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Art medium(s): I am solely a natural nail artist. I don’t do tips, dip or acrylic nails. I only work with gel polish and structure gel.

How do you describe your art? My art ranges from feminine and romantic to random and detailed depending on the client. From seasonal designs to bright and abstract, my art is always fun! I recently did a set of nails with different shapes of noodles on them. I have a service called “mystery manicure” where your design is up to me!

Were you always interested in following a creative path? Yes. I’ve always been an artistic person and love to draw and paint. I originally went to college for graphic design.

What does your “day-in-the-life” look like? My day starts early, so I swing through Dunkin or Starbucks to get an iced coffee. I normally have clients back-to-back from around 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. During the appointments with my ladies, we catch up, listen to true crime podcasts/music of my choice (usually metal)! Once I’m home for the day, I love to cuddle with my cat, Oliver (if he lets me) and cook dinner with my husband, Austin. We usually end the night relaxing and watching a show.

Where do you get your creative inspiration? I take inspiration from other artists and Pinterest. I most enjoy taking a photo and using it as inspiration to create my own nail sets. Usually my clients come in with their own ideas but having creative freedom and doing some out-of-the-box nail art is my favorite. It’s really enjoyable for me to force my clients out of their comfort zones. Nail art is fun and not permanent!

Why do you love what you do? I have built so many relationships and met so many amazing people through this industry. It’s like hanging out with your best friends all day, and bonus,  I get to make wearable artwork that makes them feel good.

One thing most people don’t know about being a nail artist, in your opinion: It is very precise work and definitely is not as easy as it seems. You’re working on a moving canvas. Every little movement affects the end result. It takes a lot of practice and dedication to do great nails.

Early bird or night owl? Early bird 100%. I like to wake up in the morning, make an iced coffee and relax before the day starts.

Last movie you watched or book you read: The Eras Tour Movie (I secretly love Taylor Swift).

Is the glass half full or half empty? Both. I’m always preparing for the worst and hoping for the best at the same time.

What makes you happiest: Traveling with my husband, a tropical climate and my cat. I’m 100% a cat person.

Find Samantha on Instagram @polishedbysamantharetzlaff and on Facebook: Polished by Samantha LLC.