Educator Spotlight: Carin Kelley

14 days ago

Carin Kelley smiling and holding her Luminary e-file bits

Greeley, Colorado · Luminary educator

Carin Kelley got into nails because it was a good excuse to spend time with her daughter. Five years and a license later, she runs a studio in Greeley, Colorado, specializes in intricate hand-painted work, and teaches other techs that they are allowed to charge what they are worth.

She still gets a little flattered every time a new client books because they saw her work on a friend's hands. She will also tell you plainly that learning to say no is a business skill, and that protecting your time off the clock matters as much as anything you do at the table.

Here's Carin, in her own words.

Getting Started

How did you get started in the nail industry?

What began as a hobby over five years ago naturally transitioned into a career. Giving manicures and pedicures became an amazing way to bond not only with my daughter but also with some of her friends, as well as my own. I loved spending time with family and friends, and I started receiving compliments on a job well done. Many people encouraged me to get licensed. The timing didn't work out until my kids were older and I was in a better location, closer to a school.

What made you stick with nails as a career?

Once I began doing nails, I realized I had a talent for it. Then I started venturing into nail art, and I not only enjoyed it immensely, but I discovered I was good at it too. It also became a creative outlet for me while raising my wonderful kids.

If you weren't a nail tech, what would you be doing instead?

If I weren't a nail tech, I'd honestly probably be doing something with animals. My life feels incomplete without a dog!

Carin Kelley sitting with her two dogs in her home studio

The Lessons That Stuck

What's something you wish you knew when you first started?

When I first started, I wish I had known it was okay to charge what my services were worth instead of feeling like I had less value as a novice nail tech. I sold myself short, thinking people wouldn't want to pay a higher price for a set from someone who was newly licensed, rather than realizing I was good at what I did and worth the price.

What's the hardest skill you had to master?

I feel like I'm continually learning, so I don't know that I'll ever truly master one particular skill. One of the most important things I remind myself of on a regular basis is that it's okay to say no, in life in general and especially in my business.

Honestly, my clients keep me motivated. Knowing that I get to spend time with these wonderful women I've come to know and love so dearly keeps me going.

What was your biggest "I can't believe I did this" moment?

It's hard to think of just one moment. I'll forever be humbled every time someone trusts me with their nails for a special event. Doing someone's wedding nails, baby shower nails, or nails for the first day at a new job is a privilege I never want to take for granted. I'm also still flattered every time I receive a new client appointment request that says, "I'm friends with so-and-so, and I love seeing the nails you do on her. I'd love to make an appointment!" It makes me happy knowing that clients choose my quality work over a quick set every day of the week. There are so many moments when I think, "Wow, I can't believe I get to do this for a living."

When did you feel like you officially "made it"?

I feel like I've "made it" every time a client refers me to a friend. It's so flattering and humbling that someone sees enough value in my work to encourage someone else to schedule an appointment.

Carin Kelley working on a client's nails at her station

Real Talk

What's been your most embarrassing nail tech moment?

I think my most embarrassing nail tech moment was when I had a conversation with a client about moving her appointment. I thought I had confirmed a certain time with her after our chat, but apparently I had only confirmed it with myself. Imagine my surprise when she showed up at my door at the original appointment time!

What's something that only nail techs would understand?

I think all nail techs understand what it's like to compare yourself to a shrimp. Ha! If you know, you know!

It was okay to charge what my services were worth instead of feeling like I had less value as a novice nail tech.

What keeps you motivated on the hard days?

Honestly, my clients keep me motivated. Knowing that I get to spend time with these wonderful women I've come to know and love so dearly keeps me going.

Carin Kelley smiling at her nail station

On Being an Educator

What's your favorite part of being a nail educator?

My favorite part of being a nail educator is the value we all bring to one another. Not only do I hope to teach others something they don't know, but I also love that I learn from them as well. I value the community we're building together, which becomes our support system. We all have something unique to offer.

What advice would you give your beginner self?

I would tell my beginner self to set clear boundaries between work and personal life. Protect your time with your family and friends, and make sure there's plenty of it.

Carin Kelley smiling with her Luminary Nail Systems bag

On Luminary

What makes Luminary different in your professional experience as an educator?

Luminary allows me to show others how the right products can make a major impact on their business.

How have you seen Luminary impact retention and client satisfaction in the salon?

Luminary has incredible retention. It allows my clients to go longer between appointments. Most of my clients are surprised that a product can last so well for so long. I also believe it makes a difference for clients on a budget because it's a base and color in one, helping save both them and me money.

I value the community we're building together, which becomes our support system. We all have something unique to offer.

What do students usually notice first when working with Luminary?

The students I've introduced to Luminary notice how easy it is to apply. They're also surprised by how little product is actually needed on the nail and how beautifully it self-levels.

Why do you think Luminary works so well in both education and real-life salon settings?

I believe it works so well because it's so easy to apply. It's approachable for students learning multiple new skills, while also being a great fit for beginner and experienced nail techs alike.