Introduction
In the dynamic world of beauty and fashion, women continue to break barriers and redefine industries. This Women’s History Month, we shine a light on Celina Rydén, a prominent nail technician, educator, and entrepreneur from Stockholm, Sweden. As the founder of Moonflair Nails and My Nail Academy, and a respected ambassador for Light Elegance, Celina has carved her niche in an often competitive field, bringing creativity and passion to her work.
Background and Journey into the Nail Industry
Celina’s journey began in 2005 after a chance encounter with a friend sporting gorgeous gel nail extensions. This sparked her curiosity and led her to a nearby nail school. “I completely fell in love with everything,” Celina recalls. With a keen desire to be creative, she decided to fully embrace the nail tech profession, despite knowing little about the industry.
Embracing Creativity
From the beginning, Celina recognized the importance of creative expression in her work. Her enthusiasm for tools, products, and techniques fueled her passion for nails, establishing a firm foundation for her future ventures. She was determined to leave a mark on an industry that was still emerging.
Overcoming Challenges as a Female Leader
As she rose in her career, Celina confronted various challenges inherent in being a female leader. She speaks candidly about the competitive atmosphere among women in the beauty industry. “I’ve learned to accept that hate is unavoidable when you are a public figure. It’s not personal,” she shares. Celina emphasizes the necessity of focusing on positivity and building a supportive network rather than getting bogged down by negativity.
Supporting One Another
Celina encourages women to uplift one another in the nail industry, promoting a culture of appreciation rather than rivalry. “Speak positively about your colleagues. Their success raises the standard for everyone, and ultimately benefits us all,” she advises.
Learning from Inspirational Women
When asked about influential figures in her career, Celina cites Lezlie McConnell, co-owner of Light Elegance, as a profound source of inspiration. “Lezlie has done so much for me and the industry, and her passion is infectious,” she says. Their mentor-mentee relationship underscores the significance of guidance and support among women in professional settings.
Key Lessons from Her Journey
Reflecting on her experiences, Celina wishes she had known earlier not to trust blindly. “I’ve learned to be more cautious about whom I let into my professional sphere,” she shares. Life experiences have taught her the importance of self-awareness and being vigilant without losing trust completely.
Practice Self-Care
Celina emphasizes the importance of self-care, noting that practitioners in the beauty field often neglect their own needs in favor of others. “You cannot pour from an empty cup. Schedule time for yourself,” she advises. Practicing self-care and setting boundaries is vital for longevity in the industry.
Continued Education and Growth
After obtaining her nail tech license, Celina pursued further education through nail art and competition courses, but she acknowledges the need for continuous learning. “I’d love to take more classes,” she admits, highlighting the importance of lifelong learning in any profession.
Finding Growth Opportunities
To enhance her skills beyond nail tech, Celina actively seeks education in marketing, photography, and design—areas that are crucial for running her businesses. “Online courses are a fantastic resource for education!” she encourages aspiring nail techs to explore new avenues for growth.
Advice for Aspiring Nail Technicians
Celina offers valuable advice for those looking to enter the nail industry: research your chosen school thoroughly, ask for recommendations from accomplished professionals, and surround yourself with supportive peers. “Be kind, have fun, and continue learning!” she emphasizes—core values that resonate throughout her career.
Creating a Positive Environment
Creating a positive work environment and maintaining a strong sense of community can lead to greater success for all. Celina’s insights inspire a culture of collaboration and empowerment among nail technicians.
Conclusion
Celina Rydén is a testament to the power of passion and resilience in the beauty industry. As she continues to thrive in her multiple roles, she serves as an inspiration to women everywhere—showing that with dedication and a commitment to uplifting others, it’s possible to forge a successful path in any field.