Lisa Lilley on Gelish, singing and Charli Jepson

Tell us about your training…

I started my journey in nails by training with Charli Jepson from Nail Harmony UK in November 2013 completing Manicure, Gelish and acrylic training. Since then I’ve gone on to do more courses with Charli in hard gel, Polygel and Gelish Design Phd.

I’m also trained in Artistic Colour Gloss and LeChat Perfect Match gel polish. I’ve also done design courses with Hazel Dixon and Ferieda Lydiate in One Stroke, Foil & Stones, 3d designs, Vintage styles and more.

What is your all-time favourite nail product?

One word… Gelish! It was one of the first products I trained with but I still love it – just as much, if not more now. Love the reliability, range, versatility, quality and overall finish it affords, and so do my clients.

Who do you admire in the industry?

I admire so many fellow techs, educators, ambassadors and competitors. I love looking at their work and skills. There are so many people I look up to, but I wouldn’t be anywhere without Charli Jepson. I am always forever grateful for her ongoing support, positive attitude and sharing her skills.

What designs do you love to create?

I love looking at current trends and creating nails to match or inspired by these fashions. My current nails were inspired by mustards shade and check patterns on trend now.

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

I love khaki green! My favourite Gelish shade is Olive You. I fell in love with it even more when fellow red-head Adele wore it on her nails at Glastonbury!

What are your next steps?

To focus on refining my skills to offer my clients an even better service going forward. I would love to study for my Award in Education and Training in the hope of maybe teaching myself one day.

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

The opportunities! There is so much scope to progress both in business and personal skills. I love the fact that the industry is constantly evolving. Personal development is so important to keep up to date with new products and application techniques.

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

A professional singer. I have a diploma in musical theatre and love to sing all styles of music. Mostly it’s only to my children these days!