What started as a hobby has become a growing business for Slave Lake resident Emma McLaren, who is turning her passion for nail art.
McLaren is the owner of The Witch’s Nook Nails, a home-based nail studio that focuses on custom nail designs and creating a comfortable one-on-one atmosphere. She says the idea to start her own business came after receiving encouragement from her family and friends.
“I started doing nails for fun,” McLaren says. “All my close family and friends were very supportive and told me I should go to school for it and start a business.”
She later completed her certification through the Canadian Beauty School, an online program that allowed her to study at her own pace. Instead of working in a traditional salon, McLaren chose to operate from home.
She says she can provide clients with a more relaxed and personalized experience.
“I like to make every appointment very unique to each client,” she says. “Whether they want to talk the whole appointment or just relax, I want them to feel comfortable.”
McLaren says every appointment is tailored to the individual. Clients can choose what to watch or listen to during their visit, enjoy snacks and beverages, and work together with her to create nail designs that match their personality.
“I’ve never done a repeat set,” she says. “Everybody wants something different, and I really love customizing everything for each person.”
Her favourite designs are whimsical and fantasy-inspired, often featuring detailed hand-painted artwork. The business name, The Witch’s Nook, reflects her love of nature, creativity and mystical themes, which have become part of her artistic style.
Since opening her business, McLaren says the response from the Slave Lake community has been overwhelming.
“It’s been great,” she says. “People have been so supportive. I’ll even be out somewhere and someone will recognize me as ‘the nail lady.’ That makes me really happy.”
She says word-of-mouth recommendations and social media have helped introduce her business to new clients, while returning customers continue to inspire her to create new designs.
Looking ahead, McLaren hopes to expand beyond nail services.
She hopes to offer additional self-care treatments.
She also hopes to selling homemade nail care products, including customized cuticle oils and balms designed for different skin types and nail care needs.
McLaren is working toward opening a dedicated salon space at her home.
For anyone thinking about starting a creative business, McLaren encourages them to keep practicing and believe in themselves.
“Practice definitely makes it perfect,” she says. “Don’t give up. I love my job so much. It doesn’t even feel like work. It just feels like I’m connecting with people and painting fun nails.”
McLaren says she is grateful for the support she has received during her first year in business and looks forward to continuing to serve the Slave Lake community.
If anyone is interested in doing their nails with McLaren, visit her website at the-witches-nook.square.site/.
Julia Magsombol
Lakeside Leader