Nails
MenuMENU
SearchSEARCH

Business

As a new booth renter, I’d like to know how I should pay myself.

March 30, 2014

I got this advice from a stylist who has 10+ years’ experience and I am so glad I listened.

I put every single penny into my business account, tips included. I write myself a check every two weeks as my “payroll” check. I deposit that check into my personal account and pay all of my personal bills with that. I pay myself just enough to cover personal bills with just a little left over for personal spending money. If I have money left over in the business account at the end of the year, I either leave the money in the account to help with slower times of the year or I buy business-related supplies to ensure I have what I need to service my client base.

I pay my booth rent, supplies, and anything else associated with my business out of my business account. I do not deviate from that plan. I pretend that business account is not there, except on pay day. It’s important to me not to use my business account for personal purchases. I don’t even carry my business credit card or checkbook with me to avoid overspending. Everything is black and white; your accountant will appreciate you so much for making things simple.  

— Paula Applewhite, Paper Rock Scissors; Salon, Spa and Gallery, Southern Pines, N.C.

More FAQ

Is it appropriate to inform my clients that I am going to a new spa to work?

Is it appropriate to inform my clients that I am going to a new spa to work? I’m an employee. I signed no contract. I would tell them if they wish to follow I will be at XXX but if not there will still be someone to take care of them at this salon.... read more

When the owner offers a free service with a manicure, should I be paid my share of the free service since I am doing the labor?

I am working for a salon on a 60/40 split. The salon owner gets 60%. When the owner offers a free service with a manicure, should I be paid my share of the free service since I am doing the labor?... read more

Reader to Reader: How do you politely ask moms not to bring their babies and toddlers with them to their nail appointments?

How do you politely ask moms not to bring their babies and toddlers with them to their nail appointments?... read more

A Change for the Better: Is there one part of your job you wish you could change?

We know you love being a nail tech, but everybody’s got at least one gripe, right? We asked readers to tell us: Is there one part of your job you wish you could change?... read more

I’m thinking about advertising in my local paper. Is this a good idea?

I’ve been a tech for one year and am having trouble building a clientele. I’m thinking about advertising in my local paper. Is this a good idea?... read more

How do I evaluate a booth rental situation?

I’m shopping around for a booth rental situation. What questions should I ask a prospective salon owner? What factors should I consider?... read more

Reader to Reader: When it comes to other techs duplicating your nail art, is imitation the sincerest form of flattery?

When it comes to other techs duplicating your nail art designs, is imitation the sincerest form of flattery? (And where do you personally draw the line?)... read more

Reader to Reader: Do you practice what you preach when it comes to having impeccable nails?

Do you practice what you preach when it comes to having impeccable nails? (If yes, always, how do you fit it into your busy schedule?)... read more

Do you object to the term "nail girl"?

We made the switch from “manicurist” to “nail technician” to reflect a more professional image. Yet to some clients, we’ll always be their nail “girl.” We asked nail techs if this somewhat-less-than-respectful term was OK with them.... read more

What are the pros and cons of a booth rental situation?

I’ve worked as an employee, but now I plan to work as a nail tech on a booth rental basis for the first time. I’m wondering what the main benefits and disadvantages of this type of arrangement are, and how I can get the most out of it to maximize my earnings.... read more

Reader to Reader: Should you fire an employee for bad-mouthing the salon?

Should you fire an employee for bad-mouthing the salon (when she thinks no one else at the salon is listening)?... read more

What should I do to get the paying, loyal clients I need?

I am a seasoned nail tech and have just opened a nail salon. I need help sustaining new and regular clients in this economy. I have done many coupon sites (Groupon, Living Social, etc.) to build business and it has been a pain — plus my price point is higher than neighborhood discount salons. I’m not sure what to do to get the paying, loyal clients I need.... read more