Hi! My name is Sandra, and I’m a fully qualified nail technician from Stafford, Staffordshire.
In 2021, I made the big move away from Staffordshire. As many know, making friends as an adult can be daunting, especially when you're new to a big city. But I knew it was time to take a leap: I wanted to build new connections and explore a new career path. That’s when I decided to enrol in a local college, where I completed both Level 2 and Level 3 Nail Technology qualifications.
During my time at college, I didn’t just learn about nails; I also met some of the most genuine, supportive people I’ve ever known. Making friends as an adult isn’t easy, but college allowed me to connect with others who shared the same passion, drive, and desire to grow. The friendships I formed during that time have lasted well beyond the classroom, and I truly believe they helped shape both my career and personal journey.
During college, I also discovered a brand that was just as obsessed with pink and glitter as I am, Glitterbels. You could say it was love at first sight... or maybe love at first gel polish swatch!
Although I completed my training in June 2023, I still didn’t feel fully satisfied with my knowledge or skill level. I wanted more. I wanted to feel confident, not just competent.
As I faced yet another move and found myself on the verge of giving up on my dream of becoming a nail technician, I made one last decision: to train with the company that had already stolen my heart, not just with their products, but with their kind, supportive community.
In September 2023, I attended my first Glitterbels Training Class at their HQ, taught by the amazing educator Adonia West. In just one afternoon, Adonia taught me techniques I once thought were impossible. She shared so much knowledge, and for the first time, I no longer dreaded the idea of doing nails; I was excited.
From late 2023 through 2024, I continued my education journey with Glitterbels and their incredible Education Team. I’ve grown so much, expanding my skills, deepening my knowledge, and slowly building my confidence and business, one step at a time.
When Glitterbels hosted their DreamFest Event, they also held The Nail Boss Competition, featuring multiple categories. I decided to test my skills by entering the Acrylic category. Creating a competition-worthy set of nails pushed me to a whole new level. It challenged my creativity, forced me to problem-solve under pressure, and tested everything I’d learned.
And all the stress? It was so worth it, because I was awarded 3rd place in the competition!
Placing was a surreal moment. It felt like confirmation that all the time I’d spent retraining, practicing, and pushing through self-doubt had been worth it. I finally felt like I was on the right path, building a successful business as a nail tech, supported by the magical pink powerhouse that is Glitterbels.
A New Chapter: Becoming a Glitterbels Education Ambassador
This year, my journey with Glitterbels reached an exciting new milestone, I became an Education Ambassador for the brand that has shaped so much of my growth and success.
Becoming an ambassador isn’t just a title; it’s a chance to inspire, teach, and support other nail technicians who are just starting out or looking to level up their skills. It’s an honour to be part of such an empowering community, where education, creativity, and kindness are at the heart of everything we do.
I'm so excited to continue learning, growing, and giving back, just as others did for me when I was starting out. Being able to represent a brand I truly love, while helping others build their confidence and skill set, is a dream come true.
This journey has had its share of twists and turns, but if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s this: believing in yourself and surrounding yourself with the right support can take you further than you ever imagined. I’m proud of how far I’ve come and excited for what’s ahead.
If you’re thinking of chasing your own dream (in nails or otherwise), just know it’s never too late to start, to pivot, or to try one more time.
If you’ve enjoyed reading about my journey and want to follow along as I continue to grow, create, and inspire, come join me on social media @touch__of__beauty! I share everything from behind-the-scenes nail sets and product tips to training updates, client transformations, and a little bit of everyday sparkle.
With love and glitter,
Sandra