Pro Spotlight

OPI Pro Spotlight: @jessicawhitenailartist

The verdict is in: Jessica’s story is fab! This UK-based pro began her nail journey while studying law.

Now a full-time nail artist, she’s amassed a large following on Instagram (@jessicawhitenailartist), where her swatching vids have gone viral. Ahead, read about her career, thoughts on the differences between UK and US trends, and her must-have OPI shade.

OPI: Tell us about what first led you to find such interest in the nail industry? Was there a specific moment that you knew you wanted to do nails?

Jessica: I first found interest in nails when I was nineteen, at university studying during my law degree. I wanted to find a job that I could work around my degree and I wasn’t interested in working late night bar or waitressing jobs. So I completed my courses and I qualified as a nail artist! I then worked as a nail technician throughout my whole degree and it was when I was studying for my final exams that I realised how much I truly loved everything about the nail industry and I knew I wanted to pursue a full time career after graduating!

OPI: How are you seeing trends in the UK differ or align with those in the US?

Jessica: This is a really interesting question!! I feel like the nail trends in the UK and US are either extremely similar or vastly different. When a trend dominates social media, we see it worldwide, for example the “Hailey Beiber Glazed Donut” nails that we are still seeing today! However, in general, I feel like I see more understated nails trending from UK creators and more nail art and glam nails coming from the US.

OPI: Your swatching videos consistently go viral! How did you find the right formula to get such consistent engagement for your stunning work?

Jessica: I still can’t believe it! Knowing your work is getting seen by millions of viewers is a really mind blowing feeling. For me, I like to fit creating content into my schedule by filming on evenings or weekends, and then drafting enough videos to last me through the week. This way I can post everyday which definitely helps with engagement!

OPI: Your social media presence showcases your many talents in the beauty industry. How are you building such a great following?

Jessica: Thank you so much, that’s very kind! I’ve found that to build a following it’s a combination of posting frequent high quality content, hopping on trends, and posting content that you enjoy filming! This really comes across to the viewers!

OPI: We see that you have a training course for prospective nail techs! That's amazing! What led you to want to teach and inspire others in this field?

Jessica: Becoming an educator wasn’t always the plan, but I am so glad I made the decision to take my career down this route! Teaching others to become nail technicians is really rewarding and I love bringing fresh nail technicians into the industry and watching them find their passion and flourish. I love being able to split my working time between clients, content, and teaching! It really mixes things up!

OPI: What are your go to techniques when doing nails?

Jessica: Wow I could go on and on for this question! My top tips would be always have a high quality light source, use a thin and long fine liner for nail art and french tips, and always leave time at the end of appointments for pictures.

OPI: Now that the holiday season is wrapped up, which nail art looks or colors are you most looking forward to doing?

Jessica: For me, January is all about clean, fresh and minimal nails. I like to keep it super simple to bring in the new year. After all the festivities I like to have a sense of calm and go for something neutral like love is in the bare, or put it in neutral by OPI.

OPI: What do you see for yourself in the nail industry over the next 5, 10, etc. years?

Jessica: Ooooh great question! I love to dream big and set myself goals, not to mention making plenty of vision boards along the way. I would like to see my socials continue to grow, and to keep enjoying creating content. I would love to open a luxury salon where I can see my clients and hold my training courses, and I would love to keep working with OPI (obviously!)

OPI: If you could only take on OPI shade with you to a deserted island, which would it be?

Jessica: I would take ‘Hollywood and Vibe’ with me! This shade is the perfect light pink that I could wear all year round. Don’t get me wrong, I love the classics like ‘Bubble Bath’ and ‘Put It In Neutral’ but I think if I was stuck on a deserted island I would like something slightly bolder.

OPI: What's been your favorite part of working with OPI for content on socials?

Jessica: Where do I start! Working with OPI has been nothing but a dream. The way the OPI team treats me is honestly like family, and I’m beyond lucky to experience this. The team always looks out for me, lets me express my creativity, and gives me the most amazing opportunities. So lucky.

Be sure to follow Jessica, AKA @jessicawhitenailartist on Instagram!