
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!
With experience comes wisdom, they say.
With experience comes wisdom, they say. And that has proved to be true for the technicians at The Nail Shop of Carrollwood in Tampa, Fla., who say working in the booth rental salon has taught them a thing or two about the nail business that they didn’t learn in school. NAILS asked the technicians what they know now that they wish they had known when they started out.
Jennifer Nicholson: I wish I would have known how successful I could be in the business. I would have started younger. I also wish I would have known how much of an investment I would need to make. I would have saved more money before starting in the business.
Lisa Montero: I wish I would have known how quickly I would go through supplies.
Landa Cuono: I wish I had a more clear sense of how long it would take to build a clientele. I thought I would be making great money right out of school. It takes time to fine-tune your skills so that you can handle any client’s needs. Over the years, I have learned how to keep clients coming back, but I would have welcomed more training in communication skills and building a rapport with the clients. I would also have appreciated more information on managing personal and business finances.
Starr Wilson: I wish I would have known more about solving lifting problems. I would have liked more information on body chemistry and its effect on the application of artificial nails.
Cathryn Myers (salon owner/technician): I wish I would have known how difficult it is to find quality people to work in the salon. I expected the long hours and hard work it takes to build my own clientele, but I am still amazed at how difficult it is to find people with the same work ethic.

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.