Pro Spotlight

OPI Pro Spotlight: @nailsby.elainek

Meet @nailsby.elainek: second-generation nail tech, OPI Brand Educator, and this month’s pro. 

From a humble family business to a successful solo career, Elaine has been driven by her passion for nails since childhood. Read on to learn her favorite holiday design, advice for emerging pros, and her ride-or-die nail tool.

OPI: How did you start your journey in the nail industry, and what inspired you to become a professional nail technician?

Elaine: It all started with my mom and dad. They both did nails and my mom still does nails and has been for 35+ years. My mom is and will always be my inspiration as to why I became a professional nail tech. Growing up we had multiple salons and I remember being so excited when I would be able to go and hang out there. I remember sneaking under the table and painting my own nails.

OPI: As an OPI Brand Educator, how has being part of the OPI team shaped your career, and what has been the most rewarding experience?

Elaine: Being a brand educator has given me the tools and knowledge to evaluate not only my salon but the clients and technicians and also advocate for a better, more educated nail industry. The most rewarding experience would be getting to travel to different places and teaching/showing them OPI products and getting to represent OPI.

OPI: What career advice would you give nail technicians looking to advance their skills and grow in the nail industry?

Elaine: Don't give up. Take all the opportunities that come your way and learn. There’s always something to learn in this industry. Sign up for classes or if there is a nail tech that you look up to, ask questions, and pick their brains!

OPI: What is your go-to holiday nail art look, and do you have any festive nail design tips for the holiday season?

Elaine: I would say sweater nails are my favorite go-to nail art to do for the upcoming holidays. I feel they go with everything and the texture makes it so unique.

OPI: Is there a nail technique or style you use most frequently, and what are the essential tools and steps involved in achieving this look?

Elaine: I don't have any specific styles because I am versed in almost every style. All I need is my liner brush that I have had for 8 years—she’s my ride or die!

OPI: Where do you see your nail career going in the future, and what goals are you setting as a nail artist?

Elaine: I would love to be able to have my own line of products. Products that I love and use on a daily that would just make life easier as a nail artist.

OPI: What was the most important takeaway from educating nail technicians on the new OPI GelColor line?

Elaine: The new formula and the way the gel self-levels has been the biggest takeaway when I educate anyone on this formula. Everyone is so excited for the new gel line.

OPI: How do you choose the nail designs, shapes, and colors for your clients, and what inspires your unique approach to nail art?

Elaine: I assess my client and how they are feeling or if they are traveling for work or events, just so I know which direction to take with the designs. My client normally brings in a few designs from Pinterest, IG, etc. and we usually incorporate all the looks together, and I change and add some of my flare to it.

OPI: What features of the new OPI GelColor are your favorites, and how do they enhance the nail art process for clients?

Elaine: The new formula makes it so much easier to do nail art versus our old formula. The way the Intelli-GelTM glides on so smoothly and just stays put is every nail artist's dream.

Don't forget to follow Elaine on IG @nailsby.elainek to check out more of her looks!