I was once a full-time company employee, but after getting married and having children, I became a stay-at-home mother. One day, I had the chance to be a practice model for a friend studying nail art—and that moment sparked a deep passion in me. I enrolled in nail school, even though I had originally hoped for a job with weekends off. To my surprise, I found myself drawn to a profession that thrives on weekend work!
In the early years, mastering each technique didn’t come easily. I spent countless hours practicing for certification exams while juggling motherhood and household responsibilities. The biggest challenge was finding time.
I told myself: “Skip one day, and your skills will slip!” So I made a promise: “Practice every day, even if only for a short time.”
That’s when I came up with a routine—going to bed at 9 PM with my child, waking up at 3 AM, practicing until 6 AM, and then starting my day as a mother. Looking back, that rhythm truly worked for me.
I earned my Nailist Certifications (Level 3, 2, and 1), as well as Gel Nail Certifications from beginner to advanced. During this time, I worked at nail salons in Tokyo and even opened a private salon near my home, all while continuing my studies and gaining hands-on experience with clients.
After several years, I became comfortable working with clients and was offered a position as an external nail instructor at a beauty school in Tokyo. This marked a new chapter in my nail journey. Teaching others made me reflect deeply on each step of the process—why we do it, how it affects the final result, and how to improve it. Techniques I once performed instinctively now had meaning and purpose.
This reflection led me to realize that standardized techniques don’t always meet the unique needs of each client. Everyone’s nails are different—shape, condition, lifestyle. That’s why I believe every treatment must be tailored to the individual. I use all my knowledge and skills to help each client achieve truly beautiful nails, and I take pride in seeing their joy.
As my client base grew, I also recognized the limits of working alone. I began hiring young nail artists—but only those I personally trained at my nail school, who share the values and standards of Bijou Nails. We do not hire through general recruitment.
It’s been six years since we moved to our current location near Asakadai Station, and in 2023, Bijou Nails celebrated its 11th anniversary. Over the years, we’ve welcomed many clients, listened to their concerns, and worked hard to provide solutions through thoughtful, high-quality nail care. Together with our team of young nail artists, we remain committed to delivering precise, personalized service.
The name “Bijou Nails” reflects our desire to create nails as beautiful as jewels. Our motto is: “Through beautiful nails, bring excitement to women around the world!”
We hope that women from all walks of life feel empowered and inspired when they look at their nails—ready to take on the world with confidence. If our work can contribute even a little to their success and happiness, it would mean everything to us.
Lastly, I’m aware that the working conditions for female nail artists in Japan still lag behind other industries. One of our future goals is to create the most supportive and empowering work environment for nail artists in the country—by hiring, educating, and uplifting more women in this field.
Thank you for your continued support.
With gratitude,
Masae
Owner, Bijou Nails