I was first introduced to celebrity manicurist Myrdith Leon-McCormick, during a visit to an In-Style suite during New York Fashion Week.
Myrdith is the co-founder of M2M nail polish, and a Stylista in her own right. I was immediately drawn to her line because of the fresh colors; from neons to earth-tones, M2M has a shade for every fashionista. I was treated to a complimentary manicure by Myrdith’s staff, which got my nails after-party ready with turquoise polish and hound’s-tooth printed "Minx Nails"appliqués. To my surprise the manicure lasted nearly two weeks and I was hooked. Myrdith’s personable nature, and enthusiasm for her work caught my attention, and I had to learn more about her. I recently, caught up with Myrdith to talk about her career journey, recipe for success, and how to achieve flawless and fabulous nails.
AD: Did you always know that you wanted to be a manicurist?
MM: No, I initially wanted to be a hair stylist, so I learned how to do nails in order to save money for hair school. After a six week course I landed a job with a big time fashion editor, who wrote about her manicure with me. That story led to my first editorial job, and essentially launched my career.
AD: How did you build your portfolio?
MM: Make-up artist Peter Brown, took me under his wing, and I started working on campaigns and editorials with Essence Magazine, Esteé Lauder, Italian Vogue, De Beers, you name it, I nailed-it.
AD: You currently dominate the manicurist side of the industry. What is your secret to success?
MM: I really take pride in what I do, and I take care of the client. I have worked with Charlize Theron, Jessica Simpson and Kate Hudson amongst others, and they continuously request me because of the special attention, and respect that I give to them.
AD: What inspired you to launch your own line of polish?
MM: I wanted to brand myself, but a lot of companies did not want a black woman as the face of their products. Instead of waiting for the front door to open I broke through the side door, and with the encouragement of my friends I launched M2M.
AD: How does M2M differ from everything else on the market?
MM: M2M polishes are free of harmful ingredients that weaken the nail beds. The polish goes on smoothly and generally manicures last longer with this polish than with other brands. The formula dries quickly after only one layer is applied.
AD: What is the key to making your manicure go further?
MM: Healthy nails are the key to a beautiful manicure. However, the more active you are, the less likely your polish will last. Our nail beds produce oil which can sabotage a manicure. The key to making your manicure go further is using a good basecoat before applying color and by touching up with clear nail polish every other day.
AD: What's your favorite color in the line?
MM: My favorite is called “Night Bird,” it is named after an Etta James song; and it is sleek and sultry, perfect for the winter.
AD: What are some of the hottest nail trends for this season?
MM: Well dark hues are always perfect for winter, but if you are a big ‘cell phone texter’ painting just the thumbs in a metallic gold or silver is hot for the season.
AD: Where do you see M2M in the future?
MM: I would like to eventually expand into hand treatments and nail care for men.
AD: What advice would you give to young girls aspiring to break into the fashion industry?
MM: It is important to maintain a relationship with God, and to stay focused, take both the failures and the successes as lessons.
For more information log onto www.m2mdamorejon.com
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