The Studio (known to most as The Makeup & Nail Studio) has been providing Wellington with beauty treatments for over 20 years. Owned by Sue Jacobs, the business started small in 1999, set up in the back of another salon on Cambridge Terrace, before moving to Newtown in 2001 to grow, and finally to a larger standalone premises in Hataitai in 2009.
Although nails were where Sue originally specialised, she built The Studio into a one-stop shop so clients wouldn't need to run between different salons for their nails, makeup, facials, and manicure and pedicure treatments. Over time, services have broadened further into more advanced skin care, with the team continually keeping up with the latest treatments from around the world.
The Studio describes its atmosphere as fun, with a "no pretentiousness" rule that aims to make every client feel welcome and relaxed. The team accepts Laybuy and Oxipay for in-store purchases of $200 and over, whether that's for IPL hair removal, DMK treatments, or a makeup shopping spree.
The Studio, known to most long-time clients as The Makeup & Nail Studio, has been part of Wellington's beauty scene for over 20 years. What began as a tiny operation has grown into a genuine one-stop beauty destination, built step by step by owner Sue Jacobs.
Sue's journey started in 1999, working out of a small space at the back of another Wellington salon on Cambridge Terrace. Dreaming of more room for herself and her clients, she moved the business to Newtown in 2001, allowing it to grow further. It wasn't until 2009 that Sue finally moved into her own larger, standalone premises in Hataitai — a prominent spot where word quickly spread about her work, her team, and the salon's atmosphere.
While nails were where Sue originally specialised, she recognised that clients didn't want to run between different salons for different treatments. Over time, The Studio expanded to offer makeup, facials, and manicure and pedicure treatments alongside nails, giving clients everything they needed under one roof. As the business has matured, Sue has continued to broaden the range further, introducing more advanced levels of skin care and staying on top of the latest treatments from around the world.
One of The Studio's standout offerings is DMK Skin Revision, built around the DMK Enzyme Treatment — described as one of the most powerful, effective methods for hydrolyzing dead cell material from skin tissue. The treatment detoxifies the skin of impurities while lifting and tightening it, working toward a firmer, more youthful, glowing appearance. The enzyme masques used in this treatment progressively tighten skin and remove impurities from skin cells through a process known as reverse osmosis.
The team at The Studio prides itself on making clients look and feel great in an environment that's genuinely fun rather than intimidating. A self-described "no pretentiousness" rule runs through the salon's approach, aiming to make every client feel welcome and relaxed, whatever treatment they're there for.
The Studio's range extends to IPL hair removal and event makeup services, alongside its core nail and skin care offerings. For clients planning bigger purchases — whether that's an IPL treatment, a course of DMK sessions, or a makeup shopping spree — the salon accepts Laybuy and Oxipay for in-store purchases of $200 and over, giving clients more flexibility in how they pay.
Clients can reach The Studio by phone or book online through the salon's booking system, and can also purchase online vouchers for gifting. With over two decades of experience behind it, The Studio continues to be a trusted name for Wellingtonians looking for nails, makeup and skin care treatments in one place.