So we are well into 2024, and nearing the end of my tenth year in business! Last year absolutely flew by. In fact, the last 10 years have felt like a whirlwind, work-wise and in general life! I always find myself looking back over the previous year. But before writing this, I started going way back, thinking about how it all started. If I had told 29-year-old me what I’d have achieved work-wise in 10 years, I don’t think I’d believe it! I’ve had some real ‘pinch me’ moments. The most recent one was doing the nails for the amazingly talented queens in Six: The Musical. Looking back at the people I’ve met during press days (some probably way more influential than I realized at the time!), one fun press event was Primark – Xmas in July. I was set up in a fancy hotel suite, completely decked out super festive and fabulous, showcasing all Primark’s Xmas range to press and influencers on one of the hottest days in July!

I did a press event for Miniso when they opened their flagship store on Oxford Circus. There was a DJ, so there was a proper party atmosphere, and they had Koko Art personalizing bits. The lovely Anya painted a nail polish bottle for me on my Oyster card holder, which I love, love, love!

I’ve been doing beauty for too many years to mention, but nails have been my passion since I worked at Ted’s Beauty Spot in Bank. It was working there that I found out the day spa my best friend was working at was looking for a nail tech to rent space. “Yes, yes, yes,” I thought. My friend gave me the details but also warned me about the owner. I had met the owner a few times when I’d met my friend after work for drinks. Let’s say I knew what I was letting myself in for, but the idea of being my own boss was too good an opportunity to miss out on. I don’t usually tell this story as it doesn’t end well. Long story short – I had asked for a contract for ages before starting, was asked (demanded) to brand everything with the company logo, even though I was just renting the space. I started on Monday, and on Tuesday, the owner had a reading from a psychic who told her the change wasn’t good for the spa. On Wednesday, I was asked to come in and collect my stuff as she decided she didn’t want me there. I cried, collected my stuff, and could have found another job, but with the support from my mum, grandma, and boyfriend (now hubby), I went freelance!

That’s when the fun really started, and I’m lucky enough to have clients who have been with me since day one! Since starting Nails by Natalie Rose, I’ve had some epic holidays, moved to Balham (aka the wrong side of the river!!!), got married, moved to Colindale, had Charlie, lived through the crazy time of Covid, and thankfully was able to work again as I finished maternity leave, had Lois, who is now 18 months, and although it is a juggle with a business and family, I couldn’t imagine life any other way! I find I’m doing fewer photoshoots for brands as I just don’t have the time, but the offices have picked up again, and come September, Charlie will be at school, Lois will be in nursery more, and I’ll be able to up my hours and do many more offices and fit in more clients at home.

And what ‘then and now’ post wouldn’t be complete without some pics! Here are some of my favourites from the last 10 years!

I’m really looking forward to 2024, on a personal note I’m turning 40, so we have booked a lovely family holiday, and I’d like to get a tattoo! Work-wise, I’m enjoying where my business is, but looking forward, the dream is to have a little garden studio or converted garage. I would still have days when I go to people’s homes and offices, as I believe that is my strong USP, but I want to be able to welcome clients into my own space too!

I just want to wrap this up by saying thanks to all my fab clients, new and old, and to lovely event planners, brides, and bridesmaids who have found my cute little website and booked me for their special events. These are the people that make my business what it is and the reason I love my job as I get to meet so many amazing people!

Who is she?!

Based in London, Natalie offers the full range of hand and feet prettification services at your own home, as well as at work, parties, weddings, events and everything in between! These include manicures, pedicures, gel polish and a special talent for gorgeous nail art (see her social media feeds for proof of said gorgeousness). Natalie is fully qualified with 10 years of experience under her belt and even offers little discounts for parties & larger groups if you speak to her nicely. She’s the life and soul of any hen party, loves anything remotely sparkly and is an avid festival goer (ask about her special ‘festival nail’ designs).

Need some pretty in your life? Call Natalie on 07506 700351 or drop her a line on natalie@nailsbynatalierose.co.uk for availability and prices.