HOME is where the art is

Are you thinking of moving your nail business into your home or garden? JESS WATTS explores points to note: from legal essentials to interior styling

As’ka Baran’s home salon, Holistic Health & Beauty, Crowland.

“If having a home salon is an idea that keeps coming to mind, there’s a reason for that,” says Michelle Brown, owner of Scratch Stars Home Nail Salon of the Year 2025, Chell’s Beauty by the Sea. “Life is too short to wonder ‘what if’. The only way to know if a home-based business could work for you is to take the leap and trust yourself enough to try.”

Opening a home salon is a lot like the perfect nail appointment: every stage matters, with each one contributing to a finish that lasts.

Just as a great nail technician starts with a consultation, building your business begins with asking the right questions. From there, it’s all about preparation and considering the essential legalities and technicalities that underpin a successful business. Then, you can move on to shaping your brand. Finally, as with a nail treatment, ongoing maintenance is required to keep standards high.

Do you want to build your dream salon in your home, or open a setup in your garden – but are you unsure where to start? Scratch takes you through the process, step by step…

Is a home salon right for you? Find out by answering the following questions:

1 When you imagine your dream working day, what does it look like?

a) Just me and my clients collaborating on stunning nail styles. Go to Q2

b) I only want to create nail looks. The business side doesn’t interest me. Go to Q3

c) I’m not totally sure, but I know that I want to work for myself. Go to Q4

2 Are you self-motivated and can you rely on yourself to manage your own schedule?

a) Yes, I thrive on self-management. Go to Q5

b) I think so, but I’ve never tried it before. Go to Q4

3 Have you considered working in an established salon or renting a chair before going it alone?

a) Actually, that sounds like something I could do.

You might not be ready to fly solo just yet – and that’s fine. Try working in an existing salon to sharpen your skills and build your client base. Then, come back to this quiz in a year and see if anything has changed.

b) That’s not for me. I really want to do my own thing; I just need to get my head around the business side. Go to Q4

2 Do you have someone close to you: a partner, family member or friend, who has experience running their own business and can offer advice?

a) Yes, there are people who can support me. Go to Q5

b) Not really – I’d mainly be figuring it out alone. Don’t let that stop you, but make sure you do your homework first. Find a mentor and connect with other nail techs online. Community is a great help. Go to Q5

4 Do your current lifestyle allow for a change this big?

a) Now is the time – I’ve got the space, energy and drive to take on a new challenge. Go to Q6

b) Things are a bit unsettled right now. Then don’t force it. Take a step back and use this time to plan, research and save. Starting doesn’t have an expiry date. Revisit when the timing is right.

6 Do you have a clear idea of what makes you different – for example, your vibe, niche or ideal client?

a) I know exactly the kind of salon I want to create and who it’s for. Go for it! You’ve got the energy, self-motivation and vision. It’s time to take your first steps.

b) Not yet – I haven’t figured out my angle. That’s OK. Spend some time researching other home nail businesses to help clarify your vision. Then, come back for the next stage.

Insurance

Legal elements are usually regarded as the most complicated, but asking for advice from other home salon owners can help. Techs share pointers to guide you:

“You cannot afford to overlook legal and insurance considerations,” says Katie Pritchard, Staffordshire home salon owner & Hara Professional brand ambassador. “As a minimum, you should have appropriate nail technician insurance that covers home-based work; permission from your home insurer and mortgage provider or landlord, and you should have checked any local council requirements or planning permissions.”

Vienna Marchant

Vienna Marchant, owner of Somerset space, The Gel Studio, shares: “My studio is protected under home insurance in case of any damage, and I have public liability and salon insurance to cover me while carrying out treatments. It’s so important to protect yourself and your clients from day one.”

Katie Pritchard

“When you do everything by the book, it can feel like a lot of effort,” says Hampshire home salon owner & Vodex brand ambassador, Nicolette Manesh. “However, knowing that your salon is up to code and protected makes running your business so much easier long-term.”

Nicolette Manesh

Greater Manchester home salon, Nikki Nailed it.

CMB Studio in Rochester, Kent.

Finances

Knowing what to budget for can significantly reduce the financial strain of setting up a home salon.

As’ka Baran

As’ka Baran, owner of Crowland log cabin salon, Holistic Health & Beauty, notes: “When first setting up a home-based studio, you need to budget for: the size of space you need, as prices will vary at different times of the year and often be cheaper during winter; an electric supply to be installed from the main feed of your house by a qualified electrician, and water supply setup, as most councils require this for hygiene purposes.”

Marie-Louise Coster

“Aside from startup costs, you should have money saved to support you during the first 12 months at least,” says Marie-Louise Coster, session stylist, salon owner & Scratch online columnist. “It generally takes three years to see any profit, so make sure your business can fund itself.”

Surroundings

Accessibility and an understanding of your surroundings are vital when running a home-based business.

Vienna Marchant acknowledges that her home setup complements a garden studio. “Behind my garden there’s a public lane, which means clients can enter directly into the studio without stepping into my garden or family home,” she shares. “It works perfectly; my home stays private, and my clients have an easy entrance and exit.”

Georgia Steel

Georgia Steel, owner of Southampton home studio,, Georgia Does Nails, says: “Speak with your neighbours and let them know your plans. They may be concerned by the increasing number of cars on the road, or people arriving at your house. If they are unhappy, you can work through concerns together, rather than them reporting you later down the line.”

BUILDING YOUR BUSINESS

Once you’ve wrapped your head around the legalities, it’s time to start the physical work. An existing outbuilding or spare room is the perfect place to start, but a blank canvas is equally full of potential.

“Create a dedicated, clearly defined workspace that feels separate from your living area,” says Katie Pritchard. “This could be a cabin or building in your garden, a spare room within your house or a converted garage. Don’t rush the setup: plan your layout carefully so it works for you long-term.”

As’ka Baran notes the importance of including enough electrical outlets. “When I first set up my cabin 20 years ago, I only had four double sockets installed,” she reveals. “I am now doubling this and adding in USB ports, as a lot of my rechargeable equipment requires these.”

Homesense Ivy Garland £5.99 inc VAT www.tkmaxx.com

Décor directions

Now the fun begins! A home salon allows for endless creativity. Here’s how some home-based pros have customised their nail spaces...

Vienna Marchant’s garden nail salon boasts a serene beige and cream interior, finished with faux plants. “Think wisely about your layout,” she advises. “Avoid placing your products near windows to protect them from sunlight, and keep messy areas out of view from clients.”

Homesense Gold Glass Shelving Unit £99.99 inc VAT www.tkmaxx.com

Clients can expect a relaxing experience at Katie Pritchard’s salon, as she shares: “The cabin has a cosy, chic feel. It’s worth investing in soft furnishings that create a ‘home from home’ vibe. Clients remember how you make them feel during appointments.”

Oliver Bonas Natural Rattan Scallop Wall Mirror £135 inc VAT ww.oliverbonas.com

Georgia Steel’s home salon is a space of total calm. “I wanted my studio to have a warm feel, without being too neutral,” she comments. “I love bohemian styling, like a beach club in Ibiza, so included rattan furniture, natural fabrics, plants and mirrors, and kept the original wood on the ceiling.”

Matalan Daisy Shape Candle £10 inc VAT www.matalan.co.uk

As’ka Baran’s log cabin pairs deep green furniture with wooden walls to create a nature-inspired, calming interior. Warm lighting and candles give the space a cosy atmosphere, while plants and trinkets add to the homely vibe.

“I know many successful nail techs who started in a spare bedroom, or like me in a dining room,” shares Michelle Brown. “You don’t have to carry out a huge renovation; your space just needs to be welcoming.”

Ergonomic essentials

“Ergonomics are non-negotiable if you want longevity in this industry,” says Katie Pritchard. “A high-quality chair and desk will protect your body long-term, while professional lighting improves the quality of

Halo Crescent LED Table Lamp £125 + VAT www.purenails.co.uk your work, photos and the overall client experience.”

Katie Barnes LED Flexible Desk Light £129.99 inc VAT www.katiebarnesacademy.com

Hara Professional Canto Light Oak With White Upstand Nail Station £450 + VAT www.astonandfincher.co.uk

VODEX SalonAIR® 1001 from £879.60 inc VAT www.vodex.co.uk

Laurie Heath

“I always tell my students that knowing your identity as a nail tech is vital,” says Laurie Heath, nail pro, educator & owner of nail platform, The Curated Club (@curatedclubofficial). “When you understand who you are, what you stand for and who you want to attract, your space will naturally reflect that. If you love a gothic aesthetic, embrace it. If you’re a fan of pink and glam, go all in. When you love your space, you will attract clients who are right for you.”

FILLING YOUR CHAIR

Your nail space is finished – cushions fluffed, desk tidied and your chair is ready for your first client. But how do you actually fill it? The answer is marketing. Here’s what to focus on to seal your success…

Joanna Tompkins

Joanna Tompkins, founder of business growth support community, Nail Tech Tribe & Scratch Stars Nail Business Mentor of the Year 2023, says: “Make sure that people within the local community know that your business exists. It’s impossible to become fully booked if no one knows you’re there.”

Ria-Jaine Lincoln

Ria-Jaine Lincoln, founder of accountancy and tax support business, The Beauty Accountant, notes the importance of targeting the ‘right’ clients. “Nail techs should focus on posting locally, as opposed to going viral,” she shares. “Attracting 100 local clients is better for business than 1,000 followers from miles away.”

“Share client testimonials and experiences, your availability, problem-solving posts and collaborate with other local businesses to expose yours to a wider audience,” adds Joanna Tompkins.

You can also ask clients to post their nails on social media and tag you. This attracts a wider audience, and potential future clients, while generating content you can reshare on your account. Just remember to credit the client for the image or video!

Find your niche

The nail industry is competitive, and clients have no shortage of options. Offering a sought-after or specialised service gives people a reason to choose your business, and attracts those looking for exactly what you provide.

Georgia Steel noticed a space in her local market and jumped to fill it. “There was a gap in my area for brides looking to book wedding nail treatments,” she shares, noting that she now specialises in this service due to its popularity.

Scratch Stars Home Nail Salon of the Year 2024, Paintbrush Nails.

EXPERT ADVICE

Nicolette Manesh shares three tips for aspiring home salon owners:

1. “Be patient. Everything worth having takes time. Don’t cut corners or avoid regulations.”

2. “Ask for help. So many people have been through similar experiences. Reaching out for advice, recommendations or reassurance can make the journey less overwhelming.”

3. “Enjoy the process. We’re always in a rush to reach the end goal, but there are many memorable moments along the way. Looking back at my journey, those moments made the whole experience worthwhile.”

‘‘ Working from home doesn’t limit your potential. It removes the limits and allows you to build a business on your own terms. I’ve seen countless technicians turn corners of their homes into fully booked businesses. This is proof that it’s not about your postcode; it’s about passion and professionalism. "

Laurie Heath