Meet the Nottingham beauty salon owner providing a sanctuary for busy mums

Fotini Bihuci is the nail tech behind Nuse Beauty, the ‘cosy home-based’ salon designed for new mums and clients who struggle with anxiety.

Having worked in hospitality and tourism management, understanding the needs of clients has always been at the centre of Fotini’s work. In September 2023, when she became pregnant, she took her passion for client satisfaction and care into the nail industry.

The tech says: “I qualified and instantly fell in love with the creativity and artistry of nails; by January 2024, I turned that passion into a business.”

Nuse Beauty was born in January 2024, located in the small village of Mapperley in Nottingham and boasting a unique selling point, which set the space aside from others in the area. Fotini details: “From the beginning, the salon was designed with people who struggle with anxiety in mind. As a new mum myself, I know how hard it can be to find time for self-care.”

She continues: “I wanted to create a place that’s more than about nails – it’s about offering a comforting, judgment-free environment where clients can truly unwind. Whether you’re juggling motherhood or dealing with everyday stress, Nuse Beauty is about giving you the care and attention you deserve in a space that genuinely understands your needs.”

The philosophy behind the brand is inspired by its name – Nuse (pronounced noo-seh) – which is an Albanian word that translates to ‘bride’ in English, symbolising ‘beauty, purity and new beginnings’ within their culture.

When asked what sparked her idea to create a salon of this kind, Fotini comments: “Becoming a mum was a life-changing experience for me, and made me aware of how hard it can be to find ‘me time’ in a space that feels comfortable and welcoming. I also understand how anxiety can turn even the simplest self-care into something overwhelming.”

Having become aware of this, she noticed most nail salons catered to the general public, rather than clients who seek a more calming environment: “That’s where the idea for Nuse Beauty came from – creating a safe, soothing space where busy mums and those with anxiety can feel truly seen, valued and cared for.”

So, how is the salon adapted for her target clientele? The 27-year-old reveals: “From the moment clients step in, I’ve made sure that the salon feels calm and welcoming. The space has soothing background music, a neutral, clutter-free vibe, and a genuinely friendly atmosphere.”

The space is family-friendly, considering mums who might be unable to get childcare. Fotini says: “I’ve set up a baby swing/rocker that faces the client while they get pampered, so they can keep an eye on their little one while enjoying their service.”

She continues: “For hygiene reasons, I ask mums to bring their toys and books, and we follow a strict cleaning routine to keep the space safe. While the salon is currently small and can’t accommodate a lot of children’s items, we’re planning to expand in the future to create an even more child-friendly environment.”

While little ones are kept entertained, the tech caters to the needs of the client: “I offer extended appointment slots for clients with anxiety, or mums who might need a bit more time, whether to take things at a slower pace, breastfeed or simply make sure they’re comfortable.

“I’m trained to be patient, understanding and non-judgmental, so every client leaves feeling relaxed and supported.”

The client reception to the salon has been overwhelmingly positive, as Fotini shares: “Clients often mention how much they love the calming vibe of the salon and how understood and cared for they feel. Mums especially appreciate having a space where not only are their children welcome, but where they don’t feel rushed or out of place.

“My favourite part is seeing the transformation in clients – both in their nails and their moods. There’s nothing more rewarding than watching someone walk in stressed or anxious and leaving with a smile, feeling more relaxed and confident. Being able to create a space that genuinely makes a difference in people’s lives, while also pursuing something I love, is incredibly fulfilling,” she smiles.

Looking forward, the Nottingham-based tech plans to extend her range of services, as well as look into providing training for other nail techs who want to specialise in services for mums and anxious clients. “Ultimately, I aim to become a leading name in the beauty industry, known for offering a nurturing and understanding approach that truly makes a difference to clients,” Fotini concludes.

Keep up-to-date with Nuse Beauty on Instagram.