Pro Spotlight

OPI Pro Spotlight: @customtnails1

Meet Temeka Jackson aka @customtnails1, the celebrity lux manicurist who wants you to “Show up. Set up. Shut up & Slay!”

From Connecticut to LA, this rising star says the key to success is a willingness to put in the real work. Read on to learn how she manages the stress of the job, tips for raising your social following, and the key to her iconic blinged-out sets.

OPI: Where do you find your inspiration and what's your process when creating all the detailed and stunning nail art looks and techniques that you do?

Temeka: My inspiration comes from fashion, murals, and paintings. Everything can become art. I love seeing all new fashion on the runway and getting ideas. I love fabric patterns. Craft stores are my favorite; I can get lost in a great bead store. I love to think outside the box. Everything is Art.

I am crushing my career because of the support of my family

OPI: You've crushed it in your nail career! How did you get so far and get so many incredible opportunities already?

Temeka: My nail career is my testimony! I would not have gotten far without God, keeping his hand on my life. When I realized Connecticut was not a licensing state for nails, I knew I had to put everything I had in me to relocate. I am crushing my career because of the support of my family, my Connecticut/LA clients, and my unmatched willingness to do the work. Word of mouth is such a major part. But your consistency, work ethic, and authenticity are what will get you far. My mantra is always to “Show up. Set up. Shut up & Slay!” Shut up just means read the room.

OPI: Which shade from our new OPI'm Dreaming Spring 2025 collection are you loving the most?

Temeka: I love all the shades in the spring collection. My favorite is Reality Check Ya Out. It's stunning!!!!

OPI: You've done nails for everything from magazine covers to award shows, and tv shows. Which has been the most exciting or impactful experience you've had so far?

Temeka: Everything I have done with award shows, TV shows, and magazines has all been impactful. Every person I’ve had the pleasure to work with is extremely exciting. It is amazing to see your work in all facets.

"Being the first nail artist to be featured in the Grammy Museum is a major milestone—not just for my career, but for the nail industry as a whole. It’s an honor that will always be part of my legacy."

OPI: What's your favorite part about working with celebrities and TV/film to create nail looks?

Temeka: Bringing the vision together, while creating with the rest of the glam team. The nail style starts from the wardrobe. My absolute favorite is when my client is on the red carpet and the interviewer is questioning them about their nails. I love the reactions!

OPI: Is there a certain nail art technique or tip that you'd like to share with other nail techs?

Temeka: My tip for other nail artists would be to step outside the box! Do not conform to what you see on social media—create your own lane. This will always keep you at the top and relevant.

OPI: How do you stay ahead of the inherent stress that comes along with the life of a nail tech who works on high-profile clients, events, and sets?

Temeka: The best way to stay ahead of stress, is to create a peaceful environment for yourself. Whatever that looks like! Cutting off your phone, setting time to do self-care for you. When you know it’s awards season it is such a busy time. Create a schedule ahead of time to prioritize cutting down on extra activities around you. There are some days that will be tough, but do not bring that into your home. Release the energy at the door. My happy place is gospel music in my car. It helps me to stay relaxed.

OPI: Your social media is booming! What helped you grow your following to what it is today?

Temeka: Social media has changed since I moved to LA nine years ago. However, to keep my social media going, I stay consistent with my posting and change up my posting style to work with the algorithm. A re-post from your biggest clients is always such a help.

OPI: We see that you have such a gift, especially when it comes to implementing jewels and 3D effects in your nail art. What do you love most about designs that use these, and how do you decide placement, sizing, etc?

Temeka: 3-D nail art, bling placement, jewels, charms, etc. It’s such a joy for me to create because I am such a perfectionist for placement. When it comes to bling placement is so important. Knowing the shapes, and what fits is like a puzzle. I love to make what I call arrangements. You can tell when someone has thrown their bling and charms together as they do not look cohesive. It is important to map out your design visually or on paper if that helps. I’m a visual artist so I can create just from the eye. Learning the shapes is important and has helped me create my best masterpieces.