Greater Manchester nail tech: Why I closed a bustling salon to open a home-based business
By Rebecca Hitchon | 22 March 2025 | Feature, Salon & Spas, Tech Talk
Nina of Wigan home salon, Nina Nicholson Beauty & Lecenté lead educator, shares why a huge career switch was the best decision she ever made…
Nina Nicholson opened her first salon at the age of 18, and went on to acquire a larger premises a few years later. After building and running the bustling business for 14 years, the pro felt a change was in order. “I made the difficult decision to close the salon, scale things back and start working from home to gain a better work-life balance,” she explains. “I built a salon at the side of my house, and the space is a hit with my clients, neighbours, family and friends.”
Nina notes that the career move has allowed her flexibility and the freedom to seek new opportunities, plus the chance to design the salon of her dreams. She also shares that it’s allowed her to experience working alone: something which she had to adjust to, but now loves.
“I’ve created a chic and relaxed space for clients, where they can enjoy intimate one-to-one experiences, and the interior is homely yet professional-looking,” she details. “The outside is in keeping with the rest of my property, but inside is designed to be different to my house: painted in white with cosy additions. I was conscious about ensuring clients feel like they are entering a salon, rather than my house.”
The talented tech, who boasts over 23 years of industry experience, uses Lecenté for her nail services, which comprise natural manicures and gel polish, builder gel and hard gel overlays. Hard gel is a product the pro has become well-known for using in her area, as many local salons opt for L&P acrylic enhancements instead. A range of lash and brow treatments are also available.
“I cannot praise the quality of Lecenté products and the brand’s level of service enough, hence why I joined its education team,” Nina says. “I am also in the process of creating my own courses and workshops, which excites me, and hope to extend my treatment menu in future.”
Follow Nina Nicholson Beauty on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.
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