In Muscatine, Iowa the beauty industry ranges from salons, to home-based professions, and some are solely based on free time. In recent years the nail profession has gained lots of popularity among high students. These self-taught nail techs are mastering the art through media, tutorials, and client practice. Let’s get to know some local practicing nail techs and their journey.
Novalle Jara: The Niche Nail Tech
Novalee graduated from MHS this past summer. Near the end of her senior year, she began the hobby of doing nails and combined her artistic ability with beauty. Despite this, her nail journey began back in 7th grade.
“I got into nails before I visited Mexico with my family five years ago, my mom had asked me if I wanted to get my nails done before our trip…watching them work had inspired me to try it out,” said Novalee. I’m sure every girl can remember the first time they had their nails done. Afterward, most would think, “These are so pretty” or “I want to get them done again”.
Not that it’s unusual, but wanting to try something new is brave, especially a skill that requires a lot of practice and patience. Luckily Novalee is patient and waited for all her supplies after deciding that nails were something she wanted to do. She waited until Christmas to be gifted items to begin her nail journey.
Since then, Novalee has practiced and perfected her method for doing nails. It was not easy. She shared one of the most difficult parts was getting started.
“It’s a lot harder than it looks, and took years of hard work and practice to get to where I am now.” Despite the challenges, it’s a fun and creative thing for her to do.
On Novalee’s Instagram nail page, @Jillfartbag, she showcases a variety of nail designs. She shared that her favorite aspect of nails is the art that comes with them. Each set isn’t identical as much as it is unique. Her nails stick to a theme and color palette but play around with shapes, textures, and patterns. Her very first post shares sets of nails with different-colored shapes created using poly gel on top of the nails.
Some of her nails have French tips but with bright colors and eccentric shapes on top. Some sets have a more modern look, with a shiny base decorated with gems and clear poly gel for a water droplet effect. Some nails revert to the normal with a natural color but showcase long and unique tips.
Ignoring the challenges, she encourages others to try it out, because after practicing for hours, you can create something you will love.
“My first set of nails I was really proud of were Valentine’s Day themed and I loved how they had turned out.”
Tatiana Lopez: The Trustworthy Nail Tech
Senior Tatiana (Tati) has been doing nails since she was 14. She has gained many happy and loyal clients despite being new to nails. Since she started, her skills have progressed and she’s created many designs that people loved.
Tati began her journey with the desire to create something people love. She shared that social media influenced her to try the artwork of nails. Her first big inspiration came from watching YouTube videos of other people’s work. Watching other techniques eventually helped her build more than her acrylic. It helped Tati learn the different parts of curating the perfect set and pushed her to try more work on her own. After practicing on her own nails, friends, and hand mannequin, her progress became more apparent.
Alongside the annoyance of filing nails and the smell of monomer, she shared that one of the hardest parts of the process was doing someone else’s nails rather than her own. On the other hand, Tati also shared her favorite parts of doing nails.
“My favorite thing about doing nails is the designs I’m able to do. Clients love to give me new challenges and I enjoy it, it teaches me a lot more…My favorite design to do is French tips. They are a very clean and classy go-to nail design !”
What sets Tati apart from other nail techs is her ambition. Most people would simply admire a cool set of nails, while she makes them reality. From an outside perspective, it’s confusing how doing sets on oneself would be different than on someone else. Turns out, it’s harder than it seems. Application, retention, and getting the design “just right” are all important factors of doing nails. Yet, with enough practice, and attention to detail, some sets always come out perfect.
“The first good design I did was an ombré effect of brown nails, shoutout to Suhailey for letting me practice on her.”
Tati loves to spend time with her clients. Whether it’s making memories or talking about any personal drama, appointments with her are always a good time. On top of that, new clients are also interesting to talk to and design sets for.
Tati wants her clients to know how grateful she is for the time they have given her. Alongside all the people who have supported and believed in her!
“I am beyond grateful for people who have trusted me, and give them a big shoutout for believing in me! I never thought I would have an opportunity like I have now.” BOOK @Nailz.by.tatiii on Instagram.
Chiara Wilson: The Beginner Nail Tech
Junior Chiara, has been practicing nails since her freshman year. Chiara is a very artistic person with a unique interest. Her nail journey began solely with free time and experimenting with a new form of art. Originally, she started with press-on nails and then switched to acrylics. Despite only having been doing acrylics for eight months, her journey has been significant.
“I decided to start doing my own nails instead of paying at the salon,” shared Chiara.
While local salons save time, many people struggle with the price and quality. Which is why Chiara invested in doing her own nails. Although it saves money the most difficult part for her when doing her own nails, is doing her opposite hand. It’s a skill that takes a lot of time and practice. This downside doesn’t discourage her because she has always been an artistic and patient individual. Chiara knows that art can be difficult and time-consuming, but it is something she enjoys doing.
“My favorite part is doing the art aspect of it and designing.”
Chiara is still practicing for perfection while also still trying out new techniques. While currently most of her clients are coworkers and friends she hopes to start branching out. She makes sure clients are happy with the designs and services they receive. Besides nails, Chiara has tried out other beauty services such as lashes. Chiara knows how pricey these services can be which is why she wants to learn them herself along with being able to offer them to others.
“I hope to branch out and be known as a nail tech in Muscatine.”
These girls are dedicated to providing unique nails and offering quality service. As they continue to improve, they look forward to new clients, so book with Tati, Novalee, or Chiara!
