
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!
As an instructor at the Ottawa Academy & West End Academy in Gloucester, Ontario, Tanis Darling has started the Nail Tech Alliance of Canada. One of its goals is to implement a standardized nail curriculum throughout the country.
NAILS’ 2001-2002 educator of the Year Tanis Darling has put her prize money where her mouth is. Not long after accepting the award, she told NAILS of her desire to promote standardized education and provide information and education for Canadian nail techs. To that end, Darling has used her $1,000 winnings to bankroll the Nail Tech Alliance of Canada, a new organization dedicated to providing information, education, and ultimately certification to Canada’s largely unregulated nail professionals.
“I’ve long been concerned about the lack of standardized education in our technician programs. The goal of NTAC is to instill a high level of skills and professionalism to ensure a bright future for our industry,” says Darling. “With chapter heads in each province, we hope to be responsive to individual regulations and concerns.”
Membership benefits include a bimonthly newsletter with generic technical and business information, changes in rules and regulations, upcoming events, national and provincial happenings, and special discounts. Other benefits include client referrals, networking, opportunities to become an educator in your area – and perhaps most importantly – the opportunity to become a certified nail technician.
Four levels of certification are available based on a written exam, practical exam, apprenticeship, and years of experience. A number of schools in Ontario and Quebec have already adopted the certified curriculum for their students. Although certification is an important aspect of the program, nail techs can join NTAC and support its goals without participating in the certification program, says Darling.

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.