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10 questions with Nail Artist Jade Rukmin, 34
How did you get started in the beauty industry?
Growing up I was into all things beauty and was eager to learn more, so I always knew that I wanted to work in the beauty industry. I trained and qualified in Beauty Therapy in 2004 then worked a few beauty sales jobs mostly on skincare, and makeup counters. When I got a nail technician role at Nails inc in 2010, I quickly knew nails were something I had a passion for. I loved keeping up with nail trends and advising and servicing clients. Over the years I worked at a few different salons and continued to up-skill and re-train. Then in 2020, after I had my second daughter, I decided to start up on my own. I was fearful of going it alone, but I felt it was the only way I would be able to continue to do what I loved whilst being my own boss, and that’s how ‘Jade nail’d it’ was born.
What makes your work stand out?
I specialise in natural nails. It’s an area I felt was being ignored in favour of extensions. Many of my clients come to me with damaged nails or nail concerns and we work together to tailor a manicure that suits their nail type, shape and issues. I also educate and help clients achieve their dream nail looks without the need for extensions, with lots of aftercare advise.
What’s your beauty philosophy?
I believe that everyone’s definition of beautiful is different, but for me going down the natural nail route has been a game changer. The pride I feel knowing my clients love their natural nails is priceless. And that is achieved through patience and consistency (on both our parts) – I believe that when it comes to beauty these two factors are important and reap rewards.
What inspires you?
I get inspiration from other talented nail techs, Instagram and Pinterest, but I always like to tweak designs to create something that aligns with my own minimalistic signature style.
What do you love about Tribe?
The brand stood out to me mainly because of their inclusive and diverse approach within the beauty service industry. If I’m completely honest I hadn’t come across this before and it was about time! Giving people an opportunity to thrive and a community to support them regardless of their background is so important to me.
What’s your favourite Tribe tool and why?
It’s so hard to pick just one favourite, but if I had to it would be the Cuticle Nipper. They are a dream to use and allow me to trim excess cuticles precisely, prepping the nails perfectly for the next step.
What do you enjoy about your job?
What’s not to love?! I get to meet new people from different backgrounds, learn about them and their lives and cultures which I find incredibly special. I also really enjoy creating new sets of nails and seeing my clients faces light up – it’s a real mood booster. And finally, being my own boss has been a game changer. I wasn’t sure I’d ever be able to work and still enjoy motherhood but going it alone has enabled me to be more present in my two young daughters’ lives.
What advice would you give to people starting out in the beauty?
Stay true to yourself and try not to focus too much on followers and likes. It doesn’t matter how many followers you have, it matters how many clients sit in your chair.
What are your future goals?
I’m concentrating on continuing to build a steady and loyal clientele, perfecting my craft, and maybe one day having my own studio space.
When you’re not working what are you usually up to?
I’m really passionate about teaching my daughters to be kind, understanding and non-judgmental. I want them to grow up being sure of themselves and their culture, whilst understanding and being tolerant of other people’s cultures too. Travelling is something I love to do with them as I believe not all classrooms have four walls.