
The Beauty Pro Book Club: 4 Reads to Inspire Growth and Success
Four publications for beauty industry professionals to enhance their leadership skills, financial awareness, professional growth, and joy!
Julie Skrocki, mother of Renee Skrocki, passed away March 19, 1999 after a brief fight with stomach cancer. The mother-daughter team had owned VIP Nails & Tans in Riverview, Mich., since 1986.


“She was my mother, my business partner, and my best friend,” says Renee Skrocki, of her mother Julie Skrocki (right), who passed away March 19, 1999 after a brief fight with stomach cancer. The mother-daughter team had owned VIP Nails & Tans in Riverview, Mich., since 1986 and had fought two high-profile industry battles together that today’s salon owner benefit from. They went head to head with the IRS and the Michigan tax board (and lost) and spearheaded a campaign against MMA, uniting with other owners in their community to put a stop to illegal MMA use. Although Renee handled the business operations for the salon and was the “spokesperson,” Julie lent her considerable experience in finance and management to lead the staff and manage the books. She was well loved by the staff and clientele alike, which was evidenced by the 200+ people who packed the church for her funeral.
The elder Skrocki was divorced and leaves two children besides Renee – Janette Skrocki, 33, and Michelle Hollis, 36, who is expecting Julie’s first grandchild in June. As proud as she is of her and her mother’s accomplishments, Renee acknowledges that her mother’s death has caused her to look at her life in a new perspective. Admitting that she has focused on work sometimes to the exception of all other things. Renee says it’s time to slow down and enjoy life more. “During the eulogy, the minister said no matter how fast we run and how much we accomplish, we all one day wind up at our own funeral,” says Renee, who found particular meaning in this lesson. “That will be one of her gifts to me – teaching me to slow down and learn to enjoy every minute of the life I have.”

Four publications for beauty industry professionals to enhance their leadership skills, financial awareness, professional growth, and joy!

The most successful salon suites balance personality, function, and comfort. Megan Communale of My Salon Suite shares her best advice for designing a space that supports your business goals and leaves a lasting impression on every guest.

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.