One of our mottos at BEQ is "a good mani maketh the woman'. So when I stumbled across a new nail destination in my hood, I could not contain my excitement. Meet Loretta Thompson from her eponymously named salon, Loretta's and find out why she is a beauty trailblazer.
Photography Olivia Wimsett
What lead you to open Loretta’s?
After years of being a regional sales manager in the hair and beauty industry, I decided to return to my true passion - nail artistry. I could see a need to offer people a healthier option in nail care. I’ve experienced chemical over exposure as a nail technician and wanted to offer a holistic nail experience with non-toxic and botanical products incorporating up to date fashion trends, in a relaxing environment.
What’s a typical working day for you?
Setting up for the day, making sure we're organised, and the salon is in order. Looking at important information to share with our clients around trends, new product and services. We love what we do, it's fun, and our clients have become like family. We have worked hard to create a warm, friendly atmosphere to relax and unwind; it’s their place as much as it is ours.
What services do you offer at Loretta’s?
All nail care services from nail extensions to Shellac manicure, pedicures and nail art. We incorporate healthy nail services with a fashionable edge.
What products do you use and recommend?
We are advocates for healthy, nail care. Our ethos is offering non-toxic, holistic and botanical products. We partner with CND for liquid powder extensions and Shellac manicures, and Lecentè for glitters and coloured powders. Wherever possible we support New Zealand brands such as the OMG Beauty, Bonbon Vegan, and Matakana Botanicals & Earth Botanicals.
What’s the on-trend nail shape right now?
Today any shape goes. As technicians, we consider our client's profession and lifestyle to give them a practical style. Shorter square nails are always classic and sophisticated, while almond and coffin shapes are also very popular. Shellac (semi-permanent nail colour) has changed the manicure experience for women, it has also revolutionised our industry offering couture design with nail art, and for it's ability to dry quickly and last. Nails are now a fashion accessory.
What’s next and what exiting you?
The latest trends internationally are sunglass nails (mirrored finishes), 3D printing, and split style manicure.
What do you love about the nail industry?
I love the ability to be able to make someone feel amazing about their hands, we use our hands for everything, feeling good about their appearance is important. I love being able to make that difference for people - it's a real privilege.
What would you never compromise on?
Nail health and hygiene along with education. All our technicians are formally qualified through HITO. Formal training is such an important aspect of being a true professional, understanding nail health and salon health along with good practice is imperative.
What or who inspires you everyday?
We love fashion. Industry leaders in fashion and hairdressing always offer inspiration, our clients inspire us every day to bring creative nail art to life. For me personally Tom Bachik and Jan Arnold offer great inspiration, and locally nail artist Leah Light.
How much does fashion influence nails trends?
Fashion influences trends, and each season we look to fashion to create nail inspiration for our clients. We look to different textures, fabrics and of course colour.
What trend are you most excited about right now?
Metallic inspired designs, incorporating gold, bronze and silver with nudes for a subtle option or deep plums and burgundies for a bold effect.
What about colour, what shades are hot for winter?
Burgundy and deep red are trending this winter along with metallics, silver and gold.
What’s your point of difference from other nail bars?
Offering a non-toxic, holistic and botanical environment supporting the fashion aspect of nail artistry. Each client has a sterilised nail pack, and we never use a file twice. We take care of the natural nail first and foremost; natural nail health is the most important aspect of our job, it’s the platform to create beautiful, stylish nails.
What has been your career high to date?
Opening my salon, seeing my vision unfold and being able to offer healthy alternatives in nail care.
What’s your best nail tip?
Care for your nails. Commit to regular nail manicures, keep them coated and protected, and keep your nails conditioned with CND Solar Oil.
What the one nail product you would never without?
CND Solar Oil. It's a wonder product, it makes Shellac manicures last longer and ensures you have healthy nails and nourished cuticles, it’s like using conditioner on your hair.
Auckland To view all Loretta's nail services click here
To visit Loretta's Nail Salon, 255 Hinemoa St, Birkenhead, Auckland 0626. Phone 09-4808679.