Šta Vas je prvobitno inspirisalo da postanete nail artist i influenserka?
Sve je počelo tokom mojih studentskih dana, kada je celokupan nail art i poslovanje bilo u povoju. Može se reći da je to počelo kao klasična priča koju sigurno većina početnika može da razume. Prvo je to bila sjajna prilika da zaradim dodatni novac. U to vreme, veštački nokti i proizvodnja bili su u početnim fazama, a snabdevanje materijalima i metodama proizvodnje bilo je, na neki način, ograničeno. Nakon završetka fakulteta, stekla sam klijente i odlučila sam se potpuno posvetiti svojim ciljevima. Lična i profesionalna fascinacija dizajnom noktiju, kao i spoznaja da on može služiti kao jedinstveni oblik samoprikazivanja, inspirisala me je da postanem nail artist. Počela sam tako što sam delila svoju strast kao edukator. Pokretanje sopstvenog posla bilo je skok u nepoznato. Nisam znala da će moje putovanje evoluirati u nešto mnogo veće. Iz svoje uloge vlasnice posla, neočekivano sam se našla u situaciji kako postajem influenserka, deleći svoju strast na većoj skali.
Možete li podeliti sa nama Vaš razvojni put i kako ste izgradili svoj uticaj u nail zajednici?
Rekla bih da je putovanje prvobitno počelo pružanjem kurseva kao mogućnost učenja za klijente koji su želeli da se upuste u dizajn noktiju i, konačno, posao sa noktima. Pokrenuta brojnim pozivima i velikim interesom iz inostranstva, kursevi su se proširili i održavani su širom Evrope, Ujedinjenih Arapskih Emirata i drugih zemalja. Nakon godina ispunjenih putovanjima i radom, došlo je vreme da stvorim svoj brend. Počela sam sa nekoliko proizvoda sa ograničenim brojem nijansi. Počeci su bili ispunjeni odgovornošću, besanim noćima, različitim formulama, testiranjem proizvoda i oglašavanjem, kao i stalnom komunikacijom i saradnjom sa različitim laboratorijama. Konstantna potraga za boljim kvalitetom dovela nas je do današnjeg stanja; sa preko 5000 vrsta proizvoda i prisustvom na tržištu u više od 25 zemalja. U relativno kratkom vremenu, reč o našem brendu se proširila, i malo po malo, okupila sam odličan tim ljudi, počevši od zaposlenih, odeljenja za grafički dizajn, sve do tima za proizvodnju. Može se reći da je to bio zajednički napor koji je ne samo proširio domaći i strani zahtev za našim proizvodima, već me je i pozicionirao kao influensera unutar industrije. Veoma smo srećni što vidimo da su drugi prepoznali kvalitet, trud i veliku strast prema poslu koji radimo. I naravno, veoma smo srećni kao tim što možemo nešto da promenimo i što možemo da utičemo na druge vođenjem, primerom i pružanjem saveta i podrške kada se traži.
Koji su neki od vaših omiljenih trendova ili dizajna noktiju koje ste lično kreirali?
Ponosim se svakom novom kolekcijom, dizajnom i proizvodom koji moj tim i ja stvaramo. Svaka kolekcija i lansiranje proizvoda je napor ispunjen ljubavlju i pažnjom. Posmatranje priče iza ovih kreacija je neverovatno zadovoljstvo. Ono što me najviše uzbuđuje je kako naši kupci prihvataju ove proizvode, pretvarajući ih u alatke za svoj sopstveni umetnički izraz i nove kreativne trendove. Među mojim omiljenim kreacijama su složeni, detaljni cvetni dizajni koji su već godinama moj lični potpis. Takođe volim da pokažem svoju preciznost i kreativnost stvaranjem apstraktnih geometrijskih uzoraka u neon bojama. A za posebne ili sezonske tematske dizajne, volim da radim minijaturne crteže koji mi mogu oduzeti i do 10 sati za završetak, ali krajnji rezultat je zaista zadivljujuć. Takođe preferiram svetle, letnje boje i volim ruže, pa je jedan od mojih omiljenih dizajna, posebno za leto, ombre ruže. Takođe sam veliki obožavalac slatkiša, posebno za prigode poput Dana zaljubljenih.
Kako balansirate vernost svom ličnom stilu dok istovremeno zadovoljavate preferencije svojih klijenata?
Balansiranje ličnog stila i preferencija klijenata ključno je za uspeh. Radi se o pronalaženju srednjeg puta. Ostajem verna svojoj umetničkoj viziji, istovremeno uzimajući u obzir povratne informacije i uključujući popularne elemente koji rezonuju sa mojim pratiocima. Temeljno istraživanje i pažljivo slušanje povratnih informacija kupaca su ključni koraci u procesu stvaranja. Aktivnim uključivanjem sa kupcima, posao može da se prilagodi, unapredi i bolje zadovolji preferencije klijenata. Što se tiče mog ličnog stila, on je ponekad mešavina svega i stalno se menja. Možda je i to razlog zašto se većina mojih klijenata može povezati sa mojim ličnim stilom. Učim od njih, a zauzvrat, mogu me pratiti sa novostima. To je situacija u kojoj svi dobijaju.
Kakav savet bi dali mladim nail umetnicima koji se nadaju da će razviti svoje prisustvo i uticaj u industriji?
Rekla bih da sanjaju veliko! Morate to želeti više od bilo čega drugog. Budite hrabri i verujte u sebe i svoje veštine. Držite glavu visoko i idite napred bez straha, jer nema mesta za neuspeh. Čak i ako ne uspete na početku, to postaje još jedno iskustvo koje vas uči nešto novo i na kraju vas vodi do vašeg cilja. Počeci su teški, naš definitivno jeste bio. Finansijski aspekti, učenje i balansiranje treba vreme da se shvate. Za nas, sve se svodilo na upornost, samodisciplinu i organizaciju, i, naravno, mnogo žrtvovanja. Što se tiče tehničkih saveta, rekla bih da redovno vežbate, ne bojte se da potpuno iskoristite svoju kreativnost i budete sigurni da se aktivno uključujete i umrežavate unutar zajednice. Izgradite svoje prisustvo, usavršite svoje veštine, eksperimentišite sa dizajnom. Najvažnije je uvek ostati svoj i nastaviti sa obrazovanjem. To bih rekla, ključ je izgradnja poverenja i rezonovanja sa svojom publikom. Radimo u dinamičnoj industriji koja se neprestano razvija, zato, budite posvećeni, budite inspirisani, i sve će se nekako postaviti u nekom trenutku. I naravno, budite strpljivi – rast zahteva vreme!
Kao influenserka, kako pratite najnovije modne i beauty trendove dok održavate svoj jedinstveni glas i stil?
Iako sebe ne vidim kao prominentnog influensera, rekla bih da se trudim da ostanem povezana sa najnovijim modnim i beauty trendovima. Aktivnost na društvenim mrežama i prisustvovanje raznim događajima pomaže mi da ostanem u toku sa svim novim i trendi stvarima koje su se pojavile u poslednje vreme. Rekavši to, klasifikovala bih sebe kao zaljubljenika u stil koji ceni raznolikost u svim aspektima. Za moj svakodnevni stil, važno je da je funkcionalan, kao i opušten i elegantan. Balansiranje dugih radnih dana i istovremeno briga o svom sinu, više cenim udobnost nego stil ponekad. Ali postoje trenuci kada se mogu obući i glamurozno. Iskreno, mogu da pređem sa glamuroznog izgleda jednog dana na udobnost trenerki sledećeg dana, od visokih potpetica do patika. Obožavam oboje, i zbog toga mogu da unesem svoj lični dodir u trendove, održavajući autentično odražavanje svog stila.
Kakvo mišljenje imate o odnosu između mode, lepote i samoprikazivanja?
Moda, lepota i samoprikazivanje su uvek bili i ostali povezani. Uvek mogu biti povezani jedan s drugim, kao i uticati jedan na drugog. Takođe služe kao alatke pojedincima da prenesu svoj identitet, ličnost i kreativnost. Uvek možete dodati svoj potpis koji se odnosi na vaš izraz kao pojedinca. Oni su odličan oblik komunikacije bez potrebe za rečima. Svi imaju pravo da izraze svoj jedinstveni stil, kulturu i lične preference.
Imate li omiljene dizajnere ili brendove koji se redovno slažu sa vašim stilom i vizijom?
Kao Vaga u horoskopu, mislim da već možete da pretpostavite odgovor. Nemam omiljenog dizajnera jer postoji jednostavan razlog: bukvalno mešam sve, od visoke mode do lokalnih brendova. Takođe se trudim da podržavam male biznise koliko god mogu. Oznake nisu uvek važne. Rekavši sve to, privlače me dizajneri i brendovi koji su inovativni i hrabri sa svojim dizajnima. Volim da kombinujem minimalizam sa beznapornom elegancijom i sklona sam komadima koji rezonuju sa mojom ličnom vizijom i stilom.
Po vašem mišljenju, koji su neki vremenski neograničeni modni i beauty trendovi koji nikada neće izaći iz mode?
Kada razmišljam o modi, prva stvar koja mi pada na pamet uvek je mala crna haljina, koju, ako budem iskrena, imam u svim oblicima, verzijama, materijalima i stilovima. Imati dobar par farmerki koji dobro stoje, takođe je nezamenljiv klasični komad koji bi svako trebalo da ima u svojoj ormaru. Isto važi i za jednostavnu, belu majicu, dobar par potpetica i retro ili vintage sunčane naočare. Kada govorimo o beauty trendovima, crveni ruž je vremenski klasik, kao i jednostavan cat-eye i nude bronzani izgled. Vanvremenski nail trendovi uvek uključuju klasičnu crvenu ili nude manikir koji se može prilagoditi ukusu svakog pojedinca. Ali uvek sam spremna da eksperimentišem i postavljam nove trendove.
Kakvu ulogu mislite da društvene mreže igraju u oblikovanju savremenih modnih i beauty standarda, i kako se snalazite u ovom pejzažu kao influenserka?
Društvene mreže imaju značajnu ulogu u oblikovanju današnjih beauty standarda. Sa trendovima lepote i mode koji se neprestano menjaju, društvene mreže su veliki doprinos koji prikazuje šta se sviđa i koristi većini i šta se polako zamenjuje ili više nije „trendi“. Kao vlasnik brenda lepote i noktiju, ove platforme nalazim i izazovne i nagrađujuće. Zato moje angažovanje na društvenim mrežama ide dalje od pukog posmatranja; aktivno učestvujem u razgovorima, cenim mnoštvo glasova koji doprinose širem, više inkluzivnom razumevanju beauty i fashion standarda. Koristim društvene mreže da prikažem pravu lepotu, naglašavajući raznolikost i autentične veze. Deljenjem promišljenog sadržaja i autentičnim angažovanjem sa svojom publikom, nadam se da pozitivno doprinosim razvoju standarda lepote i mode.
Kakve uspomene nosite sa fotoshutinga za digitalnu naslovnicu časopisa Grazia? Kakva je bila energija?
Kako uvek radim sa istim timom, gotovo smo postali kao porodica. Veoma dobro se poznajemo i uvek je puno smeha, zabave i, uopšteno, lude pozitivne energije koja se deli. Između poziranja i snimanja, uživali smo u kreativnom procesu sa zabavom i lakoćom, što se može videti ako pogledate snimke iza scene koje uvek pokušavamo da dokumentujemo. Ovaj put je bilo drugačije jer je to bilo pravo modno snimanje, što je napravilo potpuno drugačije iskustvo. Izuzetno sam zahvalna što radim sa tako talentovanim i vrednim timom na setu. Od frizera koji stvara jedinstvene frizure, do fotografa koji beleži svaki trenutak sa visokom preciznošću, i šminkera koji besprekorno ističe moje crte lica – svaki član unosi svoju kreativnu briljantnost.
English here:
What initially inspired you to become a nail artist and influencer?
Initially, it started back in my college days when the entirety of nail art and business was at its beginnings. You could say it started as a classic tale that I’m sure most beginners can relate to. At first, it was a great opportunity to earn extra money. At that time, artificial nails and manufacturing were in their early stages, and the supply of materials as well as production methods were, in some ways, limited. After graduating from college, I gathered clients and decided to truly dedicate myself to my goals. Personal and professional fascination with nail design, and the realization that it could serve as a unique form of self-expression inspired me to become a nail artist. I started off by sharing my passion as an educator. Starting my own business was a leap into the unknown. Little did I know that my journey would evolve into something much greater. From my role as a business owner, I unexpectedly found myself becoming an influencer, sharing my passion on a larger scale.
Could you share a bit about your journey and how you built your influence in the nail community?
I would say the journey initially started by providing courses as a learning opportunity for clients that wanted to get into nail design and, ultimately, the nail business. Fueled by numerous invitations and vast interest from abroad, the courses expanded and were held all over Europe, the United Arab Emirates and other countries. After years filled with travel and work, it was time to create my own brand. I started off with a couple of products with a limited number of shades. The very beginnings were filled with responsibility, sleepless nights, various formulas, product testing and advertising, as well as constant communication and cooperation with various labs. Constant search for a better quality led us to where we are today; with over 5000 types of products and a presence on the market in more than 25 countries. In a relatively short time, word about our brand got out, and little by little I gathered an excellent team of people, starting from the employees, the graphics department, all the way to the production team. You could say it was a collaborative effort that not only expanded the reach and demand for our products, but also positioned me as an influencer within the industry. It makes us extremely happy to see others have recognized the quality, effort and a great passion towards the work we do. And of course, we are very happy as a team to make some difference and to be able to influence others by leading, by example and providing advice and support when asked.
What are some of your favorite nail trends or designs that you’ve created?
I take immense pride in every new collection, design and product that my team and I create. Each collection and product release is an effort filled with love and care. Witnessing the story behind these creations unfold is incredibly rewarding. What excites me the most is how our customers embrace these products, transforming them into tools for their own artistic expression and new creative trends. Among my favorite creations are the intricate, detailed floral designs that have been my personal signature for years now. I also love to showcase my precision and creativity by creating abstract geometric patterns in neon colors. And for special or seasonal themed designs, I love to do miniature drawings that may take me up to 10 hours to complete, but the end result is really stunning. I also prefer bright, summer colors and I like roses, so one of my favorite designs, especially for summer, is ombre roses. I am also a very big fan of cuties, especially for occasions such as Valentine’s Day
How do you balance staying true to your personal style while also catering to the preferences of your audience?
Balancing personal style and audience preferences is a key to success. It’s about finding a middle ground. I stay true to my artistic vision while also considering feedback and incorporating popular elements that resonate with my followers. Conducting thorough research and attentively listening to customer feedback are essential steps in the creating process. By actively engaging with customers, a business can adapt, improve, and better cater to the preferences of its audience. As for my personal style, it is a mix of everything at times, and it’s constantly changing. Maybe that, too, is the reason why the majority of my audience can connect with my personal style. I learn from them, and in turn, they can follow me for novelties. It is a win – win situation.
What advice would you give to aspiring nail artists who hope to grow their presence and influence in the industry?
I would say to dream big! You have to want it more than anything else. Be courageous and believe in yourself and your skills. Keep your head up and push ahead without fear, because there is no place for failure. Even if you don’t succeed at first, it becomes another learning experience that teaches you something new and ultimately guides you to your end goal. Beginnings are tough, ours definitely was. Financial aspects, learning and balancing take time to figure out. For us, it came down to persistence, self – discipline and organization, and, of course, lots of sacrifices. As for more technical advice, I would say to practice consistently, don’t be afraid to fully tap into your creativity and be sure to actively engage and network within the community. Build your presence, sharpen your skills, experiment with designs. Most importantly, always stay true to yourself and continue to educate yourself. That, I would say, is the key to building trust and resonating with your audience. We work in a dynamic industry that is continuously evolving, so, stay committed, stay inspired, and it will all fall into place at some point. And of course, be patient – growth takes time!
As an influencer, how do you keep up with the latest fashion and beauty trends while maintaining your unique voice and style?
Despite not seeing myself as a prominent influencer, I would say I try to stay connected with the latest fashion and beauty trends. Being active on social media and attending various events helps to keep me in the loop with everything new and trending as of lately. Having said that, I’ll classify myself as a style enthusiast who appreciates diversity in all aspects. For my day-to-day style, it is important that it’s functional as well as casual and classy. Balancing long work days and simultaneously caring for my son, I appreciate comfort more than style at times. But there are times I get to dress up and put on a glamorous outfit. Honestly, I can go from a glamorous diva look one day to the comfort of sweatpants the next, from high heels to sneakers. I appreciate both, and because of that, I can infuse my personal touch into trends, maintaining an authentic reflection of my own style.
What are your thoughts on the relationship between fashion, beauty, and self-expression?
Fashion, beauty and self-expression are and have always been intertwined. They can always relate to one another as well as influence each other. They also serve as tools for individuals to convey their identity, personality and creativity. You can always add your own signature that relates to your expression as an individual. They are a great form of communication without ever needing words. Everyone has a right to express their unique style, culture and personal preferences.
Do you have any favorite fashion designers or brands that consistently align with your style and vision?
Being a Libra, I think you can already guess the answer. I don’t have a favorite designer because of a simple fact: I literally mix everything, from high-end fashion to local brands. I also try to support small businesses as much as I can. Labels are not always important. Having said all that, I am drawn to designers and brands that are innovative and bold with their designs. I love blending minimalism with effortless elegance and tend to look for pieces that resonate with my personal vision and style.
In your opinion, what are some timeless fashion and beauty trends that will never go out of style?
Thinking about fashion, the first thing that crosses my mind is always a small black dress, which, if I’m being honest, I have in all shapes, versions, materials and styles. Having a good pair of jeans that are a good fit, is also an irreplaceable staple piece that everyone should have in their closet. The same goes for a simple, white T-shirt, a good fitting suit, a good pair of heels and retro or vintage sunglasses. When talking about beauty trends, a bold red lip is a timeless classic as well as a simple cat – eye and nude bronze look. Timeless nail trends always seem to include a classic red or nude manicure that can be tailored to each individual’s taste. But I’m also always ready to experiment and set new trends as you can see from photos
What role do you believe social media platforms play in shaping modern fashion and beauty standards, and how do you navigate this landscape as an influencer?
Social media platforms hold a significant role in shaping today’s beauty standards. With beauty and fashion trends being ever so evolving, social media is a great contributor that showcases what is enjoyed and used by majority and what is slowly being replaced or no longer actively „trendy“. As someone who owns a beauty and nail brand, I find these platforms both challenging and rewarding. Therefore, my engagement on social media goes beyond mere observation; I actively participate in conversations, appreciating the multitude of voices that contribute to a broader, more inclusive understanding of beauty and fashion standards. I use social media to showcase real beauty, emphasizing diversity and genuine connections. By sharing thoughtful content and engaging authentically with my audience, I hope to contribute positively to the evolving standards of beauty and fashion.
What memories do you carry from the photoshoot for the digital cover of Grazia magazine What was the energy like?
As I always work with the same team, we became almost like family. We know each other very well and there is always a lot of smiling, laughing and, overall, crazy positive energy being shared. In between posing and shooting, we took in the creative process with fun and ease, which can be seen by looking at the behind the scenes footage we always try to document. This time it was different because it was a real fashion shoot, which made it a totally different experience. I feel incredibly grateful to work with such a talented and hardworking team on the set. From the hairstylist crafting unique styles to the photographer capturing every moment with high precision, and the makeup artist enhancing my features flawlessly — every member brings their creative brilliance.
Team :
Photo : Srećko Rundić
Hair : Marko Švenda for Salon Franić
Make up : Karlo Rusan for Ruka Beauty
Art direction & styling : Karlo Rusan
Red custom made plastice body : by Donovan Pavleković
