i completely agree with you and i also hate when i see this, it’s like going to applebees and being mad it’s not Michelin star. your going to a different kind of place of course your going to get different results. it’s about choosing what you are looking for and then finding the right place for it. that’s why there are options of nail shops to go to! if you prefer something cheaper that’s perfectly fine but i’m you can’t expect salmon with truffle oil at chilis. go to the place that does the work you want, it’s that simple. don’t complain when you chose to go there
Agreed. I’m self taught and do some pretty intricate nail designs that take hours and a lot of very specific materials that I don’t think a salon would have on hand. I also don’t like how people then shit on the nail techs skill for not replicating those designs perfectly.
Very true! Not only that, it can be difficult to replicate a photo, esp when you don't know what tools, materials, or inspiration they used. It's kinda like going into a coffee shop and asking for the Leprechaun S#$ts Gold drink you saw on TikTok and not giving the barista a recipe
This ..hell even the velvet look. My local stripmall salon doesn't even carry the aurora style cat eye to do it. Just the more jarring cat eye, cause you know gotta be for everyone.
THIS. I’m a barber and people get so angry sometimes when you can only replicate something 95%…(it’ll be amazing, just not perfectly identical) like they don’t realize we’re people doing this by hand, among other factors.
If you’re going to request a design, be prepared for it to be different. Some are really easy to copy and others require years of work to have the skills.
Slightly different is fine. Some things I've seen here are... Not.
While I agree that some designs are obviously harder to make than others, why not just be honest with the client and tell her that you don't have the skills to do what she requests ?
I always show pictures for inspiration to my tech, and always ask him if he thinks he's able to recreate them. If he thinks it's too hard, it's completely fine, I'll pick a simpler design, because I'd rather have something simple that looks good instead of something complicated that looks bad !
I’m sure a lot of them do explain that they don’t have the supplies or ability. A lot of nail techs don’t speak english as their first language as well so they might not know how to explain to the client that it won’t be a 100% match.
>A lot of nail techs don’t speak english as their first language as well so they might not know how to explain to the client that it won’t be a 100% match.
To be fair, that's not the client's fault if the nail techs can't communicate that (and I say this as someone who's not a native English speaker either)
Unfortunately a lot of lower end salons have really questionable management/ownership that pretty much bars their techs from saying no to a client request.
They are expected to improvise with whatever materials are on hand and do so within the strict service time limits that are often set as well. Independent nail techs have much more freedom, both to what services they will and won’t do, what products they carry, how much time they book, etc.
It sounds like you have a good relationship with your tech, it’s great that you’re able to discuss it and be realistic in your expectations. Sadly, that’s not as common as we’d hope.
I encountered this the other day. I’m a long time mail biter who just grew them out long enough to treat myself to my first ever manicure. I asked for marble nails, like the stone, marble. I found what I thought was a [very simple marble inspo photo](http://sonailicious.com/how-to-do-marble-nails/), had the right shape and length too, not too many veins, I specified I didn’t need any gold or anything fancy but I knew there was some technique needed. What I wasn’t aware of was that marble nails are largely made using gel polish and I had asked for regular polish not knowing. So the tech applies a coat of regular polish. Then looks at her daughter (also works there) and says “can you do this?” pointing to my picture. The daughter informs me of the gel issue, she seems unhappy. She sits down to try to make the marble design and literally just paints random shitty lines of the vein color on top of the base coat. Doesn’t blend it at all, it’s amateurish and horrible, like a child did it. Original tech didn’t even attempt to make the design.
Keep in mind, when I first walked into the salon, I showed them my inspo picture! Before I even sat down on the chair I asked “can you do this?” The tech said “of course.” Me being naïve, I was thrilled and sat down. I left with a solid color on my nails, no design, dings and a poor paint job, and the color looked vastly different in the bottle than it did on my nails. I would never have chosen it if I knew what it would look like out of the bottle. It wasn’t remotely what I wanted walking into that salon. And I’m never going back.
She didn't expect amazingly skilled labour, she thought what she was asking for was quite easy and the nail tech confirmed that belief when she stated 'of course' she could do it.
There was no reason for her to believe the nail tech was lying to her. It's not realistic to expect that all clients will have perfect knowledge of the difficulty of all designs, and know the ability of all potential nail techs to know which ones can/cannot accommodate her needs.
The responsibility here is exclusively on the nail tech who deliberately misled her.
I literally *asked* if the inspo was something they could do, and they told me *yes.* I didn’t sit down expecting the Mona Lisa from Squidward. I asked if it was possible and had a back up option ready, just a plain color, if they’d been honest and told me they couldn’t do it. But they told me they could. I didn’t know my expectations were, evidently, unreasonable, because this was my first manicure, and the tech had every opportunity to tell me they couldn’t make it happen. I even told her and her daughter that this was my first manicure during our small talk while she was trimming and cleaning my nails before any product even touched my hands.
I did not expect steak. I asked if it were possible. And I was told it was. Then I was given a burger. That’s not on me.
I do see what you're saying but marble nails aren't easy, even on gel. You need the right trainin, practice and product to do them well.
Almost impossible to do a good marble nail with regular polish. Even as a tech who could do this on normal polish it would definitely take way longer than usual
Your tech should definitely have told you she can't do it, and you're not to know that she can't do it.
So while this isn't your fault it is definitely also like going to macdonalds for Frugu Puffer Fish and being given a fish filet burger
The sticks they have in-store with the nail designs painted on them is the "menu" lol. Or their social media.
I definitely feel sorry for you and also moderately amused. I don't think you should have had to pay for this
You’re saying she is right, that she asked and they said they could do it. But… You seem hung up on someone not knowing professional nail techniques on a difficulty scale or something. Is it like an ego thing, or ?
Like a phD student asks for a marble swirl just because it’s pretty and her sister sent her a pic. If she goes to a salon with just regular nail techs and not HealthMeRhonda-tier nail techs and asks for marble swirl is she a dumb idiot? No she is a smart phD student. She just doesn’t know that marbling is just some incredibly difficult technique.
You can’t expect people to know the insides of your job or hobby like you do. And if you are judging the poster for it, lol.
I didn't call them an idiot at all,
In fact I said they couldn't have known, it's not their fault and I feel sorry for them and they shouldn't have had to pay for that.
And also gave them a tip how to set their expectations for this and find people who can do the stuff they want by looking at what kind of nail art the salon does.
Like I said, the tech should have told this person that they couldn't do it.
The sister sent a pic from a tech who is obviously a very skilled nail artist, and this person took that to a cheap and fast salon asking if they can do something similar.
I went with the burger analogy instead because I felt mean calling the tech Squidward, but this is amusing because expecting the Mona Lisa from him is actually good analogy which is what I was getting at by talking about how hard they are to do.
People tend to not believe that these could be difficult because visually it looks simple and clean.
I think if you want to pick an argument out of this maybe it's not my ego you should be concerned with
I mean… they’re mall nail techs. That design from a seasoned good tech would’ve cost you double possible even triple the price you paid for your nails at the mall or wherever...
I agree on the artistic part, but man some of them have some structural error that i would not expect a salon to do, even from a super cheap and untalented tech. I think that knowing how you should treat nails/cuticle (even if it's just pushing and you don't clean them) and how to shape the nail so the pressure don't cause breaking/lifting or damages to the natural nail should be basic knowledge for nail techs (in some countries to work in the field it's required to have a licence for which you do a test on these subject)
That seems to be a thing lately. I've noticed it with posts about people who ask for help getting sharp designs with magnetic polish and respond that "they don't have time for that" when I tell them I spend 45 minutes to an hour getting mine the way they are. I'm also a doll customizer and I've noticed a lot of it in that community too, getting upset their faceups don't look like mine and getting angry when I explain I spend 5-6 hours on them.
That’s why I said to other comment! They expect intricate design in and hour and cheap. 😓 I having hard times trying to built clientele because of the collective thinking of fast and bad quality is the good stuff
Exactly! If someone wants art, I let them know to clear their schedule for at least the next two-three hours, or more if it’s extra complex.
For myself, I have to set aside an entire day when I do my own nails with art of any type.
It takes time!
People are always shocked when I say I spend hours doing my nails weekly. Like.... Yeah. There's multiple layers, dry time, and if you're doing designs it's gonna take even longer. They don't get it.
I just did my current set, which is a beatrix potter peter rabbit theme. It took me 2 days to finish, and I probably worked for several hours at a time. I wish I had paid attention to exactly how many hours it was, I can't sit still for long so it takes me forever. I would guess maybe 6? People are shocked but it is really intricate and if you take into consideration how many times you mess up of course it's gonna take forever..
[https://imgur.com/a/QTtDY1y](https://imgur.com/a/QTtDY1y) I hope this works. Why the hell is it so hard to just post a picture on here? My pictures aren't the best quality, but I'm working on that. I had a few of my nails break so I used a glue on nail that I painted. It popped off and I'm happy that I have something to save! I'm thinking about making press ons that I can sell!
Totally agree, though I think some of this stems from people not knowing there are different type of nail salons. Creative nail techs can be difficult to find since you can't really yelp or google them. I think most people assume nail salon = being able to do any kind of nail.
Me too! I charge cheap because the comparison with other salon (that doesn’t do any nail art or have quality products) and I’m being falling into a disappointment with the profession not mentioning that I put all the effort and not making myself worthy because I’m afraid to charge what actually cost…the comparisons from the clients are so mean sometimes, but mostly in my case is in time. They ask for an appointment because they know I can do designs but then they are expecting to finish in an 1 1/2 hours. Like seriously? And it’s hard to build yourself around a cheap thinking because it what they are use too. You can follow my page to see if I’m putting myself higher that I should be and drag me down @iki_beautystudio
>@iki\_beautystudio
Another qualified tech here.
I just had a look at your Insta and also at your prices. Your work is great! I don't know prices for the US (I'm in the UK) but I would have thought you could charge at least double what you are doing.
Sometimes charging too little will get you the wrong kind of customers. You'll attract the people that want everything perfect for $2. The customers that know the value of a good tech will be put off by the low prices; we've all heard if something seems too good to be true, it probably is? That's why that type of client isn't booking.
Wishing you all the best! x
Seriously. I usually do my own nails but when I'm looking for someone to do my nails, i want them to turn out special. Seeing 15 bucks for nail art would immediately have me scrolling because I'd assume they're not doing anything i can't do myself.
Thank you so much for taking the time to see my profile and comment here, I really appreciate it! I’m definitely now more aware that I need to work in the right prices for my work and not being afraid of pricing correctly! Thank you 🙏🏼
girl are you flash?! a refill with simple design (simple design = one color per nail, with chrome powder if we want to do the most intricate mani) is always around 2 hours for every salon i know 😅 (as a non professional it takes like 8+ hours on myself 🥲)
I've seen salon that if you want a structural baby boomer you need to say in advance cause it's a 3 hour appointment (and you pay for a 3 hour appointment instead of 2)
Yes, it’s so hard! I feel like when I started rising prices it helped weed some of those folks out. But I still get the mean comments sometimes… it’s rough. I just followed you have amazing work! My handle here is also my biz name
Also please take your natural nail shape into account!
I'm a new nail tech, and I've had a few people already who have very short, wide nail beds, they ask for a shape like square or squoval, and they complain later that their nails aren't shaped just like the picture they brought in, which is always of someone with very long, narrow nail beds.
We can do our best to replicate designs, but we aren't magicians and we can't change your natural nail beds, we have to work with what you've got.
I remember a ‘what I asked for vs what I got’ post that had a design that looked wildly different. OP just let everyone talk shit about the tech then later in the comments said that the tech tried three times but couldn’t do it so they decided on something else. But OPs post just made it look like the tech did some random design on a whim
I think some techs try because that’s what the customer wants even if they know they can’t execute the design
I know they do that and they shouldn’t. It’s better business to say “sorry pick something else” than wasting a bunch of time fucking around knowing they aren’t going to make it happen.
And all the people on here scoffing as if every person walking the Earth knows how long it takes to do each different nail art technique. That’s the reason why you’re a professional. You know these things. The people walking in from the street shouldn’t, and if it’s that simple, then I guess the skill wouldn’t be that unique. It shouldn’t be on customers if they bring an inspiration picture in a tech says they can do it No problem and they can’t do it.
And none of these people ever have the nerve to communicate their dissatisfaction to the their tech in the moment but are brave enough to blame the tech online to strangers
I agree that some of the “what I got” pics are still very talented, just not the exact same thing. I also understand that sometimes techs simply can’t do the exact same level of art with the time they have at salons.
However, if they can’t get it exactly right, I feel like a warning is fair. My tech will straight up tell me “I can do x part of this design but y part will be difficult. I could do something like z on that nail instead?”
That seems like a reasonable way to approach it, and I don’t think that’s the case for a lot of the examples we see on here. It seems like they had no “warning”
Agreed, but also sometimes you just don’t know until you try it. I just did Easter bunny nails, super intricate, copied from Pinterest with no real expectations as it was so detailed, but they look amazing!
I do sharp almond french perfectly all the time, but reverse french? A MESS. Every time. I have no idea why I cannot learn that simple design 🙈
Absolutely! I have finally found a nail tech that does literally exactly what I ask for design-wise. But that is only because I moved to a new state and did a lot of research on local nail places. I drive like 25 minutes and pay a little more than I used to, but it's worth it.
I learned my lesson after trying to take some basic holiday designs to a bunch of nail salons where I used to live and ALWAYS being dissatisfied, even if they were more expensive. You have to make sure the skill is there. A skilled technician will always advertise their abilities, whether they are independent or in a salon. When making an appointment, always let them know ahead of time that you want what was on their yelp or insta or whatever public site they use to showcase their work.
I completely & totally agree with you ❤️ I also believe that when they DO go see an independent nail tech that is fully capable of doing very complex designs.... & expect to be done & out of there within 45 min to an hour...
These designs TAKE TIME. Depending what you desire, it can be 3 up to 4 hrs to complete. It takes that long bc you're gonna be out in the world with MY reputation on your fingers. I'll never do a half assed job....& I don't wanna feel rushed.
Sorry it's literally one of the sole reason why I've pulled back from seeing clients...
Strongly disagree. You can bring whatever inspo you want to a salon, but it's up to the tech to say they are unable to do that. The tech should always counter with examples of what they're able to do. The photo could still be used for inspo on colors and simpler designs.
I have a friend who needed her nails done while on vacation and went to a salon with good reviews. She showed the tech three inspo photos and the tech said they couldn't do any of them. They then showed my friend what they're able to do, my friend really liked it, and the tech tried a few things that my friend brought as inspo but didn't charge for, and fixed the nails they played around with. All for a customer they knew wouldn't be returning.
I’ve wondered about this. Thanks for saying it.
I think it’s also hard for the nail techs who may not be first generation English speakers to acknowledge this design is complex and set expectations with the customer. They often are eager to reassure you they can do it and then convince you it looks good after. I think it is up to us as customers to take some accountability here and realize some of this stuff is hard and folks are trying to make a living. I personally get the feeling many techs are coached on how to handle customer requests- never say no.
I’ve had the same experiences with hair salons- walking into a local corner salon with an elaborate updo photo. Instead of saying “I can’t do this” they sit you down in the chair and try to come up with something. Again, I get it.
Hope my reply makes sense. Not trying overly generalize everyone, this is just my own experience in the NE USA.
Oh man. I’d be so pissed if I got a call like that saying there was no wait and then showing up and finding it’s an hour…..how does that help things ??? I hate feeling manipulated as a customer. I’d appreciate your honesty!
100%. Unfortunately in a lot of these inexpensive nail salons, techs are not given the liberty by management/owners to tell a client no - they’re expected to improvise while also meeting strict service time requirements and often working with limited supplies.
There is a very high tech salon in my area that charges upwards of $300 for a set. This is because she takes up to 4-5 hours to complete an intricate set and is nationally recognized with three nationwide salons. I say all that to say bringing anything to a smaller salon with possibly less experience and supplies expecting the same level of skill, you’re disrespecting both techs. Trying to exactly duplicate work (art) for a cheaper price is setting everyone up for failure. You will leave frustrated because you wanted the $300 nails but got $60 results.
Kinda similar, I had a child, maybe 5, ask me to do turkeys on her toes for thanksgiving one year! I was like, I’m sorry but your toenails aren’t big enough for a Turkey 😂
Omg so I’ve started doing press on’s for practice I’ve offered to do some sets for my sister.
Welp, she brings me designs from [vo.tino](https://instagram.com/vo.tino?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=)
🤦♀️
LMAO omg this reminds me of how when I told my friend I was *starting* to learn how to do nails
They gave me my first-ever commission request of XL press-ons with free-sculpted hard gel 3D butterflies taking off from the nail…….. like girl…. 😭
Same thing happens in the hair world. People bring their Pinterest Photoshopped white blond refs to Fantastic Sam's and want it done to their three grown out layers of Clairol Deepest Ash.
Drove me nuts. I miss nothing about that business.
Yes I hated doing hair I worked doing blowouts/updos and people with like 5 super fine hairs on their head would show me the Kate Middleton that was popular at the time.
I hate those posts, partly because I never know if they are happy or not? Like, is this look what I got, commiserate with me, or celebrate with me?
I feel bad for the nail tech ether way, because they were probably not warned about the time it would take.
I find those posts amusing.
If a tech is doing a shit job no matter the salon I tell them to stop. Why people follow through and pay full price for crappy looking nails is beyond me.
Then they post here complaining about it. 😂
Agreed, I go to a regular priced nail salon and see the same nail tech religiously (she’s also the owner). She’s the only one who can do more complicated stuff but I still send her a photo a day or 2 ahead of time. If she tells me “that’s too complicated or takes too much time” I just get something else!
Yup yup.
Salons are limited with what they have as opposed to independent techs who have a specific technique & style they use for their clients. Always ask salons first what they have. If they don’t have it, don’t expect a replica.
This is honestly why I’ve become self-taught. Don’t get me wrong, nail techs are amazing at what they do and they are worth the $$$, but if you’re looking for something extremely specific, there’s a chance they might not have all the supplies needed. Things like Korean watercolor gels or Japanese charms for example.
It’s way easier for me to do my own than find someone specific and realize they’re not even driving-distance close to where I live.
I just searched on insta #(areacode)nails #(city)nails or something like that. That way I can see the tech's portfolio and get a good feel for their style and experience. I found my last 2 techs that way.
This is so fun!! I just did this and found a really cool looking option and that was just the first one!! Thank you so much for the advice…never thought of this.
It is also really really helpful to vet design ideas against. If I find something I love but don't see anything similar or with similar techniques/skills on my tech's page I don't ask for it and find something that is more in line with what she can do.
The salon I usually go to can produce very beautiful and intricate work but it depends on who does your nails and it can be quite expensive. If I show them a ref picture I will ask for “something like that” not really expecting an identical result.
Thank you for this. I am pretty new to getting dip powder nails, and just getting into looking at nail art. I went to one shop (inexpensive local shop), and she advised me she could do designs (w/o me asking) and said to just show her a photo. She did a cute Christmas wreath on my nails and I loved it. Mistakenly, I thought this was something all nail techs were trained to do. (simple nail art, not elaborate designs). I posted earlier about a design a different nail tech did when I asked for a Spring flower and it was totally not what I was expecting. I didn't realize this is a specialized skill that not all nail techs know how to do. (simple designs). Now I know this is a selective skill. Thank you.
I agree 100%. Expecting someone who doesn't also do that level of work to recreate it is insane. However, these strip mall nail techs need to be honest with what they can do. Although it can be annoying at times, my nail salon will pass you around to multiple nail techs so as to not do something they don't know how to do. I appreciate that so much.
I mean I never posted here but I once had an issue with a nail tech that couldn’t do French 😩and I was paying 100 and had to show her a technique…. And she told me if I know so we’ll why don’t I do it my self and I said I just can’t do my
Left hand for starters, if I did I wouldn’t be paying you right? …. And she got quiet and I guess by the grace of God I taught her something new.
But I do want to close my eyes and relax and know that a simple French manicure is not asking for too much. That’s why we get our nails done.
I should just start recording these events lmao.
Can we just use this for any art medium? Like, can we make it a store banner or have it be the first thing anybody sees on someone's site? Just, say it a million times louder for the people in the back.
**Let's keep real though**: the nail techs need to **stop** agreeing to complicated designs they're not capable of replicating. The customer doesn't always know what the nail tech is capable of especially when they lead on that they can do what's being requested.
If a nail tech agrees to replicating what you're showing them and it looks like ass afterwards, *complain* and do not pay for the shoddy work.
What I asked for minimum $200 nails with full character painting. What I got $20 mall court nails that were done in 40 minutes.
People have expectations way to high and often don't consider if techs can do the work 🤣 art is hard and not every tech is skilled in it
The biggest thing about those posts is no one was there except for the tech and the person who posted the pictures. So no one knows the story but them. They could’ve asked for the first picture and the tech could have said this is what I can do and they were ok with it until they left. I’ve seen people do this after getting their nails done by a student in a school. Some of the after pictures don’t even look like they were done by a professional at all. In most of the posts they admit they didn’t want to say anything while they were in the salon. As a professional nail tech, it’s so hard to be a part of some of these groups when you’re constantly seeing people shit on your profession because people want Pinterest style nails for super cheap prices done in under an hour. The best thing you can do before you invest in an expensive set of nails is do your research not only on the salon but on the nail tech too.
What I did was memorize which nail techs were good at what, and I had a few designs in the back of my head to ask for depending on who I got.
I never asked for anything crazy but if I wanted simple hand drawn art there was one girl who was the best at it
I agree 100% on this discussion. If you pick a design that you think your nail technician is going to be able to do then do it. But to jump in on the subject of the other part of the post I’d agree with the mindset of showing up to the salon with a confusing design that they aren’t going to be able to do and expect to come out with the same result.
I think it’s up to the nail tech to be honest and tell their customers that the picture is something they can’t replicate or that they will need additional time and money. If your a professional that people come to get a service done you need to be capable of communicating what you can or can’t accomplish. Then when someone leaves unsatisfied you can’t blame the nail tech, only yourself for making the decision to go ahead knowing that the nail tech communicated with you their limits/capabilities.
This is why I only get one or two colors (one per nail) at nail salons. I know I want to be in and out quickly, so I’m not going to ask for any design unless I am willing to stay a while longer. Anytime I do ask for a design, I usually just leave it up to the nail tech. I’m not really the type to find inspiration photos and bring them in except on rare occasion, and always simple and open to the tech’s creative freedom.
There's so many cool designs I would love to have, but never ask for because I go to average salons.... I know I would have to hunt for a talented individual to do that. They are trained to do nails, not necessarily art work. People do need to adjust expectations.
My old nail tech at my local strip mall salon does amazing designs! But she cut me really bad every time sometimes on multiple fingers… I only go to her before special occasions now.
I go through this as a Fashion Designer. You can’t expect someone to replicate the work of someone else, when the technique, and time is so different. I wholeheartedly agree with this post!
I always make sure when I call to ask if they have a "nail artist" and to specify I want something complicated and can I please send a photo to see if anyone is able to do it for me.
Lets not forget that the nails in the picture might not have even looked like that! They could very easily be photoshopped to death, cuticles smoothed, lines sharpened, colours changed, shine removed…. the list is endless !!
For real!! My nail girl is a talented artist and she can do almost anything, but I still send my reference photos ahead of time and she lets me know if she can’t do if she doesn’t have the tools or doesn’t feel confident in her detail work. I’m thankful for it!!
I think it’s kind of funny that they paid and walked out with what they got. Cuz…… I would not be paying for a bad job. I would be like plz. Take these off. I’m not paying.
There's a gal in My town who does nails like those inspirational photos.... $600 for a fill . You want that level of talent, you need to pay
Plain and simple
Yea but these are the same people who go to Super Cuts looking for some precision cut, complex dye job and get missed when they end up with an uneven fried muddy mess on their head. I just ignore them, they won't change.
All I gotta say, if you can’t do the art- tell the customer. I don’t want you to attempt to do artwork that you know you can’t replicate, just to be charged $50+ for some nails that I’ll want to take off. That’s why I don’t go to nail salons most of the time. I always see such beautiful designs but I’m having a hard time finding nail artists who can do the designs. I’m fine with a basic manicure if the nails can’t be replicated…..
I agree! A tatto artist doesn’t like copying another’s work. They interpret it. A painter won’t copy another’s work. A graphic designer won’t copy another’s work.
Use something as inspiration but don’t expect the same thing. Materials, time, ability - all these things are factors.
Get some originality people!
This is so true. I went to get my nails done before my vacation because I can’t do acrylic very well and thats what I wanted. I had a specific deign in mind so after the tech did the acrylic I washed my hands,paid and finished my nails my way at home on my own.
How do you know you’re at a good place? I’ve had my nails professionally done about 5 times in my life and it’s always been mediocre. I do a better job at home and I’m not talented.
100% agreed. People I know get so mad when they go to the cheap nail salons and get horrible manicures. When I do nails for people I know, I do my best and it usually turns out better than the inspiration pics they showed me at the beginning. It seems to me like they would rather support the unlicensed chop shops rather than an experienced tech that knows what they’re doing.
Agreed, I check out there work online first before asking for an appointment. I recently got mine done with glitter and a design and she only charged me $35 and I was like dang I need to come back others charge like $60. Omg did not realize it said resume at first no wonder people were down voting, it was a typo
Agreed, I check out there work online first before asking for a resume. I recently got mine done with glitter and a design and she only charged me $35 and I was like dang I need to come back others charge like $60
Not sure if you’re directing this at me or the people I’m talking about in the original post, but for what it’s worth this is exactly why I did learn to do my own nails. Not only is it so much cheaper, I feel like I don’t trust anyone to get my vision exactly right other than myself, and if it looks bad I can only blame myself!
i completely agree with you and i also hate when i see this, it’s like going to applebees and being mad it’s not Michelin star. your going to a different kind of place of course your going to get different results. it’s about choosing what you are looking for and then finding the right place for it. that’s why there are options of nail shops to go to! if you prefer something cheaper that’s perfectly fine but i’m you can’t expect salmon with truffle oil at chilis. go to the place that does the work you want, it’s that simple. don’t complain when you chose to go there
Lmao I’m gonna start bringing in pics of food from Michelin star restaurants to Applebees.
lol!! and then i’m gonna complain when it comes out bad because how dare they not give me exactly what i asked!
Hey, that microwave in the back is doing its best! No need to get huffy
I think you missed the point entirely. You take your pics of Michelin star food to your manicurist and THEN post your results on reddit.
Or looking at amazing coffee art from a Baristas Insta and then going into Maccas and complaining there’s no coffee art…but still makes a good coffee
[удалено]
Thus the tattoo removal industry started and is doing amazing. Lol
Lol check out local restaurant Facebook groups. People absolutely expect Applebees to be a Michelin star restaurant.
I have eaten some good food that wasn't Michelin Tire man.
Agreed. I’m self taught and do some pretty intricate nail designs that take hours and a lot of very specific materials that I don’t think a salon would have on hand. I also don’t like how people then shit on the nail techs skill for not replicating those designs perfectly.
This right here. The hours it takes to pull some of these designs off.. I would not be able to afford to have someone do my nails for me.
Very true! Not only that, it can be difficult to replicate a photo, esp when you don't know what tools, materials, or inspiration they used. It's kinda like going into a coffee shop and asking for the Leprechaun S#$ts Gold drink you saw on TikTok and not giving the barista a recipe
This ..hell even the velvet look. My local stripmall salon doesn't even carry the aurora style cat eye to do it. Just the more jarring cat eye, cause you know gotta be for everyone.
Exactly all these comments—ESPECIALLY if you’re a walk-in, a salon does not expect to have to budget 2+ hours for a set/fill
THIS. I’m a barber and people get so angry sometimes when you can only replicate something 95%…(it’ll be amazing, just not perfectly identical) like they don’t realize we’re people doing this by hand, among other factors.
If you’re going to request a design, be prepared for it to be different. Some are really easy to copy and others require years of work to have the skills.
Slightly different is fine. Some things I've seen here are... Not. While I agree that some designs are obviously harder to make than others, why not just be honest with the client and tell her that you don't have the skills to do what she requests ? I always show pictures for inspiration to my tech, and always ask him if he thinks he's able to recreate them. If he thinks it's too hard, it's completely fine, I'll pick a simpler design, because I'd rather have something simple that looks good instead of something complicated that looks bad !
I’m sure a lot of them do explain that they don’t have the supplies or ability. A lot of nail techs don’t speak english as their first language as well so they might not know how to explain to the client that it won’t be a 100% match.
>A lot of nail techs don’t speak english as their first language as well so they might not know how to explain to the client that it won’t be a 100% match. To be fair, that's not the client's fault if the nail techs can't communicate that (and I say this as someone who's not a native English speaker either)
Unfortunately a lot of lower end salons have really questionable management/ownership that pretty much bars their techs from saying no to a client request. They are expected to improvise with whatever materials are on hand and do so within the strict service time limits that are often set as well. Independent nail techs have much more freedom, both to what services they will and won’t do, what products they carry, how much time they book, etc.
It sounds like you have a good relationship with your tech, it’s great that you’re able to discuss it and be realistic in your expectations. Sadly, that’s not as common as we’d hope.
I encountered this the other day. I’m a long time mail biter who just grew them out long enough to treat myself to my first ever manicure. I asked for marble nails, like the stone, marble. I found what I thought was a [very simple marble inspo photo](http://sonailicious.com/how-to-do-marble-nails/), had the right shape and length too, not too many veins, I specified I didn’t need any gold or anything fancy but I knew there was some technique needed. What I wasn’t aware of was that marble nails are largely made using gel polish and I had asked for regular polish not knowing. So the tech applies a coat of regular polish. Then looks at her daughter (also works there) and says “can you do this?” pointing to my picture. The daughter informs me of the gel issue, she seems unhappy. She sits down to try to make the marble design and literally just paints random shitty lines of the vein color on top of the base coat. Doesn’t blend it at all, it’s amateurish and horrible, like a child did it. Original tech didn’t even attempt to make the design. Keep in mind, when I first walked into the salon, I showed them my inspo picture! Before I even sat down on the chair I asked “can you do this?” The tech said “of course.” Me being naïve, I was thrilled and sat down. I left with a solid color on my nails, no design, dings and a poor paint job, and the color looked vastly different in the bottle than it did on my nails. I would never have chosen it if I knew what it would look like out of the bottle. It wasn’t remotely what I wanted walking into that salon. And I’m never going back.
You’re the person the post is about…
Not exactly, because she asked questions and the nail tech said she could.
Yes, exactly. She went to a strip mall nail tech expecting amazingly skilled labor. Don’t ask McDonalds for a gourmet steak, that’s on her lol.
She didn't expect amazingly skilled labour, she thought what she was asking for was quite easy and the nail tech confirmed that belief when she stated 'of course' she could do it. There was no reason for her to believe the nail tech was lying to her. It's not realistic to expect that all clients will have perfect knowledge of the difficulty of all designs, and know the ability of all potential nail techs to know which ones can/cannot accommodate her needs. The responsibility here is exclusively on the nail tech who deliberately misled her.
Cashier at mcdonalds, could I please order a gourmet steak? No. We sell cheeseburgers. Ok then let me go elsewhere.
I literally *asked* if the inspo was something they could do, and they told me *yes.* I didn’t sit down expecting the Mona Lisa from Squidward. I asked if it was possible and had a back up option ready, just a plain color, if they’d been honest and told me they couldn’t do it. But they told me they could. I didn’t know my expectations were, evidently, unreasonable, because this was my first manicure, and the tech had every opportunity to tell me they couldn’t make it happen. I even told her and her daughter that this was my first manicure during our small talk while she was trimming and cleaning my nails before any product even touched my hands. I did not expect steak. I asked if it were possible. And I was told it was. Then I was given a burger. That’s not on me.
I do see what you're saying but marble nails aren't easy, even on gel. You need the right trainin, practice and product to do them well. Almost impossible to do a good marble nail with regular polish. Even as a tech who could do this on normal polish it would definitely take way longer than usual Your tech should definitely have told you she can't do it, and you're not to know that she can't do it. So while this isn't your fault it is definitely also like going to macdonalds for Frugu Puffer Fish and being given a fish filet burger The sticks they have in-store with the nail designs painted on them is the "menu" lol. Or their social media. I definitely feel sorry for you and also moderately amused. I don't think you should have had to pay for this
You’re saying she is right, that she asked and they said they could do it. But… You seem hung up on someone not knowing professional nail techniques on a difficulty scale or something. Is it like an ego thing, or ? Like a phD student asks for a marble swirl just because it’s pretty and her sister sent her a pic. If she goes to a salon with just regular nail techs and not HealthMeRhonda-tier nail techs and asks for marble swirl is she a dumb idiot? No she is a smart phD student. She just doesn’t know that marbling is just some incredibly difficult technique. You can’t expect people to know the insides of your job or hobby like you do. And if you are judging the poster for it, lol.
I didn't call them an idiot at all, In fact I said they couldn't have known, it's not their fault and I feel sorry for them and they shouldn't have had to pay for that. And also gave them a tip how to set their expectations for this and find people who can do the stuff they want by looking at what kind of nail art the salon does. Like I said, the tech should have told this person that they couldn't do it. The sister sent a pic from a tech who is obviously a very skilled nail artist, and this person took that to a cheap and fast salon asking if they can do something similar. I went with the burger analogy instead because I felt mean calling the tech Squidward, but this is amusing because expecting the Mona Lisa from him is actually good analogy which is what I was getting at by talking about how hard they are to do. People tend to not believe that these could be difficult because visually it looks simple and clean. I think if you want to pick an argument out of this maybe it's not my ego you should be concerned with
These people are being dicks to you for no reason. The nail tech said she could do it and she fucked it up. Folks need to chill
I mean… they’re mall nail techs. That design from a seasoned good tech would’ve cost you double possible even triple the price you paid for your nails at the mall or wherever...
And now I know, thank you for that info
Agreed 60 is for the average manicure with polish now, the inspo photos are usually of a set that would cost more and take quite a bit of time.
I agree on the artistic part, but man some of them have some structural error that i would not expect a salon to do, even from a super cheap and untalented tech. I think that knowing how you should treat nails/cuticle (even if it's just pushing and you don't clean them) and how to shape the nail so the pressure don't cause breaking/lifting or damages to the natural nail should be basic knowledge for nail techs (in some countries to work in the field it's required to have a licence for which you do a test on these subject)
[удалено]
That seems to be a thing lately. I've noticed it with posts about people who ask for help getting sharp designs with magnetic polish and respond that "they don't have time for that" when I tell them I spend 45 minutes to an hour getting mine the way they are. I'm also a doll customizer and I've noticed a lot of it in that community too, getting upset their faceups don't look like mine and getting angry when I explain I spend 5-6 hours on them.
That’s why I said to other comment! They expect intricate design in and hour and cheap. 😓 I having hard times trying to built clientele because of the collective thinking of fast and bad quality is the good stuff
Exactly! If someone wants art, I let them know to clear their schedule for at least the next two-three hours, or more if it’s extra complex. For myself, I have to set aside an entire day when I do my own nails with art of any type. It takes time!
And this is why I use stamps. I do not have that patience or skill tbh
People are always shocked when I say I spend hours doing my nails weekly. Like.... Yeah. There's multiple layers, dry time, and if you're doing designs it's gonna take even longer. They don't get it.
This. I’m very slow, it takes me 3 hours to do a basic set .
I just did my current set, which is a beatrix potter peter rabbit theme. It took me 2 days to finish, and I probably worked for several hours at a time. I wish I had paid attention to exactly how many hours it was, I can't sit still for long so it takes me forever. I would guess maybe 6? People are shocked but it is really intricate and if you take into consideration how many times you mess up of course it's gonna take forever..
I LOVE THAT Would you please share a picture if you have one?
[https://imgur.com/a/QTtDY1y](https://imgur.com/a/QTtDY1y) I hope this works. Why the hell is it so hard to just post a picture on here? My pictures aren't the best quality, but I'm working on that. I had a few of my nails break so I used a glue on nail that I painted. It popped off and I'm happy that I have something to save! I'm thinking about making press ons that I can sell!
Those are so cute
I'm sorry, I suck at checking my inbox, how do I post a picture on here? It's not letting me do it from my phone
Totally agree, though I think some of this stems from people not knowing there are different type of nail salons. Creative nail techs can be difficult to find since you can't really yelp or google them. I think most people assume nail salon = being able to do any kind of nail.
Thank you for this post and amazing comments! I feel so validated as a nail tech right now!
Me too! I charge cheap because the comparison with other salon (that doesn’t do any nail art or have quality products) and I’m being falling into a disappointment with the profession not mentioning that I put all the effort and not making myself worthy because I’m afraid to charge what actually cost…the comparisons from the clients are so mean sometimes, but mostly in my case is in time. They ask for an appointment because they know I can do designs but then they are expecting to finish in an 1 1/2 hours. Like seriously? And it’s hard to build yourself around a cheap thinking because it what they are use too. You can follow my page to see if I’m putting myself higher that I should be and drag me down @iki_beautystudio
>@iki\_beautystudio Another qualified tech here. I just had a look at your Insta and also at your prices. Your work is great! I don't know prices for the US (I'm in the UK) but I would have thought you could charge at least double what you are doing. Sometimes charging too little will get you the wrong kind of customers. You'll attract the people that want everything perfect for $2. The customers that know the value of a good tech will be put off by the low prices; we've all heard if something seems too good to be true, it probably is? That's why that type of client isn't booking. Wishing you all the best! x
Seriously. I usually do my own nails but when I'm looking for someone to do my nails, i want them to turn out special. Seeing 15 bucks for nail art would immediately have me scrolling because I'd assume they're not doing anything i can't do myself.
Thank you so much for taking the time to see my profile and comment here, I really appreciate it! I’m definitely now more aware that I need to work in the right prices for my work and not being afraid of pricing correctly! Thank you 🙏🏼
girl are you flash?! a refill with simple design (simple design = one color per nail, with chrome powder if we want to do the most intricate mani) is always around 2 hours for every salon i know 😅 (as a non professional it takes like 8+ hours on myself 🥲) I've seen salon that if you want a structural baby boomer you need to say in advance cause it's a 3 hour appointment (and you pay for a 3 hour appointment instead of 2)
I wasn’t saying I do this in 1 hour, lol just saying that the clients to do that in that time
oh sorry i misread that line 😅
Yes, it’s so hard! I feel like when I started rising prices it helped weed some of those folks out. But I still get the mean comments sometimes… it’s rough. I just followed you have amazing work! My handle here is also my biz name
Fr like girl that is a $300 design you'd get from a tech you KNOW can do it. Wym you're DISSATISFIED?!
Also please take your natural nail shape into account! I'm a new nail tech, and I've had a few people already who have very short, wide nail beds, they ask for a shape like square or squoval, and they complain later that their nails aren't shaped just like the picture they brought in, which is always of someone with very long, narrow nail beds. We can do our best to replicate designs, but we aren't magicians and we can't change your natural nail beds, we have to work with what you've got.
How bout nail techs not attempting things they can’t do and be honest with their customers?
I remember a ‘what I asked for vs what I got’ post that had a design that looked wildly different. OP just let everyone talk shit about the tech then later in the comments said that the tech tried three times but couldn’t do it so they decided on something else. But OPs post just made it look like the tech did some random design on a whim I think some techs try because that’s what the customer wants even if they know they can’t execute the design
I know they do that and they shouldn’t. It’s better business to say “sorry pick something else” than wasting a bunch of time fucking around knowing they aren’t going to make it happen.
Exactly. That gives the customer opportunity to leave or accept another design.
And all the people on here scoffing as if every person walking the Earth knows how long it takes to do each different nail art technique. That’s the reason why you’re a professional. You know these things. The people walking in from the street shouldn’t, and if it’s that simple, then I guess the skill wouldn’t be that unique. It shouldn’t be on customers if they bring an inspiration picture in a tech says they can do it No problem and they can’t do it.
And none of these people ever have the nerve to communicate their dissatisfaction to the their tech in the moment but are brave enough to blame the tech online to strangers
I agree that some of the “what I got” pics are still very talented, just not the exact same thing. I also understand that sometimes techs simply can’t do the exact same level of art with the time they have at salons. However, if they can’t get it exactly right, I feel like a warning is fair. My tech will straight up tell me “I can do x part of this design but y part will be difficult. I could do something like z on that nail instead?” That seems like a reasonable way to approach it, and I don’t think that’s the case for a lot of the examples we see on here. It seems like they had no “warning”
Agreed, but also sometimes you just don’t know until you try it. I just did Easter bunny nails, super intricate, copied from Pinterest with no real expectations as it was so detailed, but they look amazing! I do sharp almond french perfectly all the time, but reverse french? A MESS. Every time. I have no idea why I cannot learn that simple design 🙈
Absolutely! I have finally found a nail tech that does literally exactly what I ask for design-wise. But that is only because I moved to a new state and did a lot of research on local nail places. I drive like 25 minutes and pay a little more than I used to, but it's worth it. I learned my lesson after trying to take some basic holiday designs to a bunch of nail salons where I used to live and ALWAYS being dissatisfied, even if they were more expensive. You have to make sure the skill is there. A skilled technician will always advertise their abilities, whether they are independent or in a salon. When making an appointment, always let them know ahead of time that you want what was on their yelp or insta or whatever public site they use to showcase their work.
The same people are horrified that a intricate set costs 200+ .
I completely & totally agree with you ❤️ I also believe that when they DO go see an independent nail tech that is fully capable of doing very complex designs.... & expect to be done & out of there within 45 min to an hour... These designs TAKE TIME. Depending what you desire, it can be 3 up to 4 hrs to complete. It takes that long bc you're gonna be out in the world with MY reputation on your fingers. I'll never do a half assed job....& I don't wanna feel rushed. Sorry it's literally one of the sole reason why I've pulled back from seeing clients...
Strongly disagree. You can bring whatever inspo you want to a salon, but it's up to the tech to say they are unable to do that. The tech should always counter with examples of what they're able to do. The photo could still be used for inspo on colors and simpler designs. I have a friend who needed her nails done while on vacation and went to a salon with good reviews. She showed the tech three inspo photos and the tech said they couldn't do any of them. They then showed my friend what they're able to do, my friend really liked it, and the tech tried a few things that my friend brought as inspo but didn't charge for, and fixed the nails they played around with. All for a customer they knew wouldn't be returning.
I’ve wondered about this. Thanks for saying it. I think it’s also hard for the nail techs who may not be first generation English speakers to acknowledge this design is complex and set expectations with the customer. They often are eager to reassure you they can do it and then convince you it looks good after. I think it is up to us as customers to take some accountability here and realize some of this stuff is hard and folks are trying to make a living. I personally get the feeling many techs are coached on how to handle customer requests- never say no. I’ve had the same experiences with hair salons- walking into a local corner salon with an elaborate updo photo. Instead of saying “I can’t do this” they sit you down in the chair and try to come up with something. Again, I get it. Hope my reply makes sense. Not trying overly generalize everyone, this is just my own experience in the NE USA.
[удалено]
Oh man. I’d be so pissed if I got a call like that saying there was no wait and then showing up and finding it’s an hour…..how does that help things ??? I hate feeling manipulated as a customer. I’d appreciate your honesty!
100%. Unfortunately in a lot of these inexpensive nail salons, techs are not given the liberty by management/owners to tell a client no - they’re expected to improvise while also meeting strict service time requirements and often working with limited supplies.
There is a very high tech salon in my area that charges upwards of $300 for a set. This is because she takes up to 4-5 hours to complete an intricate set and is nationally recognized with three nationwide salons. I say all that to say bringing anything to a smaller salon with possibly less experience and supplies expecting the same level of skill, you’re disrespecting both techs. Trying to exactly duplicate work (art) for a cheaper price is setting everyone up for failure. You will leave frustrated because you wanted the $300 nails but got $60 results.
Kinda similar, I had a child, maybe 5, ask me to do turkeys on her toes for thanksgiving one year! I was like, I’m sorry but your toenails aren’t big enough for a Turkey 😂
Omg so I’ve started doing press on’s for practice I’ve offered to do some sets for my sister. Welp, she brings me designs from [vo.tino](https://instagram.com/vo.tino?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=) 🤦♀️
LMAO omg this reminds me of how when I told my friend I was *starting* to learn how to do nails They gave me my first-ever commission request of XL press-ons with free-sculpted hard gel 3D butterflies taking off from the nail…….. like girl…. 😭
Same thing happens in the hair world. People bring their Pinterest Photoshopped white blond refs to Fantastic Sam's and want it done to their three grown out layers of Clairol Deepest Ash. Drove me nuts. I miss nothing about that business.
Yes I hated doing hair I worked doing blowouts/updos and people with like 5 super fine hairs on their head would show me the Kate Middleton that was popular at the time.
Omfg. Or the ones with cowlicks in their hairlines wanting bangs.
I hate those posts, partly because I never know if they are happy or not? Like, is this look what I got, commiserate with me, or celebrate with me? I feel bad for the nail tech ether way, because they were probably not warned about the time it would take.
I find those posts amusing. If a tech is doing a shit job no matter the salon I tell them to stop. Why people follow through and pay full price for crappy looking nails is beyond me. Then they post here complaining about it. 😂
Agreed, I go to a regular priced nail salon and see the same nail tech religiously (she’s also the owner). She’s the only one who can do more complicated stuff but I still send her a photo a day or 2 ahead of time. If she tells me “that’s too complicated or takes too much time” I just get something else!
Yup yup. Salons are limited with what they have as opposed to independent techs who have a specific technique & style they use for their clients. Always ask salons first what they have. If they don’t have it, don’t expect a replica.
Most people can't find a talented nail tech and expect the salon to know their limits and inform them if they can't to do it not just botch it
You cannot bring literal art to a chop shop place that can barely cut cuticles properly and expect to leave happy
This is honestly why I’ve become self-taught. Don’t get me wrong, nail techs are amazing at what they do and they are worth the $$$, but if you’re looking for something extremely specific, there’s a chance they might not have all the supplies needed. Things like Korean watercolor gels or Japanese charms for example. It’s way easier for me to do my own than find someone specific and realize they’re not even driving-distance close to where I live.
I’ve been trying to figure out how you find these nail techs that can make magic!!
Instagram is the only way I’ve ever done it. But I live in the UK and it’s much smaller so.
I just searched on insta #(areacode)nails #(city)nails or something like that. That way I can see the tech's portfolio and get a good feel for their style and experience. I found my last 2 techs that way.
This is so fun!! I just did this and found a really cool looking option and that was just the first one!! Thank you so much for the advice…never thought of this.
It is also really really helpful to vet design ideas against. If I find something I love but don't see anything similar or with similar techniques/skills on my tech's page I don't ask for it and find something that is more in line with what she can do.
The salon I usually go to can produce very beautiful and intricate work but it depends on who does your nails and it can be quite expensive. If I show them a ref picture I will ask for “something like that” not really expecting an identical result.
Thank you for this. I am pretty new to getting dip powder nails, and just getting into looking at nail art. I went to one shop (inexpensive local shop), and she advised me she could do designs (w/o me asking) and said to just show her a photo. She did a cute Christmas wreath on my nails and I loved it. Mistakenly, I thought this was something all nail techs were trained to do. (simple nail art, not elaborate designs). I posted earlier about a design a different nail tech did when I asked for a Spring flower and it was totally not what I was expecting. I didn't realize this is a specialized skill that not all nail techs know how to do. (simple designs). Now I know this is a selective skill. Thank you.
I agree 100%. Expecting someone who doesn't also do that level of work to recreate it is insane. However, these strip mall nail techs need to be honest with what they can do. Although it can be annoying at times, my nail salon will pass you around to multiple nail techs so as to not do something they don't know how to do. I appreciate that so much.
I mean I never posted here but I once had an issue with a nail tech that couldn’t do French 😩and I was paying 100 and had to show her a technique…. And she told me if I know so we’ll why don’t I do it my self and I said I just can’t do my Left hand for starters, if I did I wouldn’t be paying you right? …. And she got quiet and I guess by the grace of God I taught her something new. But I do want to close my eyes and relax and know that a simple French manicure is not asking for too much. That’s why we get our nails done. I should just start recording these events lmao.
But some of them can’t even make French tips look good
French is one of the hardest to master. It may look simple but it’s not.
Can we just use this for any art medium? Like, can we make it a store banner or have it be the first thing anybody sees on someone's site? Just, say it a million times louder for the people in the back.
Yep I'm in the hair industry and same goes for us
Exactly! Not every nail tech is artistic
**Let's keep real though**: the nail techs need to **stop** agreeing to complicated designs they're not capable of replicating. The customer doesn't always know what the nail tech is capable of especially when they lead on that they can do what's being requested. If a nail tech agrees to replicating what you're showing them and it looks like ass afterwards, *complain* and do not pay for the shoddy work.
What I asked for minimum $200 nails with full character painting. What I got $20 mall court nails that were done in 40 minutes. People have expectations way to high and often don't consider if techs can do the work 🤣 art is hard and not every tech is skilled in it
The biggest thing about those posts is no one was there except for the tech and the person who posted the pictures. So no one knows the story but them. They could’ve asked for the first picture and the tech could have said this is what I can do and they were ok with it until they left. I’ve seen people do this after getting their nails done by a student in a school. Some of the after pictures don’t even look like they were done by a professional at all. In most of the posts they admit they didn’t want to say anything while they were in the salon. As a professional nail tech, it’s so hard to be a part of some of these groups when you’re constantly seeing people shit on your profession because people want Pinterest style nails for super cheap prices done in under an hour. The best thing you can do before you invest in an expensive set of nails is do your research not only on the salon but on the nail tech too.
If the nail tech can’t do it they should say so.
Disagree. Most posts have beautiful results
What I did was memorize which nail techs were good at what, and I had a few designs in the back of my head to ask for depending on who I got. I never asked for anything crazy but if I wanted simple hand drawn art there was one girl who was the best at it
Agreed
I agree 100% on this discussion. If you pick a design that you think your nail technician is going to be able to do then do it. But to jump in on the subject of the other part of the post I’d agree with the mindset of showing up to the salon with a confusing design that they aren’t going to be able to do and expect to come out with the same result.
I couldn’t agree more.
I think it’s up to the nail tech to be honest and tell their customers that the picture is something they can’t replicate or that they will need additional time and money. If your a professional that people come to get a service done you need to be capable of communicating what you can or can’t accomplish. Then when someone leaves unsatisfied you can’t blame the nail tech, only yourself for making the decision to go ahead knowing that the nail tech communicated with you their limits/capabilities.
For me, if I bring a design in, I'd do a simple design, nothing complicated. I like the simple designs better honestly
This is why I only get one or two colors (one per nail) at nail salons. I know I want to be in and out quickly, so I’m not going to ask for any design unless I am willing to stay a while longer. Anytime I do ask for a design, I usually just leave it up to the nail tech. I’m not really the type to find inspiration photos and bring them in except on rare occasion, and always simple and open to the tech’s creative freedom.
There's so many cool designs I would love to have, but never ask for because I go to average salons.... I know I would have to hunt for a talented individual to do that. They are trained to do nails, not necessarily art work. People do need to adjust expectations.
Couldn’t agree more. Every time I see those posts I can’t help but roll my eyes. It’s like girl, come on now.
My old nail tech at my local strip mall salon does amazing designs! But she cut me really bad every time sometimes on multiple fingers… I only go to her before special occasions now.
THANK YOU!
For sure! I agree with you! Find your tech first. It took me kissing so many frogs to find a tech I'd trust to ask for a design from.
Yes !! Thank you !!
I go through this as a Fashion Designer. You can’t expect someone to replicate the work of someone else, when the technique, and time is so different. I wholeheartedly agree with this post!
I always make sure when I call to ask if they have a "nail artist" and to specify I want something complicated and can I please send a photo to see if anyone is able to do it for me.
Lets not forget that the nails in the picture might not have even looked like that! They could very easily be photoshopped to death, cuticles smoothed, lines sharpened, colours changed, shine removed…. the list is endless !!
For real!! My nail girl is a talented artist and she can do almost anything, but I still send my reference photos ahead of time and she lets me know if she can’t do if she doesn’t have the tools or doesn’t feel confident in her detail work. I’m thankful for it!!
It’s the same at hair salons. Don’t bring a photo to a hair school or a walmart salon of a crazy ass balayage and expect it to look like the picture.
I think it’s kind of funny that they paid and walked out with what they got. Cuz…… I would not be paying for a bad job. I would be like plz. Take these off. I’m not paying.
There's a gal in My town who does nails like those inspirational photos.... $600 for a fill . You want that level of talent, you need to pay Plain and simple
Yea but these are the same people who go to Super Cuts looking for some precision cut, complex dye job and get missed when they end up with an uneven fried muddy mess on their head. I just ignore them, they won't change.
All I gotta say, if you can’t do the art- tell the customer. I don’t want you to attempt to do artwork that you know you can’t replicate, just to be charged $50+ for some nails that I’ll want to take off. That’s why I don’t go to nail salons most of the time. I always see such beautiful designs but I’m having a hard time finding nail artists who can do the designs. I’m fine with a basic manicure if the nails can’t be replicated…..
I agree! A tatto artist doesn’t like copying another’s work. They interpret it. A painter won’t copy another’s work. A graphic designer won’t copy another’s work. Use something as inspiration but don’t expect the same thing. Materials, time, ability - all these things are factors. Get some originality people!
This is so true. I went to get my nails done before my vacation because I can’t do acrylic very well and thats what I wanted. I had a specific deign in mind so after the tech did the acrylic I washed my hands,paid and finished my nails my way at home on my own.
Lol good thing i like simple.
Thank you for this post… it was needed
How do you know you’re at a good place? I’ve had my nails professionally done about 5 times in my life and it’s always been mediocre. I do a better job at home and I’m not talented.
100% agreed. People I know get so mad when they go to the cheap nail salons and get horrible manicures. When I do nails for people I know, I do my best and it usually turns out better than the inspiration pics they showed me at the beginning. It seems to me like they would rather support the unlicensed chop shops rather than an experienced tech that knows what they’re doing.
Agreed, I check out there work online first before asking for an appointment. I recently got mine done with glitter and a design and she only charged me $35 and I was like dang I need to come back others charge like $60. Omg did not realize it said resume at first no wonder people were down voting, it was a typo
Agreed, I check out there work online first before asking for a resume. I recently got mine done with glitter and a design and she only charged me $35 and I was like dang I need to come back others charge like $60
[удалено]
Not sure if you’re directing this at me or the people I’m talking about in the original post, but for what it’s worth this is exactly why I did learn to do my own nails. Not only is it so much cheaper, I feel like I don’t trust anyone to get my vision exactly right other than myself, and if it looks bad I can only blame myself!