On September 13, Kristina Kalinkina, the owner and operator of Kalinkina Nail Studio, marked a significant milestone with the official ribbon-cutting ceremony for her new business, located at 5008 – 50 Ave in downtown Vermilion. The event was attended by Town of Vermilion Councillors Kirby Whitlock and Robert Snow, Economic Development Officer Mary Lee Prior, and Vermilion Chamber Executive Director Jyllian Fairholm, who presented Kristina with a welcome plaque on behalf of the town.
Kristina’s journey into the beauty industry began in 2015 when she completed her first manicure and pedicure course. Since then, she has continually advanced her skills by attending training courses almost every year, honing her craft over the past nine years.
“I’ve always appreciated a calm and relaxing atmosphere,” Kristina shared. “The opportunity to enjoy the procedure with the client, in silence, is very important to me. Opening my own salon allowed me to create that space.”
Choosing the heart of Vermilion for her business was a deliberate decision. “Vermilion has a beautiful downtown,” she said. “I wanted to be at the center of town life, and I found the perfect location.”
What sets Kalinkina Nail Studio apart from others in the area? According to Kristina, it’s the meticulous attention to detail in her services, particularly when it comes to cuticle care. “This is my favorite part, and my clients are incredibly grateful for it. I’m a perfectionist, so everything has to be perfect. I’m not here to compete with other salons; I just focus on doing my job very well, and customers keep coming back.”
One of her most cherished services is pedicures, where she takes great pride in treating ingrown nails and subungular calluses. “I love the dramatic difference between the ‘before’ and ‘after,’ especially seeing how much more comfortable clients feel in their shoes afterward.”
Kristina also specializes in dry manicures and pedicures, a method that allows her to precisely remove dry, keratinized skin. Her preferred products include the Canadian brand of Luxio gel polishes, which feature natural shades ideal for French tips.
In line with growing concerns about chemicals in beauty products, Kristina offers eco-friendly, non-toxic options. “All of my disinfectants are eco-friendly, and I use non-toxic products for my clients’ safety.”
Her mission is clear: to offer the best manicure or pedicure her clients have ever experienced, all while addressing their specific needs. “I pay close attention to my clients’ problems, making sure they leave feeling satisfied and well-cared for.”
Kristina’s story is deeply personal. Born and raised in Russia, she moved to Canada in pursuit of a different life. “I don’t support the war with Ukraine, a country that feels like a sister to us. What’s happening breaks my heart, and I believe it’s important to speak openly about it.” Outside of work, Kristina enjoys spending time with her husband of nearly ten years and their beloved corgi. Though she holds a master’s degree in human resources, her passion for manicures led her to pursue a career she truly loves.
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