My 25+ Year Journey as a Nail Technician & Educator

When I look back over my journey in the nail industry, I realise I've now spent over 25 years doing what I love. What began as a passion quickly grew into a lifelong commitment to creativity, learning, and most importantly, teaching.

For more than two decades, I’ve been part of the Cuccio UK Education Team, one of the world's leading companies in professional nail products and education. As a self-employed nail technician and educator, I’ve travelled across the UK delivering courses to private students and groups in salons, colleges, and professional beauty wholesalers, including Sally Beauty, Capital Hair & Beauty, and Aston & Fincher. From beginners to advanced sculpting and nail art, to workshop and conversion days, every course I teach is designed to build confidence and refine technique. combining industry experience with hands-on teaching to ensure every course is practical and engaging.

I enjoy helping nail technicians develop their skills, and I believe learning continues beyond the classroom. That's why I offer ongoing support and advice after every course. I’ve always made it my mission to deliver training to the highest standard possible, and I’m grateful to consistently receive positive feedback from my students. I've also had the honour of mentoring new educators, who’ve shadowed me to learn the ropes and grow into their own teaching roles.

Between 2011 and 2013, I took on a new adventure and opened a nail boutique and pottery painting studio in Draycott, Derbyshire, named Creations of Draycott, located in The Courtyard. The idea was simple: while the mums were getting their nails done, the kids could paint a pot! It turned out to be exactly that. The space quickly became a creative hub where I offered nail treatments, professional nail training courses, and hosted fun, engaging private children's parties, creating a welcoming environment for both adults and children.

During this time, I entered a worldwide nail competition, and my nail art was showcased in Scratch Magazine. My studio was also featured in the magazine's Scratch Pads section. Seeing both my work and business recognised in one of the industry's leading publications was a real highlight.

My studio featured in Scratch Magazine.

Unfortunately, life threw an unexpected challenge my way. My mother was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s and Dementia, and I made the difficult decision to close the studio. Family has always come first for me, and I chose to shift my focus to part-time teaching with Cuccio, while offering nail and foot treatments from a home studio, separate from my main house. This allowed me to care for my mum while still doing what I love.

Fast forward to 2025, I’ve relocated to Derbyshire, where I now work from a nail garden studio. It’s a peaceful, welcoming and private space where I continue to offer treatments and accredited one-to-one training under the Cuccio Education Programme. Clients and students can enjoy a calm, one-to-one experience in an inviting environment, with the same high standards, passion, and personal touch that have guided me throughout my career. Alongside, I work as a Nail Educator at a beauty training academy in West Bridgford, Nottingham, where I deliver in-person 1-1 and group nail training courses.

This is my journey. One of passion, perseverance, and purpose.

Emma x

Nail Gardenia