I don’t even know where to begin to tell you all about last week. I’m still floating on cloud nine, so before I begin rambling let me just start at the beginning.
I’m a quiet person; some might even call me shy. I knew that I would have to work on that in order to pursue my dream. It is definitely a work in progress. A few months ago I saw a NAILS Magazine posting on Facebook regarding professional bucket lists. So I wrote one out and didn’t send it. A few days later I conquered my nerves and submitted it. Let me tell you I am so glad I did.
To my surprise NAILS managing editor Sree Roy e-mailed me and told me there was a possibility I would be in the magazine. So now I’m excited and glad that I got over my nerves.
The number-one thing on my bucket list was to meet John Hauk. He creates the most beautiful, amazing and flawless nails. If you have ever seen his pink-and-whites then you know exactly what I’m talking about. Seeing his work definitely gives me something to aspire to.
A few weeks ago my instructor tells the class that we’re having a guest speaker and some 3-D nail art demos on Friday, June 22 so she wants to make sure everyone will be in class. 3-D nail art? Count me in. While waiting for the guest speaker to arrive, I was told a client had requested me to do her manicure. As I turned the corner to greet my client, guess who was there?
JOHN HAUK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I could not believe it. John Hauk was there — at my school. I was totally speechless. I just can’t put into words how awesome that was. John also brought the amazing Nicole Brown and Candy Legg with him. Talk about some talented ladies. Wow!
I had just assumed that I would be at a nail show one day and meet John Hauk, take a photo with him, and that would be it. I never imagined that they would drive out of their way to Charlotte in route to the Nail Tech Networking Event of the Smokies in Gatlinburg, Tenn. I was just so honored that he made the trip to meet me.
Not only did John stop by the school, but he also brought me some amazing goodies! There were beautiful flowers, star-shaped balloons, and a ton of Light Elegance products. (See the top photo for the awesome gifts!) I had reached the height of my excitement and went into shock. Then he did demos of pink-and-whites, tips with overlay, gel and stiletto nails. Nicole also did a demo of a sculpted gel with color gel marbling that was so beautiful. I made sure to take plenty of photos.
I’m so glad that my classmates and I got to learn new techniques and watch John in person. That was definitely a once in a lifetime experience.
Just last week I was feeling frustrated and battling some self-doubt. I was having some trouble with gels and was just trying to get myself together. It is amazing how someone can give you some inspiration and encouragement and now you’re motivated and ready to stay the course.
I simply cannot thank John Hauk, Nicole Brown, Candy Legg, NAILS Magazine’s Hannah Lee and Sree Roy, Light Elegance and the Academy of Nails and Esthetics enough for this amazing opportunity.
I’m so glad that I finally mustered up the courage to pursue my dream to become a nail technician. I have already met some wonderful people and I can’t wait to really get out there and meet more wonderful people and make more amazing friends.
— Starr
Print | posted on Tuesday, June 26, 2012 9:39 AM