Nail hacks, hints and tips from top techs!
GlossaryLive is proud to announce Kirsty Meakin as the Artist of the Month, celebrating her remarkable contributions to the nail industry. Recognized as one of Europe’s finest nail artists, Kirsty’s influence spans across continents, with accolades such as UK Nail Professional of the Year and a dedicated online following of over 1.8 million subscribers on her YouTube channel. Through her artistry, education, and innovative spirit, Kirsty has become a cherished figure in the world of nails.
Kirsty’s journey into the nail industry began at 17 when she started her training as a beautician. Though she initially explored other creative avenues, her love for nails quickly emerged. After entering her first nail competition in 2004, she rapidly rose to prominence, winning numerous awards and earning respect for her unique style and techniques. Her passion for nail art was driven by the instant gratification she felt when transforming plain nails into miniature masterpieces, an experience she still finds exhilarating today.
Over the years, Kirsty has expanded her reach beyond the salon. She created her own YouTube channel in 2013, where she shares her expertise and creativity with nail enthusiasts around the world. Her channel’s success is a testament to her engaging teaching style and her commitment to inspiring the next generation of nail artists.
Despite her busy schedule, Kirsty continues to give back to the nail community by judging competitions worldwide and running her own academy. Her dedication to education has made her a mentor to many, helping aspiring nail artists build their skills and confidence. Yet, even with her numerous achievements, Kirsty remains refreshingly humble and authentic, qualities that have endeared her to fans and peers alike.
Kirsty’s artistry is not limited to nails alone. Her passion for photography has played a significant role in her career, allowing her to showcase her nail designs with exceptional clarity and creativity. She works closely with her friend and business partner, videographer Adam Bouabda, to produce visually stunning content that captures the intricate details of her work. This combination of nail artistry and photography has set her apart, making her social media channels uniquely engaging and visually captivating.
Behind the scenes, Kirsty is a mother of two, balancing her thriving career with her family life. Her daughters, Allycia and Cassidy, both show signs of following in their mother’s creative footsteps. Kirsty’s ability to juggle her roles as an artist, educator, entrepreneur, and mother is a testament to her strength and dedication
As GlossaryLive celebrates Kirsty Meakin as the Artist of the Month, we recognize her incredible impact on the nail industry and her unwavering commitment to creativity, innovation, and community. Kirsty’s story is a powerful reminder that with passion, hard work, and authenticity, one can leave a lasting mark on any field. Join us in honoring Kirsty Meakin and celebrating her inspiring journey in the world of nail artistry.
Cosmoprof is one of six premier business-to-business beauty events held annually around the globe. These events serve as crucial platforms where manufacturers, distributors, and industry professionals converge to connect, innovate, and bring some of the most cutting-edge products to market, products that salons utilize daily.
Hosted in Las Vegas, Nevada, Cosmoprof North America is a truly international affair, attracting attendees from 47 countries. The 21st edition of this event showcased over 1200 exhibitors, with 114 dedicated to nails, alongside 50 speakers and 20 educational sessions focusing on trends, beauty retail, and supply chain management. The event’s significance is highlighted by the fact that 73% of attendees are brand owners, retailers, distributors, or manufacturers, with one in five attendees coming from international backgrounds.
This year, Alisha Rimando and Sebastian Campos of GlossaryLive had the opportunity to explore the event, discovering both newly launched products and upcoming innovations. Their experience included exclusive interviews with notable nail brands such as Artistic, Cuccio Professional, Morgan Taylor Nail Lacquer, Gelish, Gotti Nails, KUPA Inc, Aprés, Medicool, Chisel Nail Art, and Urawa.
A standout moment at this year’s Cosmoprof was when Richard Hurter, owner of KUPA Inc., was honored with a gold-plated MANIPro Passport e-file in celebration of KUPA’s 40th anniversary. Featuring a gold control box and handpiece, the demand for this luxurious machine was evident from its initial announcement. Industry insiders are eager to see if KUPA will release a limited edition for those looking to join in the celebration.
Adding to the event’s excitement was the annual Vietnamese concert held in honor of the nail industry at Zouk in Resort World. Sponsored by leading manufacturers, this concert was a highlight of the Cosmoprof experience. The night was filled with networking, cocktails, dancing, and a sense of camaraderie as various brands came together for an unforgettable evening of celebration and fun.
Cosmoprof North America continues to be a beacon of innovation and collaboration in the beauty industry, providing a vital space for professionals to connect and shape the future of beauty industry.
See the show and the interviews now
Stay ahead of the curve with Nail News from Cosmoprof North America and get a sneak peak the newest nail products launching in 2024! This exclusive video features insightful interviews with top industry brands like Gelish, Cuccio Professional, and KUPA Inc.
David Fowler is a true trailblazer in the nail industry, with a career spanning over 20 years as a global educator, consultant, and product developer. Known for his innovative spirit and dedication to pushing boundaries, David has left a lasting impact on nail professionals worldwide. Originally from Utah, David’s journey into the nail industry is anything but conventional. He began his career as a police officer in the U.S. but found his true calling in the nail industry after moving to Germany, where he gained a reputation as the industry’s “bad boy.”
David’s partnership with Steffi Lo Re led to the founding of Signature Nail International, the first product-neutral education academy. Together, they designed a curriculum that was not limited to a single brand but instead focused on techniques that could be adapted to a wide range of products. This groundbreaking approach revolutionized nail education, from salon basics to advanced competition training. Over the years, Signature Nail International has evolved alongside the industry, creating techniques that empower both studio nail techs and global competitors alike.
Throughout his career, David has worked with top brands like CND, Signature Nail International, and Urawa from Japan. Currently, he is traveling the globe alongside Emese Koppányi, teaching nail professionals about competition-style nails, advanced application techniques, and the integration of e-files in salon services. His hands-on training sessions and commitment to education have inspired countless professionals to refine their skills and aim higher in their careers.
David’s influence goes beyond technique; he encourages nail artists to think critically about their craft and to embrace a spirit of independence. His passion for education and his unique path to success make him a fitting choice for GlossaryLive’s Artist of the Month, as he continues to set new standards and inspire the next generation of nail professionals.
In 1995, Alisha Rimando embarked on a journey that would forever change the landscape of the nail industry. Starting as a nail technician in a salon, Rimando quickly discovered her passion for teaching and educating others in the art of nail enhancements. This love for sharing knowledge propelled her into the role of a global educator, competitor, and hand model for renowned World Champion, Tom Holcomb.
Under the tutelage of Holcomb, Rimando honed her skills and techniques, eventually achieving her own World Championship title in 2005 for pink & white sculptured nails. This victory marked a significant milestone in her career and solidified her reputation as a master in the field of nail styling.
In 2008, Rimando took another leap forward by contributing to the 6th edition of Milady Nail Technology. Since then, she has authored or contributed to over 10 textbooks and supplements for Cengage Learning, including Standard Cosmetology. Rimando’s dedication to education and innovation has earned her numerous accolades and honors throughout her illustrious career.
Based in New York City, Rimando’s proximity to the fashion capital enabled her to become a session artist for magazines and designers during New York Fashion Week. Her work even caught the attention of celebrities, leading to a feature in Jennifer Hudson’s ‘Spotlight’ music video. Additionally, Rimando served as the training director for Elizabeth Arden Red Door Spas, where she trained over 360 nail techs across 31 locations in the USA.
The passing of her mentor and best friend, Tom Holcomb, in 2011, spurred Rimando to recommit herself to the professional market and resume teaching the methods of nail enhancements he had imparted to her. Over her 28+ year career, Rimando’s work has been featured in hundreds of trade publications worldwide, and she has conducted training seminars for nail students, professionals, and top educators in more than 25 countries.
Now, Rimando brings her wealth of experience and passion for the industry to GlossaryLive.com, a platform dedicated to honoring her mentor and celebrating the contributions of nail artists worldwide. Through GlossaryLive.com, Rimando continues to inspire and empower the next generation of nail stylists, fostering a community of creativity, collaboration, and excellence.
Alisha Rimando’s journey through the nail industry is a testament to her unwavering dedication, relentless pursuit of excellence, and entrepreneurial spirit. From humble beginnings to global recognition, Rimando’s story serves as an inspiration to aspiring nail stylists everywhere. As she relentlessly expands the horizons of creativity and innovation, Rimando cements her legacy as a trailblazer in the realm of nail artistry.
Want to see your salon featured in an episode of Salon Stopover? We are looking for fabulous salons & unique services to showcase from around the globe. Contact us for details.
Want to see your salon featured in an episode of Salon Stopover? We are looking for fabulous salons & unique services to showcase from around the globe. Contact us for details.
Are you a beauty professional looking to streamline your booking process and expand your client base? Or perhaps you’re a client seeking a hassle-free way to book appointments with top-notch beauty experts? Look no further than Beauterra – the revolutionary new app designed to simplify communication and booking between beauty artists/aestheticians and clients.
Launched on September 4, 2023, Beauterra is a free-to-use platform that caters to a wide range of beauty services, including nail, hair, barbering, brows, lashes, make-up, massage, and aesthetics. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a newcomer in the industry, Beauterra offers a seamless experience for both parties.
For beauty professionals, listing services and appointment times is a breeze. Simply download the app, register with your expertise, provide your business address, or specify mobile services and covered areas. Once registered, you can easily manage your availability through the integrated calendar, importable from your smartphone’s calendar app. Additionally, you can showcase your work through photos, allowing clients to explore your styles and offerings before booking.
“The listings and bookings calendar reduces the need for multiple apps and simplifies the experience for both artists and clients,” says Natalie Lomakina, the visionary behind Beauterra. Natalie’s personal struggle to find a reliable nail artist inspired her to create a platform that connects clients with independent beauty professionals seamlessly.
Development for Beauterra began in May 2023, with Natalie, joined by co-founder Andreea Simona Ignat, an award-winning nail artist, and Valery Ponomarenko, a seasoned mobile app developer. Together, they envisioned a platform that caters to the diverse needs of both beauty professionals and clients.
Beauterra not only simplifies the booking process but also prioritizes user experience. Clients can easily browse through a list of beauty professionals, check their availability, and make bookings with just a few taps. The app also includes a client rating system, allowing users to leave feedback for fellow professionals.
“With Beauterra, we aim to create a beauty universe where every enthusiast – pro or client – can fulfil their beauty and wellbeing goals via a single app,” cites Natalie.
But Beauterra doesn’t stop there. The team behind the app is constantly innovating, with plans to introduce new features such as auto-booking, salon bookings, subscription services, and the ability to buy and sell courses all coming soon to the platform. Beauterra is not just an app; it’s a comprehensive solution that revolutionizes the beauty industry.
So whether you’re a beauty professional looking to expand your clientele or a client seeking top-tier beauty services, download Beauterra today and experience the future of beauty booking. Say goodbye to tedious booking processes and hello to a world of beauty at your fingertips.
In the ever-evolving landscape of retail, adaptation is not just a strategy, but a necessity. For one niche distributor of premium nail products, Gina Silvestro of Gel Essentialz, this journey has been both exciting and transformative. What started as a modest online store nestled within the confines of a salon has now blossomed into a bustling distribution center, offering a unique shopping experience for both online and in-person customers.
“Previously, the distribution business operated as an online store, with the office and stockroom situated in the lower level of the salon,” relays Gina. “Initially specializing in Akzentz, the business now offers Erica’s, Profiles, Luminary, HD Pro, Light Elegance, Ugly Duckling, Staleks, Nippon Nippers, Kokoist & Nail Thoughts brands, therefore, as it’s burgeoned we needed more space, which prompted a search for new premises.”
The quest for a new location led Gina to a serendipitous discovery. “The building adjacent to my residence was up for lease. Formerly a real estate office, its layout and potential were ripe for transformation into a vibrant storefront. And so, we breathed new life into the space and fashioned it into a new nail distribution store.
“Situated just two miles from the salon, the new storefront seamlessly complements the established business. With a dedicated shipping room, offices, and ample retail space, it offers a welcoming environment for customers to peruse products. Moreover, the proximity to the salon facilitates synergistic opportunities, fostering cohesion within our operations.
“Speaking of the salon,” Gina continues. “It remains an integral part of our enterprise, housing six full-time nail techs and one hair stylist with the lower level serving as warehouse storage. Additionally, the salon serves a dual purpose as a classroom, where we conduct hands-on classes on Sundays and Mondays.”
Speaking of her commitment to customer care, Gina emphasizes, “At the heart of the business lies a steadfast commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. Specializing exclusively in 100% gel nail products, the team takes pride in offering unparalleled expertise and guidance. With a team of dedicated professionals trained to assist customers in selecting products tailored to their needs, as well as providing comprehensive product knowledge and troubleshooting support, we strive to exceed expectations.”
Taking up nails in 1990, Gina was working full-time as a nail tech at the age of just 17. Hungry for knowledge and skills, Gina’s career has seen her collaborate with renowned artists, grace the nails of A-list celebrities, work as an global educator, international judge and feature in numerous industry magazines. Adding a newly fashioned distribution business alongside her salon and academy Gina, alongside daughters Miranda and Madison, provides high quality gel nail products with continuing support and education. “My goal is to continue building this business offering the highest quality gel nail products and supporting education to nail pros in my area. As I’ve learned over the years, when you are truly passionate about your career the possibilities are endless,” Gina asserts.
In 1995, Alisha Rimando began her journey in the nail industry, quickly transitioning to become an educator. Inspired by World Champion Tom Holcomb, she traveled the world as an educator, competitor, and hand model, eventually earning her own World Championship title in 2005. Moving to New York in 2008, she contributed to the 6th edition of Milady Nail Technology and authored numerous textbooks. Alisha also worked as a session artist for magazines and designers at NY Fashion Week. She spent three years as Training Director at Elizabeth Arden Red Door Spas before returning to teaching following Holcomb’s passing in 2011. With over 25 years of experience, she now shares her expertise through GlossaryLive, a project honoring her mentor and celebrating nail artists worldwide.
Want to see your nail art featured on Tag That Trend? Our team is excited to see your work and get you published. Contact us for details.
Discover a groundbreaking exploration of nail artistry with ICECOLD’s ACRYLICS exhibition and accompanying book, presented by VCG. This innovative showcase, set to captivate audiences in New York City, unveils the intricate sculptural artistry that defines nail art as a unique medium. Through a fusion of sculptural installations, editorial narratives, and sonic storytelling, ICECOLD invites viewers on an immersive journey into the complex world of nails.
ACRYLICS offers a surreal interpretation of the traditional manicure experience, with crimson ‘nail polish’-adorned hands emerging from gallery walls, weaving together narratives from a diverse array of nail artists. Each artist shares their creative voice and perspective through unique nail expressions, creating a nostalgic yet innovative salon experience for exhibition attendees.
ICECOLD’s creative vision permeates every aspect of the ACRYLICS installation, crafting a comprehensive 360-degree experience for viewers. From meticulously designed exhibits to the intimate storytelling within the accompanying coffee table book, ACRYLICS offers a captivating exploration of nail art’s rich history and cultural significance. Delving into its global origins and evolution, the exhibition highlights the creative contributions of Asian immigrants and Black Americans, shaping the vibrant landscape of nail artistry today.
Within the pages of the ACRYLICS book, readers are invited into the world of featured nail artists, offering insights into their creative processes and personal journeys. With thirty-five percent of book sales directly supporting the artists and production team, this publication serves as a testament to ICECOLD’s commitment to uplifting and empowering fellow creatives.
As a maestro of creativity, ICECOLD transcends conventional boundaries with her diverse skill set across various media. Through ACRYLICS, she aims to inspire audiences to explore and manifest their own creative ideas, fostering a new wave of artistic expression.
Experience the transformative power of ACRYLICS from February 10th to March 10th, 2024, at the A.I.R. Gallery in Brooklyn, New York.
Acrylics runs from 10 Feb– 10 March 2024
A.I.R. Gallery
155 Plymouth Street, Brooklyn, New York 11201
+001 (212) 255-6651
E: info@airgallery.org
