Stylist: Keiko

Main Branch: Saratoga Salon

A: I'm from Okayama Prefecture, Japan. 15 years ago, when I started studying, nail art wasn't such a major profession. I remember I didn't have much choice with only 1 or 2 nail art schools. My family was clueless about what being a "nail artist" meant. It was a difficult time to start because the industry itself was still very small. Even after graduating school, a nail artist assistant wasn't enough to pay the bills, so I had to work multiple jobs.

But thanks to the tremendous popularity of the nail industry thereafter, I was fortunate enough to meet many customers and eventually owned a nail salon of my own.

When I first came to the states, I was surprised by the low awareness of nail art and gel nail, as well as the cultural differences of working in different countries. I've come to realize the pros of both cultures and having that in mind, I want to spread the high quality of Japanese nail art in the US.

A: I'd call myself a color expert. I love creating fun and fashionable nails so creating unique colors is my specialty. It's not just about the bright and bold colors. It's about choosing the right colors that match your skin but still incorporating creativity and originality.

A: I loved painting my nails from when I was a little kid. I would always use my mom's nail polish and then take it off before I went to school since nail polish was not allowed in most schools in Japan. When it came time to really think about my career, I couldn't think of any other job that allows you to be an artisan and still be fashionable at the same time.

A: Nothing is routine. That's what I love. It's different every single day with every single customer. For instance, a simple French Nail can turn out to be such a unique experience depending on the base color, the curve of the nail and even the conversation I have with the customer.

As the nail industry rapidly grew over the past 15 years, new products have come out into the market. The plethora of new products out there brings out the curiosity inside of me, so I'm constantly looking for new and innovative products to make the nail art experience a better one.

A:Nail artist for life. I want to be the neighborhood, super-rad grandma nail artist.

A: I look up to every single nail artist bringing enthusiasm to the industry. I believe there's a lot to learn from every single one of them. It's so exciting to see how this industry will grow in the future along with the emerging and talented nail artists.

A: After moving to California, I fell in love with the weather here. I'm usually relaxing with my dog at the park, relaxing at home, relaxing while watching my husband surf... Gee, I guess I like to relax!

A: Confidence comes from discipline and hard work.