Industry, nails and everything in-between
Emese Koppanyi’s life and career in the nail industry is a testament to passion, dedication, and the relentless pursuit of perfection. Born in Hungary, Emese has spent nearly 25 years refining her craft, specializing in sculptured pink and white acrylic nails—a niche where her expertise truly shines.
Emese’s journey into the world of nail artistry began in 1999. Trained by some of the industry’s legends, including Tom Holcomb, Alisha Rimando, Tom Bachik, and Trang Nguyen, she quickly established herself as a formidable competitor. Her dedication and skill have earned her over 120 trophies, a testament to her prowess and commitment to excellence.
As an elite educator, Emese has made significant contributions to the nail industry. She offers both group and one-on-one training sessions, imparting her extensive knowledge and skills to her students. Many of her students have gone on to win championship titles, a clear indication of the quality and impact of her teaching. Emese’s expertise has taken her across the globe, presenting classes in Europe, Asia, the USA, and Brazil. Her collaborations with various nail brands like Cesar’s Secret, Odyssey Nail System, Trinity Nails, Pearl Nails, and most recently, Urawa, have broadened her industry knowledge and influence.
In 2016, Emese moved to the USA, opening a nail salon on Sunset Strip in LA with fellow nail expert, Frederic Edange. Their partnership blossomed, and a year later, they founded EDKO Nail Systems, a brand known for its high-quality nail products and tools designed and tested by the duo. Emese’s work has been featured in magazines worldwide, and she has graced the covers of three editions of the USA’s Nailpro magazine.
Emese’s reputation as a judge at prestigious Nailympia competitions in London, Orlando, and Houston further cements her status as an authority in the nail industry. Her competitive achievements are impressive, including the 2010 World Champion title in Monaco, the Nailpro Cup USA 2018, four European Champion titles in Munich, and ten Hungarian Champion titles along with the Tom Holcomb Cup.
Today, Emese owns a private salon in Beverly Hills and serves as a brand ambassador for the Urawa e-file manufacturer in Japan. Her journey from a passionate nail artist in Hungary to a globally recognized industry leader in the USA is truly inspiring. Emese Koppanyi’s career is a shining example of what can be achieved through passion, skill, and unwavering dedication to one’s craft.
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.
For Katy P, nail art is not just a job; it's her therapy, her passion, and her creative outlet. She spends hours dreaming up intricate designs and experimenting with different techniques, always pushing the boundaries of her creativity. In a remarkable achievement, Katy participated in her first-ever competition, the World Star Nail Artist 2023, and emerged victorious, solidifying her reputation as a nail art virtuoso.
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.
Kirsty Meakin is one of the most renowned nail artists in the world today. With over 100 nail accolades, including Social Media Star of the Year 2021, Nail Artist of the Year 2012 and UK Nail Professional of the Year 2010, Kirsty has also been nominated for Nail Artist of the Year at the American Influencer Awards 2019.
Kirsty has been honing her nail skills for over 20 years after uncovering her creative powers at a Youth Training Scheme. The advancement of nail products has allowed Kirsty to explore her ability and passion for nail art and she is vastly recognised for her freehand and 3D nail art skills.
Kirsty’s innovative creations have been exhibited at the V & A museum art gallery in London after Kirsty was commissioned to do a nail art piece for the “power of making” exhibition. Kirsty is passionate about educating nail technicians and provides a wide range of courses for qualified technicians to push their skills further to be the best they can be. Kirsty has a busy and vibrant Youtube channel, which allows her to teach and inspire worldwide with no constraints. She has simultaneously expanded the Kirsty Meakin Brand to include a clothing line, gel polish system, and a host of professional accessories and products.
Do you have questions for the artist? GlossaryLive will present a LIVE interview with this artist. Email your questions to be featured during the Q&A session.
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.
With St. Patrick’s Day on the horizon, your clients are likely on the hunt for some fun and festive nail ideas. Incorporating one of the hottest nail trends of the moment, such as a cool, crystal agate-inspired nail design, is always a solid option. This green marble nail art look designed by nail artist Alexandra Lepadatu, will have them feeling extra lucky (and stylish) at their upcoming St. Patrick’s Day celebrations. Whether you pair this elegant nail design with white, black, or nude nails, its subtle beauty will surely elevate their style. Plus, you can totally change up the shade of green to suit your clients’ needs this spring. Below, keep reading for a step-by-step of how to achieve this dreamy green agate manicure.
