St. Joe Students Continue to Nail it.

Spring Break is quickly approaching, and along with swimsuits and sunglasses, there’s one other must-have for vacation: your nails done. While you could go to the nail salon and spend about $60 to get them done, why not try some at-home nail artists? I happen to get sick of my nail design every other week, so I’ve learned how to do my own using Gel-X, just like others. It saves me so much money and time. Manicures like Gel-X, Polygel, and even acrylics are finding their way into Amazon carts, and some SJHS students have mastered the art of nail designs.

Melina Langmeyer, 10, started a nail business about two years ago and has since perfected the art. “When I was a little girl, my mom would always paint my nails. On my 4th birthday, she surprised me with a trip to the spa to get my first manicure, and I loved it! From then on, I started painting my own nails. Little did I know that the obsession was only just getting started. In 2020, at the beginning of quarantine, I upped my nail game by experimenting with different techniques to pass time. I spent three years perfecting what I had learned on myself, my friends, and my family. Two years ago, my friends told me that I should start a nail business, which I did. I do acrylic, gel manicures, and Gel-X extensions for a reasonable fee. The techniques and designs vary depending on my clients' needs. I enjoy doing nails because it gives me a creative outlet and allows me to meet new friends,” Melina said.

Megan Durbin, 9, also does her friends’ nails.

“I started doing nails because I love having my nails done, but I get sick of them in a week. I do Gel-X,” Megan said. “I do my friends’ nails or anybody who asks for $25.”

So, instead of spending paychecks at the nail salon, perhaps reach out to Melina or Megan to get a salon-style manicure for a reasonable price. You can even try it at home by adding a Gel-X kit to your Amazon cart.