SCRATCHCOLUMNIST

Formulas for Success

THE END-OF-YEAR PLAYBOOK: 5 WAYS TO MAXIMISE ON THE BUSY FESTIVE SEASON

Make the most of the months ahead with business tips, retail advice & social media notes from ELAINE WATSON, global education director at Light Elegance

The final months of the year are here, and for nail professionals around the globe, that means one thing: the booking rush is on. It’s like the nail industry’s version of the Running of the Bulls, but with less running and more glitter. Your schedule is about to get so packed, you may need a spreadsheet to remember your own name.

Being busy isn’t just about seeing more clients: it’s about maximising every minute and service to boost your income and build lasting client relationships. This isn’t just a checklist I have created for you; it’s a playbook to help you streamline your business, enhance your services and make this peak season your most profitable one yet. Let’s get you booked, busy and ready to party.

MASTER YOUR SCHEDULE TO SAVE TIME (& YOUR SANITY) ✔

Every minute counts when you’re booked back-to-back. Think of your time as a precious commodity, like a last scoop of ice cream. You want to get the most from it without it melting all over the place.

Offer ‘power services’.

Create a few express services, like a gel overlay, a dry manicure with a single colour or a relaxing hand massage. Market these as quick ways for clients to enjoy flawless nails and a skincare treatment. These services are perfect for clients who text you at 8pm, asking if you can squeeze them in for an emergency mani.

Optimise your workflow.

Have all your tools and products, from files to brushes, laid out and ready to go at the start of each day. You should be able to reach for anything you need without having to leave your nail desk. Picture it: you’re part of a Formula One pit crew, but your race car is a client’s hand and the trophy is a perfect, chip-free manicure.

Embrace the LE advantage.

This is where using high-quality, fast-curing gels, like those from Light Elegance, makes all the difference. Our formulas provide exceptional adhesion and long-lasting wear, which means fewer clients returning for re-dos. This saves you valuable time and keeps your schedule running smoothly, because the only thing worse than a packed schedule is one with a client complaining about a chipped nail.

UPSELL & ADD VALUE TO EVERY SERVICE ✔

Increasing your average service price per client is one of the quickest ways to boost your income. The trick is to offer value that feels like a treat, not an extra charge.

The power of the add-on.

Offer simple, high-impact add-ons. Consider a warm hand massage with the luxurious Q&Lu Bamboo Lotion, a sparkly accent nail using Light Elegance Glitter Gels or a nourishing cuticle treatment. These are quick services that clients will happily pay for. It’s like when you go to the movies and are asked if you want butter on your popcorn. The answer is always ‘yes!’.

Create ‘premium’ looks.

Curate a small selection of premium nail art designs that require slightly more time, and charge a higher price for them. Use a photo menu or display a few stunning examples in your salon. Showcasing intricate designs using Light Elegance’s Color Gels and Sculpting Gels can inspire clients to upgrade. After all, if they’re going to be the main character at their end-of-year party, their nails need to stun.

The LE advantage.

Light Elegance’s wide range of colours and finishes makes it easy to create special add-ons. Our products are designed to be versatile, so you can achieve multiple looks with just a a small selection, making them a wise investment for your business.

RETAIL: YOUR SECOND INCOME STREAM

I know, I know. Just writing it gives me the ‘oh no, not the retail conversation’ fear. But as well as doing their nails, you need to empower your clients to take care of them. Think of selling retail products as a simple and effective way to earn extra income and provide a better client experience. You’re doing them a favour.

Be a product expert. ✔

Recommend LEpro Cuticle Oil as a key product for at-home nailcare. Explain to your clients why it’s essential for maintaining their manicures and the health of their nails. Think of yourself as the wellness guru of their nail world.

Create a ‘care kit’.

Bundle essential products like LEpro Cuticle Oil, a mini file and Q&Lu Bamboo Lotion into a kit. Market it as a ‘Mani Maintenance Kit’ or a ‘Healthy Nails Starter Pack’ for a quick and easy sale. Include a few treats in there, like candy or chocolate, to help get clients through their busy days.

TAKE PHOTOS & TELL A STORY ✔

Your portfolio is your best marketing tool, and this peak season is when you’ll have particularly stunning work to share.

Make it visual.

Take a great photo of every client’s finished manicure. Use natural light and a clean background. Post the best snaps on social media, and be sure to tag the client (with their permission) to increase your reach. No one can resist a nail selfie, especially when their nails look great.

Tell a story.

In your caption, share a quick story about the look or talk about the products you used. Don’t just show the finished design – explain the process or discuss a new colour you’re loving, and add a special comment about your client. A little love goes a long way when building a devoted client relationship.

BUILD A CLIENT REFERRAL PROGRAMME ✔

Your most loyal clients are your best marketers. Give them an incentive to spread the word.

Offer a reward.

Create a simple referral programme. For example, when an existing client refers a new client, both receive a small discount on their next service. It’s a win-win that drives new business and rewards your loyal fan base. Think of them as your personal hype team!

“Showcasing intricate designs using Light Elegance’s Color Gels and Sculpting Gels can inspire clients to upgrade.”

This season is your opportunity to not only meet demand, but grow your business. By focusing on efficiency, adding value and strategically marketing your work, all with the confidence that comes from using high-quality products, you’ll set yourself up for success well beyond the busiest time of the year. Remember to take care of yourself and make time to walk away from your nail desk, eat and stay hydrated.

Happy booking, and may your tips be as full as your appointment book!

Elaine Watson Global education director, Light Elegance