Drew Sallows welcomes Nailpro to Hearth Studio in Glasgow, Scotland.
Courtesy of Hearth Studio
Drew Sallows welcomes us to Hearth Studio in Glasgow, Scotland. Read on to learn more about how the nail salon got its start, what inspired its design/aesthetic, the salon's signature products and services and so much more!
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Drew Sallows welcomes us to Hearth Studio in Glasgow, Scotland. Read on to learn more about how the nail salon got its start, what inspired its design/aesthetic, the salon's signature products and services and so much more!
The Backstory
Holly (my business partner) and myself are both queer and neurodivergent, and we know there isn’t a lot of spaces for people like us. We wanted to create a space that made it clear queer and neurodivergent people are welcome and the main focus of the business.
The Look
Green and pink! We wanted it to feel homely, warm and cozy with a pop of color. Holly says she has always wanted to use the name Hearth if she had a salon, so we did!
Signature Services
We both provide gel, builder and extension services with various tiers of nail art. Our main selling point is definitely the nail art we do. I appreciate a challenge when it comes to nail art, so I’m always learning and creating new things. My clients definitely keep me on my toes.
The Goods
Both of us use different systems. I use mainly Nail Order products and Willow e-file bits & tools. Holly uses CJP and Bio Sculpture. Our favorites are definitely the OMY cuticle butters — They smell wonderful.
Social Butterfly
We have a salon Instagram page @hearthstudios, and I also run a TikTok @t4tnails. My videos are either about nails or my three ferrets: Maple, Esmee and Lawrie.
What's Next?
As we are relatively new, we hope to get in more nail techs as well as possibly lash or brow techs, so we can provide a variety of services. Our main goal is to create a safe and comforting environment for clients and staff.
Up Close with Salon Owner Drew Sallows
What was your first job in the nail industry?
I was always self employed as a tech, I did my training and hit the ground running full time! After six months, I opened my first salon.
What inspires you?
I am inspired by all the trans and queer people who have paved the path before us to create a safer world. Seeing how comfortable my clients feel being in our space means a lot and inspires me to keep working hard.
What is your current favorite nail trend?
The bows & resurgence of Miffy! I think they’re so cute. 3D art is also becoming so popular. I’m definitely wanting to try it more.
What was the most challenging thing that happened while opening your salon?
The balance of working, decorating and budgeting. Having lots of money to spend all in one go wasn’t an option, so we planned appropriately for what we could afford. I am someone who loves to work, so I have to make sure to give myself days away from the salon as well.
What piece of advice would you give to a new salon owner?
Trust your gut. Communicate openly, and be willing to accept criticism. Take regular breaks, and eat lunch.
“I can’t discuss my salon without mentioning…”:
How to get in and out! Our building is a maze! We also ask everyone’s star sign. I’m a Gemini and Holly is a Virgo, if you were wondering ;)
How does your salon celebrate Pride Month?
Pride Month for me is often one where I reflect more so than anything. I decided to go no-contact with my family quite recently because they don’t accept me as trans, so I take time to appreciate the friends and community I have. They mean the world to me. As a result of rainbow washing by big companies, Pride can feel less authentic and more like a gimmick. It’s important to remember queer people, especially queer POC, are still marginalized, and being queer isn’t a big party all the time. Donate to small queer businesses and charities, not companies slapping a rainbow on their logo once a year.
What are ways that you make your salon inclusive to everyone who visits?
I have safe space policies that get sent out to each client before their appointments. This is just a reminder that we won’t tolerate racism, fatphobia, homophobia, misogyny, etc. We ask people to be mindful of what they are discussing and how that could affect others around them if it’s an upsetting topic. We also keep the music to a lower volume, so we’re not all overstimulated!
Are there any changes you would like to see the industry make or gaps that you think need to be filled to make queer nail artists feel more welcomed/accepted?
We need to see more trans and queer nail artists working with brands consistently, and being compensated correctly for their time and work. Brands can often leave behind POC as well, especially in shade ranges. Nails are for EVERYONE, and that should be at the forefront of the nail industry going forward.
Drew Sallows
