MENU
SEARCHSince receiving a Beauty Changes Lives CND Advanced Scholarship in 2017, Little Rock, Ark.-based nail tech Kim Forga-Yarbrough has seen her career blossom.
Scholarship winner Kim Forga-Yarbrough
Scholarship winner Kim Forga-Yarbrough
Since receiving a Beauty Changes Lives CND Advanced Scholarship in 2017, Little Rock, Ark.-based nail tech Kim Forga-Yarbrough (@kimyarbrough_cnd) has seen her career blossom. This former “kitchen-table” manicurist took the opportunity to become a CND Grand Master, upping her skills, mentoring others, and even discovering a surprising connection to a biological family she hadn’t met before.
Were you surprised to win a Beauty Changes Lives scholarship?
Kim Forga-Yarbrough: The real surprise was finding out how my passion for nails was shared by my birthmother — a person I sought to locate for more than 30 years. Winning the scholarship renewed my curiosity about my biological family. When I finally found my birthmother in Canada, I learned that she is a nail professional and we come from a long line of nail supply store owners.
Did you always want to pursue nails as a career?
KFY: I was a competitive artist as a child and did some illustrating work. But life is busy. I am a mom of eight children and have been married for 20 years. When I was laid off from my job at a dental office, I ended up being a “mom/nail professional” which provided the flexibility I needed along with extra income.
I started out doing what I call “kitchen nails”— using my home’s kitchen as my nail shop. But I found that clients didn’t take the business seriously or respect me as a professional when I worked from home. That drove me to invest in my career and explore the CND scholarship.
How did winning the scholarship help your nail career?
KFY: It helped me carve out a unique point of differentiation as a CND Grand Master. It also changed my philosophy about the role of the nail professional. I used to be fascinated by nail art and enhancements, but since then I’ve built a client list that is interested in natural nails, and have expanded by offering men’s services.
What advice do you offer other nail professionals?
KFY: There is a lot of talk about social media, but don’t forget the simple business card. Believe it or not, some of my clients are not on social media. And they also share my cards with their friends. Also, take photos of clients’ nails before and after. I’ve used this technique to help market gel nails to men. They can quickly see how a subtle gel nail can still look natural, but even better!
How are you paying your success forward?
KFY: I just started mentoring as part of an e-learning program with a local high school. The course I teach, Principles of Business and Microeconomics of Cosmetology, is part of the school’s cosmetology program.
What goals have you set for the future?
KFY: When I get on a plane to teach a class for CND or another brand, I will know I have truly made it! And of course, when I continue the family legacy and open a nail salon with my daughters.
For more information on Beauty Changes Lives scholarships, go to
www.beautychangeslives.org.
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.
