Starting a home-based nail business — the booking & tools checklist
A practical checklist for new home-based nail techs: menu and pricing, booking website, Instagram, policies, deposits and the free tools that make you look established.
By the Bekbook team · Updated · 2 min read
Starting a home nail business comes down to five things: being properly licensed for your state, a clear menu, an easy way to book, policies that protect your time, and an Instagram that shows your work. This checklist covers the tools side.
Licensing first: rules for nail techs and home-based salons vary by state. Check with your state’s board of cosmetology before you take paying clients.
1. Build your menu and prices
- Start with 5–8 core services: gel manicure, acrylic full set, fill, Gel-X, pedicure, nail art.
- Add durations — they matter for booking.
- Look at local techs’ prices and position yourself honestly for your experience.
Already have a price list image? Upload a screenshot and Bekbook’s AI creates your services.
2. Get a booking website
Clients expect to book themselves. A free Bekbook booking website shows your services, portfolio, policy and open times at bekbook.com/yourname.
3. Set up Instagram
- Switch to a professional account.
- Add your booking link to your bio.
- Post your work consistently — clear, well-lit photos.
- Post your availability in stories.
4. Write your policies
Deposits, cancellations, late arrivals, guests. Use our booking policy template.
5. Protect your time and your home
- Take deposits with proof.
- Approve each booking yourself.
- Turn on reminders — free in Bekbook.
6. Keep clients coming back
Start a loyalty card from day one and ask every happy client for a review.
Your free starter stack
| Need | Tool | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Booking website + bio link | Bekbook | Free |
| Availability & price list images | Bekbook | Free |
| Deposits | Cash App / Zelle / Venmo / PayPal / Apple Cash / Chime + Bekbook proof | Free |
| Reminders | Bekbook | Free |
| Loyalty card | Bekbook | Free |