Meet Julie Chen, founder of Nails International, and Michael Stevens, co-founder. Together, they have helped bring nail artists and their work to audiences around the world

Nails International was founded in 2005 by college students Julie Chen and Michael Stevens. What began as an assignment for a marketing class soon developed into an exciting new idea for the professional nail industry.

For their class project, Julie and Michael created the concept of an international nail art magazine. At the time, beauty salons and schools had plenty of hairstyle magazines in their waiting rooms, but there was no publication devoted entirely to nail art from around the world. They saw an opportunity to create something original—a magazine that would allow clients to explore international nail designs while giving talented nail artists and designers the recognition they deserved.

Nails International began distributing its magazine to beauty salons and beauty schools across the country. Each issue showcased creative nail designs from different cultures and countries, placing an international spotlight on the artists behind the work. Michael traveled around the world attending beauty shows and connecting with nail publication companies in Europe and South America. He partnered with nail magazines in Greece, Poland, Sweden, Peru and Puerto Rico to showcase a two- to three-page section dedicated to Nails International in their publications each month. The magazine helped inspire salon clients, promote nail professionals, and introduce new styles to a worldwide audience.

As the company grew, Nails International expanded into producing nail art posters for salon walls and beauty schools. These colorful displays provided additional inspiration while helping nail artists showcase the creativity and artistry of the profession.

Today, as the internet continues to transform the beauty industry, Nails International has evolved with it. Our focus now includes innovative nail art products, educational seminars, international competitions, and opportunities that connect and celebrate nail professionals around the world.

From a college marketing project to an international platform, our mission remains the same: to recognize talented nail artists, inspire creativity, promote education, and help move the global nail industry forward.