
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!
Many of our readers report taking a great deal of pleasure in giving a little girl her first manicure, or helping to prepare her for a special occasion.
While you don’t see a lot of little kids coming into the salon for a fill or a pedicure and a glass of wine, tending to the younger generation’s nail needs can be a source of both income and enjoyment. Many of our readers report taking a great deal of pleasure in giving a little girl her first manicure, or helping to prepare her for a special occasion. Cathy Marrone, a 12-year veteran of the nail business, says that she’s had a good deal of success catering to young clients.
Nail technician Elizabeth Zarzecki also finds that giving a client’s daughter a special day has great rewards. She recalls one young client who came in shy and apprehensive, barely able to speak. “She watched my every move,” says Zarzecki. “Throughout the manicure, I talked to her and told her everything I was doing and why. I wiped her little hands with alcohol on a cotton pad. Then, using the finest grit file available. I gently evened out little rough spots on the free edge. When I was done with her left hand, I left it to soak.
“I had prepared a conditioning, antibacterial soak with a little strawberry essence foam in the warm water,” continues Zarzecki. “After I took each hand out of the soak, I gently pushed back her cuticles with the towel as I dried her hands. Then to make it very official looking. I very lightly evened her cuticle with a plastic pusher. I massaged lotion on her hands from a tube with child’s cartoon theme. Then I applied a base coat and one coat of pink polish.” Zarzecki painted tiny daisies on three nails and, at the girl’s request, placed a diamond in the center of each flower and added “some sparkly stuff.”
To commemorate the special event, Zarzecki took the child’s photo and later placed it in a 4x6-inch cardboard photo holder with a plastic cover. On a label he types “My First Manicure” and the date. When the mom came for her next appointment, she gave her photo. “The little girl’s friends’ mom have been have been calling for appointments for their daughters, and three of them made appointments for themselves.” Zarzecki reports.

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.