
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!
Shoppers seek special gifts that are just right for the recipient, but what they want most is to shop stores that are convenient and make their gift-shopping experience quick and painless.


“Convenience is gift shoppers’ top priority this year,” says Pam Danzinger, president of Unity Marketing and author of Way People Buy things They Don’t Need (Paramount Market Publishing, 2002). “Shoppers seek special gifts that are just right for the recipient, but what they want most is to shop stores that are convenient and make their gift-shopping experience quick and painless.”
Danzinger shares these strategies for retailers to increase holiday gift sales.
Gift-givers seek gifts that show they know the recipient. Give shoppers a way to customize gifts or add a special touch just for the recipient.
Compile a list of the top gift ideas for specific relations (i.e. Spouse, child, coworker) and price points (i.e. $25 and under: $262-$50: $51-%100: $100+) and post it prominently at the front counter, the cash registers, and on the window.
Gift certificates should be appealing to give and to receive. Avoid generic certificates in favor of ones that connect emotionally.
Gift shopping doesn’t take place only in the last two months of the year. Heavy gift buyers, in particular, are always out and about, grazing for new ideas. The buy and stash away gift all year long, so make gifting and gift shopping a key retail focus throughout the year.
Gift shoppers value the personal touch. Provide knowledge, well-trained sales help to guide them.
To help gift-buyers find the right, prepare your staff with a list of open-ended questions that will help shoppers discover the perfect gift. Make sure staff knows the stock and can intelligently interview shoppers.
Keep up with consumer passions and preferences in key product categories. Get rid of last year’s merchandise if it’s still hanging around, so when the holiday rush hits, shoppers won’t see your business looking tired.
To maximize sales gifts, make sure you offer expert-quality gift wrap services with a number of gift wrap option. And make sure your business’s name included somewhere in the gift package - either on the box, complimentary gift card, or gift receipt.

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.