Gemma Wainwright on her love of Calgel, the nail industry & ombré designs

Tell us about your training…

I started my nail journey nearly five years ago. After spending a few months working as a student and obtaining basic nail training, I was keen to move into gel-based treatment as they seemed to be what everyone was after. I trained with Izabelle Hammon ltd as I’d been wearing the product for years and adored it! After two years working with the product I was asked to join the education team and I didn’t hesitate at jumping at the chance! I am delighted to represent such a fabulous company.

What is your all-time favourite nail product?

I absolutely adore Calgel; the strength is incredible, it applies with such ease and can perfect even the most challenging nails.

Who do you admire in the industry?

I admire so many techs in the industry just now it’s difficult to name them all! I take inspiration from our brand ambassador Lia Clarke of Swoon Nails. Britt Ward from Orkney produces the most perfect work; I wish she lived closer to me! Corrina Milne is unreal at freehand nail art – I love her work.
Internationally, I admire Celina Ryden, Margaritas Nailz, So Hot Right Nail and Sarah Elmaz of Get Buffed Nails. I could go on and on; there are so many talented techs out there!

What designs do you love to create?

I love a perfectly applied plain colour. I also love creating ombré designs – they just always seems to attract attention!

If you had to pick one, what nail colour would characterise your personality?

That’s tough! My clients would say red for danger as I think I scare them when I scold them for not looking after their nails!

What treatment or nail technique are you planning to add to your services?

I’m in the process of adding acrylic to my treatment list. I’m fascinated by the process and have a few clients desperate for me to add it. It makes good business sense as well as increasing my knowledge of other areas of the nail industry.

What are your next steps?

The next steps for me and my ‘at home’ business is definitely to expand. I’m hoping to open a nail salon in Inverness soon; it’s something we definitely need here.

What is the most exciting thing about the UK nail industry?

The UK nail industry is evolving so quickly – it’s hard to keep up these days! The most exciting thing I would say is the fantastic brands that are being created right here in the UK that are now being distributed worldwide. It’s definitely something for us to be proud.

If you weren’t doing nails, what would you be doing?

If I wasn’t doing nails I think I’d still be fitting people for bras in M&S! It was a big change in career for me when I trained in nails. Working there taught me valuable lessons in customer service though and I’ll always be thankful for what I learned there.

Click here to see more of Gemma’s work!