Nailing Inclusivity: Celebrating Pride Month in Your Salon

June is Pride Month, a time to honour, uplift and celebrate the LGBTQIA+ community. And as nail techs, educators and salon owners, we have a unique opportunity to be allies not only through the services we offer, but through the environment we create. This month and beyond, let’s look at how we can celebrate Pride meaningfully in our businesses and show our community that everyone is welcome, exactly as they are.  

1. Celebrate with Pride-Inspired Nail Art

There’s no better time to get creative. From rainbow nails to pride nail designs, this is your chance to let your artistic skills speak for themselves. Consider offering Pride-themed nail designs throughout the month. It’s not only fun and colourful, it’s also a beautiful way to open conversations and show your support.  

2. Use Your Platform to Uplift 

Your social media is your digital portfolio; make it reflect your values. Pride Month is a great time to post your colourful creations and highlight designs that celebrate the LGBTQIA+ community. Showcasing your colourful and creative nail art designs helps communicate that everyone is welcome in your space.  

But it’s not just about what you post, it’s also about what you say. Small changes like adding “LGBTQIA+ friendly” or “safe space for all” to your Instagram bio or website can go a long way in letting new and existing clients know they can show up exactly as they are. Sharing this message proudly and consistently helps build trust and lets people know they’re in good hands - literally.  

3. Review Your Booking System & Language

Inclusivity starts with the little things, such as making sure your booking system and website don’t alienate anyone. Here are a few ways to be more mindful:  

• Offer gender-neutral language across forms and service menus.  

• Allow clients to add their preferred pronouns or name.  

• Avoid assumptions — terms like “ladies’ manicure” or “men’s pedicure” can be swapped for “classic manicure” or “essential pedi.”  

These tweaks may seem small, but they make a huge impact.  

4. Create a Safe Space in Your Nail Salon 

 Let clients know they’re safe with you. You can do this by:  

• Displaying a Pride flag in your salon  

• Wearing a badge or sticker   

• Creating a salon policy that promotes respect and zero tolerance for discrimination  

Even sharing a post that simply says “All identities welcome here” can help someone feel seen.  

5. Support LGBTQIA+ Organisations  

Why not give back? You could:  

• Donate a portion of Pride-themed nail services to an LGBTQIA+ charity  

• Host a local community event or open studio  

• Collaborate with LGBTQIA+ businesses or creators  

It’s not just about colours; it’s about meaningful action and genuine connection.  

Pride Month is about visibility, love, and respect, and your nail space can reflect that every day. Whether it’s through your nail art, booking system, policies or social posts, showing up with authenticity is what truly makes a difference.  

Let’s keep making the nail industry a more inclusive, supportive, and beautiful place for everyone.