Pro Spotlight
Introducing OPI Global Brand Ambassador: @natalieminervanails
Natalie Minerva’s eye for detail and design has made her a leader in the nail industry for the last 11 years.
@natalieminervanails Products Used: (P)ink on Canvas, Crawfishin’ for a Compliment, Polly Want a Lacquer?, Mexico City Move-mint, The Pass is Always Greener, It’s a Girl!
As the lead nail artist for the second season of HBO’s Euphoria, Natalie is responsible for some of the biggest nail trends taking over social media. She is a true artist, always pushing the envelope and creating looks that are not only unique but innovative. Born and raised in California, she moved from Orange County to Los Angeles in 2008. While working at “A Club Called Rhonda”, a highly revered party amongst industry professionals, Natalie began her nail journey on Instagram. Through social media, she made connections that have allowed her to become the go-to artist for celebrities like Demi Lovato, Ariana Grande, Halsey, Barbie Ferreira, Addison Rae, and more. Her work has been featured in Vogue, Elle, and Cosmopolitan amongst other publications.
OPI: What inspired you to start doing nails?
Natalie: Initially, it began as a selfish hobby. At the time, I was going to college and working in nightlife at A Club Called Rhonda which is an iconic party in LA. Everyone dresses in very eccentric fashion, and so I wanted cool nails to pair with my outfits. Friends started noticing them, and a few of them were glam industry folks, so they wanted me to do nails on their celebrity clients. I decided to pursue my nail art full-time and went to nail school!
OPI: In your opinion, what is an underrated nail design/trend that more people should know about?
Natalie: It’s funny because the nail art that really makes me tick doesn’t always get the same response from nail art pop culture at that moment. For instance, I just absolutely love putting real Opal in nails. I don’t see it nearly as often as I would like to!
OPI: What is your daily routine?
Natalie: Wake up around 6-7 am, usually for a set day. Sometimes it’s a campaign; other times it’s for a commercial or celebrity house call. I shower, get ready, and make sure I’m wearing comfortable clothes since this job is actually quite physical believe it or not. Do some awesome nails. Sometimes it’s one long 12-hour day with the same client. Other times, I’m seeing 2-3 people in a day. Come home, take a load off on my big pink couch, and watch a movie with my boyfriend Loren.
OPI: What is your biggest achievement to date?
Natalie: I would have to say Euphoria because I had really hoped to work on that show and I was so elated when I actually got the chance to. I’ve never been more proud of myself.
OPI: What tips would you give to aspiring nail artists?
Natalie: Do something nail-related every single day! It doesn’t necessarily need to be the physical act of nails, but perhaps it’s researching what’s happening in the nail art world, or looking for new and interesting items to use. Dedicate yourself to your craft and your art.
OPI: What is one thing we don't know about you?
Natalie: I am currently learning how to DJ. I’m a big music nerd.
OPI: What was your first ever job?
Natalie: I worked at Pageant of the Masters in Laguna Beach as an usher to people’s seats. In hindsight, it was very influential in my becoming an artist.
OPI: If you could give anyone a manicure (dead or alive), it would be…
Natalie: Gwen Stefani! My Orange County queen!
OPI: What is your favorite OPI shade?
Natalie: I am obsessed with Spring Break the Internet! It’s like a disco in a bottle.
Be sure to follow Natalie Minerva AKA @natalieminervanails on Instagram.
