About

Hi, I'm Annabel!

The proud owner of PrettyEdgy Nails – Nail & Education Studio

Established in 2016. My journey in the nail industry began much earlier, in 2008, fueled by a lifelong passion for creativity alongside my naturally caring personality. As a child, I would set up a mini nail desk in the corner of my parents’ living room, offering manicures to visitors for a small fee. Little did I know, those playful beginnings would spark a career I truly love.

Here’s a brief timeline of my career...

2008

Began my professional journey in the nail industry by completing a VTCT qualification in Nail Anatomy, Health & Safety, and Nail Technology at college.

I then started my first job as a Nail Technician at the sister salon of Urban Retreat (Harrods), U.R Beautiful. Here, I specialised in manicures and pedicures.

2011

I was headhunted to work at another salon, where I expanded my expertise to include manicures, pedicures, hard gel extensions, and nail art. One of my regular clients during this time was Jessie Wallace.

2014

I took a career break for maternity leave, during which I decided to further my skills and expertise within the industry. In 2015, I completed my teacher training course and became the London Educator for Nail Harmony UK, the leading distributor of the first pure gel polish brand, Gelish. I taught students to become fully qualified Nail Technicians while gaining incredible experiences—doing Nicole Scherzinger’s nails, traveling to the USA for educator events, and contributing to articles in Scratch, PBL, and Pro Beauty magazines.

During this time, I also worked alongside a fellow Nail Harmony educator in her North London Nail & Makeup Studio, specialising in acrylic sculpted extensions, hand-painted nail art, and HD Brows.

2016

Although I had always maintained a private clientele alongside my salon roles, working in North London became challenging with a new baby. I decided it was the right time to establish a home-based Nail & Education Studio, officially introducing PrettyEdgy Nails. While continuing to teach for Nail Harmony, I began building a strong local clientele.

2019

In late 2019, I was approached by IKON.iQ Nails, a developer and manufacturer of award-winning hypoallergenic professional nail products, and became their London & Surrey Educator. However, after the challenges posed by Covid-19 and Brexit in 2020, I took a brief break from teaching.

2021-2024

After navigating three lockdowns and temporary business closures due to Covid-19, I returned to offering treatments, specialising in all aspects of nail services.

By April 2021, with six years of E-File teaching experience, I shifted my focus entirely to E-File education and became the London Educator for Willow Academy. I dedicated myself to breaking the stigma around "nail drills" and raising industry standards. Over time, I reintroduced a full range of nail courses for both beginners and experienced technicians. Despite the pandemic’s challenges, I stayed committed to delivering high-quality education and treatments.

In early 2024, I was promoted to Online Education Manager and Head Online Educator at Willow Academy, while continuing to run in-person courses at my Surrey/South London studio.

Today, I specialise in E-File and Gel training, helping nail artists elevate their skills, boost confidence, and work more efficiently for outstanding results. My mission is to empower professionals to grow successful, sustainable careers while maintaining a healthy work-life balance.