Use this checklist to track your launch. Don't try to complete everything before you start taking clients — the goal is to get the essential items done first, then build from there.
Before taking any clients
✓ Non-negotiables before day one
- ✓Complete a recognised nail technology qualification (VTCT Level 3 or equivalent)
- ✓Purchase treatment liability and public liability insurance
- ✓Register as self-employed with HMRC
- ✓Open a business bank account (or dedicated personal account for business)
- ✓Write and save your cancellation/deposit policy
- ✓Do 5–10 practice/model sets to build your portfolio
- ✓Photograph every practice set — clean, well-lit
Equipment and setup
✓ Equipment essentials
- ✓UV/LED lamp (compatible with your product system)
- ✓Nail drill (if doing extensions or gel)
- ✓Files and buffers (multiple grits)
- ✓Cuticle tools (pusher, nippers)
- ✓Gel products: base, colour, top coat, builder gel
- ✓Primer and dehydrator
- ✓Nail brush (for dust removal)
- ✓Disposable files/buffers (for hygiene per client)
- ✓Nail desk or table at correct working height
- ✓Client chair or arm rest
- ✓Ring light
- ✓Ventilation (fan or open window)
Full equipment list: nail tech starter kit — what you actually need.
Booking and admin
✓ Booking setup
- ✓Choose and set up a booking platform
- ✓Create your service menu with accurate prices and durations
- ✓Set a deposit amount and configure automatic collection
- ✓Write and add your cancellation policy to the booking page
- ✓Customise your confirmation message (include location, what to bring)
- ✓Set up 24-hour automatic reminders
- ✓Test the full booking flow on your phone as a client
- ✓Get your shareable booking link ready
Instagram and marketing
✓ Instagram launch checklist
- ✓Create a dedicated nail Instagram account (separate from personal)
- ✓Switch to Professional/Creator account for Insights
- ✓Name field: "Your Name | Nail Tech [City]"
- ✓Bio: what you do, where you're based, how to book
- ✓Bio link: direct to your booking page
- ✓Post 10+ portfolio photos from your model sets
- ✓Add location tags to all posts
- ✓Create Highlights: Portfolio, Pricing, How to Book
- ✓Post your first availability announcement
First month milestones
✓ Month 1 targets
- ✓Complete first 5 paying client appointments
- ✓Ask every client for a referral or social tag
- ✓Post at least 3x per week to Instagram
- ✓Get your first rebook (client books return appointment)
- ✓Review your prices — are they covering costs?
- ✓Troubleshoot anything that went wrong (lifting, slow booking flow, late clients)
Ongoing habits
✓ Habits that build a strong nail business
- ✓Post to Instagram 3–5x per week consistently
- ✓Prompt every client to rebook before they leave
- ✓Ask for referrals at every appointment
- ✓Review prices every 6–12 months
- ✓Track income and costs monthly
- ✓Continue training — at least one course per year
- ✓Photograph every set you're proud of
- ✓Review and update your cancellation policy if issues arise
See also: nail tech beginner mistakes to avoid and how to get your first 10 nail clients.
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Start free →Frequently asked questions
What do I need to do first when starting a nail business?
Training and insurance, in that order. Training gives you the skills and credibility; insurance protects you before you take a single paying client. Everything else (equipment, Instagram, booking page) can follow.
How do I register a nail business in the UK?
Most new nail techs register as self-employed sole traders with HMRC — this is the simplest structure. Do it online via the HMRC website before you start earning. You don't need to register a company unless you want to trade as a limited company (more complex, more protection, more admin).
Do I need a website to start a nail business?
No. Instagram + a booking page covers everything you need to start. A website can come later once you're established. Don't let website-building become a procrastination tool that delays you taking clients.
