Educator Spotlight: Adria Gorham

Getting Started

How did you get started in the nail industry?

My love for nails started when I was really young. I bought my first nail table when I was 10 years old and started doing gel polish on myself. Even before I had a table, I would sit on the floor painting and repainting my nails for fun for hours. Looking back, it’s pretty obvious this was always where I was meant to be.

What made you stick with nails as a career?

I love the combination of creativity, precision, and connection. Nails let me be meticulous and artistic while building relationships with amazing people every single day. It’s the perfect mix of everything I enjoy. I also love that I get to make my own schedule.

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

I’d probably be working at a spa doing facials. I love helping people feel confident, relaxed, and cared for.

The Lessons That Stuck

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

That you don’t have to know everything right away. Growth comes from continuing to learn, asking questions, and being willing to improve. Making mistakes and learning from them is how you grow.

“Growth comes from continuing to learn, asking questions, and being willing to improve.”

What’s the hardest skill you had to master?

Finding my routine and rhythm. When you’re doing nails, you’re most efficient when you follow the same steps every appointment. It took me a long time to develop a routine that works for me.

“You aren’t meant for everyone, and not everyone is meant for you.”

What was your biggest “I can’t believe I did this” moment?

I can’t believe I did acrylic for so long! Acrylic was what I learned in school, and it was incredibly popular at the time. But it was also really hard on my body, and I started having issues with my hands, wrists, and elbows. Finding Luminary completely changed the way I work and helped me build a healthier, more sustainable career.

When did you feel like you officially “made it”?

When I became an educator, and when people genuinely started complimenting my nails.

Real Talk

What’s your most embarrassing nail tech moment?

One day I had a brand-new client who arrived about 20 minutes early. I’d just parked next to her without realizing she was my client. I grabbed all my bags, water bottles, and boxes of supplies, then suddenly remembered I’d left my vacuum sitting at home on the sidewalk! I sprinted back to my car and drove home as fast as I could, all while she watched me struggle with everything and then leave. We still laugh about it!

What’s something only nail techs would understand?

If I had a dollar for every time I said, “Relax your thumb,” I’d be retired.

What keeps you motivated on hard days?

Definitely my husband. He’s my biggest supporter and always knows how to encourage me when I’m having a tough day.

On Being an Educator

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

I’ve always loved teaching. I originally wanted to become a school teacher, but I realized I didn’t want to teach high school for the rest of my life. Being a nail educator lets me teach something I’m genuinely passionate about while helping others grow their confidence and careers. It’s incredibly rewarding.

What advice would you give your beginner self?

Not every client is meant for you, and that’s okay. If someone constantly drains your energy, is never satisfied, or doesn’t respect your time, it’s okay to let them go. The right clients will appreciate your work, respect your boundaries, and leave you feeling inspired instead of exhausted. You aren’t meant for everyone, and not everyone is meant for you.

“The right clients will appreciate your work, respect your boundaries, and leave you feeling inspired instead of exhausted.”

On Luminary

What makes Luminary different in your experience as an educator?

The first thing that stands out to me is how beautifully Luminary self-levels; it makes application so smooth. I also love Luminary’s commitment to education. Education is everything in this industry, and Luminary provides incredible resources that make learning accessible for every nail tech.

What do students usually notice first when working with Luminary?

The pigmentation! A lot of students and techs I meet have never worked with a pigmented builder gel before, so it’s always one of the first things they notice. I rave about how convenient it is.

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

I’ve had several clients switch from other products to Luminary, and they absolutely love it. One of my clients comes every five weeks because of her busy schedule, and she never has to worry about lifting or durability. The retention and quality give both me and my clients confidence.

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

Luminary is incredibly user-friendly and versatile. You can create thin, natural-looking structured manicures, add length, encapsulate designs, or use it as a strengthening base coat under gel polish. It’s a system that grows with you, whether you’re just learning or you’ve been behind the table for years.

Her Go-To Tool

Adria’s “Emotional Support” Cuticle Pusher

Her words, not ours. It gently pushes back the cuticle without being aggressive, and the pointed end is perfect for detailed cleanup.

Learn With Adria

Ready to book a class?

Adria teaches with a focus on safety, solid technique, and helping techs build a career they love. Bring her to your salon, school, or event.

Questions? Email info@luminarynailsystems.com.