The Beauty Pro Book Club: 4 Reads to Inspire Growth and Success
Four publications for beauty industry professionals to enhance their leadership skills, financial awareness, professional growth, and joy!
by Anne Moratto
A Fitting Occupation
Not long ago, Clayton, N.C.-based nail tech Melodie Hand held a Bra Fit Clinic at her salon, Tickled Pink. It sold her on the service and inspired her to become a “Bra Lady” herself.
by Staff
December 28, 2012
This is me in the “booby room” and yes, I am wearing one of our bras as well as the Shapewear to hold me all in place.
2 min to read
This is me in the “booby room” and yes, I am wearing one of our bras as well as the Shapewear to hold me all in place.
Not long ago, Clayton, N.C.-based nail tech Melodie Hand held a Bra Fit Clinic at her salon, Tickled Pink. It sold her on the service and inspired her to become a “Bra Lady” herself. Here’s her story about this unusual add-on service in her own words:
When I was unable to attend a local Bra Fit Clinic due to my schedule, I decided to have one of my own. When the Bra Lady, Kathy Bartholomew, came I promptly explained to her that I did not need a new bra. I was only doing this to help other women and to introduce her business to my clients. I told her I was already properly fitted at a local clothing store and in a rather expensive bra. She insisted I be fitted so I played along. Boy was I surprised when I saw at least a 3-in. lift in my boobs. And my husband’s reaction sold me on the bra. I signed up that night to be a bra fitter and sell bras. So I am now an independent representative with Essential Bodywear (www.myessentialbodywear.com/MelHand).
The cart stores all the bras from the demo/fitting kit.
I learned how to properly measure for the perfect bra fit by watching Kathy and studying the training videos on the company website, plus jumping right in and measuring as many ladies as possible. I have set up a “booby room” to provide fittings at the salon and all the clients know that it is there. I had a kick-off party at the salon to introduce the service and product to our existing clients.
Once I’ve determined they are in the correct size, women stand in front of the mirror in amazement and the husbands (if present) go “oooooh,” “aaaaah,” and “WOW.” Then we place the order. Our bras start at $60 plus tax and shipping so it’s important that we are providing a much higher level of customer service than they would get in a box store elsewhere.
The sign on the wall says “Boob.” The words over the “B” are “top view,” the “oo” says “front view” and the “b” says “side view.” This is the origin of the word “boob.”
The response has been phenomenal. My hairstylist and I sold over $2,000 in bras in the first 30 days. I have provided a service to take ladies from “saggin’ to braggin’” in minutes. Having the bra business has also allowed me opportunities to get into other local businesses, which helps promote the salon. One of the things I love about being a “Bra Lady” is to see the confidence it gives women just to have “the girls” in the right place. So now, not only can I help women with their self-image through caring for their nails, feet, hair, etc., I can help them with the overall appearance and inner emotions that come with knowing they are completely put together.
Subscribe to Our Newsletter
More Business
Create a Salon Suite That Reflects Your Brand and Delights Your Clients
The most successful salon suites balance personality, function, and comfort. Megan Communale of My Salon Suite shares her best advice for designing a space that supports your business goals and leaves a lasting impression on every guest.
by Anne Moratto
Square's 2026 Local Economy Report Reveals the Neighborhood Network Effect
Square data shows that regular customers tip 11% higher and are shared across 32% of businesses in the same ZIP code, driving thousands of dollars in additional revenue per connection.
Precision, Passion, and the Business of Beauty
When Bowie Lau and Jeffrey Ching opened JBW Jeffrey Ching Salon in 2011, they weren’t just launching another luxury hair destination—they were building a business rooted in passion, artistry, and thoughtful growth.
Sponsored by Amex
The Golden Touch: Luxury Service Helps Drive Loyalty at J Gold Salon
Inside the Systems That Power an Elevated Salon Experience From seamless online booking to a team-first culture, J Gold Salon in Atlanta offers more than great hair—it delivers consistent, high-touch service with the help of partners like Boulevard and American Express.
Sponsored by Amex
How to Build Career Connections in Beauty: Expert Networking Advice from K18’s Sabrina Sanborn
Want to grow your career as a beauty professional? K18 Sales Manager Sabrina Sanborn shares advice on networking, mentorship, and self-advocacy—from attending hair shows to finding the right guidance to reach your goals.
How Can I Minimize Cancellations and No-Shows?
A combination of clear policies, effective communication, and strong client relationships has helped me create a more reliable and efficient booking system.
Nailtorious Iconz Beauty Academy Announces the Rollout of its Professional Product Line
Founded by Cleveland serial entrepreneur Shaura Rodgers, Nailtorious has grown to include a nail supply megastore, training facilities, and retail line for nail techs.
Stylists Share Their Advice for the Post-Holiday Quiet Period
This period after the holidays can bring on a huge lull for hairstylists. We asked Cosmo Prof's team of professionals to offer their best advice on how to deal with the January-February slow period.
10 Housing and Interior Design Trends for 2025
Key highlights include a push toward inclusive spaces for all abilities, an emphasis on maximizing livable square footage, and a continued love for modern farmhouse exteriors.
Prepare for Small Business Saturday® with American Express
The busy holiday season is here, and with it comes jam-packed days, last-minute client requests and booming retail sales. For many salon owners, the highlight of the season is Small Business Saturday® (SBS). This year on Saturday, November 30, consumers can take their shopping into the small businesses in their communities.
Sponsored by Amex
6 Quick Tips for Building Financial Mastery
Want to become savvy about your personal finances, but don't quite know where to start? Anna Manukyan identifies six important concepts for building a strong financial foundation.
Success at the Top: Thriving on Madison Ave.
Salon owner Nuri Yurt had a dream of owning a salon on New York City’s Madison Avenue. "Through perseverance, hard work and stellar customer service, he and partner John Kaygisiz founded Toka Salon in 2007.
Sponsored by Amex
The Salon Today 2024 Technology Solutions Guide
This guide is your one-stop shop for a plethora of technology tools, software and services created to keep your salon or spa thriving.
Where Should My Money Live: An Account Breakdown
Anna Manukyan shares a breakdown of what different types of financial accounts should be used for.
Vagaro’s New AI Features and Communication Tool Pave the Way for a More Efficient, Profitable Business
Vagaro has consistently been at the forefront of salon software technology, helping businesses be more efficient, create more effective communication, and even improve company culture. Now, Connect by Vagaro, the platform’s two-way communication capability, and Vagaro’s new generative AI tools are giving owners new opportunities to grow and expand.
Sponsored by Vagaro
Young Nails Biz Talk: Are You Getting Too Close to Clients?
Young Nails' Greg, Habib, and Tracey discuss whether getting too close to clients can damage your business.