I asked myself this a little over a year ago and decided that what I would change was my entire environment. I went from booth renting in a salon to renting a room all to myself in a wonderful tanning establishment. I love being my own boss, making my own schedule, decorating how I want, and not dealing with the often catty salon feel. I have an entire room at my disposal instead of being confined to a desk. I love being independent, and I am so happy working one-on-one with my clients that I will absolutely never go back!
Kathryn Spivey, Kate Nails It, Albany, Ore.
If I could change anything about my work environment it would be to have a more relaxing atmosphere for my pedicures. I work in a high-volume nail salon that’s small, so all the nail stations are close together. I would love to have a Zen room that’s quiet with relaxing music so I know my clients can have a peaceful experience.
Hope Szymanski, Nailtique, Whitewater, Wis.
The one thing my workplace lacks is windows. Where the nail stations are located in the salon, there aren’t any windows, and I like to draw some of my inspiration for nail art from outside — from trees, flowers, the sky, sun, rain, etc. The tanning and nail salon I work at has a plethora of different people wearing different styles, colors, and textures, which provides a lot inspiration. But I would just love a view of nature and the natural light exposure.
Sam Rivenbark, Tarheel Tan & Spa, Eure, N.C.
I absolutely love the salon I work at. The location is easily accessible, has great parking, an array of services for everyone, and 35 talented artists ready to accommodate clients’ needs. However, if there is one thing I could change, it would be to have tandem pedicure stations. Accommodating two people for pedicures would be pleasing to clients and lucrative for the nail technicians.
Danalynn Stockwood, Genesis Salon, Fitchburg, Mass.
We love our work environment, clients love the look and feel, but we're a boutique spa in a pretty intimate space. It’s perfect for private groups of up to eight or nine guests getting mostly manicures and pedicures, but with a single treatment room, we’re only able to offer body treatments one at a time. Luckily though, we do offer mobile-spa service as well. We often go out to homes or hotels for larger bachelorette parties, birthdays, and couples services.
Michael Gordon and Kelly Davy, Luxe Beauty Lounge & Mobile Spa, Vancouver
If I could change one thing about my work environment it would be to have a receptionist. I dislike when I have to stop what I am doing to answer the phone. It would also be nice to have someone to dust and clean up around the shop.
Robyn Burd, Core Hair Studio, Nipawin, Saskatchewan Canada
If I could change one thing about my work environment, I would have a private room for spa pedicures. My salon is only 400 sq. feet, so there is not a lot of room. The spa pedicure chair is in the room with my nail station. I do enjoy managing a small place, though.
Vickie Meador, European Body Wraps, Olive Branch, Miss.
You can never have too much lighting or storage!
Anne VanSpronsen, McIntyre's Salon and Day Spa, Portage, Mich.
Next Question: What are the best-selling retail items at your salon? What has a hard time selling? [Answers will be printed in the November 2014 issue.] Share your opinion on the topic by e-mailing your response by August 15 to tracy.rubert@bobit.com. Please include your name, salon, city and state, and a high-resolution headshot with your response.
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