Naomi Yasuda Is Building a Creative Empire, One Nail at a Time
“Without nails, I wouldn’t be where I am now.”
From the very start of her life, it was clear that Naomi Yasuda was destined to become a nail artist. Her obsession began in her school years, where she was always painting and crafting press-on sets for her classmates.
From an early age, she had a passion for creating. A pivotal moment in Naomi’s journey came when, at 15, her art teacher suggested that she could turn her love for nails into a real career. That comment sparked a fire within her, leading her to fully commit to her craft. Over the years, her friends, many of whom are creative minds themselves, continue to inspire her, constantly pushing her to think differently and break boundaries in her work.
After high school, Naomi pursued professional training in Nagoya, Japan, where she honed her craft. She worked as a nail artist in a Japanese salon for five years before making the move to New York. She arrived in the city not knowing anyone and without speaking a word of English, but her love for nail art quickly opened doors. “This career has helped me shape who I am today,” she says, reflecting on how it allowed her to meet incredible people and build a life in a new country. “Without nails, I wouldn’t have met the amazing people I know today and I wouldn’t be where I am now.”
For inspiration, Naomi often looks to her clients’ style, blending her creativity with their preferences to craft something unique. “I always stay open to unexpected inspiration,” she explains. But, while trends are part of the nail world, Naomi believes that focusing too much on them can limit her creativity. She prefers to carve her own path, ensuring that her style remains true to her vision. “Personal expression is the foundation of my work,” she adds. “My goal is helping my clients to express themselves through their nails to feel more confident, beautiful and happy.”
Naomi’s favorite part of her job is undeniably the people. Over the years, she’s worked with brands like Luar and Diotima to help craft their vision for beauty that mirrors their clothing. She’s also had the privilege of connecting with clients (like Lady Gaga and Madonna, to name a few) from all walks of life and those relationships are the most rewarding aspect of her work. For Naomi, beauty isn’t just about appearance — it’s about confidence. “It’s about how you feel, not just how you look,” she says. “Owning yourself and being comfortable in your skin.”
Opening her own nail salon, Studio Naomi, was a dream come true and as she describes it, one of the most rewarding projects of her career. Located in the Financial District of New York City, the studio faced its challenges in the past, but Naomi is committed to its growth. In five years, she envisions Studio Naomi as the top nail salon for New Yorkers, creating not just stunning nails but a community of like-minded individuals.
Along with the salon, Naomi is deveoping a passion for DIY, especially after renovating her own apartment. “I built my kitchen, closet and furniture,” she says with pride, explaining how the experience deepened her belief that creativity begins at home. “It would be nice if I could make my own home goods line,” she adds.
Looking ahead, Naomi is excited about the future. She dreams of launching her nail product line and hopes that one day, a Home Depot sponsorship will bring her DIY ambitions to life. For Naomi, the journey is just beginning — and she’s ready for whatever comes next, creating, inspiring and helping others express their unique sense of beauty along the way.
While you’re here, check out our round-up of our favorite nail artists to follow for more inspiration.
