourselves, we planned a vacation to Hawaii to celebrate.