MENU
SEARCHExecutive editor Beth Livesay discusses the joys of networking.
The NAILS team finally relaxed after another successful networking event.
The NAILS team finally relaxed after another successful networking event.
Me, contributing editor Ashley Gregory (far left), and CND’s Jan Arnold (center) in the CND lounge.
NAILS’ first Snapchat filter was made for the Networking Event. We had to test it out, of course.
I wasn’t always so good at networking. When I attended my first BeautyTech Orlando Social four years ago, I was overwhelmed. Everyone seemed to have a clique and the tables filled up fast. Old friends greeted each other with warm hugs and gushes, while I had to introduce myself to everyone. And then I met Debbie Doerrlamm, and she instantly embraced me even though I had only been on the NAILS staff for eight months.
Debbie taught me and so many others the fine art of networking. It was because of my lackluster first BeautyTech experience that I became mindful of introducing myself and others to those who were new to the event. Debbie’s legacy lives on with veterans like Maisie Dunbar and LaShaun Brown-Glenn, who brought new nail school graduates to this year’s event. I met nail techs who blog, make YouTube videos, traveled from New Zealand, and so many more interesting people. I met several techs in real life who I had only known from social media. Networking virtually can pay off in terms of followers, but even Debbie knew that there was no replacement for the real thing — which is why she brought her message board to life so many years ago in the format of the BeautyTech event.
I now consider myself to be an expert at networking. I’m not afraid to take an open seat at a table because I could meet someone remarkable. I love introducing myself because the nail tech I meet may just have the next great idea for a story. Spending quality time with someone makes bumping into them at a future tradeshow all the more rewarding — and in some cases can be the beginning of a long friendship.
Nail techs love networking events because they have the desire to connect. We all want to share, be accepted, and be remembered. Consider this note my personal tribute to Debbie. I wish I had known her better, but I know enough to say with certainty this community will not forget her, and that her legacy lives on with each warm embrace of a fellow nail tech. You can read more tributes to Debbie here.
To all my nail friends old and new, thank you for spending time with the NAILS teams and with each other at our event. If you didn’t join us, consider this a personal invitation to attend next year on June 2, 2018 in Orlando, Fla. I am looking forward to meeting you there!
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.
