Summertime is right around the corner. Along with longer days, warmer nights, and backyard barbecues, summer marks the start of pedicure season. While it’s true clients come in for pedicures year-round, most salons see a definite increase in clients during the summer months. After all, they’re finally able to shed their thick socks and boots and walk around in flip-flops and sandals. Who wouldn’t want to head to a salon to get their feet done and ready to show off?

Take advantage of that fact and take some time to spruce up your pedicure services. Most salons already offer two to three types of pedicures on their menu — which is great — but there is always room for improvement. After all, pedicures can often be big-ticket items, much more so than a manicure.

Many salons offer some sort of spa-style pedicure on their menu.  Why not step it up a little and add a few ingredients to turn a typical service into something new and exciting? According to NAILS 2005- 2006 Big Book, 26% of you added unique or custom manicures and pedicures. The great thing about this is your salon doesn’t need to have a spa-type budget for you to up the ante on pedicures. Take a cue from the many nail spas that are using natural ingredients in their services. Pedicure by OPI takes the guesswork out of this approach with products formulated with ingredients such as green tea, aloe vera, grapefruit, shea butter, sage, and lavender. Clients will be more than happy to dole out a few extra dollars if they feel they are getting an experience and not just a regular, everyday pedicure.

Also, think about the demographics of your clients and cater to their needs. If most of your clients are older, they will likely appreciate a pedicure that takes their mature skin care needs into account. Pedicures containing rich, moisturizing ingredients and a lengthy massage are perfect for them. If you have a young, hip clientele, then consider offering a few services that keep in line with that cool vibe. Throw in a funky shade of nail lacquer and your client is ready to hit the town in style.

While we are on the subject of offering an experience, take a moment to think about the type of experience you offer your pedicure clients. Is your pedicure area warm and inviting or is it made up of a few pedicure thrones hastily placed in the middle of the salon? Remember, it’s not just about the way you perform a pedicure. The environment your client is in is also essential to her total experience and enjoyment. If you have the space and the budget, consider adding a separate pedicure area. Or, make your current area even more inviting by adding partitions, comfortable pillows, and relaxing music, for example. Thumb through a few magazines, including NAILS, to get decorating ideas and inspiration from other salons and businesses.

With pedicure season quickly upon us, there’s no reason why your salon shouldn’t be bustling with clients clamoring for foot care services. And if one client walks out of your salon completely enamored with her experience, chances are she’ll be back — and she’ll bring her friends and family with her.

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