MENU
SEARCHAs we walked by an empty storefront, my flip-flopped feet wanted a rest, and the storefront was simply a tease. The cream-colored paper plastered to the window taunted me with stories of manicures and pedicures, and the logo — with its bright colors and intricate font — promised me that this would be an adorable nail spa.
Nail tech Maki Otani is originally from Japan, but she didn't do nails until moving to the United States.
The back wall of Lulu's has the easily recognizable bird illustration that adorns the salon's media materials.
I always misjudge things. OK, it’s actually just driving distance and time it takes me to get somewhere that I misjudge. Growing up in a one-stoplight Midwestern town, I have a tendency to constantly underestimate traffic or distance. In Southern California, that means I’m always late.
Last year I was visiting a friend in San Diego, and after arriving about an hour later than I said I would, we were walking to a bar she claimed was “about a block away.” It turned out it was actually about two miles away (she grew up in the Midwest as well). On the return trip, my feet paid the price for this misjudgment. As we walked by an empty storefront, my flip-flopped feet wanted a rest, and the storefront was simply a tease. The cream-colored paper plastered to the window taunted me with stories of manicures and pedicures, and the logo — with its bright colors and intricate font — promised me that this would be an adorable nail spa. It wasn’t open yet. So, we trudged on, and I returned to L.A.
Nail tech Maki Otani is originally from Japan, but she didn't do nails until moving to the United States.
When I had to make a last-minute trip to San Diego this summer, I made an afternoon appointment at that now- opened nifty spa, Lulu’s by Travis Parker. As my 4 p.m. appointment time rolled around, I wasn’t there yet. I was still sitting in bumper-to-bumper traffic waiting in the long line of cars vying to get into downtown San Diego.
Thirty minutes (and a phone call warning them I’d be late) later, I stepped through the glossy red door. Inside, it was just how I expected — welcoming and quaint. It was the kind of place both my grandma and I would describe as “pretty.”
Nail tech Maki Otani gave me the luxury pedicure while I noticed the elaborate interior of the salon. As she placed the heated neck wrap around my collar, I studied the extra-large parrot mural on the wall. When I was enjoying the aromatherapy soak, I peered out the extra-large window that had once given me a peek into the spa; now that same window was a view into a perky neighborhood, complete with couples strolling hand-in-hand and 20-somethings jogging with their dogs. While my feet soaked up the mask, I took note of the manicure tables, which were converted antique sewing tables. And while she massaged and polished me, I noticed the extra room my rump had in the thrones, which were designed by co-owner Travis Parker, a hairstylist for the stars.
As I paid and snapped a few last-minute photos, I overheard (OK, so I was eavesdropping) the conversation of two other clients. They were next-door neighbors who often visited Lulu’s. Hearing them talk about how Lulu’s is the only place they’ll go for services, I knew my first impression of the salon months before was right on. Even though all I’d seen was a huge swathe of paper with a mission statement on it, I hadn’t misjudged the place. It kept its promise and keeps customers coming back. I’ll definitely try to go again—but I’ll try even harder to judge my time better. Sigh.
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.
