
Survival Tips:Staying Afloat in a Sinking Economy
Nail salons are one of the more resilient businesses in stagnating economies, but the current downturn has reached everyone to some extent. Many salons are still thriving despite the slowdown — so what’s their secret? Seven techs share their experiences on how they’re beating the odds to stay afloat.

On the Road: Victoria Nails & Spa
NAILS graphic artist and VietSALON associate editor Kim Pham visits Victoria Nails & Spa in Orange, Calif.

Retail Boutique: Reusable Shopping Bags
With concern for the environment growing and some cities banning the use of disposable bags, reusable shopping bags are becoming a must-have for many.

A Tag-Team Duo
San Franciscan couple Howard Hines and Maria Tan take a very hands-on approach to managing their salon, Tiptoes Nail Spa, despite juggling another full-time job and two kids.

Flip-Flop Flubs
Foot-related injuries due to flip-flop wear are on the rise, according to the American Podiatric Medical Association. “There are many flip-flops on the market that offer little to nothing in terms of arch support, stability, and shock absorption,” says the APMA’s Dr. Ross Taubman. “Opting to wear a pair of cheaply constructed flip-flops puts the wearer at risk for injuries such as arch pain, tendinitis, and sprained ankles.”
On My Mind: What's the Appeal?
What's the appeal of attending tradeshows when the experience can be quite frustrating?

Alert Your Customers To Openings In Your Schedule
Fill empty slots in your next day's schedule by using broadcast e-mail or a telephone call-in line.

How to Build a Clientele and Keep It
Written by a nail tech for nail techs, Dawn Marie Basset’s How to Build a Clientele and Keep It provides excellent tips and insight into building and maintaining a healthy appointment book.

Mistakes, Mishaps, and Malpractice
With the combination of cuticle nippers, chemicals, and customers, there is always the risk of an accident — and a lawsuit. The best defense is to hope for the best, but prepare for the worst.

NAILS Magazine Wins Best Overall Trade Publication
Nails Magazine was honored with a record five Maggie Awards from the Western Publications Association.

Mobile Marketing
How do you attract clients when you have no storefront to draw them in? Target marketing, networking, and a little creativity can help mobile nail techs expand their businesses.

Throw a Grand Opening Party for Your Salon
Let's Do Launch: Creating a memorable opening for your nail salon requires intensive planning, organizational skills, and marketing savvy.

Silicon and the Salon: A Match Made In Heaven
From client bookings to reports on product usage, find out what's going on inside the latest silicon chips for salons.

Salon Delivers De-Stress Dollars

What are some ideas I can use to create themed manicure and pedicure services?
I would like to offer themed manicures and pedicures for my clients. I want a relaxing spa atmosphere. What are some ideas I can use to create themed services?
The ABCs and 123s of Customer Service
Sometimes we feel so much pressure to be more and do more for clients we overlook the elementary principles of customer service. But instead of fretting about what to do next, try going back to the basics.

Here Today, Gone Tomorrow
Don’t get caught off guard by a planned or sudden staff absence. With a bit of thought and planning, extended leaves won’t negatively impact clients or salon income.



