Jemma Ball reveals her love of CND Shellac™, Kirsty Meakin and the nail community

Tell us about your training…

I trained in beauty therapy up to level 3 eight years ago. I bagged my first salon job and loved watching the other team members create enhancements so I knew I had to train in liquid & powder. I saved all my wages up and finally booked onto a CND™ beginner’s L&P course and that was the start of my nail journey. From there I eventually trained as a CND™ L&P Master Nail Technician and then throughout the years trained with Bio Sculpture Gel. I also did training days with Kirsty Meakin and Katie Barnes.

What is your all-time favourite nail product?

I love CND Shellac™, when it was launched it completely changed the nail game. I used it when it was launched and I still use it eight years later. It’s definately a must-have product.

Who do you admire in the industry?

There’s so many brilliant people in this industry, one of them is the amazing Kirsty Meakin. At the start of my nail career I remember seeing photos of her competing in the US and was in awe of what she could create. She’s also local to me, so I went to her for the most amazing set of nails for my wedding!

What designs do you love to create?

I prefer to stick to classic looks that anyone could wear. I love a little bling but not too much. At the moment I love creating neon fades with Lecenté pigments and hand-drawn white art.

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

Definately Femme Fatale from the new CND Shellac™ Luxe™ range! It’s the perfect raspberry pink and it’s definately my kind of colour – girly pink and sassy, but with a twist.

What are your next steps?

I’ve been a self employed nail technician and beauty therapist renting a desk and room for four years now, I’d love to eventually open my own salon and give girls the opportunities that were given to me when I left college.

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

I love that there is always something new and industry leading coming out every year to be inspired by. I also love the nail community and how we always help each other out when in need.

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

I would definitely be doing something arty. When I left school I wanted to be a graphic designer. As a little side hobby I’ve recently gotten into cake making in my evenings, I find it very therapeutic  –when things go right – and I get to show my arty side with the decorating. So maybe a baking graphic designer!