Q&A for How to Start a Nail Salon

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Do you have any advice for someone who wants to start a nail salon?

Mia Rubie
Nail Artist
Mia Rubie is a Nail Artist and the Owner of Sparkle San Francisco, a nail studio based in San Francisco, California. She has over eight years of nail artist and management experience and is known for her push-the-envelope designs and artistic eye for colors. Her clients include Sephora, Target, and Vogue. Her work has been featured in the San Francisco Chronicle and StyleCaster. She holds a BBA focusing on Entrepreneurial and Small Business Operations from San Francisco State University. You can find her work on her Instagram account @superflynails.

Mia Rubie

Nail Artist

Expert Answer

Really take your time when you're hiring talent. Check their references and get a feel for who they are—you want to find people who have a passion for nails, and a customer-service oriented personality.

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Question

What if I just wanted to own the nail shop and not actually do nails?

Community Answer

You can do that, but most owners work in their own salons for years before sitting back and enjoying life.

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Question

Do I need a cosmetology license to own and run my own shop?

Community Answer

No. You will need a business license. However, you will need your cosmetology license if you intend to work there as a cosmetologist.

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Question

Which software do you suggest?

Community Answer

For your point of sale I would recommend a modern POS like Clover (if available in your country). For keeping your customers updated with your news/offers, this must be done via their mobile device. I would recommend a combination of a Facebook page and an easy-to-use digital loyalty solution like loopyloyalty.com.

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Question

Can a 12 year old start this?

Community Answer

No, you would need to be over the age of 18. But start thinking of names, researching marketing and location strategies, saving money, etc. so you're prepared to begin your business when you are of age.

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Question

Can I do this at school to earn a little bit of money?

Community Answer

Possibly, if you confine it to before/after classes and during free periods. Ask a teacher or principal for permission before you try it.

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Question

Can a teenager start a nail business from home?

Community Answer

You could have an unofficial salon in your home to do nails for your friends, family, etc., but if you wanted to start an official business, you would need someone 18+ to apply for a business license for you.

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Question

How do I start a nail salon and get people to work for me?

Community Answer

Follow the steps in this article to get a salon going, then get a website and advertise that you're looking to hire people.

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Question

I am 13 and I want to do nails at my house to make a profit. Can I do that or do I need to get a permit?

Community Answer

No, you can't. You have to go to a nail school or hold a cosmetology license from your state, which means passing a state board exam.

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Question

How do I start a nail salon when I'm under 18?

Community Answer

You probably can't. If you are planning to be doing nails, you need a license. Otherwise its still not possible to own a salon.

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