
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!
Readers' tastes run from classical to techno to Enya.

Illustration/Chris Murphy

Illustration/Chris Murphy
I play classical music or New Age selections, such as Enya, to obtain a quiet, calming effect in my salon. I want my clients to feel relaxed and at home. Classical music seems to fit right into the general profile of my clients and as a result, I receive numerous compliments on my choice of music.
Laurie Wilcox, Laurie’s Day Spa, Sharon, Conn.
We’ve never had any complaints in the music department. We have a stereo with a 10-disc changer and listen to everything: Barbra Streisand, Prince, Alan Jackson, and Alanis Morissette. We keep in mind what time a certain clientele is coming in and play music accordingly. In the morning we have an older crowd, in the afternoon there are the school kids, and at night we get clients who just want to relax. But on Friday night we have a “Friday Night Dance Party,” which everyone loves.
Dottie Batliner, Collins Classic Creations, Georgetown, Ind.
Classic rock, unless the other technician beats me to the radio, then it’s techno-dance stuff.
Debbie Doerrlamm, Wicked Wich Nails, Ronkonkoma, N. Y.
In our salon we play only Christian music. This promotes a friendly, pleasant, and professional atmosphere. When clients hear religious music, it tends to reduce the amount of foul language and gossip. At our salon, there’s always laughter, friendship, and excitement. Gospel music motivates me to work faster and gives me a sense of confidence in my ability and my finished work.
Muzette L. Wise, Origi-Nailz, Chester, S. C.
Most of our clients prefer to watch ‘television, which of course depends on whether or not the reception is good at the time. When we are not watching TV, we play CDs — mostly Vietnamese female vocalists. We even have some patrons who ask for the Vietnamese music rather than the TV—they don’t understand the words of the song, but they enjoy the soft melodies.
Sue Malch, Robin’s Nails, Orlando, Fla
We have quite a mix of musical tastes in our salon — everything from country, R&B, jazz, and easy listening. During the holidays we also have a blend of different types. We have quite a diversity in taste, but that makes the atmosphere less stagnant.
Mary Ballering, Nails To Envy, Mukwonago, Wis.

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.