
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!
Since there is no certain way to know how many competitors are in each competition or whether they’re ranked competitors, we can’t award bonus points based on whether a competition is crowded with the top people.


We need you help on some changes we think may be necessary in how we tabulate the Top 25 Competitors Ranking. This ranking system, originally developed by NAILS, has become an incentive for competitors (I’m told) try to climb up the ranking. While we aren’t always in a position on judge whether a particular competition is worthy enough to be used for the ranking, we feel that we should consider how the ranking system has evolved. Please understand that we feel that the final ranking in years past has been a true picture of the top competitors, but we want to continue to improve the system so that it stays a prestigious and sough-after distinction.
One of our challenges is getting information from show sponsors, who do not always provide complete information. Frequently, we hear a competition’s results from the competitors themselves and then have to nag the show sponsors to get the placements. We also recognize that a competitor who places high in a field of top competitors ought to be rewarded somehow higher than one who places in a field of fewer or less experienced competitors. Putting a higher value on placement at the big shows may help us to solve this problem.
Whether you’re a competitor or not, we’ll like to hear your thoughts. Would it be fair to award extra points to winners of certain big shows, such as the Long Beach show. Midwest Beauty, and IBS/New York? What about Nailco, Premiere, or Ace? Since there is no certain way to know how many competitors are in each competition or whether they’re ranked competitors, we can’t award bonus points based on whether a competition is crowded with the top people.
Use the Reader Service Card on page 105 or 107 to tell us what you think. Circle 160 if you think the current system is fine, using the same point system for all competitions regardless of size. If you think some shows deserve additional points for placing circle 161. Or call our ranking editor, Judy Lession at (310) 533-2457, or e-mail me.
I look forward to hearing from you.

Four publications for beauty industry professionals to enhance their leadership skills, financial awareness, professional growth, and joy!

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.

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.