Beauty Journalists Flock to the Event!

colette carries "uka Nail Oil." Therefore, this event was centered around the product itself. If I had focused too much on colors and designs, it would have strayed from the original purpose. My treatments were primarily about care. However, since it was an event and just before the holiday season, I happily accommodated requests for colors and designs.



The nail oil was very well received. Hearing everyone say, "This is wonderful, it's so well-thought-out, the concept is interesting," was a great relief. I had been featured in French Vogue once in the spring, which seemed to have been a good platform for introduction, as many magazine editors visited this time. I'm glad I could properly explain my product in my own words to these leading beauty journalists.



While applying the nail oil alone is beneficial, it's even more effective with a massage. When I offered massages, everyone showed great interest, particularly in the concept of finger massage. In France, nail care as we know it in Japan isn't yet common. I noticed this on a visit last year, and this time too, I frequently heard comments like, "It's hard to find skilled salons in Paris..." Yet, despite this, most people's nails were generally well-kept. Perhaps it's like differences in bone structure; maybe their nails are naturally beautiful? I felt that rather than being well-cared-for, many people simply had beautiful nails to begin with.

Kiho Watanabe Heads to Paris with uka Nail Oil

A Long-Cherished Nail Care Event in Paris Becomes a Reality! (Part 2 of 2)

Facing an Unfamiliar Environment, I Received Wonderful Inspiration

Many general customers also stopped by the sales floor. When they saw the nail oil, their first reaction was curiosity, asking, "What is this?" Once I explained, most of them ended up buying it. This fact made me realize anew that this is indeed a product that requires explanation, and that I had created such a product. However, it's precisely for this reason that I'm grateful for the opportunity I was given this time.

It was similar with the treatments. I approached this situation completely as an outsider, unsure how clients would perceive my work. I was incredibly anxious. In Japan, I'm on home turf, so I can offer my skills with the confidence that comes from being supported by everything around me. I can be confident in every aspect, thinking, "Isn't this hospitality great? Aren't my staff wonderful? Isn't the tea delicious? Isn't the view from the window lovely?"

But at colette in Paris, without any local support, the interaction began with "Who are you? What do you do?" My skills were the sole focus of evaluation. Even after 15 years in this profession, my hands were literally trembling.

Since we couldn't communicate verbally, I couldn't engage in small talk to find common ground. All I could do was smile and work as hard as possible.



Moreover, I had entrusted the reservations to colette, so the number of clients was slightly overbooked. With seven people scheduled per day, I had to complete each service within an hour. Under the pressure of the tight schedule, my clients were all renowned beauty editors and journalists. Mentally, I felt hesitant and timid – where did my usual self go? (laughs) But looking back, that was a good thing. It made me feel like I had returned to my roots.

Well, as I always think, I realized that one shouldn't undertake anything without careful consideration (laughs). After all, not everyone can do something like this. It's a wonderful opportunity that was given to me, so I had to make the most of it.

Along with reflection came a sense of urgency. I truly feel that I received valuable inspiration.


Experiencing being "evaluated" this time has also sparked my interest in those who endure even more rigorous scrutiny. People often say they "gain energy" from talking to influential individuals, and I now understand why. In the past, when I became close with celebrities or athletes who are active in the public eye, I sometimes wondered if I was just a bit of a fan girl (laughs). But no, it's different; they possess a power that draws people in, and I was unconsciously seeking that. They are constantly putting themselves out there, competing, and without time to dwell on criticism, they move on to the next challenge. They are truly strong. I wish I had that strength too.