Jessica White shares her journey from law graduate to successful nail entrepreneur, offering insights on personal branding, salon profitability, and the nail trends shaping 2026
Tell us about your journey into nail artistry
“Leaving a first-class law degree for nails was a deliberate choice. I wanted a career that was creative, hands-on and allowed me to build something entirely my own. The technical skill, precision, and artistry of nails immediately drew me in. It’s demanding and challenging but incredibly rewarding every single day.”
How do you stay current in an evolving industry?
“I make a point of observing trends globally, attending shows and experimenting in the studio, but I also pay attention to what my clients are drawn to or what works for their lifestyles. Social media offers a window into new techniques but I focus on filtering inspiration through what’s functional and long-lasting. My style has always been about clean, chic manicures. Over the years, it has evolved into my signature style of a classic almond manicure, but I strive to keep everything wearable.”
How have you built a personal brand?
“For me, it’s always been about authenticity. Sharing insights, being transparent about trends and educating other artists have helped me build credibility.
“I think people connect with a brand when they feel it’s trustworthy, consistent and approachable, rather than just polished on the surface. It’s taken years, but having clear values and showcasing expertise has been key.”
Where do you feel the industry needs to improve?
“There’s still a long way to go in terms of valuing beauty professionals properly. Historically, nails and beauty services have been underpriced, which sets unrealistic expectations. At the same time, many artists undervalue themselves, accepting less than they’re worth. We need better education on pricing, business management and the confidence to advocate for the value we bring.”
What trends excite you right now?
“While there will always be a place for neutrals, we have seen across fashion and on the runway that bold colours are making a comeback, and I think we’ll really see this in 2026. And of course, for those who like a little extra on their nails, we will continue to see chrome and cat-eye finishes across the board.”
Which performance metrics get overlooked by salon owners?
“Many owners focus solely on footfall or revenue, ignoring metrics like client retention, repeat booking rate and average treatment value. These are the things that have a huge impact on profit. Understanding these numbers allows owners to identify where the business can grow efficiently without just relying on more clients.”
How do business metrics change as a business grows?
“When you’re just starting out, it’s mostly about building a steady client base and consistent revenue. As your salon grows, it becomes more important to see which services bring in the most profit and which could use more attention. Looking at things like how often clients return, the value of each booking and which treatments are most popular helps you make smarter decisions and run the business more efficiently.”
What’s your advice for professionals intimidated by numbers?
“Start with the basics and focus on the few metrics that really matter to your profitability. Keep things visual through graphs, charts and simple trackers to help make the numbers less daunting. It’s also invaluable to seek mentorship or training in business management. Numbers don’t have to be scary; they’re just tools to help you grow and sustain your business.”
About the expert
Jessica White is a leading UK nail artist and founder of Blanc Studios in Leeds, known for her clean, chic, and wearable manicure designs. With a background in law, she swapped a first-class degree for a hands-on, creative career in nail artistry, building a successful personal brand and thriving salon business.
