We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Casey Segel. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Casey below.

Alright, Casey thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Earning a full time living from one’s creative career can be incredibly difficult. Have you been able to do so and if so, can you share some of the key parts of your journey and any important advice or lessons that might help creatives who haven’t been able to yet?

I have been able to earn a full time living as a nail technician! When I first started, I naturally didn’t have an established clientele yet so I did have to work a second job for about 6 months. After that time, I had enough business on my books that I was able to leave my second job to focus on nails full time.

I see milestones in my career in 1/2 year – full year increments. For example, it took about 6 months to feel comfortable and confident in my services and the work I provided. Then, it was at the year mark where I felt like I had a good amount of clients returning to me regularly. Each year after that personally marks improvements such as learning new services and skills, or milestones such as moving shops, transitioning to booth rent, mentoring other nail techs.

Casey, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

I first got into the beauty industry when I was 19, after spending a short time at a traditional 4 year college. I had decided I no longer wanted to pursue a music education degree, and after some soul searching, I decided to give Cosmetology School a try. I fell in love with nails, and haven’t looked back!

I provide manicuring services, such as gel polish, dip powder, acrylic, and gel-x extensions. I also provide pedicuring services. My specialties include cuticle work, problematic toenail care, and hand painted nail art.

I think what sets me apart from other nail technicians in my area is my thirst for knowledge. I’m constantly researching new products and techniques, learning how I can better serve my clients and their needs. I believe that we should never become complacent with our knowledge- there is always more to learn so we can continue to grow.

I’m most proud of the nail art I’ve been able to create for my clients, giving them creative and fun nails that are the topic of conversation at all their social engagements. I thoroughly enjoy the creative process of choosing colors and the small detail work needed to create art on a fingernail, and my heart is so full when my client is happy in the end.

I not only want my clients to know that they will receive quality services from me, but that I provide a safe space for them to be themselves. “Come as you are” is my motto.

What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?

Consistency! Consistently putting out the best work I can, and not cutting corners. By that I mean never skipping a good foot massage just because I’m tired, or slacking on sanitation because I’m running behind. By delivering consistent results and services. clients know what they are getting each and every visit.

Are there any resources you wish you knew about earlier in your creative journey?

I wish I would’ve utilized social media earlier in my career, mainly to learn from other technicians and find the continuing education that helped me earlier. I was about 3 years into my career before discovering some essential classes, like how to operate an efile safely and effectively. I found a lot of my education resources through social media, and having that knowledge earlier in my career would’ve helped catapult me forward faster.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @crystalsandclaws

Image Credits
Headshot Photographer Credit: Scott Segel