Most nail techs aren’t crazy about their clients doing their own nails, but Yuriko Hoshina has made it part of her business, expanding her clientele by offering do-it-yourself nail art sessions at her supply store, Gellipop, in Torrance, Calif. Aspiring nail artists can drop in to do their nails or hold a nail art party with friends. “Since I’m a supplier, I have a lot of sample colors. Most of these products are so easy to use, and I wanted customers who are not professional nail technicians to be able to use and enjoy them,” explains Hoshina. Her minimum for a party is five participants, but she finds that groups tend to be larger than that. Individual sessions are walk-in only and cost $14.95 for the first hour, and an additional $2.45 for every 15 minutes thereafter.
Hoshina is an Akzentz and Crystal Culture educator, and she offers a variety of education opportunities for nail techs, but the DIY studio sessions primarily attract non-professionals. “Nail techs usually take the fee-based classes, or attend the free class I teach every second Monday of the month,” she explains. Hoshina thinks the concept is worth expanding. “I’d love to franchise this shop, so if there’s anyone who is interested, please let me know,” she says.
Going to the nail salon has become a beacon of brightness in an otherwise complicated world. Guests anticipate the same delightful service and they deserve the cleanliness and care that comes with a pandemic-prepared salon.
When the pandemic hit, I converted my business to a mobile salon. After a year navigating personal and professional hurdles, staying adaptable has been my magic sauce for success.
What does this mean to nail business or nail tech professionals who have struggled (or are still struggling!) through at least one COVID-19 reopening phase? Stay proactive! It’s smart business to refresh, refine and set yourself apart with what is now the beauty essential, sanitation.
Many salons have struggled to survive through COVID-19 closures. As they reopen under new guidelines, salon owners and staff are finding smart ways to adapt and grow their business through access to valuable offers on products and services.
“Salon professionals can misunderstand making money with building wealth, and without a timely heads up, leave the salon with little to show for a lifetime of salon work. I’ve seen this happen too many times.”
VOESH will preview its 2020 Holiday Collection as part of its #VOESHLOVE Virtual Trade Show. Virtual workshops will inspire, educate and prepare salon owners and nail technicians for the future.
“We have found that customers are ready to adopt touchless check-ins and check-outs. They appreciate the simplicity and convenience. And they also understand how it helps everyone maintain health and safety guidelines during COVID-19.”
The flexibility of its monthly memberships and the generous support of its clients helped keep the Hammer & Nails franchise strong during the pandemic, even through the shutdown.
