MENU
SEARCHJust about everyone in the nail industry — whether friend or competitor — would say that OPI president George Schaeffer has done much to advance the professional nail industry.
There’s a Yiddish word that comes to mind that perfectly sums up OPI president George Schaeffer: It’s mensch, and it means someone who is a stand up guy, a big-hearted person. Schaeffer is well known in the nail industry for a 20- year history that has brought attention to professional nail products. Although there were professional products before and after OPI launched its first color collection in 1989, it was the biannual themed collections, with their play- on-words polish names, that captured the imagination of nail technicians and salon customers alike and set the standard for the industry. It was also Schaeffer (with his sister-in-law partner Suzi Weiss Fischmann) who first abandoned the word nail polish and coined the term lacquer — a move that helped distinguish salon brands from drugstore brands.
Just about everyone in the nail industry — whether friend or competitor — would say that OPI and Schaeffer have done much to advance the professional nail industry. Many in the industry are familiar with the give-back program launched with Nicole (the Colors With a Conscience program). But Schaeffer goes beyond that.
He’s donated to a wide variety of causes, including leukemia research and breast cancer awareness. In fact, at this year’s annual ABA Beauty Ball and Charity Auction, he donated $ 120,000 to the Leukemia Research Foundation (and was rewarded with a pair of angel wings, which he proudly donned).
Starbright Foundation, Rock the Vote, American Oceans Campaign, and Gilda’s Club benefit from the Colors With a Conscience program. Schaeffer madesure that at least 80% of each group’s revenue goes directly into providing actual programs and services, while no more than 20% is used for administrative expenses. The wide-ranging organizations were chosen according to their track records and the degree of commitment exhibited by their employees and executives.
National organizations aren’t the only ones to benefit from Schaeffer’s largesse. Last year; OPI and Schaeffer established the George Schaeffer Family Foundation. Through the foundation, Schaeffer and his wife Miriam established a scholarship program for eligible OPI employees that will fund post-high school education. “Miriam and I have found that there is no substitute for a good education and we want our extended OPI family to take advantage of these opportunities as well,” Schaeffer says ‘With this scholarship program we feel that we are giving back to those who have enabled us to succeed.”
And just recently, he made it possible for 40 children of OPI employees to do their homework on brand new computers. In an essay contest, children explained “Why I Need A New Computer.” The winners received a computer; monitor; and printer: For Schaeffer; it’s obviously not about receiving Giving comes first.
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.
