Nail price increase message templates

Raising prices is one of the most uncomfortable conversations in a solo nail business. Most techs delay it too long - and then feel they need a large jump to catch up. These three templates take the guesswork out of what to say so you can communicate a price update professionally and confidently.

Price increases are normal and expected

Supply costs increase. Booth rent goes up. Card fee percentages rise. A professional who has not reviewed her prices in two years has effectively given herself a pay cut every time a cost increased. Regular, modest increases - $5-$10 every 12-18 months - are standard in any service business and most clients expect them.

When to raise your nail prices

Raise prices when your supply costs have increased, when your rent or overhead has gone up, when your effective hourly income has dropped below your goal, or when you are consistently booked out more than two weeks in advance. Any of these is a valid reason to raise prices. A combination of them makes it overdue.

How much notice to give clients

Thirty days is the standard minimum. Sixty days for long-term loyal clients is a courtesy they will remember. Honor any appointments already on the calendar at the current price - clients scheduled before the announcement have already committed to a booking under the current terms.

Template 1 - Casual text or DM

Hi [Name]! Heads-up - my prices are going up a little starting [date]. A gel manicure will move from $[old] to $[new]. I've held the same prices for [time period] and costs have increased, so it's time for a small adjustment. I truly appreciate your support and can't wait to see you!

Template 2 - Professional email or written notice

Subject: Price update - effective [date]

Hi [Name],

I wanted to give you advance notice that my service prices will be increasing effective [date].

A gel manicure will move from $[old price] to $[new price].

This adjustment reflects rising costs for professional-grade supplies and overhead. Any appointments already on the calendar before [date] will be honored at current pricing.

Thank you for your loyalty and continued trust.

[Your name]

Template 3 - Long-term loyal client

Hi [Name] - as one of my long-time clients, I wanted to reach out personally before I post publicly.

Starting [date], I'll be increasing my prices by $[amount]. I've held my rates steady for [time period], but supply costs have increased significantly.

Your next appointment is at your current price as a thank-you for your loyalty. After that, the new rate applies.

I'm so grateful for your support - it truly means everything to a small business like mine.

[Your name]

Check if your increase is justified first

Before you send a price increase notice, calculate your current price floor. If your price is already above your floor, hold off. If it is below, you have a clear, factual reason to increase - and you can say so confidently.

Calculate your price floor

Price increase questions

What if clients leave after a price increase?

Some may. Clients who leave over a small, justified, professionally communicated increase were the most price-sensitive in your book - and often the most demanding. The clients who stay are typically more loyal and less likely to push back on future increases.

Should I explain why prices are going up?

Briefly, yes. Citing rising supply costs or overhead is honest and relatable - clients understand that costs go up. Avoid a long apology or framing it as a hardship. Keep it factual, confident, and warm.

How much should I increase my prices?

Start with what your cost increase actually demands. If supplies went up $2 per appointment, a $3-$5 increase covers the cost plus a small cushion. If you haven't raised prices in two years, calculate your current price floor first - the gap between your floor and your current price tells you the minimum you need to recover.

Can I raise prices for new clients only and keep existing clients at old rates?

Yes. This is a common and effective approach - new clients book at your current rate, and existing clients receive a transition period (typically one or two appointment cycles). It reduces disruption for loyal clients and lets you test new pricing before applying it across the board.

Check if your increase is justified first

Calculate your price floor

These templates are illustrative examples intended as starting points. Adjust the tone, details, and pricing to reflect your specific situation. This is not legal or business advice.