SA’s best nail technician Alana Davis Nails and Beauty crowned and the top nail salons as voted by you

It started with a psychic, now she’s putting the man in manicures but for SA’s top nail tech sharing her craft is all about building others up. See the state’s best salons.

In a world where small businesses are trying to get back on their feet, this Victor Harbor businesswomen has made it her mission to help train and inspire the next generation.

Alana Davis, of Alana Davis Nails and Beauty, has been voted South Australia’s best nail technician yet again in the latest Messenger ‘best of’ poll.

The mother-of-two’s journey began in 2014, completing a Cert III in Nail Technology after a run-in with a psychic.

“My friend and I always used to go get our nails done together and I used to joke around and say I wish I could do our nails ourselves,” Mrs Davis said.

Alana Davis of Alana Davis Nails and Beauty. Picture: Supplied

“Then I went to a psychic fair and a man told me that I had to do nails and that was my path and I’ve just giggled about it ever since.”

After taking sometime off to welcome her second child, Mrs Davis said it was a blessing reconnecting with her loyal clients, some who have been with her since the very beginning.

“I built a house and moved my salon to home … it’s just been easier with everything going on and my clients seem to love it,” she said.

“I’ve got my work mojo back and have welcomed some amazing new clients, it has been really lovely to be back at work.”

As the world of social media continues to define what’s hot and what’s not, Mrs Davis said she had noticed a change in the trends since her return.

Alana Davis was expecting her second child when she won the competition in 2020, now she’s back from maternity leave claiming the top prize again. Picture: File

“Before I used to know exactly what is was they were pulling up on their phone because it would be the exact same thing Kim Kardashian would have,” Mrs Davis laughed.

“Now people are looking for a more simple and elegant style … the trends tend to mirror what people are wearing fashion wise.

“But then I have also had someone asked if they could have strawberries or opals encapsulated into their nail … the trends are just constantly changing.

“I also have a lot of males come through as well which I completely support, self care is so important.”

And while some may find it hard to keep up with not only the changing trends but also new competition, Mrs Davis welcomed others to chase their dreams.

“People say ‘why are you training them … aren’t you worried they will take business away from you?’ but it’s not a competition to me,” she said.

“I actually feel really proud seeing them set up their businesses, there is nothing better than seeing some start out and be proud of their work.

“It’s really important for your mental health to do something you love and enjoy as your job since a majority of your lifetime is spent working, it’s important to enjoy what you do.”