03 May
Artist of the month, GlossaryLive Blog

Alisha Rimando | Artist of the Month

ARTIST OF THE MONTH

Alisha Rimando

A Nail Journey of Passion & Empowerment

Article by Alex Fox | Published in 2024

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.

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28 Sep
Artist of the month, GlossaryLive Blog

Michelle Soto | Artist of the Month

ARTIST OF THE MONTH

Michelle Soto

This October, we celebrate Michelle Soto, international educator, judge and nail artist extraordinaire from Florida, USA.

Article by Alex Fox | Published in 2023

Stepping into the world of nails at the tender age of 12, Michelle Soto was spoiled for a year as her aunty used her to hand model for practice purposes. Later, after moving to Puerto Rico, Michelle made a point of manicuring her nails, mimicking what she’d picked up from her aunt. “My nails became a talking point and people asked me to do theirs, but I always said, ‘No, I only do them for myself’,” Michelle reflects. “However, after some consideration, I accepted my father’s proposal of going to nail school. Getting certified before I would groom anyone’s nails was really important to me. At that time in my life, being certified yet still not thinking it would end up becoming my career, was my mindset.”

On deciding to train in nails, Michelle enrolled at the Pierrette Academy in Puerto Rico, which later changed its name to Ema’s Beauty Academy. “I was offered to work at a well-known salon from the owner of the academy herself,” smiles Michelle. “I agreed and worked in it for a year, then I made the bold move to open my own salon; I was just 16 at the time.” Michelle continued to run nail salons for a number of years before changing her path to work more recently full-time with V Beauty Pure LLC in the USA. “I’ve tried many products throughout the years and one of my favorites is V beauty Pure,” she asserts.

With the onset of the global pandemic changing Michelle’s career course, she highlights, “Not being able to work for some time pushed me in a different direction; I had so much time to think about what I was doing and if it was the right pathway for me. I then changed my life completely. I‘ve always wanted to dedicate myself to teaching full-time while helping others achieve their goals, but I was always too busy to commit. The pandemic gave me the opportunity to make the jump.”Living by the principle to always give any endeavor her best shot, no matter what the circumstances, Michelle instils, “One must always be reliable, consistent and never forget to be humble in this life. In these challenging times, take this opportunity to focus in on yourself and your craft. Get prepared with all the knowledge and tools that will help you grow for when you are able to start working again and most importantly, keep posting content on social media platforms, don’t give up!”

1. Behind the Scenes - GlossaryLive Masterclass | 2. Michelle Soto jugding at Nailympia Orlando 2023

Praising social media as an excellent source of inspiration for nail stylists, Michelle notes, “The artist in me sees nail art everywhere I go! Although, much of my inspiration tends to come at night, so I keep a sketch book on my night table, however, maybe just one percent of my ideas make it into the book itself.” On reflection, she also adds, “As an artist, being able to express myself through my nail work alongside the happiness that it brings to my clients, is a blessing. The ability to express the client’s emotions in the nail style is also extremely rewarding and now I take great pleasure in teaching all this while sharing my knowledge and experience with others to support their career journey.”

Citing her recipe for attaining great nail skills is to never stop practicing or getting educated, Michelle acknowledges that, “Consistency and knowledge are key!”

With education at the top of her menu, Michelle utilised her time wisely during the pandemic and originated a wide selection of courses. “ I’ve developed online trainings that offer a variety of techniques to help salons called Salon Success. These courses offer topics such as nail anatomy – artificial and natural, product & control management, general biosecurity and health alongside E-File, bit theory and practice applied to nail extensions and manicures, nail tip and form application as well as commercial shapes (square, coffin, classic salon almond and stiletto), dip powder, acrygel, UV hard gel and nail art with gels, to name a few.”

Appreciating that ‘Rome was not built in a day’, Michelle stays grounded and focused while optimistic about the future. “My advice to beginners is to keep an open mind, have lots of patience, make sure you practice and don’t give up! Always be reliable, consistent and never forget to be humble!” Moving onwards and upwards, Michelle is excited for a future with her goal being to coach students, “To hit the salon floor fully experienced and knowledgeable. Capable and ready to service!”

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GlossaryLive Pro Tips Why The Pinch? Alisha Rimando
15 Sep
Pro Tips, Season 8

Why the Pinch?

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Why the Pinch?

Sculptured nails and even nail tip with overlays need an extra step while curing to create the perfect c-curve and a more elongated look. Let Alisha Rimando explain the reasons behind ``pinching`` the nail and what exactly it does to the nail.

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GlossaryLive Glossary Term Dip Nails
09 May
Glossary Terms

DIP NAILS

GlossaryLive Glossary Term Dip Nails

DIP NAILS [DIP neyls]

What it is: A nail enhancement overlay made from a dip powder system.
How to use it: A time-saving service often chosen to strengthen and/or color the natural nail or nail tip extension instead of creating a traditional overlay and polish or gel polish application.
How to remove it: Soak in acetone according to manufacturer’s directions.

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