Posts Tagged ‘Nails’
Pivot Point & Nailympia Webinar: Insights into The Competition Arena
WATCH via this link: using Passcode – LB6*#7dJ – to access the video
The recent 90-minute Nailympia webinar hosted by education platform Pivot Point, featured Buddy Sims, learning experience (LX) specialist at Pivot Point and Alex Fox, global director of Nailympia Competitions. This session provided an in-depth look at Nailympia’s past, present and future, along with expert advice for competitors looking to enter this prestigious nail competition circuit.
Nailympia: A Global Phenomenon
Originally launched as the Nail Olympics in 2000 Las Vegas, Nailympia has grown into a globally recognised competition, owned by Scratch maagzine.
After discussing it’s 20-year long history and relationship to Scratch magazine, Alex Fox highlighted the first competition of the year, Nailympia Anaheim, (23-24 February at Premiere Anaheim), discussing how it compares to other locations and how themes vary across different events. Alex also covered the 2025 competition calendar, including opportunities for international competitors to participate remotely.
Competition Categories & Judging Standards
The webinar detailed the competition structure, including:
- Various categories available at Anaheim & other locations
- Thematic differences across different Nailympia locations.
- Eligibility based on three-division tier system of competing
- Digital & online integration for remote competitors.
To ensure fair judging, Nailympia follows strict guidelines and regulations, ensuring personal biases do not impact results. Judges adhere to standardised scoring methods and all participants must comply with clear competition rules.
Competing at Nailympia: What You Need to Know
For those preparing to compete, the webinar provided valuable insights:
- Preparation & training tips.
- Materials & tools provided during the event.
- Available support for competitors.
- Common mistakes & expert advice from judges.
- Feedback process after the competition
- Where to source a coach/mentor
Website Walkthrough
The webinar concluded with a guided tour of the Nailympia website, highlighting essential sections such as:
- The free downloadable competition guidelines
- FAQ.
- Event itinerary, rules & costs.
- News, picture galleries, judges’ profiles & trophies.
With its rich history, transparent judging and commitment to fostering nail artistry, Nailympia continues to be a premier competition in the beauty industry. Whether you’re a newcomer or a seasoned pro, this competition offers a platform to showcase talent, gain recognition and be part of a global nail community.
Navigating Nail Competitions: Skills, Strategies & Success with Pivot Point /Nailympia webinar
On Wednesday 5 February at 6 PM GMT, Pivot Point will host an exciting webinar led by Buddy Sims, Learning Experience (LX) Specialist, in collaboration with Alex Fox and Vitaly Solomonoff. This online event will dive into the Nailympia competition, its roots, its ethos and its direction for 2025. The host Buddy Sims will also join the esteemed judging panel at Nailympia Anaheim on 23 February at Premiere Anaheim.
Buddy Simms, Pivot Point – Nailympia Anaheim judge
This virtual interview promises to provide an in-depth exploration of Nailympia. Topics will include the history and unique qualities of Nailympia, an overview of the competition categories, and invaluable advice for participants. Additionally, attendees will receive insights into what judges are looking for and get a guided tour of the Nailympia website to locate essential resources.
Joining Buddy Sims are Alex Fox, Nailympia’s organiser, and Vitaly Solomonoff, a nail expert and judge, who will bring their expertise to the room to enrich the discussion. Whether you’re a seasoned competitor or a first-timer, this webinar will equip you with the knowledge you need to join the circuit.
Vitaly Solomonoff of Cleanestiq. Nailympia international judge
Meet Buddy Sims
Buddy Sims is a seasoned expert with over a decade of experience in the beauty industry. He began his career as a Nails Subject Matter Expert, achieving recognition as both a finalist and judge for Next Top Nail Artist. Over the years, Buddy has worked with distributors, manufacturers and cosmetology boards. He has also owned a salon and holds an educator’s license.
Currently, as the Learning Experience Specialist at Pivot Point International, Buddy channels his vast knowledge to support beauty professionals, educators and students. His passion lies in fostering growth, success and innovation within the industry by combining effective teaching methodologies with cutting-edge technology.
Join this webinar to benefit from Buddy’s wealth of experience and to prepare yourself for success in the competitive and rewarding world of Nailympia. Click here to join the webinar – Here is the Registration Link!
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The Team Behind Nailympia China Opens a New Era in Nail Art Culture in Shanghai
The highly anticipated Nailympia China event is making waves in the global nail industry by not only hosting its first-ever international nail championship for the region and adding a fresh new location to the Nailympia family, but also spearheading the launch of China’s first Nail Art Museum. This initiative, led by the Nailympia China team, is set to revolutionise the landscape of nail artistry by celebrating its heritage, techniques and future innovations. By bringing together world-class nail artists and fostering international collaborations, the team behind Nailympia China is solidifying its position as a leader in nail artistry, awareness and education.
A Cultural Milestone for Nail Art
Kimi Zhang Tao, creator of the NAil Art Museum & host of Nailympia China, owner of Muzer
The Nail Art Museum is the brainchild of Kimi Zhang Tao, a respected leader in the nail industry. With years of expertise and a deep passion for nail artistry, Kimi has played a pivotal role in shaping the museum’s vision. Her goal is to create a space that not only honours the history and evolution of nail art but also fosters a global exchange of creativity and innovation. Through her leadership, the museum has become a hub for education, artistic expression and industry advancement. The Nail Art Museum is more than just an exhibition space – it is a testament to the rich history and ever-evolving techniques of nail artistry. By showcasing the works of world-renowned competition champions, bloggers, designers and artists, the museum provides a platform for creatives from all over the globe to share their artistry and vision.
Visitors will have the opportunity to explore nail art’s deep-rooted traditions while witnessing cutting-edge innovations. Exhibits highlight the cultural significance of nail art, transforming it from a personal beauty choice into a collective experience that blends fashion, craftsmanship and wellness.
The museum also aims to educate visitors on product ingredients, the science behind hand care and the importance of maintaining healthy nails. This holistic approach fosters a deeper appreciation for the artistry and techniques that have shaped the nail industry.
MUZER: The High-End Brand Leading a New Nail Art Trend
As an extension of the museum’s mission, Muzer a premium professional nail brand – introduces a revolutionary concept known as “Slip-on Nail Art.” This innovative take on press-on nails aligns with MUZER’s mission to ‘co-create a healthy and aesthetic life for all humanity’.
With a focus on health and beauty, Muzer is collaborating with top laboratories to create nail products that are both stylish and safe. From high-quality press-on nails to a range of professional nail tools, Muzer continues to redefine the boundaries of nail fashion and self-care.
A Spectacular Touring Exhibition in Suzhou
To celebrate the launch of the museum, the first touring exhibition will be held at the Suzhou Center, featuring a stunning display of nail artistry from both Chinese and international artists. Visitors will embark on a visual journey that blends traditional craftsmanship with contemporary innovations.
Chinese nail artists will showcase designs inspired by iconic cultural artworks, including interpretations of the famous painting Along the River During the Qingming Festival. Meanwhile, international artists like Mino Vo from the UK will present avant-garde creations such as the ‘Twin Headed Dragon’ nail sculpture, alongside Hazel Dixon’s enchanting The Adventure of Alice collection. These exhibits will highlight the fusion of global influences, demonstrating the artistry that transforms nails into miniature canvases of cultural expression.
Shaping the Future of Nail Culture
The establishment of the Nail Art Museum represents a significant milestone in the global beauty industry, blending history, culture and innovation in one groundbreaking institution. As it continues to grow, the museum aims to elevate the recognition of nail art as a legitimate and celebrated art form on the global stage.
Meanwhile, Muzer is set to revolutionise the market with its high-end press-on nail products, encouraging a shift towards health-conscious and stylish nail solutions. Together, the Nail Art Museum and Muzer are championing a new era in nail culture – one that embraces both beauty and wellbeing.
For those eager to witness this artistic revolution firsthand, the museum is located at:
The China Nail Art Museum will be located on 9th Floor, Building 5, Huiwang East Road, Jiading District, Shanghai.
For more information, email: nailmuseum@muzercn.com
Muzer is to host the first Nailympia China competition, 8-10 May 2025 in Shanghai. Click here to learn more.
Unleash your inner artist!
Nailympia Anaheim, Germany & China are NOW OPEN for registration
Dive into the dazzling world of creativity and innovation at Nailympia Anaheim 2025! This is your ultimate opportunity to break boundaries, showcase your artistry and shine on a global stage. With five electrifying turn-in categories, each crafted to spark your imagination, Nailympia promises a spectacular celebration of bold ideas, expert techniques and jaw-dropping designs.
Whether you’re in it for the thrill, the recognition or the inspiration, this is your moment to connect with fellow visionaries, push your skills to new heights and leave an unforgettable mark on nail artistry.
But the excitement doesn’t stop there! Registration is now open for:
✨ Nailympia Anaheim – 23 – 24 February at Premiere Anaheim CLICK HERE TO FIND OUT MORE
✨ Nailympia Germany – 28 – 30 March at Beauty Düsseldorf (deadline for Online categories is 31 January) CLICK HERE TO FIND OUT MORE
✨ Nailympia China – 8 – 10 May in Shanghai CLICK HERE TO FIND OUT MORE
Don’t just witness the industry evolve – lead the revolution!
Secure your spot today, unleash your creativity and let your talent shine on the world’s most exhilarating nail stage.
The countdown to greatness begins now – are you ready to take the leap?
The first competition of 2025: Nailympia Anaheim
Nailympia Anaheim will take place on 23-24 February 2025 at the Anaheim Convention Center in Anaheim, California, USA.
The competition will feature the following categories:
- Gel Polish
- Salon Nails
- Stiletto Nails
- UV Gel P&W (Sculpt or Tip/Overlay)
- Acrylic P&W (Sculpt or Tip/Overlay)
- Perfect Match
- Joy of Nails
Additionally, there will be four turn-in categories:
- Flat Art: Theme: Urban Graffiti – Create nail art with a powerful message.
- Runway: Design on 3 nail tips, inspired by the theme AI, with a mood board.
- Reality: Create 3 nail designs based on the themes:
- Famous Pictures of the 12th Century, 16th Century and 20th Century.
- To Stiletto & Beyond: One extreme nail style with the theme Cosmic Butterflies.
Participants can also submit an Extreme Nail Styling Poster as a JPEG via email to the Nailympia team – there is no theme for this poster.
Stay Tuned:
Information and registration for Nailympia Anaheim will open soon. Click here to register your interest and you’ll be the first to hear when registration opens!
NEW Rules & Scoresheets for 2025
The Nailympia team is thrilled to announce new rules and score sheets for 2025!
This comprehensive revamp addresses common competition questions, unifies Nailympia events worldwide and offers clearer guidance for all participants. The rules have been refined and score sheets have been updated to align with these improvements.
All competitors are encouraged to read the updated rules to maximise their scoring potential. Notably, the UV Gel Pink & White and Acrylic Liquid & Powder competitions have been restructured, allowing competitors to select their preferred technique – whether Tip & Overlay or Sculpture. These are now called “UV Gel (or Acrylic) Pink & White Competition Nails.” Additionally, the Salon Nails category no longer requires a feature design on the ring finger.
More judges will now be present in each booth to focus on specific scoring aspects, benefiting both judges and competitors. Time adjustments have been made to some competitions, with certain categories receiving more time and others slightly less.
Be sure to review the updated rules and score sheets at http://www.nailympia.de to stay informed on all changes.
Registration is open for Nailympia Anaheim (February 2025) and Nailympia Germany (March 2025).
Nailympia 2025
Nailympia Premiere Anaheim, CA, USA – 23-24 February
Nailympia Germany, Dusseldorf – 28-29 – 30 March
Nailympia China., Pudong, Shanghai – 8-9-10 May
Nailympia Premiere Orlando, FL, USA – 1-2 June
Nailympia Premiere San Antonio, TX, USA – 28-29 September
Nailympia Vietnam – TBA-
Nailympia London – 12- 13 October – Pro Beauty Autumn
NAILYMPIA LONDON 2024: The results
The 20th iteration of Nailympia London took place at the Salon Beauty expo, 13-14 October 2024, and wrapped up a phenomenal year of competitions for the global nail sector.
Nailympia was hosted in six locations in 2024, with Germany run by Stefanie Lo Re, Mexico by Dafne Fernandez, Vietnam by Damon Ho, and in association with the Premiere Show Group in Orlando and San Antonio. The London contest featured 10 categories that could be entered online, and nine that took place in the Salon Beauty arena. Across these 19 categories, 165 competitors from 32 countries took 544 competition seats.
Categories were judged by a team of global experts, who each boast exceptional prowess in the nail sector, and Nailympia is administered under Alex Fox, who celebrates 20 years as global director of Nailympia this autumn.
Here are the results…
EXTREME NAIL STYLING POSTER
Division 1
- 3rd – Alina Novikova – Italy
- 2nd – Elisa Tonetti – Italy
- 1st – Paula Emilia Socaci – Italy
Division 2
- 2nd – Renata Deak – Hungary
- 1st – Andrea Lorincz – Hungary
Division 3
- 3rd – Anita Chahal – United Kingdom
- 2nd – Evelin Nagy – Hungary
- 1st – Eva Pasztorne Balog – Hungary
ART ON NAILS: INTERNATIONAL SPORTING EVENTS
Division 1
- 3rd – Ewa Speyer – United Kingdom
- 2nd – Széll Anikó Henriett – Hungary
Division 2
- 2nd – Elizaveta Bekker – United Kingdom
Division 3
- 3rd – Selcan Ercan – The Netherlands
- 2nd – Mino Vo – United Kingdom
- 1st – Loi Van Nguyen – United Kingdom
RUNWAY NAILS: INDUSTRIAL REVOLUTION
Division 1
- 3rd – Alice Stefani – Italy
- 2nd – Miu Tran – United Kingdom
- 1st – Rose Ann Pagliawan – Philippines
Division 2
- 3rd – Anya Nguyen – United Kingdom
- 2nd – Delia Caruso – United States
- 1st – Francesca Ciaponi – Italy
Division 3
- 3rd – Kelsey McQuay – United States
- 2nd – Selcan Ercan – The Netherlands
- 1st – Magdalena Dabrowska – Poland
REALITY NAILS: GEOMETRIC CHIC / VINTAGE VIBES / GOTHIC GRANDEUR
Division 1
- 3rd – Daniela Blahova – Slovakia
- 2nd – Fran Humphrey – United Kingdom
- 1st – Rose Anna Pagliawan – Philippines
Division 2
- 3rd – Francesca Ciaponi – Italy
- 2nd – Kim Poels – The Netherlands
- 1st – Anuja S. Mathur – India
Division 3
- 3rd – Dung (Fox) Nguyen – United States
- 2nd – Katarzyna Kruszynska – Ireland
- 1st – Mino Vo – United Kingdom
FLAT ART BOXED: SACRED SYMBOLS
Division 1
- 3rd – Kimberley Moseley-Woodhouse – United Kingdom
- 2nd – Gemma Riley – United Kingdom
- 1st – Adél Horváth – Hungary
Division 2
- 3rd – Emma Brock – United Kingdom
- 2nd – Francesca Ciaponi – Italy
- 1st – Khyati Patel – India
Division 3
- 3rd – Paola Marrone – Italy
- 2nd – Diana Vig – United Kingdom
- 1st – Tatiana Bianchi – Italy
DESIGN NAILS FOR AN ALBUM COVER: ELECTRO POP
Division 1
- 3rd – Daniela Blahova – Slovakia
- 2nd – Miu Tran – United Kingdom
- 1st – Adél Horváth – Hungary
Division 2
- 3rd – Anuja S. Mathur – India
- 2nd – Monika Sliwinska – Poland
- 1st – Francesca Ciaponi – Italy
Division 3
- 3rd – Diana Vig – United Kingdom
- 2nd – Vanessa Grossi – Aland Islands
- 1st – Silvia Gago – Spain
POSTER PEDICURE
Division 1
- 1st – Sarah Akhtyrska – United States
Division 2
- 3rd – Stacy Forsyth – Canada
- 2nd – Francesca Ciaponi – Italy
- 1st – Laura Pote – United Kingdom
Division 3
- 3rd – Veronika Pogány-Gócza – Hungary
- 2nd – Iuliia Prokopchuk – Canada
- 1st – Katarzyna Kruszynska – Ireland
POSTER MANICURE
Division 1
- 3rd – Sofia Capretti – Italy
- 2nd – Adél Horváth – Hungary
- 1st – Livia Major – Hungary
Division 2
- 3rd – Laura Pote – United Kingdom
- 2nd – Anita Cyruk – United Kingdom
- 1st – Zsofia Nagy – Hungary
Division 3
- 3rd – Marta Kolodziejczyk – Poland
- 2nd – Renata Jurinovits – Hungary
- 1st – Katarzyna Kruszynska – Ireland
MIXED MEDIA BOXED ART (Open theme)
Division 1
- 3rd – Chun Ling Kwok – Hong Kong
- 2nd – Adél Horváth – Hungary
- 1st – Daniela Blahova – Slovakia
Division 2
- 3rd – Renáta Deák – Hungary
- 2nd – Anya Nguyen – United Kingdom
- 1st – Thao Nguyen – United States
Division 3
- 3rd – Alice Nali – United Kingdom
- 2nd – Melinda Tamas – Hungary
- 1st – Silvia Gago – Spain
TO STILETTO & BEYOND: BOTANICAL GARDENS
Division 1
- 3rd – Mariia Riakhovskaia – United States
- 2nd – Alena Muraveva – United States
- 1st – Tuong Minh – Vietnam
Division 2
- 3rd – Emma Brock – United Kingdom
- 2nd – Dorte Steenhold – Denmark
- 1st – Yuliia Kovalchuk – United States
Division 3
- 3rd – Loi Van Nguyen – United Kingdom
- 2nd – Abbie Nguyen – United States
- 1st – Tatyana Texter – Germany
GEL POLISH MANICURE
Division 1
- 3rd – Sandra Marciniak – Poland
- 2nd – Zsofia Szeker – Hungary
- 1st – Paulina Baltyka – Poland
Division 2
- 3rd – Areli Naharai Carvajal Rios – Mexico
- 2nd – Marie Juranova – United Kingdom
- 1st – Francesca Ciaponi – Italy
Division 3
- 3rd – Magdalena Dabrowska – Poland
- 2nd – Natalia Trefon-Ociepka – Poland
- 1st – Aleksandra Dworzynska – Poland
THE JOY OF NAILS
Division 1
- 3rd – Maksymilian Borowy – Ireland
- 2nd – Miu Tran – United Kingdom
- 1st – Anita Pazmandi – Hungary
Division 2
- 3rd – Dorte Steenhold – Denmark
- 2nd – Francesca Ciaponi – Italy
Division 3
- 3rd – Natalia Trefon-Ociepka – Poland
- 2nd – Francesca Paliotto – Italy
- 1st – Mino Vo – United Kingdom
FANTASY COMPLETE LOOK
Division 3
- 3rd – Alice Nali – United Kingdom
- 2nd – Justyna Maris – Poland
- 1st – Melinda Tamás – Hungary
FRENCH TWIST
Division 1
- 3rd – Zsofia Szeker – Hungary
- 2nd – Sandra Marciniak – Poland
- 1st – Anita Pazmandi – Hungary
Division 2
- 3rd – Dorte Steenhold – Denmark
- 1st – Francesca Ciaponi – Italy
Division 3
- 3rd – Francesca Paliotto – Italy
- 2nd – Marta Deja – Poland
- 1st – Natalia Trefon-Ociepka – Poland
SALON NAILS
Division 1
- 3rd – Zsofia Szeker – Hungary
- 2nd – Anita Pazmandi – Hungary
- 1st – Paulina Baltyka – Poland
Division 2
- 3rd – Areli Naharai Carvajal Rios – Mexico
- 2nd – Katalin Dobo – United Kingdom
Division 3
- 3rd – Olena Oezman – Germany
- 2nd – Agnes Szonyi-Majoros – Hungary
- 1st – Alessandra Pizzari – Italy
UV GEL TIP & OVERLAY
Division 1
- 3rd – Sandra Marcinak – Poland
- 2nd – Paulina Baltyka – Poland
- 1st – Maksymilian Borowy – Ireland
Division 2
- 3rd – Francesca Ciaponi – Italy
- 2nd – Justyna Rozdoba – United Kingdom
- 1st – Tuyet Luong – United Kingdom
Division 3
- 3rd – Francesca Paliotto – Italy
- 2nd – Alessandra Pizzari – Italy
- 1st – Flemming Nordqvist – Denmark
L&P SCULPTURE
Division 1
- 3rd – Miu Tran – United Kingdom
- 2nd – Paulina Baltyka – Poland
- 1st – Anita Pazmandi – Hungary
Division 2
- 3rd – Marie Juranova – United Kingdom
- 2nd – Minna Ukskoski – Finland
- 1st – Areli Naharai Carvajal Rios – Mexico
Division 3
- 3rd – Flemming Nordqvist – Denmark
- 2nd – Natalia Trefon-Ociepka – Poland
- 1st – Alessandra Pizzari – Italy
PERFECT MATCH
Division 1
- 2nd – Paulina Baltyka – Poland
- 1st – Miu Tran – United Kingdom
Division 2
- 2nd – Francesca Ciaponi – Italy
Division 3
- 3rd – Flemming Nordqvist – Denmark
- 2nd – Natalia Trefon-Ociepka – Poland
- 1st – Alessandra Pizzari – Italy
STILETTO NAILS
Division 1
- 3rd – Maksymilian Borowy – Ireland
- 2nd – Sandra Marciniak – Poland
- 1st – Anita Pazmandi – Hungary
Division 2
- 3rd – Francesca Ciaponi – Italy
- 2nd – Minna Ukskoski – Finland
- 1st – Katalin Dobo – United Kingdom
Division 3
- 3rd – Flemming Nordqvist – Denmark
- 2nd – Olena Oezman – Germany
- 1st – Francesca Paliotto – Italy
TOP UK TECH
Division 1 – Miu Tran
Division 2 – Katalin Dobo
Division 3 – Mino Vo
ART WINNER OF WINNERS
Division 1 – Miu Tran – United Kingdom
Division 2 – Francesca Ciaponi – Italy
Division 3 –Melinda Tamás – Hungary
WINNER OF WINNERS
Division 1 – Anita Pazmandi – Hungary
Division 2 – Francesca Ciaponi – Italy
Division 3 – Mino Vo – United Kingdom
INDIVIDUAL TOP SCORER
Alessandra Pizzari – 974 points
TEAM TROPHY
Team Indigo
EUROPEAN CUP
Francesca Paliotto – Italy
GLOBAL CUP
Olena Oezman – Germany
Olena enters into the Nailympia Hall of Fame, after winning the Global Cup for a third time.
Olena is officially the only 3 x Global Cup Champion of Nailympia Competitions.
Nailympia Competitions is in association with Scratch magazine.
For information about upcoming Nailympia competitions, visit www.nailympia.com
This brand uses AI to apply techs’ designs to nails & pays them for their art
Would you like to reap financial rewards from your nail concepts, and perform and showcase nail artistry at speed?
Meet Umia: the Canadian creator of a fully automated artificial intelligence (AI) manicure studio, which has gained global recognition since its soft launch two months ago and allows intricate patterns to be directly applied to nails.
The company founders, TX Qui and Modi Lui, came across a DIY nail stamp printer in 2018, sparking the idea to build on this product by addressing its limitations, from manual, complicated operations to poor image quality. “We looked into the nailcare industry and stumbled into a vibrant and dynamic world,” they say. “We conducted surveys on 980 individuals and uncovered three barriers that prevent people from fully embracing nail services: time constraints, high costs and potential damage to nails.”
Determined to break down these barriers, Umia embarked on a six-year development journey, creating eleven prototype machines and conducting more than 3,000 manicure tests. “We collected as much real-life data as possible: on nail shapes, curvature, texture and skin tone, and used this to train our precision algorithm,” share TX Qui and Modi Lui.
While addressing barriers to nail treatments experienced by consumers, the Umia team noticed challenges faced by nail techs. “Nail professionals often work long hours creating intricate designs, but without proper ergonomics, this hard work can lead to physical strain. Adding more clients per nail artist is not feasible when trying to grow a business, therefore solutions that can aid growth and profit are welcome,” notes TX Qui. “Our technology is designed to automate repetitive tasks, allowing technicians to focus on creativity and building client relationships, while reducing the risk of injury and burnout.
“Umia also provides a platform that allows nail artists to be compensated fairly for their creativity.”
Every time a client selects a nail art design via Umia’s system, the artist behind that design receives payment – similarly to how a musician or photographer earns royalties for their work. “Umia empowers artists to thrive in their craft, gain global visibility and create a deeper impact with their unique work,” comment TX Qui and Modi Lui.
With Umia automating time-consuming tasks involved in intricate nail art, professionals can serve more clients in a day, which helps to reduce customer waiting times, while increasing efficiency and boosting revenue and client happiness. Clients can browse a wide selection of nail art options, which have been designed by nail professionals, via the Umia app. Once they have chosen their preferred style, they can book a nearby automated studio.
“At Umia, we see technology as a tool to uplift people – not replace them,” reveal its founders.
“Our goal is to integrate technology into the broader beauty industry, making meaningful improvements and benefitting people worldwide.” The brand is proud to be sponsoring the Nailympia London 2024 competition and is exhibiting at Salon Beauty, 13-14 October, ExCeL London, eager to hear from the industry about how technology can improve their wellbeing.
www.umia.beauty
The story of Glitterbels: the Staffordshire-born nail brand supporting techs worldwide
Professional nail brand, Glitterbels, has made waves in the industry since being founded seven years ago.
The brainchild of Newcastle-under-Lyme nail artist, Annabel Maginnis, and her husband, Elliott, Glitterbels was established with a focus on providing high-quality, trendy acrylic powders to the UK nail sector. Since then, the brand’s offering has quickly expanded to include gel polishes and paints, builder gels, tools, salon essentials, furniture and apparel, and its number of monthly customers reaches over 10,000.
Online and in-person training is also available via the brand, and its education team scooped Nail Team of the Year at the Scratch Stars Awards 2024.
“Our mission is to ensure high-performance products are accessible to all,” says a spokesperson for Glitterbels.
But it’s not just its products that have expanded – the brand boasts a US HQ, as well as its Staffordshire base in the UK, and is stocked in hundreds of beauty supply stores across the globe, from the Netherlands to Australia. With brand ambassadors worldwide, Glitterbels is dedicated to providing guidance to pros internationally. “Nail technicians who shop and follow Glitterbels feel more like a community, rather than a group of customers,” continues its spokesperson.
“With open support groups and a dedicated customer service team, Glitterbels provides ongoing guidance to nail techs. The team shares tutorials, blogs and live videos, with knowledge on how best to use products. The education team can also be found in the comments of social media posts, offering top tips and advice on any problems customers may be facing.”
Fun fact: One of Glitterbels’ most popular products is Brush On Builder Gel in Dolly.
A passion for community is also clear via events, designed to excite pros and immerse them in the signature pink and magical aesthetic of Glitterbels. In June, the DreamFest event in Manchester welcomed around 400 attendees to shop the brand, network, learn and immerse in fun social media activities, including celebrity fans of Glitterbels.
The brand is sponsoring renowned competition, Nailympia London 2024, as it marks its 20th anniversary at the Salon Beauty trade show (13-14 October) – where Glitterbels is exhibiting. Its dedication to encouraging creativity and supporting global talent perfectly aligns with Nailympia’s values, as the spokesperson concludes: “At the heart of Glitterbels is a passion for creativity. This is something we try and showcase within all aspects of our business, so we love seeing the talent involved in the nail industry and take pride in supporting nail technicians during their journeys.”
Explore the Glitterbels brand via www.glitterbels.com
Keen to compete at Nailympia London? Global director, Alex Fox answers your questions
Scratch’s Helena Biggs chats to Alex Fox, global director of Nailympia Competitions, about the 2024 London event – which celebrates its 20th anniversary this year.
She answers questions about the online & arena categories & serves up encouraging words for pros ?
Watch the full video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V3WmTdBRY7E
DON’T FORGET:
9 August: Online categories deadline
27 September: Arena categories deadline
? @salonbeauty.uk – London
?️ 13-14 October