Have you ever had a horrible habit that you wanted to rid yourself of like, say, nail-biting? Celebrity Manicurist Tracey Sutter had just that very bad habit and found a cure for herself – getting acrylics on her nails. It was at that moment that her ingenuity and curiosity got the best of her as she taught herself to do nails. She built up a home-based clientele, got her certification from the West Valley Occupational Center in Woodland Hills, CA, and would go on to build a celebrity client base in both TV and Film. Having worked with clients such as Hilary Swank, Jennifer Garner and Naomi Watts, there’s never a dull moment for Tracey. Find out how she made it in the beauty business without a mentor, one of her most memorable nail art moments was and what her picks are for spring colors.

How did you find yourself in the world of nail art?
As far as nail art, I have always done it. I started on my own and it quickly turned into a profession. I have a client that I have been doing nail art on for 16 years!

What was your first job?
My first job was the cover of Marie Claire with Halle Berry.

Did you have a mentor when you started in the business?
No, I didn’t have a mentor. I was self-taught then I went to school to get my license. I’ve always had celebrity clients, even when I first started in the salon (it is LA, after all!) but once I had an agent my career took off working with celebrities almost exclusively from then until now.

Can you describe the most outrageous nails/art you had to create and who was the client?
This question makes me laugh remembering the really outrageous nails I did on Tyra Banks for America’s Next Top Model magazine a few seasons back. They were yellow feathers and they used a fan so in the photo the only thing moving were the feathers. It was so oddly creative and I'm so happy I did it. I do like to push the envelope.

What is the hottest nail trend for spring?
It's looking like pastels are springing in for 2015, once again. I see beautiful nail art, pastel French tips, and pastel abstract nail art as trends this season. Creative but minimal is the vibe. BUT I say do what you feel. Be your own trend!

Tracey is repped globally by Cloutier Remix Agency.