Introduction
Opening a salon is one of the most exciting steps you can take as a nail professional. It’s a chance to create a space that reflects your standards and offers clients a memorable experience from the moment they step through the door.
From business foundations to everyday tools, every detail matters. Here’s how to set up with confidence and deliver exceptional results from day one.
Table of contents
Setting the foundations
Before you order equipment or decorate your salon, think about the fundamentals:
- Insurance is non-negotiable. It protects you, your clients, and your business, giving you peace of mind.
- Booking system - Whether you choose an online platform or a simple diary, your system should be reliable and easy to use.
Pricing and offers - Set prices that reflect the quality and value of your services. While introductory deals can attract new clients, it’s important to ensure that your pricing is competitive and sustainable. Research your local market, consider your overheads, and never undervalue the expertise and skills you provide.
These early decisions set the tone for how your salon runs and how clients experience your brand.
Creating the right space
The atmosphere of your salon is just as important as the nails you create. A clean, uncluttered station, comfortable seating, and thoughtful finishing touches all help set the tone for a professional, welcoming space that clients notice and appreciate.
Little details go a long way. Offering a drink, playing music, or using subtle scents can instantly make clients feel relaxed and cared for. Adding personal touches, like carefully curated décor that reflects your style, helps your salon feel inviting and unique.
Organised workstations are equally important. Neat towels, aprons, tool trays, and brush holders keep your space tidy while adding cohesion. And if you’re sharing your work on social media, a crisp backdrop for photos ensures your nail art looks its best, helping you attract new clients and showcase your skills.
When all these elements come together, a visit to your salon becomes more than just an errand of getting your nails done, it becomes an experience your clients look forward to, a moment to relax, be pampered, and enjoy themselves.
Building your product kit
Products are the backbone of your service, and the right range makes all the difference. Clients notice when nails last, colours stay vibrant, and finishes remain flawless.
PREP
Prep is one of the most important steps, from prep scrub to sanitising spray, prep ensures every set starts with a healthy foundation.
Top & Base Coats
The essentials for long-lasting, chip-resistant nails. Always keep extras in stock so you’re never caught short!
Naturabuild
Naturabuild is a strong base gel, ideal for clients who need added strength while keeping a natural look.
Our Naturabuild collection features a range of shades that complement all skin tones.
GEL COLOURS
A carefully chosen palette can cover most requests. Neutrals, a classic red shade, a range of pinks hues, and seasonal shades are a strong start.
We offer core colour bundles to kickstart your Glossify collection. The Mini Gel Bundle - Core includes 5 of our best-selling shades, while the Gel Bundle - Core features 10 shades, giving you the perfect foundation to build your collection.
Tools that work hard
Behind every flawless set of nails is the right toolkit. Having reliable, professional tools doesn’t just make your work look better, it makes the whole process smoother, faster, and more enjoyable for both you and your clients.
Nail Lamp
A nail lamp is an essential tool that every nail tech should have. It ensures that your gel and acrylic work sets perfectly every time, preventing smudging and ensuring long-lasting results. Without the right lamp, your work may not cure properly, leading to uneven finishes and frustrated clients.
E-File
An E-file is a fantastic addition for many nail techs. When used correctly, it speeds up removals, refines prep work, and reduces the strain on your hands. The right E-file bits make all the difference too, whether it’s a white brush bit for gently cleaning dust around the cuticle or a barrel bit for quick, efficient product removal. While some techs can’t live without theirs, others prefer to work by hand with traditional files, it’s all about finding the method that suits your style.
Core Tools
To perfect your prep, there are a few core tools every kit should have:
Gel Remover Tool - A must-have for efficient, safe soak-offs.
Cuticle Tools - Pushers, Scissors, and Nippers to keep the nail plate clean and prepped for perfect application.
Nail Clippers - For quick shaping before the filing stage.
Files & Buffers - Keep a selection of grits on hand so you can refine, shape, and smooth with ease. From coarse files for sculpting to gentle buffers for finishing, variety ensures you’re prepared for every client.
With the right tools in your setup, your workflow stays efficient and professional, so you’re always ready for your next appointment without unnecessary stress.
Nail Art Brushes
When it comes to achieving flawless nail designs, the right brushes make all the difference. Whether you're working with gels, acrylics, or creating intricate nail art, having the proper brushes in your toolkit is key to delivering consistent and high-quality results.
Dotting Tools – Dotting tools are perfect for everything from delicate dots and fine details to flowers, hearts, and 3D accents.
Gel Application Brushes – Round Brush and Square Brush make Naturabuild application, cuticle cleanup, and French designs effortless.
Detail & Art Brushes – Liner Brush, Detail Brush, and Striping Brush give you control for crisp lines, intricate designs, petals, and sweeping nail art on longer nails.
Craft your perfect space
As you build or expand your salon, every detail, from your atmosphere to the tools you use, plays a crucial role in the experience you create. A well-curated space helps set the tone for a professional, welcoming environment that keeps clients coming back.
Ready to elevate your setup?
Glossify has everything you need to create flawless results and a space your clients will love.
Shop our products now and tag us on Instagram @glossifyoffical with #loveglossify and #glossifysalon to show us your salon!
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