How to Start a Nail Salon Business in 2025?

Who does not like sharp and shiny nails? Taking care of your nails is just another way of showing self-love. This beauty industry is rewarding for those who enjoy art & creativity. Starting a nail salon is a great business idea for those who like to take care of others’ nails. If you’re confused about how to start a nail salon business, you’re in the right place to learn how!

Statistics

The nail salon industry is growing every year at a good rate. Disposal income, social media influence, and increased importance of personal appearance are the factors of this growth. The nail salon industry is growing fast. It may reach $25.2 billion by 2033, and the growth rate is 6.54% yearly. Starting a nail salon business is a great opportunity for entrepreneurs in this market.

How to Start a Nail Salon Business?

#1. Create a Complete Nail Salon Business Plan

For smooth business, planning is very important. This showcases the future of your salon business, what services you will offer, and how much money you expect to make. It should have details about the nail services you will have, like acrylic nails, manicures, and nail art. Your planning should also have market analysis and industry trends to understand competition. Also, salon marketing strategies to get new customers and a budget for the startup cost. The budget will consist of equipment, products, furniture costs, and other expenses like renovation and renting the property. Your business plan guides you and helps you get money from inverters or banks.

#2. Analyze Your Target Audience and Competitors

You have to learn how to find potential clients. Identify them, their preferences, and what they’re expecting from your salon. Following the same method also gets you to know your competitors in your area. Have detailed information about their services, pricing, and client reviews to find any market gap. By adapting these methods, you can create a better offering that sets your salon apart from the others.

#3. Select a Unique and Catchy Business Name

The smallest but most important thing is choosing the right name for your salon. It needs to be unique as you are and reflect your salon’s brand identity. It should be catchy & easy to pronounce and strike in the minds of people when they hear your salon name. Also, confirm that no one else has trademarked your business name, and is also available for the domain name for consistency.

#4. Register Your Business as a Legal Entity

You will need a particular type of license and permission for your salon business. Also, you need to get a business and cosmetology license for yourself and your team. Adding to it, get a health and safety permit that is suited for your local regulation. You have to check for nail salon licensing requirements in your area to avoid legal problems. You can check with local authorities to understand any kind of requirements in your area.

#5. Purchase Business Insurance to Protect Your Salon

Insurance is a must for your nail salon business setup. It will protect your salon business from different types of risk. There are different types of insurance you will need; let’s discuss:
General Liability: This insurance covers any kind of accidents that happen at your salon.

Professional Liability: If a customer is not happy with your service or gets injured by the treatment, this insurance covers that claim.
Property Insurance: It will insure your equipment and supplies that can be damaged from fire, theft, or any other accidents.

#6. Secure Financing to Fund Your Nail Salon

You will need starting and operational money to start your business. Go thoroughly for your nail salon business startup costs, which include rent payment, equipment costs, and salary for your staff. Find financing options such as business loans, savings, or partnerships. A strong business plan will help you convince someone to invest or lend money to support your business.

#7. Choose an Ideal Location and Design Your Space

You will have to understand the importance of interior design and location for your salon’s success. Choose a location where the crowd is high so you can get your target customers. There are many nail salon interior design ideas out in the market, but you have to be special. Your first priority should be comfortable seating and proper lighting. Design your salon interior with aesthetic colors suitable for all types of customers, not too bold or too simple. Create a welcoming atmosphere that makes clients visit again.

#8. Recruit Skilled Nail Technicians and Staff

Your salon’s reputation is highly dependent on your staff. Get yourself a licensed and experienced nail artist for a salon. So that you can provide different nail services and the best pedicure in the market. Also, make sure they are professionals with good customer service techniques to offer clients the best service. Happy & satisfied clients will recommend to others to try your salon.

#9. Buy Quality Nail Salon Equipment and Supplies

Make sure you are investing in high-standard products and equipment for professional service. You should purchase items like nail stations and sterilizers and different nail products like gels, acrylics, and polishes. You should partner with a reliable supplier of these goods. For consistent quality and supply on time.

#10. Plan a Grand Opening to Attract Clients

You can make a successful big opening for your salon to attract potential customers:

Promotions: You can provide special discounts or packages for the first 25 clients.
Marketing: You can use social media platforms for marketing, local advertisements, and community events to spread the word.
Ambiance: You have to make sure your salon is ready to provide a great experience to new clients.

#11. Leverage Technology for Booking and Payments

You should get along with new technology by providing online booking and payment systems. It makes it easier for clients as well as for staff by online scheduling the appointments. Your business should have different payment methods like credit/debit cards and digital wallets. By doing this, it will make your client’s experience better and more efficient.

#12. Implement Strategies to Grow Clientele and Loyalty

Your constant effort and smart marketing strategies are needed to grow your client base. Loyalty points, referral discounts, and other promotion methods can make clients revisit your salon.

Platforms like Instagram and TikTok are great ways to showcase your service and skills. Upload videos and photos on these platforms to gain followers and attract customers. For customers searching for the “best nail salon near me,” list your salon on Google Maps with all the details. You have to build a good relationship with your clients for loyalty and long-term growth.

Conclusion

Starting a nail salon business is an exciting and great journey for you. By following the above steps to start a nail salon business, you can start a unique salon. Focus on planning your business, choosing the right name and location, and offering high-quality services. By doing these things, you can meet your customer expectations. Make sure your salon has a welcoming atmosphere, skilled staff, and excellent equipment to attract and retain clients.

You can use simple marketing techniques like using social media, offering discounts, and building strong customer relationships. Take advantage of technology for online bookings and payments to make it easier for your clients. With dedication and smart planning, you can turn your nail salon dream into a successful business.