You can create unique signature services using your own custom mixes with Gourmet Spa Essentials’ Master Chef’s Blend. Nail tech and Gourmet Spa Essentials owner Gayla Burnett developed her line of manicure and pedicure products after finding a lack of products that fit her needs. I spoke with her at IBS Las Vegas and she told me she didn’t like taking up precious space by storing a lot of different products with different fragrances. So she came up with her Master Chef’s Blend of Gourmet Manicure and Gourmet Pedicure products. The systems come with unscented products, like the Callus & Heel Butter and Whipped Therapy Hydrating Creme, plus separate fragrance oils, color drops, and empty serving dishes.

In the serving dish, you just add a serving of the unscented product, one to three drops of fragrance, and one to three drops of color, being careful not to exceed three drops of color or fragrance. Stir your mixture until the color is uniform and voila — you’ll have a unique blend for each new service. You’ll also be saving space by only storing the unscented products in bulk. The unscented products themselves are also great for clients with allergies or sensitive skin.

There is also a Gourmet Manicure retail line that Burnett offers to help salons increase their profits. She advises nail techs to educate themselves about the products that you believe in and to share your knowledge with your staff and clients.

—Kim