A place for beauty, encounters and special stories: Sabine Ninnemann is an entrepreneur, mother, partner - and a woman with a remarkable story. In her new beauty salon in Ondara, she welcomes customers from all over the region. Over a café con leche, she talks to Ben Weidner about her journey to Spain, family challenges, TV experiences and her new start in the Marina Alta.
Sabine, before we talk about your career: Compliments on the new salon! Bright, functional, modern furnishings - a really inviting place.
Thank you, that's great to hear! It took a lot of strength, perseverance and patience, but it was also a lot of fun. I'm really pleased with the result.
What brought you to Spain - and when did you decide to emigrate?
The main reason was my son Mathis' lung disease. The climatic conditions here were better for him. After four years of preparation, we emigrated in 2015: My husband at the time, my three sons Leon, Max, Mathis and myself.
How was the start?
I opened a small studio in Denia in November 2015. I had a table, a chair and a couch - and waited two months for my first customer. Then word got around about my work and suddenly things went really well.
What did you originally learn?
I am a trained nursery school teacher and estate agent. For a long time, fingernail design was just a hobby that I started about 18 years ago while I was on parental leave. Then more and more friends of friends came along - and I constantly trained myself further, including in nail diseases and hygiene.
You also had a business in Els Poblets, right?
Yes, after separating from my partner at the time, I rented a nice shop. But shortly before the move, my son suffered a brain haemorrhage, so work took a back seat as I had to look after the family full-time.
A difficult time. Absolutely. But that's where I met Patrick, my current husband. We moved back to Germany in 2021 for Mathis’ therapy. Fortunately, the treatment worked and he got better step by step.
And the comeback in 2023?
Exactly. We always knew that we wanted to return to Spain. The conditions were right in 2023. I opened my new studio in Ondara, and a few weeks ago we moved into new, larger premises just 10 metres away.
And Patrick?
He had to endure a long-distance relationship with me for two years. He now works entirely from home for his German employer - here in Spain. A real stroke of luck!
Back to Mathis: His story was also in the media very present, right?
Yes, in 2015 Andreas Schaich brought us together with the producers of „Goodbye Deutschland“. The camera team accompanied us to our farewell party in Heilbronn. Mathis was often the centre of attention. Through these reports, many other families were able to benefit from his diagnosis and our experience. At the time, his genetic defect was hardly known.
Was there support from television?
It's a common misconception that you don't get rich from it. But it was never about the money, it was about creating awareness.
Let's talk about your new salon. What can customers expect?
We have expanded the existing concept. In addition to nail design, we now also offer tattoos, piercings, cosmetics, Madero massage, eyelash extensions, permanent make-up and pedicures. All under one roof. Our staff are professionally trained and correctly registered.
The tattoo sector is quite demanding in terms of authorisation...
Exactly, but we have fulfilled all the requirements and received the licence for „Estetica“. We work with high-quality products and great flair. Many customers spend 4 to 5 hours with us - that requires trust, atmosphere and good dialogue. Sometimes we are also a place to get help, listen and feel good.
What are your plans for the future?
We were recently able to buy the house we've been living in for two years. That feels good. I would say that we have arrived - both privately and professionally.
Sabine, thank you very much for this open and honest conversation. All the best for you, your family and your team!
