We are living in times where convenience is no longer a concept reserved for the ultra-wealthy but a way of living that is available to anyone who can see value in having things delivered to their doorstep. Taking your nail business on the go is undeniably of interest to many in the industry; however, finding the right guidance to this journey is still hard to find, which leads many to jump out there with little to no guidance. Before you hit the road with your nail kit, ensuring you have all the essentials in place is important. From tools of the trade to legal requirements, here’s a checklist to guide you through the initial stages of launching your mobile nail business.
We are living in times where convenience is no longer a concept reserved for the ultra-wealthy but a way of living that is available to anyone who can see value in having things delivered to their doorstep. Taking your nail business on the go is undeniably of interest to many in the industry; however, finding the right guidance to this journey is still hard to find, which leads many to jump out there with little to no guidance. Before you hit the road with your nail kit, ensuring you have all the essentials in place is important. From tools of the trade to legal requirements, here’s a checklist to guide you through the initial stages of launching your mobile nail business.
Business Fundamentals
Plan out the specifics of your business. Determine the name of your business. What services will you offer? How will you determine your pricing?
Determine your target audience. Determine the structure of your business (consult with an attorney). Obtain business licensing and permits (research your state). Insure your business.
Equipment
-
Manicure Table
Chair (optional)
- Table light
- Nail polish swatches
- E-file
- Hand mitts (optional)
- Sanitizing jar
- Carrying Case
- Portable Fan
- Pedicure foot bath with disposable liners
- Footstool
Lounge chair
- Towel warmer
- Paraffin (optional)
- Back massager (optional)
Products
-
Cuticle softener
- Cuticle Oil
- Callus Eliminator
- Alcohol
- Acetone
- Base & Top coat (reg)
- Reg. Polish (12 colors)
- Gel Base & Top Coat
- Gel Polish (12 colors)
- Nail Drying Spray
- Voesh Pedi in a Box (12ct)
Disposables
- Toe Separators
- Manicure Kits (file, buffer, and orange wood stick)
- Pedicure Kits (file, buffer, orange wood stick and pumice)
- Gloves
- Pedicure slippers
- Voesh Manicure Gloves
- Barbicide wipes
- Table
- Towels
- Lint-free cotton wipes
- Nail brushes
- Files
- Buffers
- Other Misc.
Business Needs
-
Business phone number (Google Voice)
- Online booking software
- Payment processing (stripe or square)
- Accounting software (QuickBooks)
- Business cards
- Website/landing page
- Price list, flyers and/or brochures
- Google Listings
- Social media page
- Uniform
On the Road
This list is a great starting point to help take your nail business on the road. This checklist offers a comprehensive and fundamental element of what it takes. Remember this will require more planning and making an investment in the essential tools, supplies and learning safety protocols. Launching a mobile nail business can be a rewarding journey that can open endless opportunities in many spaces. Remember to stay adaptable, continue learning and prioritize creating your personalized customer experience. With dedication and commitment, you can build a successful mobile business that brings beauty to clients wherever they are.
About the Author:
Patricia Reign has been in the beauty business for two decades with an interest in the industry as early as middle school when she started as a hair braider. She is the founder of Traveling Aura Mobile Spa. Her mother was a licensed nail technician, and she obtained her cosmetology license in high school. During her time at college, she offered services to peers and friends and began to realize that this idea had business potential.