MENU
SEARCHThere were lots of things that appealed to Gradena Phipps about her mother’s profession.
There were lots of things that appealed to Gradena Phipps about her mother’s profession. As a nail technician and salon owner, her mom met lots of people and shared lots of confidences. She was her own boss, earning good money, and setting her own schedule. So when Phipps’ father died in January 1997 she made her mother, Kay Weldon, a proposition: if she would move from Waco to Canyon, Texas, Phipps and her sister would become nail technicians and the three of them could all work together.
The timing was right for all concerned. Phipps was being laid off from her secretarial job, while her older sister, Lynn Brown, was looking for a change of pace from her job as assistant director of a day care facility. After five months of nail school, the sisters received their licenses and joined their mom at KL’s Knippers & Kippers in Canyon.
Weldon owns the salon and her daughters are both renters. “But the salon is family run,” Phipps is quick to say. “We share the responsibilities and each bring different things to the business. My sister knows plenty of people from her day-care job. My mom has the business experience and I have computer skills,” They rotate taking walk-ins and calls from new clients.
The mood is inviting at KL’s Knippers & Kippers.
The hairstylist, Suzannah Rexrode, is like family.
“Sure we fight - we’re family. But we always work it out.” Say Phipps, “Of course, I’m always right” adds mom.
Incense, low lights, and music set the tone, while clients relax in black leather reclining chairs.
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.
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
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
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.
A combination of clear policies, effective communication, and strong client relationships has helped me create a more reliable and efficient booking system.
Founded by Cleveland serial entrepreneur Shaura Rodgers, Nailtorious has grown to include a nail supply megastore, training facilities, and retail line for nail techs.
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.
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.
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
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.
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
This guide is your one-stop shop for a plethora of technology tools, software and services created to keep your salon or spa thriving.
Anna Manukyan shares a breakdown of what different types of financial accounts should be used for.
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' Greg, Habib, and Tracey discuss whether getting too close to clients can damage your business.
This list of watch-outs from @jodydoesjels prompted us to reach out to her and learn more. We had already fallen for her hand-painted designs and now we wanted to know more about this list she created to help clients decide if she was the nail tech for them.
Education is necessary for beauty professionals to maintain their cosmetology licenses, and paying for that education can be burdensome, but it doesn't have to be. Understand which education tax credits can help you offset those costs.
