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SEARCHIt's a distressing fact that for the last few years there has been relatively little movement in salon service prices.
In our research for NAILS’ annual Fact Book we follow salon service prices very closely. It's a distressing fact that for the last few years there has been relatively little movement in prices. Prices for artificial services have been going down (from $42.02 for an acrylic full set in 1991 to $38.40 in 1996), yet manicure prices are going up (from $10.43 in 1991 to $12.69 in 1996). As we said in our analysis in the Fact Book, “A full set is fast becoming a commodity service,” which means that customers purchase these services based primarily on price because they do not recognize a difference in either the service they receive, the finished results, or the product.
Instead of simply a way to lengthen nails, how about applying acrylic (or any other enhancement system) as a very thin overlay on natural nails and skip the tip or form altogether? Clients tend to like the fact that their own nails are actually growing. Learn to do a super-fast set and fill. Time is money, so if you can’t get $45 anymore for a one-hour full set, get it by promising a client will be in and out with beautiful nails in under 45 minutes. Use the flexibility that acrylic sculpting offers. You can correct a natural nail deformity with the right sculpting technique. You can make a crooked nail look straight, or a flat nail look naturally curved. You can stop a nail biter. Keep before-and-after photos in the salon to demonstrate what steady salon maintenance can accomplish.
Excel at every system available to you, not just acrylic. Offer a fabric overlay or gel service, for instance. If clients complain about product smells, try an odor-free product.
You don't need to get swept up in the tide of falling prices or switch your focus to natural manicures entirely. Give clients what they want, but steer them to options they might never have considered.
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.
