Educator Spotlight: Amy Aust
Nail artist & Luminary educator
Amy Aust was always the one doing everyone’s hair, nails, and makeup before school dances and shows. Art was in her blood, so when college didn’t fit, cosmetology school became the dream. Today she’s a nail artist and Luminary educator known for intricate hand-painted nail art and a chair full of clients who keep coming back.
Her focus has always been the same: helping clients understand their nails and get the strong, natural nails they’ve always wanted. That focus is what led her to Luminary, and joining the team was a dream realized. Now she gets to share the products she loves and support other techs across the industry.
We asked her about going out on her own, the clients who fill her cup, and the products she can’t finish a set without.
Follow along at @amylynn_nails
Getting Started
How did you get started in the nail industry?
I was always the girl doing everyone’s hair, nails, and makeup for school dances and shows. When I realized college wasn’t for me, I knew the only thing I truly loved was doing beauty services, so going to cosmetology school quickly became the dream.
What made you stick with nails as a career?
I loved being able to create art every day. Plus, I got to help people feel good while chatting about life. It filled my cup just as much as it did for the clients who sat in my chair.
If you weren’t a nail tech, what would you be doing instead?
This question is so hard because there’s honestly not much else I’d even consider. But it would probably have to be something with animals, like turning my backyard into an animal sanctuary, with or without my wife’s permission!
The Lessons That Stuck
What’s something you wish you knew when you first started?
You don’t have to take every client. I put up with a lot when I first started. Some of the things people would say were completely unhinged, and I was working in a salon that taught us to just take it and keep going. I wish I’d learned to stand up for myself sooner.
What’s the hardest skill you had to master?
I am so heavy-handed. Learning to move the gel around to create the perfect structure without making a huge crater was such a struggle. Forcing myself to use a lighter touch, and finding the right brush, made all the difference, but it was definitely a journey.
“Trust yourself. Know your worth. Protect your heart.”
What was your biggest “I can’t believe I did this” moment?
Opening my own private studio. I decided to go out on my own before salon lofts and private studios were common, and at the time it was mostly hairstylists doing it. But I did it! Eight years later, I’m still here.
When did you feel like you officially “made it”?
The day I had to stop taking new clients. It was one of those “Oh crap… I’ve actually done this” moments.
Real Talk
What’s your most embarrassing nail tech moment?
During my first year on my own, I completely forgot to book someone’s appointment. They walked in so confidently, and I’d just barely started with another client. It was totally my mistake, and I was mortified. Thankfully, they were incredibly understanding, but wow, that one hurt.
What’s something only nail techs would understand?
Stop trying to help us! I promise, if I need your hand in a certain position, I’ll move it there. The more you pull away or move around, the harder you’re making it. I appreciate the effort, but please, stop trying to help!
What keeps you motivated on hard days?
My connection with my clients. Even on the days I’m struggling to show up, the people who sit in my chair bring such incredible energy into my space. They trust me with not only their nails but also the most intimate parts of their lives. They share the good, the bad, and everything in between, and that’s something truly special. There’s nothing else quite like it.
On Being an Educator
What’s your favorite part of being a nail educator?
I love watching people have that “aha!” moment. Seeing something finally click and watching them have a breakthrough is such an incredible feeling. Knowing you helped them get there is even better.
What advice would you give your beginner self?
Trust yourself. Know your worth. Protect your heart. Don’t let other people tell you what you have to be okay with.
On Luminary
What makes Luminary different in your experience as an educator?
Honestly, Luminary is unlike any other brand I’ve worked with. They’re invested in us as people first, which is such a game changer. They care just as much about us as we care about our students. Yes, we’re all working together in a professional setting, but they’re also there if you’re having a hard day and just need a friend. You can genuinely tell they love and support us, and that only motivates me even more to be part of the Luminary family.
How have you seen Luminary impact retention and client satisfaction in the salon?
The retention is insane! I have a lot of clients who work in healthcare and really struggled to keep anything on their nails long term. As soon as I switched them to Luminary, those issues completely disappeared.
What do students usually notice first when working with Luminary?
Luminary truly self-levels, which makes application so much easier. There are also so many ways to customize it and troubleshoot based on your needs, whether you’re dealing with temperature changes or you want more or less viscosity. It’s incredibly user-friendly.
Why do you think Luminary works so well in both education and real salon settings?
Luminary is so versatile. You can use it for so many different client needs and at every skill level. It was clearly created by a nail tech because it’s so practical and easy to use behind the table every day.
Shop Her Favorites
Amy’s Luminary Picks
The Top Coat she finishes every service with, the shade she puts on everyone, and her MVP lamp.
Empower Top CoatMulti-Flex in BalancePulse LampLearn With Amy
Ready to book a class?
Amy teaches with heart, from years of real chair-side experience. Bring her to your salon, school, or event.
Book a class with AmyView events calendarQuestions? Email info@luminarynailsystems.com or follow @amylynn_nails.
