Southsea nail technician Mae splashes out her savings to open her dream nail salon

The 23-year-old opened Baker Miller, in Highland Road, on August 13 after investing £10,000 of her savings into her venture.

Mae, and partner Elliot Diamond, who is the co-owner of Hounds Barbers, have been saving for a mortgage but due to being self-employed, they have to wait an extra three years to prove a stable income.

The nail technician made the huge decision to pump her savings into refurbishing the brand new shop while the couple wait a year and a half until they are able to get a mortgage.

Speaking of her decision to open her own business, Mae said: ‘I was like if I can paint on an eyelid on skin that moves, I am sure I can paint on a still surface.

‘We are definitely seeing a new world of nail technicians.’

Mae did a three-day course to learn the basics of acrylics and nails but then decided to take it one step further and do multiple refresher courses to maximise her knowledge.

She said: ‘I remember I did my boyfriend’s nails in the lockdown just to get as much practice.’

The shop has been kitted out with pink furnishings – and Mae claims the business has been a hit with locals.

Portsmouth South MP Stephen Morgan has praised Mae’s courage and attended the opening of the site.

He said: ‘I was delighted to welcome the Baker Miller nail salon to their dedicated new home in Southsea at their launch event.

‘Our independent and small businesses help make our city the special place it is.’

Mae worked in a salon previously where she was booked months in advance and made the daring decision to leave it all behind and venture out on her own.

The shop has been a huge hit and they have received a phenomenal response to the opening.

The technician offers BIAB nails, which are a softer alternative to acrylic extensions, and she has a firm ethos that it is about the ‘nails first and making them look pretty second’.