Guide to competing

How should nail technicians prepare for a competition?

It’s wise to get guidance from a past competitor/winner in the form of a mentor. Many nail artists become consultants and mentors after leaving the arena and coach teams or individuals. Their guidance is priceless and worth it. Practice is essential, to get skills honed and your timings on track, you can practice on every client in the salon. It’s a nice touch to get your clients on board to support you and give you a boost. Their backing can really make a difference to your confidence. Find a good model, try a competition class with a champion, refresh your skills and get hints and tips from those that have done it. Always read the rules and the score sheets so you can see where the points are given.

What should nail techs bring to a competition to compete?

Confidence, a full kit (read the rules and make sure you’ve got all the necessary items). Check if you need to bring a desk lamp, a bin and make sure you know whether certain products must be unopened. Make sure all products are labelled, don’t forget the wrist rest, towel and a cardigan and a large scarf for your model. If she’s too hot, she needs to be able to shed her clothing easily and likewise, she needs to wrap up easily if she’s cold. A clock/mobile phone for your model to watch and keep you aware of the time. A bottle of water for you and your model, you do not want to find yourself thirsty in that environment.

What can be done to calm nerves before/during a competition?

Everyone suffers with nerves, however many times they’ve competed, it’s par for the course in this environment.

So, breathe deeply, get the correct mindset on and focus on the competition itself. I highly recommend Rescue Remedy, it really does help. Don’t overthink it – don’t be put off by the size of the arena or the people you see there. Everyone has been in your shoes, everyone has walked into an arena for the first time at some point. Just breathe deeply and get into the flow.

What should a competitor be mindful of before the competition?

The temperature of the room, for the tech’s sake and the model. The noise levels, where they choose to sit – as too close to spectators can be off putting. The lighting in the room and that they have got every product they need with them. Always pack your nail kit at least two weeks before the comp and have a checklist to work through to make sure everything is packed in there.

What should a competitor do/ask for post competition?

Most competitions give the score sheets out after the competition is completed and the judges are often available to give positive critiques on them.

What is there to love about nail competitions?

I love how nail competitions respond and reflect the shape of an industry. We are forever changing the competitions in response to industry innovations and trends. It’s exciting to see the style and array of nail competitions on offer and more importantly, to see how the competitors interpret them. I love nails; sculpted, embellished, long, short, extreme and natural. I love nails so much, that every competition feeds my need to see the boundaries stretched as the art triumphs.

What can competitors expect from Nailympia?

A feeling of family – we are one big nail community and we thrive when we are together and networking. The Nailympia arena is a beautiful space where creativity oozes across the floor and the energy is high and happy.

It’s adrenaline pumping and powerful. It’s a great nail space.