How to market one stroke and aquarelle designs

The sweep of a brush over a nail creating a tonal, delicate creation is mesmerising for the client and a joy to perform for the tech. Striking and a visual feast for the eyes, the blended nature of one stroke and aquarelle designs easily capture attention and creates a talking point, yet clients are still relatively new to recognising the nail technique.

“I always post pictures of my artwork on my social media accounts,” comments Corey Stockwell, HD Professional educator for Northampton. “Sometimes I promote offers, such as ‘try one stroke for free today’, and this has been successful in introducing a client to the technique – and then requesting and paying for it at their next appointment. With a new client, I always offer to show off the technique on a few fingernails for them free of charge. After all, clients are a walking advertisement for your services.”

When enticing clients to try one stroke or aquarelle services for the first time, take special occasions into consideration, as the designs can easily be incorporated into different personal events for that little something extra. “One stroke is the perfect technique to match the client’s nails to their clothing,” says Marta Cameron, Nail Harmony UK educator. “It comes alive, especially in the spring and summer when flowers are all around, but also in autumn when painting leaves. Brides who also wish to achieve a stunning yet subtle special design for their wedding day also see the techniques as a great option.”

“Artistic techniques create a great talking point,” adds Carla Miller, Cuccio approved educator. “Be sure to give your client some referral cards to hand out.” And when it comes to pricing, make sure that you charge your worth. Take into account products and time spent crafting the design, but also your level of skill and that you had to train in offering the technique. Ensure clients are aware of pricing before their appointment so that they don’t get a shock when they go to pay at the end of the service. “Both techniques are advanced nail art techniques and take time to practice and perfect,” says Jo Wickens, Light Elegance education ambassador. “Therefore, you need to make sure you charge a price that reflects the skill and training involved, and that also covers your time and product costs.”

“The costs of products is minimal so I base my prices on time,” adds Carla Miller. “Work out how long each design will take you and what you want to earn in that time to make it worth your while. Nail art is a speciality service and it makes you stand out from competition so be sure to be bold and brave with your designs. Be sure to let your clients know up front how much the designs will cost, that way its not embarrassing for you when you are charging them after the work has been done.”

Read all about one stroke and aquarelle services in the April issue of Scratch!

Nails courtesy of Joanna Lenarczyk.