Behind the Nails: The Story of Strength, Art & Amy Villela (@nailsbyamyv)
Creating Beauty, Healing, and Legacy Through Nails
We’re proud to kick off Behind the Nails: The Lavinda Creator Series—a new spotlight honoring the artists who bring heart, skill, and story into their work. These creators inspire us not just through their nail sets, but through the lives they lead and the passion that fuels them. And for our very first feature, we’re shining a light on someone who’s been a kind, consistent, and creative force in our community: Amy Villela (@nailsbyamyv).
Amy’s journey into nails started when she was just 16, doing it purely for fun. But after losing her father in August 2021, everything changed. “It made me want to do something,” she shared. Picking up the brush again became a way to move forward—and a way to stay close to her dad. “It’s how I express myself, but it’s also a way to feel close to him,” she said. “We were both super artistic, and doing nails reminds me of him—that’s why this work is so personal to me.”
Based in Lemoore, California, Amy has now been a nail artist for four years. On Halloween 2023, she stepped into a new chapter—becoming a mom for the first time. Since then, the meaning behind her work has only grown. Amy is also learning to balance it all—motherhood, creativity, and business—with the same heart and hustle she brings to every nail design. She draws inspiration from her own mom, someone she says has always been hardworking, outgoing, and full of life. That influence helped shape Amy’s values, and over time, one truth has stuck with her: “Invest in yourself—not financially, but in learning who you are and what your value is.”
Amy’s favorite Lavinda product to gift? “A nail drill—for my sister, who’s a mom of two. She has tons of files but no drill. Lavinda’s drills make it so much easier to treat yourself.” Whether you’re a pro or just carving out time for yourself, she believes tools that save time and elevate your space matter—especially for busy moms.
Her advice to new nail techs and women starting out in the industry is rooted in authenticity: “Be true to yourself and do it with passion. Your nails are your walking advertisement—put yourself out there.”
If you want to see Amy’s creativity in action, you can find her beautiful sets and glimpses of her everyday life on Instagram @nailsbyamyv and TikTok @imamyvillela.
This Mother’s Day, we’re celebrating creators like Amy—women who balance care, creativity, and healing. To honor them, we’re offering 30% off all Lavinda matching lamp + drill bundles through May 12 at 11:59 PM PST. No code needed—just Bundle, Save & Glow.
Because sometimes the best gift isn’t just about beauty—it’s about honoring the story behind it.