How to cater to bridal clients

Wedding season is here and there’s never been a better time to create bridal designs to impress. A client’s wedding day is a life-long memory so it’s important to make sure that your part goes as smoothly as possible in the run up to, on and after the big day. This means scheduling consultations for planning purposes, creating trial sets and providing the correct aftercare products and advice in order to perfect the all-important nuptial nails.

When it comes to bridal nails, there are endless possibilities regarding shape, shade and design. Gone are the days when brides stick to the safety net of French tips, as just like a wedding theme, nail preferences vary from bride to bride. It’s important to take the time to get to know the client – especially if she is not an existing regular. A consultation can help tailor to the nail plan uniquely to the bride and help both of you to pinpoint potential ideas so that you can really get to grips with the needs of the client. Claire Aggarwal, head of business development at Bio Sculpture UK, suggests, “Check that the client is happy with the nail colour choice next to her dress. Consider letting her decide over a few days, rather than having to make the all-important decision while in your manicure chair.”

Staying in touch on a regular basis, rather than offering a one-time consultation will also benefit both you and your client, adds Carlie Salt, educator for The Nail Team, “I feel that messaging or emailing is extremely helpful and an important step so that you can both continue to bounce back and forward with photo inspiration right up until the big day,” she reveals. “I need to get a feel for the nails that would be a personal favourite for them and also fit into their lifestyle, as well as for honeymoons, work or general family life such as dealing with small children. For example, this can include their preferred length and shape or whether they are used to wearing nail extensions or not.

“It can sometimes be an idea to try out nails beforehand if they are unsure of anything – I normally like to advise this to coincide with their hen parties so that they can make the most out of a set and get a real feel for it, but of course everything is up to the bride and what she feels most comfortable with.”

CND education ambassador, Kate Sawley, also tends to coincide trial nails with hen parties. “Many brides like to have their hen party nails done as a ‘trial’ – much like their hair and make-up so that they can ensure that you – and the design – is the right fit for their nail needs. I always offer a small voucher at their trial to redeem against their bridal appointment if they choose to stick with me.”

Discover the product picks, inspiration and expert advice you need to keep bridal clients happy in the February 2018 issue of Scratch. Haven’t got it? Never fear! Simply click here to order one straight to your door.