From Kitchen Heat to Nail Artistry: The Bold Reinvention Behind Twinkle Nails & Spa

John Smith
Jun 2
2 min read

Updated: Jun 5

When Brian left behind his chef whites in Seattle, few would have guessed that his next chapter would involve nail polish, precision files, and two bustling beauty havens in San Diego. But just like the best recipes, life’s most flavorful paths often come from bold, unexpected ingredients.

Brian is the proud founder of Twinkle Nails & Spa, a nail salon that has grown from a personal experiment into a local gem—with two thriving locations and a loyal customer base that stretches beyond neighborhood lines.

“This journey has been anything but traditional,” Brian admits with a warm laugh, “but it’s one filled with purpose, passion, and people—and I wouldn’t have it any other way.”

From Scratch: A Chef’s Leap of Faith

Two years ago, Brian was plating haute cuisine in Seattle. But a desire for stability, creativity, and something more emotionally fulfilling pulled him in an entirely new direction. Within just seven months of diving into the world of nail care, he opened his first salon.

“I didn’t dream of becoming a nail artist,” he reflects. “I just wanted to learn a skill that meant something. But then something shifted. Every set of nails became a canvas. The way clients left—standing taller, smiling brighter—it hooked me.”

Building Trust

The early days weren’t without challenges. Brian had no prior experience in business or salon management. Convincing his team to believe in his vision wasn’t easy.

“At first, they didn’t know me. I had to prove myself—not just through leadership, but by showing up, doing the work, and caring deeply.”

That care paid off. His staff became his second family, and Twinkle Nails grew from a service space into a sanctuary—full of laughter, music, and deep conversations.

What Makes a Great Nail Artist?

For Brian, artistry is just the start. “It’s about more than technique. It’s professionalism, it’s empathy, it’s showing up with care in everything you do.”

That philosophy is embedded in every client interaction. Each appointment begins with a conversation—browsing inspiration photos, choosing colors and shapes, tailoring every detail to reflect the client’s personality.

“People don’t just come for nails,” Brian explains. “They come for how we make them feel.”

A Community of Color, Confidence, and Connection

Twinkle Nails and Spa welcomes everyone—from next-door neighbors to clients who drive across the county just for their appointment. And while the manicures shine, it’s the relationships that make the business glow.

“Some clients feel like old friends. We’ve talked about life, love, loss, and dreams. It’s not just a salon—it’s a place people come to feel seen.”

The Road Ahead: Growing with Gratitude

Despite his rapid success, Brian is far from finished.

“We’re just getting started,” he says. “There’s so much more ahead—and I want our community to grow with us.”

He hints at future expansions and encourages followers to stay tuned on Instagram and TikTok for what’s next. But whatever comes, one thing is clear: Twinkle Nails is more than a business—it’s a living canvas of transformation, painted with grit, grace, and glitter.