As the popularity of nail care services continues to grow, so does the demand for mobile nail businesses. Mobile nail businesses offer the convenience of being able to provide services at the customer’s location, which is often preferred over traditional salon settings. If you’re thinking about starting a mobile nail business, there are a few things you need to keep in mind in order to get started on the right foot.
10 Steps to Launching a New Mobile Nail Business
1. Choose Your Type of Mobile Nail Business
The first step in launching a mobile nail business is to identify the type of mobile nail business you want to launch. You might choose from the following types among others:
- Manicures and pedicures
- Nail art
- Gel nails
- Acrylic nails
2. Name Your Mobile Nail Business
Give your mobile nail business an identity so people will think of it as a well-known and respected brand. You can take the name of your mobile nail business from your industry, focus on a geographical location, or use your own name among other options.
The main goal for naming your mobile nail business is to make it sound appealing and trustworthy so customers will be more likely to schedule an appointment.
3. Determine Your Mobile Nail Business Model
There are several possible types of business models for a mobile nail business including:
- Operating as a sole proprietor
- Partnering with another mobile nail business
- Franchising
- Opening a brick-and-mortar salon that offers mobile services
No matter which model you choose, make sure that it aligns with your business goals and the services you offer.
4. Choose a Legal Form for Your Business
By incorporating your mobile nail business, you will limit your liability. You can incorporate as a Limited Liability Company (LLC), a C Corporation (C-Corp), or an S Corporation (S-Corp). Or you can operate as a sole proprietorship.
The business structure you choose for your mobile nail business will determine the amount of taxes you pay and which state or federal tax forms you need to file.
Read our article comparing the most common mobile nail business structures.
5. Write a Mobile Nail Business Plan
All mobile nail business owners should develop a business plan.
A business plan is a document that outlines the goals, strategies, and operations of a business. It can be used to secure funding from investors or lenders, as well as to guide the day-to-day operations of the business. The business plan should include information on the company’s products or services, market analysis, financial projections, and management team among other things.
When developing your mobile nail business plan and strategy, you should think about the following questions your customers might have:
- What services do you offer?
- What are your prices?
- What is your target market?
- How will you market your business?
- What are your long-term goals for the business?
Read our article about how to write a mobile nail business plan.
6. Apply for the Necessary Permits and Licenses
There may be required licenses and permits you need to obtain before launching your mobile nail business.
For example, most states require mobile nail businesses to obtain a cosmetology license. Some states also require mobile nail businesses to have a business license in addition to the cosmetology license.
Additionally, if you plan on using any type of hazardous chemicals in your mobile nail business, you may need to obtain a special permit for that.
Read our article about obtaining the proper mobile nail business licenses.
7. Determine Your Budget & Apply for Funding as Needed
In developing your mobile nail business plan, you will figure out how much funding you need to start and grow your business.
If you have your own funds to invest in your mobile nail business, you may consider taking advantage of that. In addition to your personal funds, other forms of potential funding for your mobile nail business include traditional bank loans, SBA loans, credit cards, angel investors and family and friends.
Read our article about the costs associated with starting a mobile nail business to help you determine if funding is needed.
Read our article about how to fund your mobile nail business.
8. Get the Technology & Software Needed to Run Your Business Efficiently
When you start your mobile nail business, it’s essential to have the right technology in place to maximize efficiency. You definitely need a computer with Internet access, and accounting software for tracking expenses and revenues.
You may also want to invest in a customer relationship management (CRM) system to help track your customers, appointments, and payments.
And if you have employees working for you, you’ll need some type of scheduling software to help keep track of their hours and schedule appointments.
Read our article about the technology and software you need to run a mobile nail business.
9. Market Your Mobile Nail Business to Potential Clients
Before you start selling your services, you have to let the world know you exist. The first step is to create a website so people can learn more about your services and how they benefit them.
After you launch your website, start promoting it through social media channels like Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter. Also consider networking with other people in the mobile nail industry through social media and blogs so they can help share your business.
You also need to start gathering the materials needed to execute on your promotions strategy, which is your strategy for attracting new customers. Mobile nail businesses should consider the following promotional strategies for which you should start getting prepared:
- Create a memorable business name and logo
- Develop marketing materials (e.g., business cards, flyers, brochures)
- Start a blog or podcast to attract new customers
- Get listed in online directories
- Attend mobile nail trade shows and events
Read our article about how to market your mobile nail business for more tips.
10. Get New Clients & Grow Your Business
When you promote your services, you’ll start to get interest from potential clients.
Make sure you’re ready to serve these clients. Also, be sure to establish systems to ensure consistency and reduce costs. And be sure to find and train the right people to help you grow your mobile nail business.
Starting a Mobile Nail Business FAQs
Why Start a Mobile Nail Business?
The biggest benefit of starting a mobile nail business is that it’s a lower-cost way to get started in the industry. You don’t have to worry about leasing a retail space, which can be costly.
What is Needed to Start a Successful Mobile Nail Business?
To start a successful mobile nail business, you need to have a strong understanding of the industry, good marketing and promotional skills, and the ability to build relationships with potential clients.
You also need to have the right technology in place to maximize efficiency and be able to effectively manage your finances.
How Can I Start a Mobile Nail Business Online?
If you want to start a mobile nail business online, you first need to create a website. Then, begin promoting your business through online channels.
What are Some Tips for Starting a Mobile Nail Business?
Here are some tips for starting a mobile nail business:
- Create a memorable business name and logo
- Develop marketing materials (e.g., business cards, flyers, brochures)
- Start a blog or podcast to attract new customers
- Get listed in online directories
- Attend mobile nail trade shows
Where Can I Find a Simple Checklist for Starting a Mobile Nail Business?
A simple checklist to use when starting a mobile nail business is as follows:
- Choose Your Type of Mobile Nail Business: This should be based on what you are best at and how much experience you have. Remember to keep your interests, skills, and experience in mind at all times.
- Name Your Mobile Nail Business: This should be done with care, as your brand is important for attracting the right customers. A simple, memorable name will go a long way.
- Choose a Legal Form for Your Business: Whether you choose to become a sole proprietorship, partnership, LLC, corporation or another option will depend on your business. Ensure that you are aware of all the implications of each type.
- Determine Your Mobile Nail Business Model: Determine how your business will make money. Will you sell products, services, or a combination of both?
- Write a Mobile Nail Business Plan: Your business plan will also help you determine what your start-up costs will be and will provide a roadmap with which you can launch and grow.
- Apply for the Necessary Permits and Licenses: In most locations you will be required to apply for a business license and/or permits before you can begin operations.
- Determine Your Budget & Apply for Funding as Needed: You will need to know how much money you have to spend on all of your business-related expenses before opening any doors. If needed, apply for a small business loan or other funding options.
- Get the Technology & Software Needed to Run Your Business Efficiently: You need to have the right tools in place to succeed. Implement software that will help you manage your time, contacts, and business operations in general.
- Market Your Mobile Nail Business to Potential Clients: A solid marketing plan will be crucial to your success. It should focus on attracting the right customers so that you can provide them with the services they truly need.
- Get Clients & Grow Your Business: Once you have a solid marketing plan, it's time to actively pursue and secure those who could benefit the most from your services.
Summary
Starting a mobile nail business can be a great way to earn a living while providing a valuable service. The first step is to create a website and promote your business through social media and online directories. You may also want to consider attending mobile nail trade shows and events to get new clients. Remember to focus on attracting the right customers so that you can provide them with the services they truly need.