
Business
What’s in a Name?
Taking a cue from her Southern heritage, Bambi Montgomery softens the hustle and bustle of Chicago with a touch of down-home charm.
How Do You Prepare for a Trade Show?
In this month's Reader to Reader column, techs share their best practices.

Dear Donna, Come Back
A letter from an old friend causes me to reflect on what's changed ... and what hasn't.
Confessions of a Former Flake
I had to admit to myself that, despite feeling confident in my abilities as a nail technician, as a businesswoman I just plain fell short.
Salon Inspectors: Making the Grade?
Often targeted by the industry for their supposed lack of knowledge and infrequent inspections, salon inspectors argue that they do the best they can with what they have. We went behind the scenes to find out what they do on the job, and how essential they really are to the industry.
While You're Away ... How to Take a Vacation From the Salon
How long has it been since you’ve had a vacation? If you can’t quite remember, it’s time to loosen the reins and put a plan in place that allows you to feel confident your business can survive without you – for a little while anyway.

A Salon Where Everybody Knows Your Name
Escape Nail Spa in Antioch, Ill., is a delightfully warm salon where vacationers and locals alike can feel at home while getting their nail and feet treats.

On the Road at Orly's Beauty Mark Salon
The first indicator that Beauty Mark is no ordinary salon is its strategic location inside the Orly International headquarters.
What continuing education classes do you find most helpful?
In this month's Reader to Reader column, techs say they like "real life" education and hands-on learning.

Web Poll Results: We’re Givers
80% of people in the nail industry donate items or services to charities at least once a year.
Nail Olympics Earns Its Weight in Gold
The second annual nail competition proves that competing really is a global event.
Foot Shy
What do you do when you already offer great customer service and pampering, yet you can’t get those shy clients to take off their shoes and put their feet in your hands?
Learn What Retail Clients Really Want
"The Retail Help Kit" produced by The Spa Association includes this valuable resource for identifying and satisfying your most challenging retail clients.

SWOT: Analyze Your Business
SWOT means you should ask yourself: What are your Strengths, Weaknesses, Oppportunities, and Threats?
Keeping A Watchful Eye
Investing in a security system for your salon can deter theft, provide protection for staff members and lower your insurance premiums.
How to Move Your Salon
No one welcomes the hassle that moving a salon is sure to bring. But you can minimize the headaches by researching your new location thoroughly, planning well ahead, budgeting realistically, and packing smart.

A Booth Renter’s Guide to Retail
Booth renters need to know he rules if they are going to retail effectively. Understanding the terms of your lease and the law governing retail sales is essential. Applying commonsense marketing strategies allows you to maximize profits.



