1. What do I need to be in order to start as a nail stylist?

What do I need to be in order to start my own business? This is a question that many people ask themselves when starting up. There are a number of things that you need to arrange and paperwork that you need to complete when you want to start your own business. This process can be very complex and for some even a real challenge! Below you will find important things that you definitely need to arrange when starting your nail salon.

1.1 Business plan / financial plan

When starting and growing your own business, it is important to draw up a business plan. Although this is not always mandatory, it can be valuable. It provides insight into the current status of your business and lays the foundation for the next steps in your growth process.

A business plan describes your activity and your position in relation to competition. It is important that you find answers to questions such as:

• How do I get my customers?
• Where will I carry out my activity?
• What services will I offer?
• What are my long term goals?
• Is there a demand for my services in the market?
• ….

If you want to take out a loan, it is important to work out a financial plan. A financial plan shows you in figures that your plan has a chance of success. With a financial plan, you should look for answers to questions such as:

• What costs and revenues do you expect?
• What investments should you make?
• How much money do you need to realize your plan?
• Are your plans financially feasible and will it make your business profitable?

1.2 Administrative obligations

There are several administrative obligations that must be met when starting your own business. Such as obtaining a company number, VAT number,... Below you will find information on how to approach this and which steps are important.

1.2.1 Company number

A business number is comparable to a unique national register number that you receive. This number is registered in the KBO (Crossroads Bank for Enterprises) together with all other data of your business. The KBO is a database that collects all data about companies and their establishments that is managed by the government. Having a business number is legally required for both sole proprietorships and for partnerships.
To obtain a company number, you can contact a business counter of your choice.

1.2.2 Requesting a VAT number

A VAT number stands for value added tax, it is a tax that is applied to various steps of production and service provision. This number is the identification number of your company with the tax authorities.

The VAT number is linked to your company number. To apply for a VAT number, you must first be registered with the KBO, because your company number forms the basis for your VAT number.

You can find more information about the VAT number via each business counter. These counters can give you more information and guide you in obtaining a VAT number for your company.

1.2.3 Social status

If you want to start as a self-employed person, it is important to choose your social status. Are you considering being self-employed as a main occupation, secondary occupation, or are you planning to work in your partner's business?

Choosing a social status entails various obligations, such as paying social contributions and obtaining certain rights, such as a pension or health insurance.

1.2.4 Affiliation with a social insurance fund

As a self-employed person, you are required to join a social insurance fund, through which you build up social rights by paying quarterly contributions. These rights include disability benefits, family allowances, pensions and reimbursement of medical expenses. It is important to join a social insurance fund to obtain solid social protection.

1.2 Company name / Logo

It is important to choose a good company name that no one will forget. Choose a name that is unique and easy to remember, and that fits perfectly with the identity of your company. Of course, always check whether the chosen name is already in use.

When designing a logo, it is advisable to create a simple and easily recognizable logo that matches your company name. Choose colors and fonts that reflect your company identity and that elicit the desired responses from your target audience. Make sure that the logo looks good in different formats, such as business cards, flyers, billboards, ...

Before you finalize everything, it is important to ask for feedback on the logo and company name from people you know, such as family, friends, potential customers,... Their opinion can be valuable in making your choices for the logo and company name!

1.2 Preparing services and prices

Take some time to think about what services you want to offer your clients, such as gel polish, gel, acrylic, acrylic gel treatment, natural nail care, nail enhancement and so much more. After determining the services you are going to offer, it is important to determine your prices. This can be quite a challenge!

Think carefully about the prices you wish to charge, not only to avoid losses but also to guarantee profits, ensuring a good balance between customer satisfaction and an acceptable operating profit.

1.2 Website

Having a website is one of the best ways to keep existing customers informed and to attract new customers. It has a number of advantages. It offers a continuous availability of information, allowing your customers to have 24/7 access to your services, prices and changes. Furthermore, it contributes to the credibility of your company.

1.2 Social media

Social media can be a great tool to promote your business and reach your target audience. Make sure you have a profile set up and that you are regularly sharing content that highlights your work, nail salon and the materials used. You can also post before and after reels to give people a glimpse into your skills. It is important to remember that you are using social media to answer your target audience’s problem. So show potential clients that they can get beautiful and strong nails by coming to you!

1.2 Find a suitable location

Think about which work method suits you best: do you want to work from home, set up your own nail salon or visit clients on location? Before you make a choice, it is important to consider the pros and cons of each option.

If you choose to open your own nail salon, it is advisable to choose the location carefully. Check if there are no other nail stylists too close, assess if the location is easily accessible or if you are a favorable place for your target group. It is also important to check if you have enough budget for this.

2. Do I need a certificate to start as a nail stylist?

It is important for the trust of your clients that you have followed various training courses and obtained various certificates. This not only as proof of your skills, but also as reference points that emphasize your credibility and professional skills. By continuously pursuing and obtaining various certificates, you not only give confidence to your clients, but also show that you are up-to-date with the latest trends in the nail world.

3. Do I need specific equipment to set up my nail studio?

You need a lot of equipment to get started as a nail stylist, such as a nail extractor, manicure table, nail lamp, and much more. Below we have made a list of the various devices that are important for setting up a nail studio, and why this equipment is so important.

3.1 Manicure table

A well-equipped manicure table is essential! It offers the possibility to store all your necessary tools in an orderly manner, thus avoiding clutter. Choosing a manicure table with an ergonomic setup and sufficient space is important to be comfortable for both you and your customers. A professional nail table also contributes to the professional appearance of your nail studio.

Are you unsure which nail table to choose due to the wide range on the market? Then take a quick look at our blog about manicure tables and discover what to look for when choosing a table and why it is important to have a nail table.

3.2 Nail extraction

A nail extractor is one of the most important devices in your nail studio. Without an extraction system, you as a nail stylist can inhale up to 4kg of nail dust per year, which can be detrimental to both yourself and your customers.

When applying artificial nails, various products are used that release vapours into the air. When filing or milling nails, fine dust can be created, which can contribute to allergic reactions and can even cause respiratory problems.

Extraction is not only important for a hygienic workplace, but also for the health of both your customers and yourself. Without an extractor and filtration of fumes and dust, microscopic dirt particles can spread and mix with ambient dust. This can lead to respiratory problems such as a dry throat, coughing, asthma and even pneumoconiosis (a lung disease caused by inhaling dust).

Investing in a suitable dust extractor is very important to keep your workplace safe and hygienic. Not only does it keep your table clean, it also purifies the air that your customers breathe. Air filtration greatly reduces the risk of allergic reactions and respiratory problems.

Discover more about nail dust and extraction systems in our blog. You will also find useful tips to choose the most suitable extraction system.

3.3 Milling machine

Using an electric nail file is only recommended for certified nail technicians! If you do not have the necessary skills and certificates, this can lead to permanent damage to your clients' nails, such as excessive filing of the nail or damaging the nail matrix.

A nail drill is a handy tool to speed up and facilitate manicures and pedicures. You can use it to prepare the natural nail plate, push back cuticles and remove artificial nails.
Find out more about milling machines in our blog.

3.4 Nail lamp

A nail lamp plays an important role in curing various nail products such as gel polish, gel and acrylic gel. Without a nail lamp it is impossible to create artificial nails. It is very important to pay attention to certain things when purchasing a good and professional nail lamp. Discover all the details about nail lamps and what to pay attention to when choosing a professional nail lamp in our blog.

3.5 Armrest

An armrest offers both you and your customers an ergonomic and comfortable position. This allows your customer's hand to rest at an optimal height, allowing you to work ergonomically.

3.6 Table lamp

Make sure you have a high-quality, professional table lamp. Good lighting is essential when performing a perfect manicure, as it allows you to see all the details of your work. Choose a table lamp that allows you to adjust the light intensity, so you can choose the best light to view and treat your clients' nails accurately.

3.7 Chair

3.7.1 For yourself

It is recommended to choose an adjustable chair that allows for a comfortable sitting position. Why an adjustable chair? Simply because you can adjust it to the right height. It is important that the angle between your upper and lower legs is at an angle of 90°. This way you guarantee a correct and ergonomic sitting position.

3.7.2 For your customers

Provide an ergonomic chair that offers comfort to your clients. Avoid chairs with wheels, it is better to choose a stable chair so that your clients cannot slide back and forth during a treatment.

4. Which products & materials do I need to start as a nail stylist?

To perform a professional manicure, you will need various materials and products. Below is a basic list of all the materials and products you will need to get started.

4.1 Materials

For preparing, extending nails, removing the sticky layer and other tasks as a nail stylist you need various materials. Below is a list of the most important basic materials that you definitely need to start successfully as a nail stylist:

• Nail file/buffer
• Milling bits (if you use a milling machine)
• Cuticle pusher
• Acrylic gel spatula
• Nail clippers
• Nail scissors
• Cellulose swabs
• Work apron
• Templates
• brushes

4.2 Products

In addition to the material, you will also need different nail products to create artificial nails. Below you will find a list of the different products you will need to be able to realize a beautiful manicure, depending on which products you start with more.

Gel polish

• Base coat
• Gel polish color
• Top coat

Gel

• Builder gel
• Builder in a bottle

Acrylic gel

• Acrylic gel liquid
• Acrylic gel

Acrylic

• Acrylic powder
• Acrylic liquid

Various liquids

• Nail prep
• Primer
• Cleaner
• Remover
• Disinfection