Home1. Tell us about yourself
My name is Millie Sibley (@bymilliej) and I’m a newly qualified nail tech from Shropshire. I currently work part-time as a nail tech, alongside my job in the NHS, but becoming a full-time nail tech is the dream.
I’m also currently doing a beauty therapy course at The London School of Beauty.
2. How did you get into the industry?
I’ve always loved having my nails done and after being a hand model for TGB Brand Ambassador @gelsbybry and watching her on a regular basis, I realised it was something I was interested in pursuing.
3. What do you specialise in?
I work with natural nails and love to see how BIAB™ and regular manicures improve my clients’ natural nails and support growth. As I’m newly qualified, I’m enjoying exploring all the different aspects and techniques involved in creating the perfect set.
4. What was your education journey into becoming a nail tech?
I had been doing my Beauty Therapy course for a few months before having the amazing opportunity train at the @thenailclubco, which was founded by a TGB Brand Ambassador. It was here where I realised how much I love doing nails.
5. Who’s your inspiration?
My biggest inspiration has got to be Bryony, aka @gelsbybry, who is doing amazingly in the industry. I find it so inspiring how she supports up-and-coming nail techs with growing their business. I hope one day I can be as talented, successful and helpful towards other nail techs as her.
Not forgetting all other nail techs and anyone in the industry, I love and appreciate how supportive they have all been.
6. Have you had to overcome any obstacles to get to where you are today?
With being so new in the industry, I’m yet to overcome big challenges but I am open to the obstacles I may face so I can learn and grow from them. I’m very lucky that I had a space to set up a salon so early in my journey. To juggle my job, decorating and learning as well as starting my business was difficult, but I’ve proved to myself I can overcome the first hurdle.
7. What’s been your ‘pinch me’ moment?
Seeing my salon set up and having my first clients book in was such an exciting moment and gave me butterflies. I can’t wait for more of these moments as my business grows.
8. What is your favourite nail trend?
I’m loving a minimalistic manicure as they are so timeless and popular amongst all age groups. Baby BIAB™ is my go-to because it goes with all skin tones, works for any outfit and is also perfect for holidays!
9. What advice would you give someone starting out in the industry?
As someone who is starting out in the industry themselves, the best advice I’ve been given so far is just go for it! Get yourself out there, don’t be worried about what other people think as that really doesn’t matter.
10. How would you like to see the industry change?
As a newbie, I was shocked to see how little nail techs charge in comparison to other beauty treatments. The nail industry undercharges for the quality service we provide, although it is slowly moving in the right direction, there is still an increase that needs to happen.
11. What have you learnt along the way that would be valuable to pass on?
To invest in good quality products and tools at the beginning. It seemed scary to spend more money on products when there are cheaper alternatives out there, but it really is worth paying that bit more in the long run, as it means clients feel more comfortable to come to you as they know what you are using allows you to provide your best service.
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