The Nail Edit by Rachael
Hi, I'm Rachael and I own 'The Nail Edit, by Rachael'
Tell us what you do?
I offer BIAB, gel polish, manicures, pedicures and nail art. I don’t do full sets of extensions, but I can extend or repair the odd nail if needed.
I love the creative side of doing nails, especially nail art! Whether someone wants something simple and natural or something a bit more colourful, I really enjoy seeing how a set of nails comes together.
I also love that every client is different, so no two days are quite the same!
Why did you start your business?
I actually first trained to do nails back in 2015 and I started doing nails for friends and family. It was all very casual back then, just something I really enjoyed doing.
Life then got in the way, as it does! I was working full-time in an office and between that and being a mum, there wasn’t much time left for anything else. I still did the odd set of nails here and there, but that was about it.
After having my twins, I found myself in a difficult position. I was told that if I couldn’t arrange childcare and return to the office, there wouldn’t be a job for me anymore.
I won’t lie, I was really upset. After 12 years, it was a big part of my life to walk away from, especially leaving people I’d worked alongside for so long.
When the twins were around three, I started thinking about nails again. It was something I’d always enjoyed, and I thought maybe this was my to actually build something of my own.
So in March 2025, I decided to give it another go. I was extremely nervous! I started off doing nails for friends, and I remember how long it would take me just to finish one set. I was so out of practice, and everything seemed to take forever!
Slowly, friends started recommending me to other friends and family, and things began to grow from there. With every set I did, I started getting a little more confident.
I’d actually been having my own nails done by Libby, who owns The Sanctuary, for over four years. One day she mentioned that she was thinking about renting a chair to another nail technician, and I jokingly said, “What about me?”
She was more than happy for me to join her, but I’ll be honest, it took me a while to actually commit. My confidence was probably my biggest hurdle, and I kept questioning whether I was ready.
Eventually I took the plunge, and I’m so glad I did. I absolutely love working alongside Libby. She’s been so supportive and helps me so much, which has made a huge difference to my confidence.
It’s funny how things work out sometimes. I never imagined when I first trained back in 2015 that I’d end up doing this as my own little business. I’m still learning, still growing and still finding my feet, but I’m really proud that I finally gave myself the chance to do something I enjoy.
What’s your favourite thing you offer?
Definitely nail art! I love getting creative and trying different designs, but I do love it when someone comes in with a picture or some inspiration of what they’d like.
I’m terrible at making decisions for myself, never mind anyone else! 😂 So when someone says I can do whatever I want, I never know where to start!
Give me a picture or an idea to work from though, and I’m happy!
What’s something people don’t know about you?
I’m a pretty open book, so there’s probably not much people don’t know about me! 😂 But I absolutely love reading romantasy books, so much so that I’ve even got an ACOTAR-inspired tattoo dedicated to them!
I also love doing jigsaw puzzles and I’m slightly addicted to Monopoly GO on my phone. What a geek! 🤣
A moment you’re really proud of?
I’m really proud of how far I’ve come since starting nails again. I was so nervous in the beginning and constantly doubted myself, so finding the confidence to join Libby at The Sanctuary was a huge achievement for me.
I also remember doing my first set of abstract nail art and feeling genuinely proud of what I’d created. It was one of those moments where I thought, maybe I can actually do this!
Seeing my clients return and recommend me to others has been lovely too. I’m still learning and building my confidence, but looking back at where I started, I’m really proud of myself.
Instagram: @thenaileditbyrachael
HYPE REWARD: I’d love to offer 10% off their first appointment to anyone who discovers The Nail Edit by Rachael through Hype! Use code HYPENAILS when booking. New clients only, one use per client.
Contact:
The easiest way to contact me for appointments or enquiries is through WhatsApp (07736227601) or by sending me a direct message on Instagram @thenaileditbyrachael
Based at The Sanctuary, Droitwich
I usually see messages on both quite quickly!
Anything else you'd like to add?
I’d just like to say a massive thank you to everyone who’s supported me since I started doing nails again.
I have to give a special mention to my friend Gemma, who was actually my first proper client when I started back up. She’s been amazing at recommending me to people and has helped me build up so much of my business.
And of course my friend Becky, who came to me after having her nails done by Libby (on her recommendation) for years. Both of them have been so supportive and encouraging.
I’ve also been really lucky to have so many lovely clients from my running club who have supported me along the way.
Every appointment, recommendation and bit of encouragement has meant so much to me. I wouldn’t have had the confidence to get this far without the people around me, and I’m genuinely so grateful. ❤️
