Beginners guide to creating a nail salon price list

When new clients are looking to choose the nail salon they go to, one of the factors that goes into the decision is price and value. Your customers are seeking a salon that offers good value for money, transparent pricing, and no hidden costs. A nail salon price list is one way to communicate your services' costs.

If you're wondering how to create a nail salon price list, what to include, and how to display your prices, here's everything you need to know.

Why do you need a price list?

What exactly is a nail salon price list, and why do you need one? It's a document that provides a list, description, and cost of all your services. A price list can help you attract new clients and keep current clients informed so they can budget ahead of booking. They know what they'll pay before they book, and it's transparent.

A price list also shows that you're a professional who's serious about business and establishing trust with your clients. By providing clear information, you show that you value their time and money. It also helps you manage your client's expectations, avoiding any surprises or misunderstandings regarding payment.

Your price list can also serve as a marketing tool. You can attract potential clients searching for specific nail treatments within their budget by showcasing your services and pricing. It also saves time for you and your clients; they can quickly reference it to see what you offer and the cost, and it saves you from having to list your prices to a client in person every time.

Should your price list be printed or digital?

Whether your price list should be printed or digital depends on your preferences, target audience, and budget. Consider which option best serves your needs and those of your clients.

Some salons combine both, using printed price lists in the salon and providing a digital version for online access. Whichever option you choose, the key is to ensure that your price list is clear, up-to-date, and easily accessible to your clients.

Think about how you are looking to or able to spend? If you're paying someone to create your price list or planning on getting some printed copies, a cost will be associated. And that will vary depending on how much design, how many pages, the quality and finish, and how many you get printed.

Printed price list

Printed price lists are more traditional and can be displayed prominently in your salon for clients to view easily. You can hand them out for in-person marketing and share them at events. A well-designed printed price list can also enhance the ambiance of your salon and contribute to its overall aesthetic.

There are some things to consider with printed price lists. Firstly, how many do you need to get printed?  While there can sometimes be deals on getting lots of price lists printed, it can be a waste if you don't end up using them or updating your prices or services and must start again. It’s worth building in a review time or process to check everything's up to date or try and link it in with when you review your prices. If you offer a wide range of services or frequently change your offerings, a printed price list also has the risk of becoming quite long and cluttered.

Digital price list

Digital price lists can be more flexible and convenient for salon owners and clients. They can be easily accessed and updated via your salon's website or social media channels. With a digital price list, you can make changes immediately, ensuring clients can always access the most current information. This flexibility is useful if you frequently introduce new services or run promotions.

Digital price lists can also be interactive, letting clients click on services for more detailed descriptions or to book appointments directly through your website. This can save on printing costs and reduce paper waste, which is better for sustainability efforts. However, clients who aren't as technologically savvy or have accessibility issues might prefer a printed price list.

How to create a nail salon price list

Creating a nail salon price list can initially seem daunting, but with some organisation and planning, it can be a simple and effective process. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you create a nail salon price list.

List your services

Make a list of all the nail services your salon offers. These might include manicures, pedicures, gel polish application, acrylic or gel nail extensions, nail art, nail repairs, and any other specialised treatments. Ensure you know all the services you can or would be able to offer and that your list covers them all.

Research competitor pricing

Take some time to research what other nail salons in your area are charging for similar services. This will give you a baseline to work from and help you remain competitive. 

Consider your costs

If you need clarification on pricing, work out what you spend on products and the cost of your time, and write the cost you propose next to each service. Calculate the costs associated with each service, including products used, time spent, overhead costs (rent, utilities, etc.), and desired profit margin. Working out these costs will ensure that your prices cover your expenses and allow you to profit.

Set your prices

Based on your research and cost analysis, determine how much you will charge for each service. Consider offering different pricing tiers for basic services versus premium or deluxe treatments.

Create a clear format

Design your price list in a clear, organised format that is easy for clients to digest. Categorise services into a cohesive structure so it is easy to navigate and for customers to find the services they seek.

Include service descriptions

Provide brief but exact descriptions of each service so clients know what they're getting. Differentiate between tiered services, such as what a basic manicure and a deluxe spa manicure offer, or clarify the types of nail extensions you offer.

Add any additional information

Include any additional information that clients may need to know, such as special promotions, discounts for regular clients, or policies regarding cancellations or refunds.

Consider design and visual appeal

Use attractive fonts, colours, and images that reflect your salon to make your price list visually appealing. This will help draw attention to your services and make your price list stand out. Working with a graphic designer can help bring your list to life and keep your collateral on brand.

Check before you hit publish

If you're working with a designer, you should review the price list before it goes to print or publish. Whether you’re going for a print or digital price list, now is the time to check for any mistakes or feedback on anything you don't like or want to change. It's even more important for print, as fixing errors can be costly. Get a second (and even third) pair of eyes on your price list to check it out beforehand.

Promote your price list

Once your price list is ready, promote it in your salon by displaying it prominently at the reception desk or in waiting areas if you have a printed one. You can also share it on your website and social media platforms to attract new clients and inform existing ones. Update your list anywhere it is advertised or used already.

Specialist nail technician insurance through Ripe

Once you’ve got your nail salon price list ready to go, you may want to consider salon insurance. Ripe can help provide financial protection and peace of mind should the worst happen.

Ripe specialist hair and beauty insurance includes Public and Products Liability cover as well as treatment risk cover, with the opportunity to build your own policy so you’re never paying for more than you need.

Find out more about specialist nail technician insurance through Ripe or get a quick online quote today.