5 ways to attract more nail clients this month

Growing your client base doesn't require a massive marketing budget. These five strategies are proven to work for nail studios and solo techs—and you can start today.

1. Turn your Instagram into a booking machine

Instagram is where nail clients discover new techs. Make yours work harder.

Quick wins:

• Bio optimization: Include your location, specialty, and booking link

• Highlight reels: Create highlights for "Gel," "Nail Art," "Reviews," "Book Now"

• Post consistently: Aim for 4-5 posts per week showing your work

• Use relevant hashtags: #NailsOf[YourCity], #GelNails, #NailArt, #NailTech

• Story engagement: Polls, Q&As, behind-the-scenes content

Content ideas that attract clients:

• Before/after transformations

• Process videos (satisfying to watch)

• Client testimonials

• Nail care tips

• Trend recreations

2. Launch a referral program

Your existing clients are your best marketers. Incentivize them.

Simple referral structure:

• Referring client: $15 off their next service

• New client: $10 off their first visit

• Both win, you gain a new client

How to promote it:

• Mention at checkout: "Know anyone who'd love a fresh set?"

• Add to appointment confirmation emails

• Create shareable referral cards

• Post about it on social media monthly

The average nail client has 5-10 friends who also get their nails done. Tap into that network.

3. Partner with local businesses

Cross-promotion with complementary businesses is free and effective.

Great partner businesses:

• Hair salons (refer each other's clients)

• Spas and aestheticians

• Wedding planners (bridal parties)

• Photographers (styled shoots)

• Boutiques and clothing stores

• Gyms and yoga studios

Partnership ideas:

• Exchange business cards for front desk display

• Offer partner discounts (10% off for their clients)

• Co-host events or giveaways

• Create package deals together

4. Collect and showcase reviews

Reviews are the #1 trust factor for new clients. Make collecting them easy.

Where to collect reviews:

• Google Business (most important for local search)

• Facebook page

• Your booking system (Skhedio collects reviews automatically)

How to ask:

• Send automated review requests after appointments

• Text: "Loved doing your nails today! Would you mind leaving a quick review? [link]"

• Offer incentive: Entry into monthly prize draw for reviewers

Showcase reviews:

• Create an Instagram highlight for testimonials

• Add review snippets to your booking page

• Share screenshot testimonials in Stories

5. Run a seasonal promotion

Limited-time offers create urgency and attract new clients.

Promotion ideas by season:

• January: "New Year, New Nails" - 15% off first visit

• February: Valentine's nail art package

• Spring: Pedicure season kickoff

• Summer: Vacation-ready nails special

• Fall: Back-to-work manicure deal

• December: Holiday party package

Promotion best practices:

• Run for 2-3 weeks maximum

• Promote heavily on social media

• Make booking easy (direct link)

• Track results to see what works

Bonus: Make rebooking effortless

The easiest clients to "acquire" are ones who already love you.

Rebooking strategies:

• Ask at checkout: "Want to book your next appointment now?"

• Send rebooking reminders 2-3 weeks after their visit

• Offer a small discount for booking the next appointment before leaving

• Set up recurring appointments for regular clients

Implementation plan

Don't try everything at once. Here's a 4-week plan:

Week 1: Optimize Instagram bio and start posting consistently Week 2: Launch referral program, tell every client Week 3: Reach out to 3 local businesses for partnerships Week 4: Plan and launch a seasonal promotion

Track your new client numbers each month. You should see growth within 30-60 days of consistent effort.

Growing your nail studio is a marathon, not a sprint. But these strategies will get you moving in the right direction—starting today.