NAIL TECH TALK: Ashleigh Clews of Ashleigh’s Nails & Lashes

Scratch chats to Ashleigh Clews of Ashleigh’s Nails & Lashes about her journey into the nail industry and where she finds inspiration for her work…

I have always painted my own nails and loved the art of makeup, however, having two young children at home meant that it was so hard to get out and pop to a salon to have a pick me up. I was also too short for time to maintain my own nails, so I called upon a lovely local mobile tech who came to my home to pamper me.

It was so nice to see a friendly face, have a light hearted chat and it really cheered me up. I was a chronic nail biter unless they were covered, but my local tech helped me grow my nails and really inspired me. I realised that there was not such a thing as ‘just a set of nails’. This was my introduction to the industry.

My own designs are usually inspired by nature, seasons and curiosity as to whether something different could work. I once made a set of nails with cute little flowers from my herb garden – they seemed too pretty to waste! Another last year were elderflowers for one of my clients press ons.

My clients also inspire me. Their experiences in life makes me want to support others. This year, I have met clients who work in the care industry, so I decided that for Remembrance Day, I would charge £1 per poppy nail art, and was able to make a donation to the Royal British Legion. Doing this was the first time I had ever hand painted a poppy, so I enjoyed the challenge and it helped me grow my own skills whilst supporting a good cause.

If I was to start all over I would tell myself that not every client is for you and you are not for every client, you can’t always stock every single colour or product or meet everyone’s expectations as they are all different.

“It’s important to stay true to yourself and where you want to be within the industry.”

I love that the industry is forever changing – it never gets boring! There are always new products, trends and fashions to try out. If I am not physically painting nails, you can guarantee I am online looking at what others are doing and looking for new products or gadgets to use!

My hopes for the future are to look at increasing my working hours now that both of our children are growing up. I’d definitely consider renting a space out in a salon in the future, but for now, I want to continue to enjoy what I do and not overload myself.

I feel more creative when I am not under pressure, and most of all, it’s such a compliment when clients return time after time. My family is always at the heart of what I do, closely followed by nails.

Moving forward, I would like to steadily increase my amount of creative sets, it’s such a compliment when you find clients who love your work and trust you.

Follow Ashleigh on Facebook, here.