My Experience at the Irish Nail Networking Event in Portlaoise
Last weekend, I had the absolute pleasure of attending the Irish Nail Networking event held in the Midlands Hotel in Portlaoise and what a day it turned out to be. Not only was it a chance to step away from the usual busy routine, but it also became a night filled with learning, laughter, connection, and proud moments. One of the biggest highlights for me personally was being nominated for Best Small Irish Nail Business. Even seeing my name listed among such talented professionals felt like a huge achievement.
A Day of Learning & Inspiration
The event kicked off with a series of masterclasses and talks that hit on topics every nail professional can relate to. Whether you’re renting a room, working from a salon, or building your brand from home, there was something for everyone. The speakers were honest, knowledgeable, and real.
One of my favourite sessions was the wedding nails masterclass. Watching detailed techniques, learning new tips, and seeing creative bridal designs come to life reminded me exactly why I love this industry.
Dinner, Networking & Celebrations
After the educational part of the day, we all sat down for a gorgeous three-course meal. It was the perfect moment to unwind, chat, and get to know other nail techs from all over Ireland.
Then came the Awards Night. Even though I didn’t take home a trophy, being nominated for Best Small Irish Nail Business felt surreal, emotional, and incredibly motivating. It was a real reminder of how far I’ve come and how much I’ve grown not just as a business, but as a person.
The Perfect Ending to a Great Night
Like any good Irish event, the night didn’t end when the awards did. A few of us ended up back in one of the girls’ hotel rooms, grabbing some pizza, and chatting until we were too tired to keep our eyes open. It was simple, the perfect ending to a brilliant day.
Why Events Like This Matter
Networking nights like these are more than just social gatherings. They’re a chance to connect with people who understand your journey, to learn from each other, and to build relationships that can last for years. Being surrounded by other nail professionals all driven, creative, and supportive left me feeling inspired and excited for what’s next.
I’m grateful I went, grateful to be nominated, and grateful for every person I met along the way. Here’s to more events, more growth, and more memories in the Irish beauty community.
