Business
CNN Lauds Manicurist as Hero
Congratulations to Washington D.C.-based manicurist Lidia Schaefer, who was honored as a “CNN Hero” in June after she sold her home and her car in order to raise money to build a new school in her native village in Ethiopia.
Week 5: Add a New Service and Create a Buzz
Sometimes it’s not that you need to get more clients (we’ve already told you that it costs more to get a new client than it does to keep an old one), but that you need to get more out of your clients. That might mean sending them home with a service-preserving retail item (we’ll get to retail in the very near future) or an incentive to entice them to try a new service.
On the Road: Talons Nail Evolution
Managing editor Sree Roy visits Talons Nail Evolution in Victoria, B.C., Canada.
by Sree Roy
Artist Spotlight: Liliya Sereditskaya
Ukrainian-based nail tech Liliya Sereditskaya is a relative newcomer to the nail craft. She’s only worked as a nail tech for three years, but she has quickly learned how to make stunning, high-quality stilettos to keep a full clientele. NAILS got a chance to talk to Sereditskaya about nail trends in Ukraine and how she got her start.
State of the Art
Upscale art galleries typically showcase work in a variety of mediums — there’s clay, charcoal, and, of course, various kinds of paint. But one European artist is making a name for herself using a medium that’s near-and-dear to all of our hearts: nail polish.
Websites Worth Watching
Young Nails’ Nail Art Gallery
Social Networking for Nail Techs
Like many salons, East Village Spa in Des Moines, Iowa, was fully booked for Valentine’s Day, then right before the appointment cancellation charge cut-off of 48 hours, clients “suddenly” realized they wouldn’t be able to come in. Rather than lose money on empty appointments, the salon posted the new openings on Twitter. “They were immediately snatched up by people who’d waited too long to make Valentine’s Day plans. Twitter helped us stay 100% booked,” says owner Cassie Sampson.
by Sree Roy
Understanding the Cost of Maintaining a Pedicure Chair
Repairing or replacing pedicure spas and other salon equipment can be costly. One way to protect against these usually unexpected expenses is with an extended warranty. One Source Extended Care offers extended warranty plans on all types of salon and day spa equipment, providing coverage beyond the manufacturer’s standard warranty.
Day Spa, Night Life
Under owner Misha Parham’s direction, My Sassy Nail Spa in Washington, D.C., has come to specialize in parties that include martinis, pole dancing, and tattoos.
by Thi Dao
Save a Tree
Making a conscious effort to be green is important not only from an environmental point of view but also from a marketing and public relations point of view.
Five Ways to Market Your Green Salon
You offer services using natural products, and you and your staff make earth-friendly choices for your salon whenever you can. How do you let your clients know about your commitment to going green? Below are five ways to spread your message
Retail Boutique: Breast Cancer Awareness Products
October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and there’s no better way to show your clients you care than by retailing products that donate a portion of their proceeds to benefit breast cancer organizations.
Living the Dream
From getting initial experience and photos to selling yourself at an appointment with an agent, this is a handy how-to guide for finding an agent for freelance manicuring work.
by Sree Roy
Retail Boutique: Shoe Accessories
Clients are more likely to show off their new pedicures in comfortable heels and sandals. With cushions, inserts, and protectors available, stock up on shoe accessories to enhance your clients’ footwear comfort.
Manicures, Pedicures, and Beyond
European Touch, best known for its pedicure spas, now offers a line of sophisticated salon furnishings and useful appliances.
On My Mind: Become a Color Expert
Become a color expert for your clients.
by Hannah Lee
30 Things You (Probably) Didn't Know About CND
September 2009 marks the 30th anniversary of CND. Read on for some things you may not know about the company.