Local nail artist Bailey Clarke scores big at first ever national nail competition

 

Most people follow someone they admire on social media whether it be someone within the line of work they are in or wish to be in or someone that inspires them. For most, the opportunity to meet, let alone befriend, someone they admire is a distant dream but for local resident Bailey Clarke that dream recently became reality.

From October 11 to 14, Clarke was in Saskatoon to attend her first ever national nail competition. The Annual Nail Masters Canada competition is for certified nail technicians and technicians in training. Clarke said she was going into it for the experience and to learn from everyone. Little did she know that she was in a for a big surprise. “I entered five competitions and I placed in two of them! According to some of the other girls, not too many people place their first time, so it was quite unreal. I really didn’t think that being less than two years licensed that I would even place especially with all the competition and the other girls with so much more experience.”

The two categories that Clarke placed in were third in Hand Painted Art Novice and second in 3D Novice. The theme for her art was Roll Out the Red Carpet and as a Novice competitor, she said she had less of a work space than the Veteran competitors. “I had to take three artificial nail tips and put them together and make one cohesive seam across the three. I created a 50’s style Hollywood design.”

Clarke said the experience was second to none because she had a set time in which to do her work and was actively competing with artists. “It was a completely different atmosphere than I’m used to. You’re under so much pressure to make everything perfect and not mess up but, of course, things happen so you really have to go with the flow.” She said around 100 technicians took part in the competition.

The event features celebrity guest judges that are very well known within the industry and one of this year’s judges was UK star Kirsty Meakin. Meakin also happens to be Clarke’s idol. “To have my idol come up to me and tell me that I did a smashing good job is amazing. We’re now friends on Instagram and Facebook and she tells me to tag her in everything and that says something big to me. She’s one of the most genuine people I’ve ever met.”

Clarke has proven so much in such a short time in the industry and there is no doubt that she will continue to grow and climb the ladder. Her advice for those who are working hard to achieve their dreams is nothing short of inspirational. “I tell myself everyday to just practice, practice, practice! You never know unless you fail and there’s always more than one way to do something. Using your brain to figure that out is what makes it fun so don’t make it work, make it fun and keep going. I wasn’t very good at anything and I just kept going and learning and figuring things out for myself.”

Clarke is a Certified Nail Technician and Medical Pedicurist who offers hard gel extensions, medical pedicures, regular pedicures, gel toes, and other spa services out of her home. Her Facebook page can be found by searching “BeeUtiful Nails by Design” or she can also be reached at 780-286-8777.