Pro Spotlight

OPI Pro Spotlight: @jxlyn.nails

Jackie, our November Pro Spotlight pick, is all about bright, unique designs; just check out her Instagram, @jxlyn.nails, for proof!

Learn why she became a nail artist, what her fave OPI shades are, and what she’s most thankful for this holiday season by reading our interview below.  

OPI: Your nail art jumps right off the page with its vibrancy! What's your favorite thing about creating such bright designs? 

Jackie: I love the way a bright color can pop right off the hands of a client and how they can be so complementary to every individual. Bright designs are an absolute mood booster and are a great way to showcase your unique personality. Sometimes the right nail design proves to be the perfect fashion accessory. 

OPI: At what moment in your life did you realize that you wanted to become a nail artist? 

Jackie: I was surrounded by nail salons most of my childhood. I saw the hard work that my parents put into their salon and the outpouring of love they received from their clients. Since growing up and moving away, I noticed that not all nail salons encouraged the same business models that my parents did. I knew that I wanted to be that person for those future clients. Someone to not only make their nail dreams come true but to also be their friend at the end of the day. 

OPI: What's your go-to shade or look for a new client? 

Jackie: I am obsessed, and I mean.. OBSESSED with OPI’s “Put It In Neutral”. Need a good universal nude? Put It In Neutral. Looking for a solid base for some funky nail art? Put It In Neutral. Something clean, elegant, and timeless? PUT IT IN NEUTRAL. Some of my other all-time favorites are “V-I-Pink”, “Living on the Bula-Vard,” and “Polly Want a Lacquer?” 

BROWSE PUT IT IN NEUTRAL

SHOP LIVING ON THE BULA-VARD

BROWSE POLLY WANT A LACQUER

OPI: With the holidays right around the corner, which holiday design are you most looking forward to? 

Jackie: Hands down, Halloween! I love all the themed nail art; whether it is specific for a costume, a creepy/dark design, or something sweet and spooky. Some of my clients will switch to a sharp stiletto nail around this time, which allows for some really fun art! 

OPI: What are you most thankful for in your career this holiday season? 

Jackie: I absolutely love working the holidays! I don’t have any family locally, but my clients continue to make me feel a part of theirs! Over the years, we have gotten really close and I am so incredibly thankful for them! The support and love I continue to receive is the best gift I could ask for. Without them I truly would not be who I am today. We learn, we love, and we grow together.. I could not ask for much more. 

OPI: We love that you stay hip to trends and styles in the nail world! Do you bring the ideas to your clients? Or vice versa? 

Jackie: A little bit of both! In my spare time, I like to browse various social media platforms to find inspiration for work. I save the ones I feel that my clients would like or that I am interested in doing. I believe it’s important to have some ideas saved for days I may have a creative block, or when a client is torn on what they want. It is always fun when a client brings in an idea and we collab to make it our own little masterpiece! 

OPI: Which technique or nail art style is your favorite to do? 

Jackie: I have always gravitated towards unique styles of art and I enjoy taking on the challenge of translating that into my work. I like to use contrasting colors and 3D elements with no particular rhyme or rhythm to enhance my designs. Any nail art style that pops and catches the eye is the name of my game! 

OPI: How are you planning to grow your business and yourself as a nail artist and entrepreneur? 

Jackie: In the future, I would love to create editorial press-on nails. I’ve noticed more and more nail artists being recognized in the rapidly evolving world of fashion and entertainment. Editorial nails don’t always have to be practical, which gives nail artists limitless opportunities to create one-of-a-kind sets showcasing their own personal style. Additionally, I want to utilize my years of experience to create business courses for up-and-coming nail artists. 

OPI: Do you have any advice for other nail techs heading into the holiday season to ensure their client schedule is fully booked out? 

Jackie: Be available, and be honest with your time. If you need extra time for nail art, make sure to block out time for it. It’s a great way to stay on schedule and reduces the chances of running behind for the next client. Promptness is a huge plus! Open your schedule and offer back-to-back appointments for clients who may have family traveling to your area. It’s a great bonding experience for both parties! Offer specials and promos. This is a great way to fill your books when starting out. It could be as simple as adding glitter or decals to your services. This is a simple way to show your clients some extra love. And most importantly, remember to set time aside for yourself. A healthy work-life balance is key to a successful career. It allows you to stay sharp and to always provide the best experience for your clients! 

Be sure to follow Jackie AKA @jxlyn.nails on Instagram.