MENU
SEARCHWe asked a salon owner, an employee, and a both renter this very question, and receive three different responses.
This being NAILS’ “Idea Issue,” we thought we’d find out if you think it’s wise to share ideas with other salons. We asked a salon owner, an employee, and a both renter this very question, and receive three different responses.
SALON OWNER
LEE GARIPOLI
Mankind
Fort Lauderdale, Fla.
My response is two-fold. I think of the information you’re sharing has something to do with the general function of a business, like a computer system or a successful retail product, then it’s professional and beneficial to share information with other salons.
But, if it’s something your salon does that is unique from others, I say absolutely don’t share this information. I think that’s what distinguishes a business, generates a clientele, and separate who’s successful from who’s not.
There are two salons in the area that I’m friendly with. Both cater primarily to women, so (since Mankind caters exclusively to men) there’s only a slight bit of competition. We do a good job of pushing business to each other, like when a man comes into my salon and wants a salon recommendation for his wife. I think if you’re honest and up front about the type of business relationship you want, then being friendly with other salon owners can work really well.
EMPLOYEE
PATTY CHAVEZ
Halo
Rio Rancho, N.M.
To be honest, sharing with other salons isn’t something I go out of my way to do. After all, we’re in competition with other area nail techs. Plus, it doesn’t seem to help to show other nail techs your ideas and techniques, because the nails never come out the same. (I think this is because every tech does things slightly differently.) And, in time, we all hear and see what’s new and trendy sooner or later anyway.
If a nail tech specifically asked me for advice or wanted to learn some techniques from me, in that case, I would be more than happy to show her. I’m confident enough in myself to know that I’m good at what I do; if someone wants to learn from me, it’s flattering. I just think it’s not necessarily wise to go out of your way to share with others salons.
BOOTH RENTER
MONICA LEIPER
Salon Diego
San Diego
I’m always willing to share ideas and, in turn, many have felt comfortable sharing back with me. One way I’ve recently done this is by dropping off my service menu to other salon owners and techs, mentioning that I’m available if they ever need a place to refer extra clients. This has worked out quite a few times, and, during my first six months. I even paid them back by offering $5 for each referral.
I also think it’s wise to carpool with other techs when attending out-of-town classes. After all, they may like the brand you use, which is a reason for the two of you to start to network. This can come in handy later when an emergency happens and you need a place to send your clients. Also being friendly with other techs can be useful when you book a large group and need a partner to do the services with.
I believe each salon has a unique character and clientele, so there’s no reason to lose sleep over sharing information. Let the shopper choose for convenience, personality, and salon style freely.
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.
