Posts Tagged ‘stiletto nails’
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
Nail Nations Championship 2024: A Celebration of Global Nail Artistry
The Nailympia team is pleased to support the inaugural Nail Nations Championship, an international showcase of nail artistry and technique, set to take place at Paris Disneyland on 28-29 September 2024. Organised by Nail Art France Events, this prestigious event, is led by president Cécilia Gimenez and judges president Tatiana Litvinov, international Nailympia judge.
Competitors from around the globe are invited to register for this unique championship, which offers a platform to exhibit exceptional skills and creativity. With participation from every continent, this is a rare opportunity to represent your country and impress a distinguished panel of judges.
The arena technical events on offer feature pink & whites, Stiletto and Free Form Style, with 12 seats available per event.
The online nail art contests present diverse themes such as The 5 Elements of Feng Shui and Ancient Egyptian Jewellery with 15 seats available per theme. The online date for submission is 4 November, so there’s plenty of time to get your entry ready.
Inspired by the spirit of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, the championship includes:
Saturday 28 September 28: Morning: Pink & White competition with the Stiletto nail art challenge in the afternoon. On Sunday 29 September Free Form Style on one nail will start the day and the afternoon will host the awards ceremony at 2:30pm.
A team of international experts, including Nailympia Germany’s Stefanie Lo Ré, will evaluate each participant. Judging follows Olympic-style scoring with gold, silver and bronze medals. Points from the medals will determine the Nation’s Championship podium, recognising the top countries in nail art and technical skills.
For event rules and registration details, visit the Nail Art France Events link below. Register soon to secure your place on this global celebration of nail artistry. The total points from all the events will also contribute to a special nation ranking.
https://nailartfrance-events.fr
Nailympia Vietnam 2024: THE RESULTS
The first iteration of Nailympia Competitions in Vietnam took place 10-11 April 2024, hosted by Damon Ho in Ho Chi Minh City and supported by Nailympia global director, Alex Fox.
THE RESULTS
GEL POLISH MANICURE
Division 1
- 3rd Mai Ngọc – Vietnam
- 2nd Lý Bích Châu – Vietnam
- 1st Lê Khánh – Vietnam
Division 2
- 3rd Le Anh – Vietnam
- 2nd Nguyen Ngoc Phuong – Vietnam
- 1st Nguyễn Hồng Ngọc – Vietnam
Division 3
- 3rd Yuki Ide – Japan
- 2nd Genki Itou – Japan
- 1st Natalia Trefon – Poland
FANTASY COMPLETE LOOK
Division 3
- 3rd Nguyễn Thị Hồng Mai – Vietnam
- 2nd Nguyen Thi Quynh – Vietnam
- 1st Nhu Tay – Vietnam
SALON NAILS
Division 1
- 3rd Nguyễn Thị Thanh Tâm – Australia
- 2nd Trần Lê Trúc Giang – Vietnam
- 1st Le Vy – Australia
Division 2
- 3rd Nguyen Julie – Malaysia
- 2nd Pham Thi Nhan – Vietnam
- 1st Kawase Yumi – Japan
Division 3
- 3rd Genki Itou – Japan
- 2nd DOÃN VĂN HẬU – Australia
- 1st Natalia Trefon – Poland
THE JOY OF NAILS
Division 1
- 3rd Trần Lê Trúc Giang – Vietnam
- 2nd Mai Ngọc – Vietnam
- 1st Lê Bích Ngọc – Vietnam
Division 2
- 3rd Hoàng Thị Mai – Vietnam
- 2nd Đỗ Thị Bình Nhi – Vietnam
- 1st Le Thi thuy Tien – Vietnam
Division 3
- 3rd Genki Itou – Japan
- 2nd Yen Ryall – Australia
- 1st Yuki Ide – Japan
MIXED MEDIA BOXED ART
Division 1
- 2nd Nguyen ( Tracy Vanilla ) Trang – Vietnam
- 1st TRƯƠNG THỊ KIM NHUNG – Vietnam
Division 3
- 3rd Yuki Ide – Japan
- 2nd Yamamichi Kanade – Japan
- 1st Lê Thị Lan – Vietnam
FLAT ART DESIGN BOX
Division 1
- 3rd Phạm Thị Hồng Nhiên – Vietnam
- 2nd Tô Thị Thuỳ Trang – Vietnam
- 1st Nguyễn Thị Kim Tuyến – Vietnam
Division 2
- 3rd Nguyễn Lệ Mỹ Tiên – Vietnam
- 2nd Lại Quốc Tuấn – Vietnam
- 1st Cúc Nguyễn – Vietnam
Division 3
- 3rd Nguyen Amy – Malaysia
- 2nd Nguyễn Ngọc Nữ – Vietnam
- 1st Lê Đại Phát – Vietnam
TO STILETTO & BEYOND
Division 1
- 1st Mendez Ianni Daniela – Colombia
Division 2
- 3rd Pham Thi Thanh Huong – Vietnam
- 2nd Do Thi Binh Nhi – Vietnam
- 1st Nguyen Julie – Malaysia
Division 3
- 3rd Genki Itou – Japan
- 2nd Yuki Ide – Japan
- 1st Võ Quốc Vẹn – Vietnam
- EXTREME NAILS POSTER
Division 1
- 1st Katterine Anaya Arias – Vietnam
Division 2
- 1st Nguyễn Thị Hải – Vietnam
Division 3
- 3rd Nguyen Thi Quyynh – Vietnam
- 2nd Abbie Nguyen – Vietnam
- 1st Ryall Yen – Australia
DESIGN AN ALBUM COVER
Division 1
- 3rd Thi Ngoc Le – Vietnam
- 2nd Tô Thị Thuỳ Trang – Vietnam
- 1st Trần Huỳnh Hồng – Vietnam
Division 2
- 2nd Nguyễn Hải Uyên – Vietnam
- 1st Trang Sala – Vietnam
Division 3
- 3rd Dinh Thi Mai – Vietnam
- 2nd Yamamichi Kanade – Japan
- 1st Võ Quốc Vẹn – Vietnam
FRENCH TIP & OVERLAY
Division 1
- 3rd Trần Lê Trúc Giang – Vietnam
- 2nd Le Vy – Australia
- 1st Nguyễn Thị Thanh Tâm – Australia
Division 2
- 3rd Nguyen Julie – Malaysia
- 2nd Nguyễn Hồng Ngọc – Vietnam
- 1st Phạm Thị Nhẫn – Vietnam
Division 3
- 3rd Nguyễn Tuấn Anh – Vietnam
- 2nd Genki Itou – Japan
- 1st Natalia Trefon – Poland
FRENCH SCULPTURE
Division 1
- 3rd Tran Thanh Thuy – Vietnam
- 2nd Le Vy – Australia
- 1st Nguyễn Thị Thanh Tâm – Australia
Division 2
- 3rd Nguyễn Hồng Ngọc – Vietnam
- 2nd Đỗ Thị Bình Nhi – Vietnam
- 1st Phạm Thị Nhẫn – Vietnam
Division 3
- 3rd Nguyễn Tuấn Anh – Vietnam
- 2nd Natalia Trefon – Poland
- 1st Genki Itou – Japan
PERFECT MATCH
Division 1
- 2nd Le Vy – Australia
- 1st Nguyễn Thị Thanh Tâm – Australia
Division 2
- 3rd Nguyen Julie – Malaysia
- 2nd Nguyễn Hồng Ngọc – Vietnam
- 1st Phạm Thị Nhẫn – Vietnam
Division 3
- 3rd Nguyễn Tuấn Anh – Vietnam
- 2nd Lê Thái Sơn – Vietnam
- 1st Genki Itou – Japan
STILETTO NAILS
Division 1
- 1st Mendez Ianni Daniella – Colombia
Division 2
- 3rd Nguyen Julie – Malaysia
- 2nd Đỗ Thị Bình Nhi – Vietnam
- 1st Le Thi Thuy Tien – Vietnam
Division 3
- 3rd Nguyễn Tuấn Anh – Vietnam
- 2nd Natalia Trefon – Poland
- 1st Genki Itou – Japan
ART WINNER OF WINNERS
Division 1 Mendez Ianni Daniella – Colombia
Division 2 Đỗ Thị Bình Nhi – Vietnam
Division 3 Yuki Ide – Japan
TOP VIETNAM TECH
Division 1
- 3rd Lê Bích Ngọc
- 2nd Nguyen ( Tracy Vanilla ) Trang
- 1st Trần Lê Trúc Giang
Division 2
- 3rd Đỗ Thị Bình Nhi
- 2nd Nguyễn Hồng Ngọc
- 1st Phạm Thị Nhẫn
Division 3
- 3rd Đinh Thị Mai
- 2nd Lê Thái Sơn
- 1st Nguyễn Tuấn Anh
TEAM TROPHY
Team Yinnie: Nguyen Julie, Ting Cherish, Nguyen Amy, Chang Andy, Lee Celine, JING WEI JOWIE LOI
WINNER OF WINNERS
- Division 1 – Le Vy – Australia
- Division 2 – Nguyen Julie – Malaysia
- Division 3 – Genki Itou – Japan
INDIVIDUAL TOP SCORER
Natalia Trefon – Poland (Div 3)
Nailympia Competitions is in association with Scratch magazine.
Entry is NOW OPEN for Nailympia London 2024!
Join us for the world’s biggest nail competition, celebrating 20 years this year at ExCel London on 13-14 October!
This competition blends a mix of online and arena categories, making it available to EVERYONE!
We have 19 fantastic categories (9 arena and 10 online) and 3 divisions – click here to enter today!
ARENA
Gel Polish
LED Hard Gel Tip & Overlay (traditional French)
L&P Acrylic Sculpture (traditional French)
Perfect Match
Joy of Nails
French Twist 3-Shape Challenge
Salon Nails
Stiletto Nails
Fantasy Complete Look
ONLINE
To Stiletto & Beyond
Extreme Nail Styling Poster
Mixed Media Boxed Art
Flat Art Boxed Art
Art on Nails
Design Nails for Album Cover
Poster Manicure
Poster Pedicure
Reality Nails
Runway Nails
You can see the themes for this years categories here.
Nailympia Germany 2024: THE RESULTS
The third iteration of Nailympia Germany took place at the Beauty Düsseldorf exhibition, 22-24 March.
The prestigious nail competition is powered by Scratch and the Germany edition is hosted by Stefanie Lo Re of Signature Nail International, supported by Nailympia global director, Alex Fox.
The 2024 contest welcomed 79 competitors from 24 countries, who took 413 competition seats across 19 categories; 11 live and eight online.
THE RESULTS
GEL POLISH MANICURE
Division 1
- 3rd Federica Lucifora – Italy
- 2nd Vanessa Maturo – Italy
- 1st Alina Ivakina – Germany
Division 2
- 3rd Carlotta Silveri – Italy
- 2nd Veronica Luviano – USA
- 1st Katharina Bienemann – Germany
Division 3
- 3rd Aleksanda Dworzynska – Poland
- 2nd Alessandra Pizzari – Italy
- 1st Natalia Gedik – Turkey
RUNWAY NAILS
Division 1
- 1st Thi Ngoc Le – Germany
Division 2
- 2nd Van Hau Doan – Germany
- 1st Susan Strijbosch – The Netherlands
Division 3
- 3rd Nicolas Paggi – Argentina
- 2nd Anita Chahal – UK
- 1st Johanna Stampka – Germany
SALON NAILS
Division 1
- 3rd Vanessa Maturo – Italy
- 2nd Federica Lucifora – Italy
- 1st Clara Zeta Spadaro – Italy
Division 2
- 3rd Katharina Bienemann – Germany
- 2nd Melissa Monaco – Italy
- 1st Sara Di Luzio – Italy
Division 3
- 3rd Francesca Paliotto – Italy
- 2nd Marta Deja – Poland
- 1st Natalia Trefon – Poland
REALITY NAIL ART
Division 1
- 3rd Desire Modica – Italy
- 2nd Evgenia Zarakovskaya – Belarus
- 1st Federica Lucifora – Italy
Division 2
- 3rd Sara Di Luzio – Italy
- 2nd Susan Strijbosch – The Netherlands
- 1st Sara Rossignoli – Italy
Division 3
- 3rd Johanna Stampka – Germany
- 2nd Alessandra Pizzari – Italy
- 1st Francesca Paliotto – Italy
THE JOY OF NAILS
Division 1
- 3rd Ermelinda Mucaj – Italy
- 2nd Vanessa Maturo – Italy
- 1st Desire Modica – Italy
Division 2
- 3rd Mirella Cost – The Netherlands
- 2nd Carlotta Silveri – Italy
- 1st Sara Di Luzio – Italy
Division 3
- 3rd Nicolas Paggi – Argentina
- 2nd Francesca Paliotto – Italy
- 1st Alessandra Pizzari – Italy
MIXED MEDIA BOXED ART
Division 2
- 3rd Timea Anita Kovacs – Romania
- 2nd Van Hau Doan – Germany
- 1st Evelin Nagy – Hungary
Division 3
- 3rd Paulina Guadalupe – Mexico
- 2nd Nicolas Paggi – Argentina
- 1st Giulia Rebellato – Italy
FLAT ART DESIGN BOX
Division 2
- 3rd Sara Rossignoli – Italy
- 2nd Emma Brock – UK
- 1st Evelin Nagy – Hungary
Division 3
- 3rd Olivia Castillo – Philippines
- 2nd Julie Vorobeva – UAE
- 1st Alessandra Pizzari – Italy
INVENT A NAIL SHAPE
Division 2
- 2nd Lyubov Tudakova – Russia
- 1st Annamaria Mudure – Austria
Division 3
- 3rd Nicolas Paggi – Argentina
- 2nd Maria Sinyagina – Russia
- 1st Tatyana Texter – Germany
TO STILETTO & BEYOND
Division 1
- 3rd Thi Ngoc Le – Germany
- 2nd Jacqueline Kilian – Germany
- 1st Renata Nemethne Szabo – Hungary
Division 2
- 3rd Susan Strijbosch – The Netherlands
- 2nd Lyubov Tudakova – Russia
- 1st Annamaria Mudure – Austria
Division 3
- 3rd Nicolas Paggi – Argentina
- 2nd Maria Sinyagina – Russia
- 1st Tatyana Texter – Germany
FRENCH TWIST
Division 1
- 3rd Federica Lucifora – Italy
- 2nd Ermelinda Mucaj – Italy
- 1st Vanessa Maturo – Italy
Division 2
- 3rd Carlotta Silveri – Italy
- 2nd Melissa Monaco – Italy
- 1st Mirella Cost – The Netherlands
Division 3
- 3rd Natalia Trefon – Poland
- 2nd Alessandra Pizzari – Italy
- 1st Francesca Paliotto – Italy
MANICURE POSTER
Division 1
- 3rd Patrik Pataki – Hungary
- 2nd Erika Kornoczi – Austria
- 1st Edina Botos – Hungary
Division 2
- 3rd Eszter Magyar – Hungary
- 2nd Ildiko Jarfas – Hungary
- 1st Anna Darabos – Hungary
Division 3
- 3rd Johanna Stampka – Germany
- 1st Reka Olah – Hungary
EXTREME NAILS POSTER
Division 1
- 1st Marietta Darok – Hungary
Division 2
- 3rd Eszter Magyar – Hungary
- 2nd Evelin Nagy – Hungary
- 1st Naira Gilardini – Italy
Division 3
- 3rd Angela Wilden – Luxembourg
- 2nd Maria Sinyagina – Russia
- 1st Loi Van Nguyen – UK
UV GEL TIP & OVERLAY
Division 1
- 3rd Clara Zeta Spadaro – Italy
- 2nd Vanessa Maturo – Italy
- 1st Natalya Rusch – Germany
Division 2
- 3rd Sara Rossignoli – Italy
- 2nd Melissa Monaco – Italy
- 1st Sara Di Luzio – Italy
Division 3
- 3rd Natalia Trefon – Poland
- 2nd Alessandra Pizzari – Italy
- 1st Francesca Paliotto – Italy
UV GEL SCULPTURE
Division 1
- 3rd Federica Lucifora – Italy
- 2nd Chiara Panaia – Italy
- 1st Vanessa Maturo – Italy
Division 2
- 3rd Carlotta Silveri – Italy
- 2nd Melissa Monaco – Italy
- 1st Sara Di Luzio – Italy
Division 3
- 3rd Marta Deja – Poland
- 2nd Natalia Trefon – Poland
- 1st Francesca Paliotto – Italy
UV GEL PERFECT MATCH
Division 1
- 3rd Clara Zeta Spadaro – Italy
- 2nd Natalya Rusch – Germany
- 1st Vanessa Maturo – Italy
Division 2
- 3rd Sara Rossignoli – Italy
- 2nd Sara Di Luzio – Italy
- 1st Melissa Monaco – Italy
Division 3
- 3rd Flemming Nordqvist – Denmark
- 2nd Marta Deja – Poland
- 1st Francesca Paliotto – Italy
L&P TIP & OVERLAY
Division 1
- 3rd Desire Modica – Italy
- 2nd Clara Zeta Spadaro – Italy
- 1st Vanessa Maturo – Italy
Division 2
- 3rd Carlotta Silveri – Italy
- 2nd Sara Di Luzio – Italy
- 1st Melissa Monaco – Italy
Division 3
- 3rd Natalia Trefon – Poland
- 2nd Flemming Nordqvist – Denmark
- 1st Francesca Paliotto – Italy
L&P SCULPTURE
Division 1
- 3rd Ermelinda Mucaj – Italy
- 2nd Vanessa Maturo – Italy
- 1st Federica Lucifora – Italy
Division 2
- 3rd Sara Rossignoli – Italy
- 2nd Melissa Monaco – Italy
- 1st Sara Di Luzio – Italy
Division 3
- 3rd Natalia Trefon – Poland
- 2nd Francesca Paliotto – Italy
- 1st Flemming Nordqvist – Denmark
L&P PERFECT MATCH
Division 1
- 3rd Chaira Panaia – Italy
- 2nd Ermelinda Mucaj – Italy
- 1st Vanessa Maturo – Italy
Division 2
- 3rd Sara Rossignoli – Italy
- 2nd Sara Di Luzio – Italy
- 1st Melissa Monaco – Italy
Division 3
- 3rd Alessandra Pizzari – Italy
- Joint 2nd Flemming Nordqvist – Denmark & Francesca Paliotto – Italy
- 1st Marta Deja – Poland
STILETTO NAILS
Division 1
- 3rd Federica Lucifora – Italy
- 2nd Ermelinda Mucaj – Italy
- 1st Vanessa Maturo – Italy
Division 2
- 3rd Sara Rossignoli – Italy
- 2nd Sara Di Luzio – Italy
- 1st Carlotta Silveri – Italy
Division 3
- 3rd Tatyana Texter – Germany
- 2nd Marta Deja – Poland
- 1st Alessandra Pizzari – Italy
ART WINNER OF WINNERS
- Division 1 Desire Modica – Italy
- Division 2 Van Hau Doan – Germany
- Division 3 Nicolas Paggi – Argentina
TOP GERMAN TECH
Division 1
- 2nd Natalya Rusch
- 1st Alina Ivakina
Division 2
- 3rd Claudia Carpine
- 2nd Katharina Bienemann
- 1st Van Hau Doan
Division 3
- 3rd Marta Kalamajka
- 2nd Michaela Saadeh
- 1st Johanna Stampka
TEAM TROPHY
TEAM ITALY – Division 3 – 2,878 points
Nicolas Paggi, Alessandra Pizzari, Francesca Paliotto, Valentina Federici & Monia Martellini
WINNER OF WINNERS
- Division 1 Vanessa Maturo – Italy
- Division 2 Mirella Cost – The Netherlands
- Division 3 Francesca Paliotto – Italy
INDIVIDUAL TOP SCORER
Alessandra Pizzari – Italy – 962 points
For more information about Nailympia Competitions, including upcoming dates and locations, visit www.nailympia.com
Nail Art Themes for Nailympia London 2024 released!
Nailympia London 2024 celebrates our 20th year, and we have both ONLINE categories and LIVE ARENA categories taking place! <
Entry is set to open next month (watch this space) but we like to give you a bit of insight into the art themes for this year.
ONLINE entries are submitted as photographs, video and some with text and they will be open for submission from May 2024.
The submission window for ALL ONLINE categories will close mid-August.
So what are you waiting for – now that you have the themes you can get designing and crafting your competition nails…
We can’t wait to see what you’ve got this year!
THE THEMES FOR ART CATEGORIES AT NAILYMPIA LONDON 2024
To Stiletto & Beyond: Botanical Gardens
Runway Nails: Industrial Revolution
Reality Nails (3 nails – 3 themes): Geometric Chic / Vintage Vibes / Gothic Grandeur
Flat Art Boxed: Sacred Symbols
Design Nails for an Album Cover: Electro Pop
Art On Nails: International Sporting Events
Extreme Nail Styling Poster: Open Theme
Poster Pedicure: Open Theme
Poster Manicure: Open Theme
Mixed Media: Open Theme
The third Nailympia Mexico Event is scheduled for 6-7 July 2024
The Nailympia team is thrilled to announce the upcoming third edition of Nailympia Mexico this July, where the vibrant world of nail art takes centre stage once more.
Hosted by nail expert, Dafne Fernandez, Nailympia Mexico is not just a competition, it’s a celebration of artistry, skill, innovation and passion. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or new to the competition arena, this is your chance to shine and make your mark in the professional nail community.
“I’m really happy to see Mexico back on the Nailympia map for 2024,” enthuses Alex Fox. “The first two editions were vibrant, well attended harnessed a powerful positive buzz and feel that one would expect to experience in Mexico. Dafne is a superb host, whose passion and affection for Nailympia are clear in her unwavering dedication and attention to detail. I can’t wait to get back to this event and meet a whole new generation of nail pros who are bound to captivate and delight with their own flavour of creativity, skill and expression.
Pop the date in your diary and prepare to be inspired as you sit alongside nail artists from across Mexico and beyond to dazzle with your stunning creations. From intricate designs to bold statement pieces, every nail tells a story that’s waiting to be told.
Join us for the excitement and buzz of the arena, the camaraderie, networking and the thrill of competition. Meet fellow artists, learn from industry experts and elevate your skills to new heights.
Don’t miss out on this opportunity to be part of something truly special. Stay tuned for updates and registration details, and get ready to paint your world with the colours of your imagination at Nailympia Mexico 2024.
Nailympia to be hosted in Vietnam
Damon Ho, a nail artist & educator from Arizona, USA, is to host the inaugural Nailympia Vietnam competition in April 2024. This news follows his participation as a judge on the Nailympia panel in the USA in 2023, and his close observation of the second Nailympia Mexico. This addition to the Nailympia global family will be hosted at the Grand Palace in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, 10-11 April.
Keen to afford industry change and growth, and widen the Nailympia net, Damon cites: “Hosting Nailympia Vietnam is about bringing international standards to Vietnamese nail artistry; creating a bridge between Vietnam and the global beauty industry, while showcasing the immense talent in the region.”
A keen advocate of competitions, Damon believes that the Nailympia experience is transformative, as it fosters an inclusive and diverse culture while showcasing innovation and industry trends. “Nailympia is an exhilarating platform that stands for quality and excellence,” he concedes. “It’s a fair and impartial competition that celebrates creativity and skill in nail artistry.”
Considering a broader perspective, Damon harbours an expansive vision for the future, with Nailympia Vietnam as the fi rst step towards the bigger picture. “My primary goal is to elevate the global perception of Vietnamese nail artistry and create expansive opportunities for professionals in this fi eld,” he reveals. “I’m focused on building a global community in which skills and knowledge are shared, fostering growth and innovation in nail artistry.
“A key part of this vision is to integrate AI technology into the nail industry, enhancing both the artistic process and business side of operations. I’d also like to explore the idea of a TV show focused on the nail business. This show would not just illuminate the artistic side of nail artistry, but delve into effective business strategies for scaling and thriving in the industry. In essence, my aim is to transform the nail sector into a globally recognised and respected field, showcasing the talent and innovation that define Vietnamese nail artistry.”
MEET DAMON HO
Host of Nailympia Vietnam
10-11 April 2024, Ho Chi Minh City
@salon.ceo
When did you train as a manicurist & why?
I moved to the USA over 10 years ago, driven by the prospect of a better life and in pursuit of the American dream for myself and my family. Shortly after my arrival, I trained as a manicurist. Initially, it was a practical decision to earn a living, but I quickly developed a profound passion for the artistry and personal connections the role offers.
What is it about nails that interests you?
Nail artistry’s ability to uplift and transform fascinates me. The joy and satisfaction in clients’ eyes after a service are deeply fulfilling, and my love for artistry only grew as I realised the vast potential in nail design.
How did you build your reputation?
Persistence, dedication to quality and innovative techniques were key. Also, uplifting those around me and adhering to the philosophy of doing things right played a significant role in building my reputation.
What do you love about the nail industry?
The industry’s creativity, evolution and impact on both artists and clients. It’s a field that harmoniously blends aesthetics with emotional wellbeing.
What does your role involve?
My days are spent managing salons, hosting training sessions, strategising for growth, exploring new trends and seeking new knowledge.
What are your kitbag essentials?
While I have a variety of tools, my hands, my mind and my experience are the most crucial. I’ve trained myself to adapt to any challenge and use any tool effectively.
Who have you trained with over the years?
I’ve trained with a range of experts, both in the USA and globally, each enriching my skillset and broadening my perspective.
Who do you admire in the nail industry & why?
My admiration extends from successful CEOs to dedicated parents managing home businesses. It’s their innovation, passion and relentless pursuit of excellence that I admire.
What products do you use?
V Beauty Pure products are staple in my kit, but I use a variety of products to ensure the best outcomes. My partnership with V Beauty Pure is also driven by shared visions and goals with its CEO,
David Dilorenzo.
Why did you become a V Beauty Pure educator?
It was a step towards sharing my knowledge and helping others grow. My alignment with David Dilorenzo’s vision played a significant role in this decision.
What excites you about life in general?
Life excites me with its endless opportunities for growth, learning and positive impact on others.
What has been key to your success?
Dedication, continuous learning, adaptability and a drive for excellence have been the cornerstones of my success.
Where do you find inspiration for your nail art designs?
Inspiration is everywhere – in nature, fashion, art and everyday life experiences.
If not nails, what would you be doing?
Apart from the nail industry, I would most likely be involved in other entrepreneurial ventures in beauty and wellness. My tech holding company is nail techs and salon owners in scaling their businesses.
How are you embracing change in the nail industry?
I embrace change by constantly learning, updating my skills and staying ahead of trends and technologies.
What’s your career highlight?
Transforming my business from a single struggling salon into a thriving chain, and becoming a respected educator, stand out as career highlights.
If you could change anything about the industry, what would it be?
I would encourage more collaboration and less competition, fostering a community that thrives on shared success. Changing the pricing mindset to refl ect the true value of our artistry and skill is also vital.
What’s your advice for aspiring nail pros?
Never stop learning, be open to new ideas and take pride in your work. Remember, you’re not just a nail technician; you’re a therapist, artist and vital part of your clients’ lives.
Nailympia & Premiere strengthen partnership for 2023 with 4 USA locations
Nailympia Competitions, the globally renowned competition organisation for nail professionals, is expanding into three further locations for 2023, owing to a strengthened partnership with Informa Markets.
The success of the Nailympia Orlando 2019 and 2022 editions will see Nailympia Competitions at beauty exhibitions in the following locations, in line with the Premiere group’s growth across the USA:
Nailympia Anaheim 2-3 April
Nailympia Orlando 4-5 June
Nailympia San Antonio 1-2 October
Nailympia Columbus 8-9 October
This expansion comes at an exciting time, since Informa Markets announced earlier this year that it has partnered with the BolognaFiere Group and the Professional Beauty Association to deliver a landmark joint venture, promising an impressive series of beauty events in the US beauty market.
Nailympia Competitions will be hosted in seven locations for 2023; London, UK; Mexico City, Mexico; Düsseldorf, Germany, and Anaheim CA, Orlando FL, San Antonio TX and Columbus OH in the USA, in partnership with the world’s leading nail magazine, Scratch.
Each competition location will offer six live competitions on the show floor:
UV/LED Gel Tip & Overlay, L&P Acrylic Sculpture (with Perfect Match), The Joy of Nails, Stiletto Nails, Salon Nails & Reality Nails.
There will be four turn-in categories, comprising Flat Art, Runway Nails, Invent A Nail Shape and Extreme Nails Styling poster. All turn-in categories will have a theme that will be announced before each event and Reality Nails will be themed on the floor during the competition brief.
Click here for rules, regulations, address for postal entries, email for sending in jpeg for Extreme Poster Styling, deadlines & themes for Nailympia Anaheim. https://www.nailympia.com/anaheim/rules-regs/
Hola Nailympia Mexico 2022 the results as published in Scratch magazine
Nailympia Mexico was sponsored by Covett Nails, Stanzy Nails & Beauty, Lovely Nails, Nail Krush, Glossarylive.com
The second edition of Nailympia Mexico was as spicy & flavourful as the country itself. Mexico City welcomed nail competitors to showcase their skills in 14 competitions across two days
Fourteen competitions over two days with 114 nail artists taking 355 seats is no mean feat, but it was the reality that dominated the Reforma district of Mexico City on 3-4 December 2022.
Five competitions were handed in for judging on the first morning, the rest were live on the competition arena, which meant it was a tough schedule. Touch indeed, yet competitors stepped up the plate with just 15-minute restroom breaks between competitions.
Eight countries were represented at the event, with entries from Chile, Argentina, Ireland, Poland, USA, Serbia, Mexico and Brazil.
Organiser, Dafne Fernandez, who’s love of nails and competition is apparent to all, took the Nailympia concept and set it alight for two days. The atmosphere was electric and, as if time stood still, everyone was living their nail dream in unison. It was true community working it’s magic and the idea of an international nail family was very real.
“Thank you Dafne and thank you Mexico!” enthuses global director, Alex Fox. “If ever I observed an industry shift, it was during Nailympia Mexico. There is a change in the air in that part of the world and it is being pioneered by Dafne Fernandez, her vision and her team. I watched the region’s thirst for nail unity, for competition, for innovation and education blossom and pollinate as we all immersed ourselves in nails. I cannot wait to experience this in 2023 and to feel that energy once more. It has made me so excited for the first two Nailympia competitions for 2023 in Düsselfdorf Germany and Premiere Anaheim, USA. Together, in its respecteive locations Naillympia is making a change; its driving up skills, confidence and unity!”
Dafne concludes, “Nailympia Mexico has changed the life of so many people, including me. As the host, I believe in challenges, effort, hard work and exceeding expectations, which Nailympia brings and more to everyone involved. During the two-day event emotions were running high, with passion and perseverance that you could feel in the air as you went onto the arena. It’s amazing and funny to think that people believe doing nails is easy until they see what is produced on the competition floor. It’s impressive to showcase how perfect and beautiful nails can be when crafted by the competitors. I hear so many people celebrating the fact that their nail tech is competing in the Olympics! And yes, Nailympia is the Olympics of nails! To see techs travelling around the world to participate is proof of the commitment not only to themselves, but to their students, their business, brand, clients and their skills. Putting their heart and soul into competing is inspirational to observe and one of the things I love the most about this competition. Nailympia creates a platform that affords an unrivalled experience. It’s powerful to be making a change, a difference in the nail market, and with Nailympia, that is my objective. Thanks goes out to sponsors, the judges and my team behind the scenes who all worked hard to build this second event. Thank you also to Alex Fox for this opportunity and to my family too.
“It was two days of emotion, high energy, passion and perseverance and I’m very, very happy to have the honour to host this nail brand.”
Thank you to the Booth Judges
Head judge, Alisha Rimando (USA), Lulu Desfassiaux (Mexico), Zrinka Vuksan (Croatia/Canada), Giselle Caballero (Mexico/Canada), Damon Ho (USA), Emese Koppanyi (Hungary/USA), Fabiola Flores (Mexico), Gleidys Carpio (Colombia), Lisa Boone (USA)
Thank you to the floor judges
Gloria Méndez (Hildago), Atzimaba Padilla (Toluca), Dulcesita Olivera (Guanajuto), Any Ortiz (Veracruz), Momo Rodríguez (Sinaloa), Paola Betanzos (Coacalco), Nery Sanchez (Edo.Mex), Nancy Pereyra (San Luis), Adriana Gómez (Mex City) and to the assistants too, Lucy Urban (Mex City), Lizeth Sanchez (Mex City)
Zrinka Vuksan – Croatia/Canada
“Being part of Nailympia Mexico for the first time is an experience I will remember dearly forever. Not only did I meet with people and colleagues I respect in this industry, but I had the pleasure once again of being a technical judge for this competition, which I admire and respect.
“Alex Fox and Dafne Fernandez united the entire nail industry globally and allowed us to work side by side together and experience what Latin America has to offer. Respect, first and foremost; secondly, amazing talent, laughter, happy tears and the opportunity for many to be recognised, Alex Fox and Dafne Fernandez, thank you both for Nailympia Mexico 2022.”
Damon Ho, USA
“It was absolutely brilliant to see everyone’s passion and the love for nail art. To me, nail design is art and the nail nail artist, is an artist. It is also a gateway to success if you do it with all your heart. Nailympia is definitely the best nail competition to show your talent to the world.”
