Check Out Vanessa Sanchez McCullough’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Vanessa Sanchez McCullough. 

Hi Vanessa, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
My introduction to the nail industry started at a very young age. When I was 13 years old, I started going to work with my mother at her hair salon in New York. By the time I was 16 I was working on nail clients and fell in love with the art of manicuring. As a young adult, I began working in the film industry and ultimately became managing director of an NYC film production company but realized quickly that my passion was with nails. Now, 32 years later, I have taken my career to a different level. Here in Los Angeles, I cater to celebrity clients, red-carpet looks, and photo and video shoots. I am obsessed with nails. 

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Unfortunately, I have had some struggles along the way. but I look at them as growing pains and learning lessons. With that, the biggest lesson I learned is to keep moving forward. I set goals and make sure to accomplish them regardless of who tries to stop you. This industry is very competitive. Though I strongly feel there is plenty of work for everyone here in both NY and LA, competitors can sometimes be gnarly. 

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am a nail artist. It’s the easiest way to describe what I do. Who the client is doesn’t necessarily matter. What matters to me is the canvas and it’s always a nail. Sometimes it’s short and sometimes it’s long but regardless it’s my canvas for the few hours I am working. I specialize in creating nail looks to compliment the client’s personality, profession, outfit, or vibe. I am known for giving meticulous manicures and creating show-stopping nail art looks. I’m very proud of what I do. I am proud of my diligence in accomplishing this dream I had. I have worked and succeeded in three major cities and know that I’m not done yet. I still have more goals to accomplish. I think the people who I work with appreciate my drive. It’s fueled by a lot of education and I think that really sets me apart from others. I enjoy learning and really do consider myself a true expert in nail anatomy, design, and structure. 

Do you have recommendations for books, apps, blogs, etc.?
I have a creative brain that is constantly moving. It is very difficult for me to stop my brain from drifting about so it’s usually hard for me to sit still for long periods of time. I still love a physical magazine (not digital) though, so I spend a lot of time thumbing through fashion magazines and believe it or not, home design magazines. They inspire a lot of my nail looks. I love listening to Jay Shetty’s podcast because it inspires me to be a better me. I use the calm app on a daily basis as well which definitely assists me in slowing my brain down a bit. 

Contact Info:

• Website: www.nailzbyvee.com
• Instagram: @nailzbyvee
• Facebook: /nailzbyvee
• Twitter: Nailzbyvee
• Other: https://forwardartists.com/manicure/vanessa-sanchez-mccullough-portfolio