Maggie Curlew (@alt.maggiecurlew), a nail tech from Fredericton, NB, Canada, shares five things that inspire her nail art creations. Curlew was one of Nailpro's 30 Under 30 Winner for 2023. She shared that her proudest achievements as a nail tech was being able to open a nail salon with her sister. At the time Curlew said, "She is a lash tech, and we opened our shop a year ago. I’m so proud of how the space has come together and the clientele we have formed. As a LGBTQIA+ woman, I’m proud of being able to contribute to a space where everyone is accepted and feels safe and comfortable."
Curlew always had a passion for nails, and when she was in middle school, she had her own “nail salon” setup in her bedroom where she would do nails for her siblings, parents and extended uncles and cousins.
1. Trending Styles
Learning and creating my own versions of nail trends and mix and matching styles always keeps me on my toes which I love!
2. Client's Personality
Working with clients and getting a feel for their style and niche interests is such a fun way to add personalized creations. You have a garden? Let’s put veggies on your nails!
3. Alternative Creations
From street graffiti, keychains, to how water looks when certain light hits it, nails are always a canvas to recreate these inspirations.
4. Y2K Aesthetic
Give me all of it, the animal print, hot neon pink, thick French tips, being a 90’s kid I will always love creating sets from this era.
5. Giving My Clients That Dream Set
I love when a client imagines and wishes for a set they think is impossible or wouldn’t work for them, and making it happen. These sets are what make my job most rewarding.
