The festive rush is here! Learn how to protect your time, energy, and income with smart salon policies. From booking fees to self-care, these tips will help you thrive this December.
It’s the most wonderful time of the year… and also one of the busiest for professional nail techs! Between glitter tip manicures, festive nail art requests, and last-minute bookings, December can feel like a non-stop snowstorm of clients, caffeine, and cuticle oil. To take the pressure off, we’ve put together some simple salon business solutions to help you make it through the festive rush unscathed.
But here’s the thing, while we love the festive buzz, it’s also when burnout, no-shows, and overbooking can sneak in. That’s why clear salon policies are your best friend. They’re not there to scare clients off — they’re there to protect your time, your income, and your peace of mind.
Let’s start with the big one:
deposits.
A simple booking fee not only secures your client’s slot but also values your time. December diaries fill fast so protecting those premium spaces is key.
Top tip: Charge between 25–50% of the treatment cost as a deposit at the time of booking. Make it crystal clear in your policy that deposits are non-refundable but may be transferable if enough notice is given (based on your cancellation window and policies already in place).
This small step instantly filters out timewasters and helps you feel more in control of your schedule; no more chasing last-minute cancellations when you could’ve been painting candy cane nails!
Policies aren’t just for big salons, every independent tech deserves boundaries.
A 48-hour or 24-hour cancellation policy helps you manage your diary and keep your income consistent.
- 48 hours: Ideal if your diary fills quickly or you have a waitlist, this gives you time to rebook the space.
- 24 hours: A little more flexible but still offers protection.
Example:
If your BIAB™ manicure is £45, you could charge 50% (£22.50) for late cancellations and 100% for no-shows.
Make sure your clients know this when they book — pop it in your confirmation emails, your Instagram highlights, and even on your booking system. The goal isn’t to be strict; it’s to set fair boundaries so you’re not left out of pocket.
If you’re not already using an online booking system, this is your cue to start!
Booking systems allow clients to book anytime, manage deposits automatically, and send reminders, all while keeping your schedule neat and organised.
You can even block out personal time or create “emergency slots” for clients who need a quick fix before their Christmas party (or a broken nail emergency on Christmas Eve!). Your system should work for you, not the other way around.
We all want to give clients their dream festive nails, but remember — you can’t pour from an empty gel bottle!
Block out breaks in your day (even 15 minutes between clients can help you reset), keep hydrated, and try not to squeeze in “just one more” appointment if it means cutting your lunch or running on fumes.
The lead-up to the festive period should feel exciting, not exhausting. By setting clear working hours, taking breaks, and allowing downtime, you’ll enjoy the buzz without the burnout.
Review your Prices: December demand is high — ensure your prices reflect your skill and time.
Pre-Book your Regulars: Encourage loyal clients to book January appointments early to keep your income steady post-Christmas.
Create Calm: Use festive scents, music, and treats to help create a calming atmosphere. You and your clients need to enjoy the magic of the season.
The festive season is one of the most exciting times of year for nail techs, it’s when creativity, community, and glitter truly shine! But it’s also when you need to protect your boundaries more than ever.
Clear policies, structured systems, and a little self-care will keep you feeling in control, supported, and ready to enjoy the sparkle of the season without the stress.
So, this Christmas, let your policies work as hard as you do… and make December your best (and calmest) month yet.
We're here to make your life easier, so we’ve put together a grid post on salon policies for you to refer back to whenever you need a little helping hand. Plus, head on over to our
Education Hub to access free policy templates and ready-made story & grid layouts and display examples.
