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There are observers of the nail industry who believe that the days of the “mom-and-pop” salon are numbered. They predict that the mid-priced salon cannot survive what they see as the polarization of the market: Either you’re an upscale salon/day spa or you are a discount salon with super-low prices, relying not on a loyal clientele but on volume service sales. I’ve heard main nail industry watchers say that if salons are unwilling to either upgrade their services or downgrade their prices, they will find themselves without any business at all. I disagree. I think the mid-level salon is the foundation of the salon industry and will bring the industry into its next stage of growth. However, these salon owners won’t survive the transition if they don’t ask themselves some critical questions.
Have I identified my target client? Do you understand who your client is and are you striving to take care of her and not everyone? What is your client base and how are you cultivating it?
Do I know what my customers want? Can you truly sit down with a client list and identify what is important to each one? Are you still doing the same kind of nails you did five years ago because clients haven’t asked for a change? Do you play the music clients want? Do you have the hours clients need? Do you offer the; services they ask for?
Do I understand the profitability of my business? If you think you can compete with lower-priced salons by lowering your prices and not lowering your cost of doing business, you’ll run yourself out of business. If you attempt to raise your prices without raising your service and product standards you won’t command those prices for long. Before you adjust your service prices, you have to know what it costs you to do a set of nails and how much money you put into your pocket after you pay your expenses.
Do I know what makes me and my service unique? If you cannot identify what it is about you that defines your business you are never going to be ableto carve out your niche. Is it your painstaking attention to detail with manicures? Is it a 90-minute pedicure that sends clients straight to heaven? Is it an atmosphere of such pampering pleasure that clients make appointments even when they don’t need their nails done? What is it? Identify it and market it. Promote it. Remind everyone all the time what makes your salon unique.
If you’re finding yourself squished in the middle, don’t copy those on either side of you. Step out in front and set your own new level.
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.
